Austa Somvichian-Clausen - The Live Life Now List : Plan and Live Your Best Life—Starting Today!

Theres a certain thrill to traveling to distant destinations, but dont forget about the possibilities of backyard travel, either. Sometimes all it takes is a mindset shift to see your own town with fresh eyes.

This chapter is here to help you open yourself up to the opportunities all around you, with tons of helpful suggestions on how to explore your own city or town, engage with your friends and loved ones in interesting new ways, and love and appreciate this place you call home.

Rather than heading to the same place for brunch this weekend, why not head to the park for a picnic with your friends? If youve been looking to spice up your weekdays, maybe its time to try something new, like working from hotel lobbies around town, finding a new route on your way home from the office, or taking the initiative on planning some happy hours or lunch dates with your colleagues. These are just a few ways you can unlock the potential of your own area. Now get out and explore!

Set Up Morning Coffee Dates

Its all too easy to fall into the rut of starting your day by rolling out of bed, chugging your first cup of coffee, and cracking open your laptopespecially if you have a hard time with work-life balance! Instead, start your day with fresh air and conversation by setting up morning coffee dates with your friends. Whether youve been meaning to check out a new caf down the street or youre bringing your own travel mugs for a walk in the park, morning meetups are an easy way to fit more friend time into your busy schedule and wake your brain and body up for a better day ahead.

Choose an Area and Act Like a Tourist

There are certain activities that locals leave to the tourists. The truth, though, is that theres a reason tourists enjoy doing them. Sure, it can feel cheesy, but it turns into major fun when you bring friends along and fully lean in to the trope. Hop on a cable car, ride a sightseeing bus, breeze along on the ferrywhatever your city offers. By the end of the day, youll have learned more about your own city and had a lot of laughs along the way.

Gather Friends Together for an Afternoon Picnic

You know that park you always walk by on your usual route? You may not have thought about it, but that park can serve as a lunch spot. Not only are park picnics a great way to take in some fresh air; they dont require a reservation and have no time limits on how long you can stay (unless the sun starts to dip).

HOW IT WORKS

On a sunny weekend afternoon, grab some friends and walk over to your local market to gather some food to enjoy in the park. Great options include a charcuterie board, chips, finger sandwiches, and fresh fruit. Dont forget to bring an ample amount of water and a few other fun beverages. Entertainment options are also a must, like a deck of cards, books to read, and a portable speaker.

Accompany Your Dog-Owning Friends to the Dog Park

Who says you have to have a dog in order to take advantage of the dog park? Petting friendly canines has actually been scientifically proven to be good for your mental health, which is more than enough reason to set up a date with your friend who just got that cute new puppy. Some parks even allow pups to run around sans leash at certain hours of the morning or night, making a trip to your local dog park the best way to start or cap off your day. Grab some coffees and then make your way to the closest green space together, letting Fido play while you catch up.

Take a Guided Tour Around Town

Taking a walking tour around your neighborhood is a great way to learn facts about its history and to get the insider scoop on interesting touch points around town. If you have friends and family who dont live close by, invite them to come visit you for a weekend and do the tour together. Its fun to share the places you love with the people you love, and itll give you an opportunity to get amped about your area all over again, regardless of how long youve been living there.