We're all looking at things differently this year. Exploring Washington's wine country doesn't have to mean hours of planning, using precious vacation days, and paying big bucks. Here are some fresh ideas for an easy, relaxed vacation - that happens to be very close to home.

It's Not Just an Economic Stimulus
The next time you sit down to a light supper of local greens, heirloom beets, and artisan goat cheese from your favorite farmer's market, take some time to consider where your wine came from. Where is that winery, who is the winemaker, and most importantly, is it local? Where were the grapes grown and who grew them? Try expanding your locally supportive tendencies from food to wine. Start with a bottle of Columbia Crest Two Vines Cabernet Sauvignon. It's from Washington, it costs less than $10, and it tastes a lot better than that Australian Shiraz you've been drinking.

Make it a Day Trip You don't have to stay overnight. It takes just 2-1/2 hours to get from Seattle to Yakima. Leave at 8:00am, arrive at 10:30, do a little shopping in downtown Yakima and have lunch, spend the afternoon visiting the wineries around Yakima, Zillah, and if you're ambitious, even Prosser. Relax in one of the tasting rooms with an afternoon snack - or even stick around for dinner - then head home in time for the 11:00 nightly news.

Have More Fun for Less Money
Wine tasting fees at wineries are usually nominal. Almost all are around $5 - cheaper than a movie - and often that fee will count towards a purchase of wine. Plus, many wineries only sell their wines out of their tasting rooms. (You won't find them at the grocery store.) So take a bottle or two home. They'll remind you of the fun you had, and they'll taste a lot better than stale popcorn.

Leave the Planning to Someone Else
Many wineries are happy to help you plan your trip to wine country - just call their tasting rooms. One winery that is taking it a step further is Fidelitas. If you join their Wine Club, not only will you get all the usual great benefits (special discounts, exclusive invitations, free tastings, etc.), but you'll have access to their concierge, Jess Affolter. Jess is a certified sommelier who will assist you with travel arrangements - plus entertaining ideas, food and wine pairing advice, and gift packaging.

Try Flying instead of Driving
You have enough commuting to do during the week, so why not just fly to wine country? It's easy, fast, and cheaper than you think. Horizon Airlines is offering great deals right now, so you can fly from Seattle to Yakima or Walla Walla for under $100. Then simply walk around to the downtown tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels. No driving, no maps, no gasoline, no hassle.