The summer you have been waiting for is finally here. If the economy has put a cramp on your vacation style, and that trip to Europe isn't going to happen, there is a solution. There is a great summer staycation with all of the bang, and you can even get the Europeans at no extra cost. Ladies and gentlemen, pack your bags and get ready for a low-cost, exciting getaway to Escalante.

Expecting something else? Shame on you.

Over the past several years, I have traveled to Escalante on numerous occasions. Every year there seems to be an increased amount of Europeans. Recently I asked myself, "Are there any Europeans vacationing in Europe?" I find it amusing that people, here, travel to Europe to see things like the Eiffel Tower, The Hermitage or Stonehenge. Europeans travel here to see our geography. We all might get tired of what is in our own backyards, but I am betting that there are many people who haven't seen Escalante-Grand Staircase National Monument. Here is a quick guide to help you enjoy your Escalante getaway.

Depending on your style, you may be able to treat the whole family to a unique experience for the cost of two plane tickets. Not only do you get sightseeing compliments of Mother Nature, but you can get adventure that rivals a double-decker bus ride on the wrong side of the road. From fly fishing to the town cosmetologist, Escalante has plenty to offer.

The most surprising thing in Escalante is the atmosphere. I have yet to have a rude or unfriendly encounter from the locals. This place is a tourist-friendly town. You can travel to England to catch a glimpse of the Queen, but in Escalante you can be treated like one.

Escalante is the closest town to the Escalante-Grand Staircase National Monument and will be the base of operations for your family vacation. The monument, which is well known for its slot canyons, has numerous other attractions.

The first stop to adventure will be your accommodations. Escalante Outfitters offers accommodations from cabins to tent spaces. Need some last-minute gear? The Outfitters have got you covered. They have all your adventure gear in the shop that is connected to their kitchen, which, makes one tastebud-friendly pizza. The Outfitters is also your connection to your own personal fly fishing guide, mountain-bike rentals, massage therapist and Brooke Griffin, the town cosmetologist, so you can look good before and after you get dirty.

Want some accommodations that are a little ritzier? Slot Canyons Inn Bed and Breakfast has luxurious accommodations for the price you would pay for a Motel 6 in Paris. Complete with jetted tubs and stunning views, you may find yourself rearranging the furniture for an extended stay. They even have a cabin available for rent.

For top-of-the-line adventure, contact Excursions of the Escalante and the Trailhead Café. Excursions of the Escalante offers numerous services such as canyoneering and photo tours. Hiking and multi-day backpacking trips are also offered. Rick Green is a world-class canyoneering guide who can navigate any family through any number of canyons in the area. A 10-year veteran guiding canyons in Escalante, Green has the skinny on the area's best canyons. For a reasonable price, you can provide adventure for every member of your family who is over the age of 7. Services such as Green's are amazing and sure bets when choosing an activity the whole family can enjoy. I cannot think of a better way to introduce your family to a canyoneering activity than with professional service such as this.

Maybe the family wants to split and do their own thing for a day or two. There is a complete range of services such as nontechnical slot canyon tours provided by Escape Goats. Escape Goats has five years of experience catering trips to a wide range of individuals. If your group has elderly members or children under the age of 7, custom trips are available. Try a multi-day backpacking trip for the young and able, car camping for the elderly, and easy, safe trips closer to town for groups with younger children. All the gear is provided. All you have to do is bring your clothes. A tour of the Ancient Ruins is also offered.

Take a look at Grand Staircase Adventure Guides, owned and operated by Aaron Johnson. The business provides day trips to slot canyons and waterfalls. If you want to get away from the family all together, hit them up for one of their trips that range from three to eight days. With 12 years of backpacking experience, Grand Staircase Adventure Guides might be your preferred way to experience Escalante.

There are several small specialized cafés in the area that will satisfy your hunger. However, my favorite has been the frosty shop in the middle of town. It is a small establishment that makes its own hamburger buns and has excellent fries. A stop here can quench your appetite for more than just nourishment. You can also get 4x4 and ATV trail information here.

Whatever your desire, Escalante is a must for your family's staycation. Don't just take my word for it. The New York Times has run articles about the endless opportunities here. Recent European guide books list Escalante-Grand Staircase as one of the places one should visit while visiting the United States. Don't let this summer pass you by without experiencing your own backyard.

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