In the Lap of Luxury(well sort of)
We all wish that we could live large in the lap of luxury with no care for what we owe or the bills we have to pay. Wouldn't if be nice to spend what you wanted on clothes, fine wine, food and trips? Ok now back in the real world, only 1/2 of 1% of the people in the world live like that. And unless you win the lottery(and we know what the chances of that are) it's not likely it's going to happen to us mere mortals any time soon. Believe it or not you can capture a part of the experience without breaking the bank. Let's deconstruct this and see what it is we really want when we yearn for luxury items or treatment. Let's start with something as simple as a spa treatment. Most women would love a spa experience . Whether it's an hour, an afternoon, or an entire weekend.We want someone to pamper us care how we feel. We all know the treatments don't come cheap either. You can save money and have the experience for half the cost. Set up a girl's night in spa expereince with some of your best girlfriends Make each person responsible for an area of treatment, facials, nails, make-up etc. Each girlfriend gives the others that treatment. Feature a new technique or treatment each month to keep things fresh. If you're after a feeling of relaxation and well-being put on some soothing music too. What makes you feel more relaxed than spending time with your best friends? And you can get beautiful in process.
While we're on the subject of beauty women tend to spend huge amounts of money or haircuts and color. If you're looking for a great cut and color,and want it look expensive try going to a beauty school. It'll cost you about half of what you pay at teh expensive salons. Ask for an advanced student. They're all supervised and someone has to come check the cut or the color to make sure it's good, so you're in the hands of a professional. You'll be getting the latest in technique and treatment. Feed your need for cutting edge ideas ask them what they've learned and what's new. For those who yearn to stay young or current this is a much less expensive way to achieve your goal.
If you'd like to be able to indulge in fine food and wine and also enjoy the treatment you recieve at upscale restaurants, try having lunch in that same restaraunt. You'll pay less and still get the star treatment. If you like the feeling of really having the waitperson's attention come after lunch rush . The lunch size portions aren't usually as big and you may even make to dessert. I never do at dinner always too much food.
If staying in fine hotels or travelling the world is out of the question,try spending a little money to make your bedroom more of a sanctuary. Take elements that hotels and resorts use and put them to work for you. Try buying the best quality linens you can afford. Lots of discount stores sell luxury sheet sets. The higher teh thread count teh better. Sure they cost more than the regular sheets, but if we're going for the feel of luxe without having to travel it's worth the cost. Better quality sheets feel softer next to the skin, handle washing better and last longer. Do the same for yourself with towels. Go to Bed Bath & Beyond, TJ Maxx or even Target, each store has their "Upscale" instore brand of plush towels and yummy sheets. If the feeling you're after is pampered comfort that's a way to achieve it for less than an airplane ticket or a spa weekend would cost. If the idea of getting away to a place with no phones or internet or t.v. seems like a luxury; trying unplugging for a weekend. That's a luxury we can all afford. Give your mind a little less electronic stimulation and some time to refuel. Relax. You'll be amazed at what it does for your outlook. Adn at no cost to you.
In this economy traveling by car has become a luxury. Consider day trips or stacations. Explore your hometown, or your state. What's in your own backyard? Which sites have you neglected to see ?You'll save gas if you stay closer to home and you'll still be able to entertain the family? What's new? Parks whether they're national or public are always a good source for seasonal entertainment. Check with your local parks and recreation department. Does your town have a free lunchtime music series in the park this summer? Are there family movie nights in the park? Bring a picnic, take the kids. Other favorite activities like museums and the zoo can cost less too. If you likethe feeling of exclusivity go during the week instead of weekends. There are always fewer people. There's usually one day that's a reduced rate.The earlier in the week for movies the better. Monday matinees are great. There's hardly anybody there and you get to enjoy the air conditioning for free when it's hot outside.
Luxury living allows us to feel pampered, special, relaxed and cared for. All of the experiences listed here can deliver that feeling at a much lower cost.
