It’s that time of year again where we are quickly approaching a time to forget our worries of school and take a much-needed vacation. Spring break: a week of relaxing, exploring new places and forming unforgettable memories. And then, all too soon, it’s over. Back to the real world of note-taking and studying for the endless stream of tests as you count down the days until summer.
But just because your week of lounging in paradise is over doesn’t mean that you have to let your experiences last only as memories. Whether you traveled around the world or across the state, there are plenty of ways to keep your vacation alive long after you’ve put away your suitcase.
1. Create a photo journal
You come back from your vacation a little more tan, way more relaxed and, of course, with a whole new collection of pictures on your phone. Sure, you pick a handful to showcase on Instagram, but what about the hundreds of snapshots left over sitting in your camera roll? Rather than let them lay forgotten, print some off and make a photo journal for your vacation!
Not as expensive or time-consuming as a scrapbook, a photo journal is a perfect way to turn your memories into a keepsake. It can be as simple or elaborate as you’d like, with endless options created by washi tape and cute stickers. Simply take a journal or notebook, print off your favorite vacation photos, add whatever decorations you’d like and before you know it, you’ll have a unique souvenir from your spring break adventure!
2. Make your own “subscription box”
While you’re exploring exotic downtowns and farmers markets, keep an eye out for some souvenirs that could be the gift that keeps on giving and build your own “monthly subscription box!“ When the post-vacation blues get you down, you’ll have a box of paradise for you to open and recapture those vacation vibes. Feel free to get creative! On my last trip, I bought 12 small jars of locally made jams, which made for a delicious tropical addition to my breakfasts as I was finishing up the semester. Whether it’s food, cute accessories or maybe even some seashells, the opportunities to create your own little presents to yourself are endless.
3. Cook up some vacation recipes
It’s easy to remember the sights and sounds of vacation, but one of the greatest parts is the food! Nothing says more about a location than the tasty treats it serves. The internet, especially Pinterest, is a gold mine of delicious recipes that can recapture some of those amazing vacation tastes. From acai bowls to gourmet desserts, you may even find a copycat recipe from a place you ate on your vacation! So bust out your sheet pan and blender and bring back a taste of your adventure right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Coming back to the real world from a trip can be rough, but a vacation isn’t a place… it’s a state of mind. So who says you can’t let a little paradise into your everyday life?