With gasoline prices reaching unprecedented levels, some families are deciding to forgo the annual family road trip and focus on lasting entertainment closer to home. With a few changes or additions, you can turn your backyard into your own personal oasis.
Average food and lodging expenses for top vacation destinations in the USA have reached $559 per day for a family of four. Fuel or airfare costs raise the bill even higher. So many families choose to stay close to home and create a resort environment in their own backyard. Hot tubs, gazebos, comfortable all-weather furniture and outdoor flat-screen televisions are among the features many families enjoy all year.
"We've found families would rather invest money in their home and backyard with lasting recreational and entertainment amenities," reports Anthony Pasquarelli from Sundance Spas, the world's largest maker of portable acrylic spas. "Hot tubs have moved to 'center stage' on the patio or deck and are often considered an essential element for young and old alike." Models such as the Maxxus from Sundance are large enough to accommodate the entire family and feature waterfalls and stereo systems that add to the "backyard vacation" allure.
Author: Stacey Moore
Author Bio:
Products that earn the ENERGY STAR prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. EPA and DOE. For more information about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov. Using energy efficiently at home can be as easy as changing a light bulb.
