Dozing off on a plane and waking up in France or Spain is a treat when we can make it happen, but sometimes there are circumstances when vacation travel isnt feasible. In times of stress and uncertainty (like now), when you need to unravel that knot of tension in your shoulders and destress, home is often the best place to be. Though a forced staycation may not be what you dreamed of right now, its more important than ever to practice social distancing and do your part to contain the coronavirus pandemic. These eight ideas will help you make the most of your time at home by turning it into a restful and luxurious vegan staycation.

1. Create indulgent dinnersPart of the pleasures of a real vacation is planning it. Now that you have more time at home than usual, try spending it planning extravagant or time-consuming dishes you wouldnt typically make. Take time to browse your favorite vegan cookbooks and pull out all the things youve been meaning to trylike that truffle mac and vegan cheese or porcini ravioli recipe youve had earmarked forever. Turn on your favorite music, pour yourself a bevvie, and start chopping. Not only will the process calm your worries, but youll be left with a comforting, home-cooked meal to keep you satisfied and energized. (Be sure to make enough so you have leftovers to carry you through the week.)

2. Learn a new skillHave you always wanted to learn a new language or improve your guitar skills? Besides relieving stress and anxiety, there are many benefits to incorporating a creative hobby into your life right now. Choose a hobby or new skill that gets you out of your comfort zone and find the necessary resources online. Set a game plan and stick to it. Youll feel accomplished and proud of yourself by the end. Plus, youll have something to show off when you go out into the world again.

3. Browse a museum from homeSome of the most iconic museums around the world offer free virtual tours, which means you can browse them from the comforts of your own home. Google Arts and Cultures partnership with world-class art institutions gives you access to more than 1,200 museums through your web browser or a free-to-download app. Famous works featured at the Muse dOrsay in Paris, Uffizi Gallery in Florence, National Museum in New Delhi, the Tate in London, and Rijks Museum in Amsterdam are just a few clicks away.

4. Treat yourself to room serviceOne of the best things about going on vacation is treating yourself to room service at your hotel. It might be expensive, but the luxury of having someone serve you a tray of vegan waffles, fresh berries, and a steaming pot of coffee is basically the best thing ever. If youre stuck inside with a partner or roommate, consider taking turns cooking and serving breakfast or brunch to each other (weve got a few brunch recipes youll love). When its your turn to be served, stretch out in bed, cuddle with your cats, and enjoy the smell of tofu scramble and toast (cooked by someone else) wafting up from the kitchen.

5. Turn your days into travel themesFor an epic staycation, turn each day into a themed travel adventure. Head to Paris by planning a meal of vegan French crpes, mushroom bourguignon, or brioche bread, and binging on classic romance films such as Midnight in Paris or Amelie or even a collection of stories such as Paris, Je Taime. Or take in the beauty of India with a meal of vegan tikka masala with refreshing mango lassis and cuddle on the couch while watching Bollywood films such as the feel-good film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara or romantic drama Jodhaa Akbar. You can explore most of these international films on Nextflix. The best part: You dont have to spend hours on a plane to experience other countries.

6. Pamper yourselfRather than rushing to get a manicure in between meetings, your at-home staycation is an opportunity to enjoy pseudo spa living. Set aside an evening to focus on yourself: order a few luxurious vegan spa products, sign up for a beauty subscription box, or attempt a new beauty hack you came across online. Create a relaxing atmosphere in your bathroom by pouring yourself a bubble bath, lighting a candle, putting on soothing music, and imagine youre spending the night at an upscale spa you wouldnt typically indulge in.

7. Reconnect with family and friendsA coronavirus quarantine isnt exactly the best way to cater to humans need for social interaction. But dont let this time of social distancing be your excuse for letting your relationships fizzle. Stay connected with friends and family virtually by reaching out to three or four people each day: Share a toast with a friend through a virtual happy hour; be extra neighborly by reaching out to your street friends and leaving a homemade lasagna on their doorstep; swap stories with an online community; or meet up for an almost-in-person meal with friends from afar. Better still, make some fun future plans with pals so you have something to look forward to when its all over.

8. Discover new online workoutsFor fitness buffs, not being allowed to go to the gym can be mentally and physically difficult. Instead, consider buying an online exercise class youve always wanted to try but you typically cant afford or dont have time for on a regular basis. From calming yoga to sweat-inducing kickboxing, it can be fun to switch up your regular exercise routine while still staying active. For something equally fun (and free), crank your favorite tunes and have a dance party in your living room.

Nicole Axworthy is the News Editor of VegNews and author of DIY Vegan who is currently cooking up more meals than she can eat.

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How to Have the Best Vegan Staycation (When You're Forced to Stay at Home) - VegNews