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READY FOR A VACATION THAT IS (STILL) NOT COMING?

Get into sunny vibes with this

“I really need to get back to the sun.” My friend said this to me just this week. I can't blame him; the past few months have been quite hectic. A move, a new pet (cat number three, who turns out to be quite the terror) and in the meantime, I happily switched jobs.

Everyone feels like escaping the country during this period, even if it's just for 48 hours. Bad hair day? What the hell, I've had bad hair months in January and February because of that awful wind. And that rain at the most annoying moments, aaargh that rain…

Alright, enough whining, we are ready for spring. And vacation. If that’s not financially or time-wise possible, you just have to make the best of it, right? With this step-by-step plan, you will greet spring with a smile:

1. Go into your summer closet

Sneakily browse through that summer clothing, throw away what you won't wear anymore, and make outfits for when it finally happens. With that first ray of sunshine, you'll be shining in your trendy outfit on the terrace.

2. Take vitamin D

We rarely have enough vitamin D in our bodies during winter (you know, the vitamin that the sun emits). Supplementing with dietary supplements can be smart if you are really struggling with a winter slump. And make sure to keep moving a lot.

3. Drink as if it’s summer

Red wine? No way, that's so gloomy. You drink red wine when it's cold by the fireplace. You drink a Hugootje, iced tea with lemon, gin and tonic, Sex on the beach, whatever it takes to give you that summer feeling again.

4. Get a tanning session

The warm temperature combined with the light gives you a nice rosy feeling. Even if you step into that rain afterwards, in your head, you'll stay sunny all day. Don't do it too often though, that's not good for your skin.

5. Good alternative option: light therapy

I know plenty of people who use heat lamps to get through the harsh months. Or you can take this awesome selfie lamp/light booster like Jet to prevent your 4-hour work slump. I say go for it.

6. Plan a mini trip

Okay, a vacation might not be in the cards yet. But four days in Budapest/Prague/Paris/Venice might be possible. First, check where it’s at least WARMER than the Netherlands. You can already get into the mood.

7. Go picnic in your living room

Cliché red-and-white checkered blanket, tasty snacks, sunglasses on, and the feeling is almost there.

Written by: Kiki Düren