The great indoors is underrated.

In our culture, we put much value in going out and going away—whether it’s on trips, outings, or just hanging out with friends, we’re constantly on our way out the door. But we often neglect to realize that we don’t really even have to step out of our homes to have fun.

Because every day you get off work or school is a precious day, understandably, you would want to maximize all your time. By staying home and having your much-needed days off indoors, you save yourself a lot of time (not to mention, money and stress.)

Just think: leisurely strolling around your garden area instead of spending all that time in the horrendous traffic; having a great meal right in your room while watching your favorite series instead of waiting in long queues, and squeezing into cramped and crowded establishments; spending your money on just food, instead of parking fees and miscellaneous expenditures that always come up when you’re out. Plus, you never have to worry about the unpredictable weather or hellish commuting.

Especially if you’re living in a condominium, you can utilize the building’s features and amenities to have a good time while staying home. Here are a few fun ideas to take your staycation to the next level:

1. Throw a Food Party

Food is never not part of a good time. Invite some friends over, get some of your fast food favorites delivered, and go on a smorgasbord right in your condo unit.

Upgrade it: Instead of a usual potluck, attempt creating a full dinner from scratch with your friends. You’re sure to enjoy not just the eating, but the cooking as well.

2. Go on a Marathon

… The kind that treats you to a full day’s worth of great TV series or movies without leaving your couch (or bed.) Keep pressing the “next” button like there’s no tomorrow.

Upgrade it: Watching with a friend? Rent a projector. Make some popcorn and furnish your makeshift theater with fluffy cushions. The works!

3. Sing Your Hearts Out

Who says you need to go out for karaoke? Make your very own KTV right at home with your friends and family.

Upgrade it: Add a little competitive spice to your karaoke nights through karaoke-themed games.

4. Workout with a Buddy

Working out can also be a great way to have fun and get in some exercise at the same time. With a partner, find a wide space in your condo unit. Find video tutorials you can follow. Power through some cardio, do yoga, dance to zumba exercises…

Upgrade it: Head to your condo’s top-tier gym to get in a more intense workout. There will also be more equipment so you can enjoy a range of choices to help you exercise. You and your friend can spot and motivate each other as you go.

5. Have a Game Night

Fill your fun-filled night with all sorts of games. All you’ll need are different board games or trivia games, plus some friends to play with.

Upgrade It: Grab some friends and head to your condo’s gameroom to enjoy even more options.

6. Indulge in Retail Therapy

Once you start looking at shopping accounts online, you’ll probably lose track of time. This is actually a pretty good way to have fun and de-stress.

Upgrade It: Your condo’s shopping center may have some gems you could tend to overlook. Take some time to explore the establishments and you might find something really cool.

7. Make Some Crafts

Try your hand at creative projects. Search the Internet for ones you can DIY: paper crafting, sculpture, painting–there are tons of ways to put your time to good use and create amazing things.

Upgrade It: Have a crafting party with your friends and attempt a big project, like re-purposing your old clothes to make bags, accessories, etc.

8. Enjoy a Good Bath

Grab a book you’ve been meaning to read, a cold beverage, and bask in a warm bath in your tub. Even a long, warm shower can do wonders for your body and mind.

Upgrade It: Walk just a few steps to the pool and go for a swim. Spending some time in the water is always good for you.

9. Bask in (Just a Bit of) the Outdoors

Spend some time just taking in the view outside. Over a cup of coffee, appreciate the sun setting in the city skyline. Breathe, and relax.

Upgrade It: Take a relaxing stroll in your condominium’s garden area and let just a small bit of fresh air and the outdoors revitalize you.

For a home that offers all these rewarding perks of staying in, not to mention top quality facilities and amenities, look no further than the The Paddington Place in Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City. A four-tower high-rise project by esteemed developer Empire East, The Paddington Place promises to be a premium choice for property-seekers who want quality living in the city. With studio to two-bedroom residential units available, The Paddington Place is a clean, spacious, and breathable option for your new home—one that you’d hardly want to leave. For more information on the development, visit www.empire-east.com or follow @empireeast on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. INQUIRER.net BrandRoom/MF