Someday, we’ll all be able to look back on 2020 and laugh, right?… We can only hope.
There’s no denying that this year has been, in the words of CNN’s Jake Tapper, “a hot mess, inside a dumpster fire, inside a train wreck.” (His remarks were in response to the first presidential debate, but they still apply to the year as a whole, wouldn’t you say?)
So, while a few things remain on this year’s check-off list, one thing may not be on your to-dos that really should be is to recharge.
We’ve all taken a beating and we all need a little R&R. Here are a few of our recommendations on how to recharge yourself as a vacation rental host this fall. Best of all, they’ll fit any budget.
1. Book an Airbnb staycation.
You may be rolling your eyes at this one, but hear us out on this one. There are two reasons we recommend going this route:
A) You’re away from home and a true guest somewhere else, and
B) If you can’t help but work, you can take the opportunity to spy a little on your competition.
We recommend going a little crazy here and booking a night or two in a place that you wouldn’t normally – maybe something more expensive than you’d typically look for. Consider a place like this super-hip downtown loft or really get outside the city in this cozy Airbnb Plus historic home once owned by actress Bette Davis.
The idea here is to, for once, be the guest and not the host. Treat yo’self.
2. Support local businesses: Book a spa appointment, order a hefty take-out order from your favorite restaurant, and look for other “shop local” opportunities.
Everyone is struggling these days, especially small businesses across America. If you’re looking to recharge yourself, you can also do a little good by supporting your peers.
If you’re not comfortable visiting a spa, purchase a gift card from them or buy one for a friend. You’re still supporting the business! If funds are tight, look for deals on Groupon.
If you’re not comfortable (or unable to because of city or state closure mandates) sitting in a restaurant to eat, order a big takeout meal. Order for a meal or two and choose menu items that will still taste great when they’re reheated at home. This way, you’re supporting a local business and saving yourself the trouble of cooking for multiple meals. *HIGH FIVE* While you’re at it, tip the staff at the restaurant even though you’re not dining in.
Ask friends and search the web for other ways you can treat yourself and support other community entrepreneurs.
3. Find a new hobby.
There are so many things you can do to fill your time and the internet has opened a world of learning to everyone. Even before the pandemic hit, online classes and courses were available to anyone willing to learn a new craft.
Look into Airbnb’s Online Experiences or consider learning hubs like Skillshare or Masterclass. There’s so much to learn out there and at such an affordable price. Take your mind off your struggles for a while and find something new to enjoy.
After a year like the one we’ve had, it’s important to remember to take time to reflect on the good. Step away from everything for a moment and make an effort to do something for yourself.
Take what time we have left to turn things around and prepare for the awesomeness that will be 2021. By giving yourself a little time to recharge as a host, you’ll be ready for what comes next.
