The cost of holidays is daunting

The cost of holidays is daunting. Two weeks at the beach can mean months on the financial rocks. But we live in a tourist destination, so why do we need to travel? Patrick O'Sullivan explains that holidays are not about a place, but a state of mind.

Holidays cost a lot of money and can be stressful. So why bother? Why not stay at home and recharge with the guarantee of a good night's rest in your own bed? Have a stay-cation.

The mysteries of the universe can be unravelled, adventures had and batteries recharged without sacrificing your favourite couch.

Whether you seek a holiday for relaxation or adventure, planning is essential for success.

It is an occasion, so give your stay-cation a start and finish time. That way you can prioritise your needs over others' and relax on cue.

It is difficult to rest at home when chores are staring you in the face, so complete them before your holiday or set a future date for completion. Your holiday is top priority.

Decide how much rest or adventure you need and plan accordingly.

For a restful time mix up your routines - a change is good for a rest. Unplug the phone and computer in order to travel further from life's worries.

Rearrange furniture to give yourself a holiday-only relaxation zone.

Eat different food, plan to sleep in, catch up with friends - with no rush hour, travelling across town is easier during holiday periods.

Choose new holiday occupations such as reading, games, watching cricket and fishing - fishing is not about catching fish. Each activity is a world of its own, so research is needed to fully appreciate why so many people enjoy them.

If it is adventure you seek, remember adventure is something you experience, not visit.

Take up a new hobby. Challenge yourself - sprint toward your fears with open arms. Busk where people you know will see you, ask a stranger to dance, say hello to scary people.

For many, the highlight of travel is connecting with people from other cultures, so talk to foreign tourists. They are easy to spot with their backpacks, super-yachts, white pants and rigid frowns, staring at maps. Invite them home to dinner.

New Zealand is a tourist nation and we have a wealth of activities on our doorstep. Be a tourist in your own town and peruse the options at your local visitor centre. Attend local festivals and markets.

The best things in life really are free. Swim, climb, laugh, love.

Take pictures of your holiday. You will need reminders of the fun you had while you saved a bundle.

Use some of those savings to indulge yourself. You deserve it for being so clever and avoiding the Christmas rat race to holiday spots.

Make sure you have a good answer when seasonal small talk steers towards your holiday. This is important for children so they don't feel they have missed out.

Make sure they can answer with a highlight they are proud of, such as surfing, skating or a live music concert. A day trip can give an easy answer to questions about where they went for their holiday.

We live in a small country with diverse scenery, so day trips are easy. Your challenge is to find the hidden gems in your part of the world.

Holidays are about you, so look after yourself and plan to make sure you achieve what you want.

You may not be holidaying in an exotic location but you are doing what you want, when you want.

And watching your neighbours working, when you're not, can be quite rejuvenating.