Hotel stays are a bit contradictory. On the one hand, they are different from the routine and that’s already cool. On the other hand, there’s often a stretch of time where you’re left to your own devices. And that may get boring. Unless you know how to entertain yourself!

Play a game
Games are always fun. If you don’t share this view, you may have been looking in the wrong place. The choice is immense:

• Casual mobile games
• CasinoClassic with cash prizes
• Even portable board games!

The beauty of games is that they can, among all else, relieve stress. They can be especially refreshing if you’ve had a long day of travel. Some games even let you win real money — you can read more on it here.

Have a spa night
Many hotel rooms look like a great fit for being transformed into a mini spa. That’s an awesome variant if you are longing for a relaxing luxurious evening. Most hotels provide basic toiletries but do bring extras such as a face mask bath salts even a scented candle.

That should be just enough for a soothing retreat. Taking care of yourself reduces stress and leaves you refreshed. That’s exactly what we all want while traveling, isn’t it?

Here’s an idea of what your spa treatment may look like:

• run a warm bath
• use the bath products: apply a face mask and do a bit of skincare
• give yourself a mini manicure or pedicure
• light a scented candle
• play some calming music
• Even if you complete only two or three of those, you are likely to feel super rested

Watch a Movie/Series
When was the last time you had the luxury of watching your favorite show or new movies? You’ve got this time in a hotel room! After all, it’s a classic way to unwind and entertain yourself. It’s a simple pleasure that requires minimal effort (no effort, in fact).

Pick a movie you’ve been wanting to see and heard good things about. Buy something delicious in a nearby store or, better yet, order room service. Dim the lights, get cozy in bed, and… let yourself get lost in the story.

Get creative with photography
If you are in the mood for it, you could even use your hotel room as a creative studio. You don’t have to be a seasoned photographer — just relax and experiment with different angles, lighting, and self-portraits. Photography is, above all else, a great way to see your surroundings in a new light. Plus, it’ll leave you with a tangible result — your cool photos!

Here are a few quick tips for that:

• Exploring the lighting in your room (e.g., natural light from the windows, bedside lamps, the bathroom lighting)
• Experiment with different angles and perspectives
• Capture the details of the room or use yourself as the subject
• If you have a DSLR camera, use it to experiment with settings and techniques
• If you’re using your phone, try different filters
• By the end of your session, you’ll have a collection of unique photos

Plan your next adventure
Since you’re staying in a hotel, chances are you’re on a trip or about to start one. You can thus use your time here to plan your next adventure. You may want to research the best local spots to visit map out your itinerary even dream up your next vacation.

The advantage of this variant is that planning builds excitement for what’s to come. At least, if it’s planning your next adventure. It also gives you a sense of control and anticipation. These can be particularly satisfying when you’re in a new place.

The most straightforward way to start it is by researching the area around your hotel. Look up nearby attractions, restaurants, and all that. If you’re between trips, use this time to dream up your next destination. Make a list of places you want to visit, activities you want to try, or start a Pinterest board with travel inspiration.

Most of us don’t stay in hotels every day. Whatever the reason behind our stays, they are always a change in the routine. And as you’ve just seen, there are many simple affordable ways to make this change enjoyable and exciting.