“Many people can’t afford to take the time off from work and the one-time expense of all that’s involved for a nice family vacation,” says Sean Schaben, Co-Owner of Hot Spring Spas of Des Moines.

That’s why many families are instead opting to create a luxury resort at home with a hot tub in the backyard.

It’s simple, and it is a gift to the family that will keep on giving for many years to come. Here are just a few ways to create a staycation at home this year.

Don’t Forget the Luxurious Amenities
To truly make the backyard hot tub feel like a 5-star resort, make sure there are plenty of big, thick, fluffy towels (preferably dryer warmed for that extra pampering anyone would expect from an

extravagant resort). Place the towels easily within reach for all friends and family, and have enough thick, comfortable robes for all as well.

Relieve Soreness, Aches & Pains with the Hot Tub
Any good vacation is likely to have a lot of activities that cause strain and pain. When spending the holidays at home on a staycation, going gift shopping, cooking, and cleaning may still be a big part of their daily activities, but with a personal spa on the porch, people can soothe the aches and pains quickly and easily just by slipping into the temperature-controlled water and turning on the powerful massage jets. Add a built-in stereo for pipped-in music that will soothe the soul as the hydro-therapeutic water soothes the muscles and joints.

Make the Surroundings Luxurious for the Total Effect
Hot tubs are a luxurious atmosphere to any outdoor entertainment area, but people can create an even more opulent effect by stringing lights around the yard. If the hot tub has a water feature, keep it going. Waterfalls, jets and bubblers create a fun, festive atmosphere that is also relaxing and calming. The best part about a hot tub staycation is that everyone can enjoy it, including visiting relatives and friends who stop by.