You may not believe it now, while you fanaticize about a spring vacation to some exotic getaway, but sometimes the best trips happen when you just stay home. Times are tight, and our wallets are even tighter. Layoffs, recession, and the ever-spiraling economy seem all consuming, forcing many of us to redefine our money-spending choices. In effect, the economic climate has altered the way in which we travel: People are staying close when leaving home, saving on time, money, gas and perhaps even guilt. But just because you’re staying local doesn’t mean you have to skimp on excitement. Who says that luxury can only be found by hopping on a plane to the Caribbean?

To remind you that the lap of leisure is closer than you think, we offer some fun, creative, affordable (and some splurge-worthy) ideas on where to stay, play, eat and shop, all in your own backyard. Read up on ideas to inspire, invigorate, enlighten and even ease the “guilt of travel” during such unstable times. So kick back, relax and enjoy; You’re on staycation.