Now that warm weather has arrived, many people are thinking of vacations. With lots of Canadians staying home this summer, creating an at-home oasis could be the perfect substitute for a getaway.
With the right setup (think whimsical patio lights and easy access to a sun lounger and ice cream), stepping outside to your backyard or balcony can feel just as refreshing as a holiday — without the hours-long travel.
There are many ways you can go about elevating your home to make your summertime shine. If you dream of turning your place into your own private resort, these seven ideas will help you get started.
Set Up Your Own Hammock Or Sun Lounger
First things first, to create a backyard oasis you have to set up your area accordingly. If you're lucky enough to have some stable trees in your backyard, you can easily make use of a comfortable hammock.
On the other hand, if you have limited space, you can opt for a chaise lounge that's just as relaxing. It's great for day-long basking, and the angled back is ideal for taking a quick snooze. Once your chair is out, set the vibe with some cushions and a towel and envision yourself poolside.
Indulge In Some Ice Cream
Let's be real, what's summer without ice cream? If you've been hunting around for a lighter treat that still tastes delicious and creamy, you can check out the new Häagen-Dazs DIVINE ice cream.
Crafted with the same irresistible creaminess that Häagen-Dazs fans know and love, DIVINE has 50% less fat, 25% less sugar and fewer calories than regular Häagen-Dazs ice cream — and every tub uses 100% Canadian dairy with zero artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners.
Just picture yourself kicking back and soaking up the sun with sunscreen in one hand and a spoonful of ice cream in the other. Sounds like the summer you deserve.
Curate A Playlist Of Your Favourite Summer Tunes
Summer playlists are never a bad idea. Whether you live in an area where there's lots of noise (looking at you, downtown construction) or in the peaceful suburbs, you can use music to create the atmosphere you desire.
The playlist of your summer should inspire the feeling you get when driving with the windows down on a sunny day. Mix things up with some Top 40 Hits and add in some classics that you know all the words to. Sit back and enjoy your tunes while drifting away on that summer breeze.
Become Your Own Barista & Mix Up Some Frozen Cocktails
Perfect some new skills this summer by becoming your own bartender. There are tons of cocktail recipes that you can recreate, and who knows, maybe you'll find a new side hustle along the way.
Summer is the time for exploring delicious frozen beverages like strawberry daiquiris or watermelon margaritas. If mocktail versions are more your tune, a raspberry ice cream float (which is the perfect reason to indulge in a scoop of Häagen-Dazs DIVINE's Raspberry Cheesecake flavour) could also be an option. There are so many refreshing combinations that you could spend all summer experimenting with.
Cool down with your cocktails while catching some rays on your sun lounger.
Bring Home Fresh Flowers To Spruce Up Your Living Space
Megan (Markham) Bucknall | Unsplash
You don't need someone else to give you flowers, and you definitely don't need to wait for a special occasion to treat yourself to a nice bouquet. Take a trip to your local market to pick out some flowers that'll put you in a relaxing vacation mindset.
Go for seasonal summer flowers like sunflowers, hibiscuses, daisies or lilies in colourful arrangements. Brighten your home with as many flowers and plants as you'd like, and don't forget to show them some love on those hot summer days.
Grab Some Fresh Fruits From Your Local Market
While you're at the market picking up your fresh florals, take the opportunity to shop for some fresh fruit. Grab some watermelon, strawberries, raspberries, peaches, cherries and anything else that'll be refreshing on a hot day.
Swap your charcuterie for a fresh fruit board arranged with fresh fruits, nuts and dark chocolate to really transport yourself to paradise. If you're feeling fancy, enjoy your spread with a scoop of ice cream. Häagen-Dazs DIVINE's new flavours, like their Raspberry Cheesecake flavour — with light cheesecake ice cream, raspberry ripple and Graham cracker crunch pieces — would pair perfectly with some fresh berries.
Spice Up Your Nights With Outdoor Lights
Late sunsets and balmy evening temperatures make summer the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors.
If you want to ensure your backyard is as enjoyable at night as it is during the day, consider adding some ambiance with string lights, hanging lanterns or even a fire pit. With the right accessories, you can create magical summer nights right in your own backyard.
Who knew summer could be fully embraced from the comfort of your own home? As long as you have your backyard and a tub of ice cream, you've got yourself a beautiful little oasis to get excited about enjoying!
Courtesy of Haagen-Dazs