Debbie Robinson | Director , Marketing & Corporate Social Responsibility , Allianz

1950s crooner Perry Como sang “ Oh , there ’ s no place like home for the holidays … For the holidays you can ’ t beat home sweet home !” And it ’ s true . There ’ s nothing more comforting than enjoying childhood treats and embracing family traditions with your loved ones . But going home for the holidays can also be stressful — not just the journey to get home but the pressures and expectations that can come along with it . Here are some holiday tips to minimize anxiety and maximize joy .

Tidy Up !

Leave your home as you would like to come home to it — clean and hopefully un-burgled . Invest in inexpensive timers to turn on lights in the evenings , to give the illusion of someone being home . Put clean sheets on your bed and fresh towels in the bathroom . Let neighbours know your plans so they can keep an eye on things and pick up any mail or parcels that arrive . Savvy travellers know that returning to a clean , organized house is one of the greatest pleasures of travelling , so invest a few hours before going .

Stay Within Budget

It ’ s tough to stick to a budget around the holidays , but be realistic and make sure that holiday bills don ’ t start your new year off on the wrong foot . In addition to going out with friends when home for the holidays , the budget can get blown on gifts as well . As much as you want to , don ’ t offer to get ( every ) round at the pub and remember that the real gift for family is being together for the holidays .

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