If you’re like most small business owners, you feel it’s really tough to take time off. There’s no one to take over, your business won’t run without you, yada, yada, yada. But psychologists believe that even a few days away will give you a break, let you recharge your batteries, and come back refreshed, even with a few new ideas. Instead of worrying about your top customers or missed business opportunities, use this time to renew your vision or see the world from a new perspective. If you can only spare a few days away, here are some quick getaway ideas.
The Heartland Spa, Gilman, Illinois
Located just 90 miles south of Chicago, the Heartland Spa has been a destination spa since 1983. Here, you’ll have an opportunity to learn, experience, and utilize the most current information about fitness, nutrition, and stress management.
“A getaway is not a luxury anymore, it’s a necessity,” says owner Harold Lebovic. “The more important technology becomes, the more important it is for business owners to have a sanctuary where they can ‘unplug.’”
The Heartland Spa offers a wide variety of fitness activities and relaxation classes, integrated with nutritious cuisine. In addition, massages and spa treatments nourish both body and soul. Two-night, three-day all inclusive packages start at $550 per person, including accommodations, all meals and snacks, unlimited use of exercise and spa facilities, all classes and activities. www.heartlandspa.com, 815.545.HTLD.
“Heartland is a smart vacation because you’re not losing two days of vacation time getting somewhere. When you get here, you can just relax,” said Lebovic.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Marcy Gelber of Travel by Marcy recommends Lake Geneva for a short, but peaceful getaway. “It’s just a short drive from the Chicago suburbs, and this year-round resort town is so laid back, you can’t help but unwind,” says Marcy. (847-897-7011, marcy@travelbymarcy.com)
One such retreat is the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, where you can play golf, indulge in a spa treatment, or splash around in the indoor/outdoor water park. That means bring the kids along, too! The resort offers a variety of different packages, making it a great value as well. www.grandgeneva.com.
Southwest Michigan
Enjoy the tranquility on Lake Michigan
Five rivers and more than 250 inland lakes await you for sailing, boating, or just floating on an air mattress. If you love off-road vehicles, head north of Muskegon to the Silver Lake area, where you can explore the sand dunes. Don't have an off road vehicle? Rent a jeep. Not so adventurous? Take a dunes tour ride.
One of the area’s best kept secrets is South Haven, the blueberry capital of the world. With a scenic harbor, quaint downtown and lovely bed and breakfast inns, you'll feel the charm of this lovely lakeside town. Plan to attend the National Blueberry Festival, August 11- 14 with pancake breakfast, arts & crafts, live entertainment, and parade. www.southhaven.org.
Chicago Getaways
Don’t discount a weekend downtown with a great hotel, dinner and theatre. Millennium Park offers a full schedule of free outdoor concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, www.millenniumpark.org. Take in one of the city’s many art and ethnic festivals, www.explorechicago.org. Or go for a boat ride on Lake Michigan to clear your head.
The Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is still the grand dame, renowned for its fabulous location and luxurious accommodations. Take advantage of their “Stay Longer” package. Book two nights and the third night is free. Four Seasons, 120 East Delaware Place, (312) 280-8800, www.fourseasons.com/chicagofs. You’ve seen Trump Tower from the skyline, why not see it up close and personal? Trump Tower Hotel offers several packages like the Multi-Night Stay offer. Take 20% off a two-night stay and 30% off three nights or more. Trump Towers, 401 North Wabash, (312) 588-8000, begin_of_the_skype_highlighting www.trumpchicagohotel.com.
Marcy Gelber also recommends the Hard Rock Hotel downtown because “it’s a very fun place” and The Dana Hotel & Spa, for its “perfect, just off Michigan Avenue location.”
The most important thing is that you take some time off to enjoy summer…and yourself!
