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Oh, The Places You’ll Go! (As An Empty Nester) – Local Edition

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Whether your kids are only just now making college plans, or have long since flown the nest, the transition to becoming an “empty nester” is always fraught. Restlessness is a common feeling at this time, which is why many parents of grown-up children make big life changes like new pets and homes and embark on new adventures. Especially as we all struggle to deal with the aftermath of COVID-19, you may find yourself itching to plan some appropriately socially distanced travel.

Here are just a few of the exciting local trips you can plan as you embark on your new life as an empty nester, while keeping yourself safe:

Avery Island, Louisiana

Home of the Jungle Gardens and the Bird City wildfowl refuge, Avery Island is a great place to get away for something completely different without breaking the bank. You’ll enjoy fine Cajun dining, exotic gardens, and nature preserves—but perhaps the most notable highlight of this island is that it’s the birthplace of TABASCO® brand pepper sauce. Be sure to take a Tabasco Food Tour while you’re there!

Wimberley, Texas

If you’re in the mood for a whimsical retreat punctuated by wine stops and swimming breaks, Wimberley is your place. Best known for the legendary swimming holes, Jacob’s Well and the Blue Hole, Wimberley is a wonderful place to spend a long weekend. Follow the Boot Trail to see boot art by local artists, enjoy shopping at the old Wimberley Market, and sip along at a wine-tasting at one of the many local vineyards or breweries.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

If you’re willing to drive a little farther, Oklahoma City offers a wealth of culture and experience. From the Cherokee Heritage Center, to the many museums scattered throughout the city, to the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve, there’s a little something for everyone. While you’re in the area, don’t miss the Oklahoma Aquarium—the largest indoor ocean in the four-state region, and home to the largest bull sharks in captivity.

Luckenbach, Texas

Made famous by the Willie Nelson song “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love),” this little town in the Texas Hill Country is a great place to go to experience real country living. Get away from it all and enjoy live country music, quaint dance halls, and good southern cooking. Plus, this gem is just 69 miles west of Austin, so it’s one of the closer destinations for those based in the Austin area.

Glamping, Near or Far

Glamping”, the affectionate term for camping when you’re staying in an air-conditioned cabin with A/C and running water, is a great way to dip your toes into the traveling pond. You’ll be able to get out in the great outdoors and see a little more of the world without truly roughing it. Pick a cozy location near your home to take a weekend getaway, just to start… You may catch a little wanderlust along the way!

Transitioning to a life without the needs of your children dictating your daily life is always difficult—but it is possible. Many empty nesters take this time to pick up new hobbies, travel to places they’ve always wanted to see, or even downsize their family home. And even if you feel a little leery planning travel right now, there are a wealth of local getaways just waiting for you to discover them. While we can’t help you learn to skateboard or crochet, here at Baker Realty we can help you find a new home that fits your needs. Give us a call today to get started.