Happy brown and white dog with sunglasses on and it's tounge sticking out.Maybe you’ve been able to take a break this summer, but it already feels like a dim and distant memory. Or you haven’t had the chance to get away and desperately need a break.

What if you could create the holiday vibe without the expense and time of taking a full holiday?  Try these suggestions and sprinkle the rest of your year with mini holiday experiences.

Spend a few minutes thinking about the different elements of a holiday that bring you joy, and write them down. What things do you find most relaxing? What are the things that inspire you? What do you love most about taking a break?

You may come up with some big things on this list, that aren’t simple to change. Instead, focus on the smaller things that you could incorporate into your day and life, to create that holiday feeling. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Read a book – pick a novel where you can lose yourself in the story, rather than anything practical or work-related.

Eat alfresco, or go for a picnic – OK, you may not always have the weather on your side but you could make use of any nice days, and enjoy the experience of eating outside.

Swimming – if this is something you only do on holiday, make the effort to go now you’re home and it’s great exercise too. You could always go to your local outdoor pool for an added holiday vibe.

Take a leisurely lunch – whether on your own or with friends, enjoy some time out of your normal routine.

Go for a spa treatment – why limit these to holidays? Either treat yourself or spend some fun time with a friend and give each other a manicure.

Go exploring – if you are anything like me, you still have loads of places you want to explore. Make a list and start checking them out – you’ll be amazed at the number of places you’ll discover right on your doorstep.

It doesn’t have to be anything big, the little things that are simple and affordable can really help you to create a holiday spirit.

Try it out for yourself by making a decision to book some time to do the things that you enjoy on holiday, all year round.

We’d love to hear how you get on!