Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals - Have the Best Vacation Ever
One of the most exciting destinations for those who are looking for an authentic mountain retreat is Gatlinburg, Tennessee - and Gatlinburg cabin rentals can make your stay in this quaint but excitement-packed little Tennessee town all the better. Many families choose to rent a cabin in this area of the country so that they can enjoy the Great Smokey Mountains in all their glory - and to be close to other area retreats like Pigeon Forge, which is home to Dollywood - the theme park that is owned and inspired by the life of the country music legend, Dolly Parton. You'll find that staying in a cabin in the "hills" can be as exciting or rustic as you choose. Rustic Cabins Many people like to "unplug...
Make Your Mountain Vacation Authentic With a Cabin Rental
Gatlinburg cabin rentals are becoming increasingly popular with more people fulfilling dreams of visiting the Smoky Mountains. Pigeon Forge cabin rentals are also becoming very popular for the same reason. There is an abundance of cabin rentals available in both areas, but there are things you should take into consideration before making your choice on a cabin. The first thing that you need to think about is your budget. If you cannot afford to spend a lot on a cabin rental then you might consider taking your smoky mountain vacation during the off season. Up until about May, you can find some fantastic prices on cabin rentals. In Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, October is considered the "peak season...
We've all heard of Dollywood. The theme park that is partly owned by Dolly Parton and is located in Pigeon Forge, TN nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Yet, how many people realize just how many things there are to see and do when on a Dollywood vacation? Let's explore. Dollywood itself has gained a global reputation and is continually growing with new attractions and entertainment, and is Tennessee's number one attraction. The good thing about Dollywood is there is something there for everyone, and is very family friendly. In the hills around Dollywood, there are many resorts and cabins that are available year round. This not only offers vacationers quality places...
Gatlinburg Bed & Breakfasts
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is one of the country's most scenic locations. It is a popular vacation resort, which lies on the border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town is located off US Highway 441 near Cherokee, North Carolina. Gatlinburg is situated in a unique location in the state of Tennessee. To the south visitors will notice the high ridges of Mount Le Conte and Sugarland Mountains. West of the town are the Cove Mountains and to northeast there is Big Ridge. Almost every view here displays a fantastic mountain scenery. When booking a trip to this destination, considering Gatlinburg hotels is important. This city offers a wide variety of quality lodgings. Tourists have their choice...
How to Choose a Gatlinburg Hotel
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a beautiful city located at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains. Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination and there is so much to see; so, you might as well book a hotel and stay for a few nights or even a week. Nearly ten million people have visited the Smoky Mountains, and most stay in Gatlinburg to harness the beauty of the area and experience the hospitality of its people. Gatlinburg is an ideal place for a vacation, weekend getaway, or even a work conference. Some of the many attractions in the area include the Smoky Mountains National Park, the Aquarium, museums, fishing and rafting or skiing (depending on the season), shopping and fine dining. There are so many things...
Gatlinburg Food Choices Are Numerous For You While on Vacation
Gatlinburg is a little town in Eastern Tennessee located next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While this little town has a population of 3,828 according to the 2000 U.S. census you will not even realize that many people live here. The friendly nature of the town is great for allowing you to enjoy a vacation and relax in a lovely hotel room or in the mountains. I know that I absolutely love it anytime that my husband looks at me and says that we are going on a Gatlinburg vacation. While you are on your Gatlinburg vacation I am sure that if your like me you will love the availability of the shopping and different food varieties that are gathered in one spot. I know that I actually enjoy...
The Language of Appalachia
Imagine my surprise when I went to Jamaica a few years ago and learned that I do, indeed, have an accent. You see, unlike my paternal grandmother, I don't stretch the word "cornbread" into four syllables. She might say, "Here. Have ye some co-orn-bray-ed;" whereas I might say, "You want some corn-bread?" See? Two syllables on the cornbread; "you" rather than "ye." Unlike my maternal grandmother, I say "carrion" rather than "kyarn." In fact, I had no idea what she was talking about until recently when I mentioned the word to my husband. I told him, "Grandmother used to say, 'That stinks like kyarn.' I never figured out what 'kyarn' was." He said, "Road kill." My jaw dropped. "You mean, carrion? Kyarn...
What Exactly is a Boar?
The wild boar is a male animal of the pig family, or swine. It is only two feet high and four feet long, but it is strong enough to kill a tiger or a bear. The boar has a woolly body covered with bristles, which are short, stiff hairs. The boar has several tusks in its mouth, and they are almost as sharp as razor blades. These dangerous little animals used to live and be hunted in England until they were all killed, about five hundred years ago. Today you can still find wild boars in the forests of central Europe and in certain parts of Russia, India, and the United States. The wild boars that now live in America were brought to North Carolina about fifty years ago by an English sportsman. He wanted...
Top Leisure Vacation Destinations
Even if you’re not a gambler, you will enjoy a trip to the country’s most popular vacation destination – Las Vegas. Around 36 million people visit Las Vegas every year and enjoy the spectacular shows, dining and shopping. In recent years, Las Vegas has become more of a family destination; it is also relatively inexpensive in terms of accommodation and dining. The casinos slash prices for many items assuming the cost will be made up at the slot machines and the card tables. Florida is one of the country’s most visited states, largely due to the weather as well as the lasting popularity of Disney World. The Orlando area also boasts around 100 other attractions and theme parks. Disney World is...
Put Your Feet Up in a Gatlinburg Vacation Rental
Easterners might know it well, westerners might never have heard of it, but the fact of the matter is that Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a thriving tourist destination and the gateway for The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you've been longing for a little history and a lot of untamed wilderness, consider making this region the site of your next vacation. Gatlinburg is by no means a bustling metropolis, but it does have enough going on to keep millions of people busy all year. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has the highest number of visitors of any other national park, so what would be a sleepy little village has stepped up to become a welcoming town with a big personality and a full...
Splash Country Adds Some Down-Home Fun For 2010
Dollywood, Tennessee's favorite family attraction, is getting back to its roots with the latest addition to the popular Splash Country water park. Slick Rock Racer is a fast and furious racing slide that promises to delight riders of all ages. With enough lanes for the whole family to race, this fantastic new adventure will have everyone wanting to get in on the action. Slick Rock Racer Reminds Dolly of Home "Me and my brothers and sisters used to play in the creeks around home in the Smoky Mountains, and more times than not, we'd land on a mossy covered rock that sent us for a ride like you wouldn't believe," Dolly Parton said. "That's the same kind of unexpected thrills and adventure that I had in...
New Year's Resolution - One Road Trip Per Month
Forget those boring New Year's resolutions like "lose weight" or "save more", add FUN to your year by pledging to use your Road Trip Planner at least once a month to explore your world near and far. Before you object by declaring, "There's no way I can afford a monthly adventure!", bear in mind that many itineraries can be filled with free activities. A road trip can be for as little as one day; whether you're packing the car with a picnic basket, a backpack or a 5-piece luggage set, if you're hitting the road, you're on a road trip! Your 12 road trip itineraries might look something like this: JANUARY & MARCH: Imagine a perfect day trip within two hours of your home to an area you've always...
Spend a Family Vacation at Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
Located adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have been a family vacation destination for decades. Whether for a vacation or a weekend getaway you will find it hard to run out of things to do during your visit. Whatever time of year it may be this area is recognized as a great kid friendly family vacation destination. Nestled in the Smokies these two locations feature many different attractions that includetheme parks, miniature golf, recreational activities, variety shows just to name a few. With the enormous amount of activities to take in you will be sure to find things enjoyable for all members of your family. And, while there is so much to...
Fishing in the Smokies
You came to the Great Smoky Mountains to fish. You know that year-round fly-fishing is permitted in the beautiful streams of the National Park, but did you know that you can begin fishing 30 minutes before official sunrise, and must finish no later than thirty minutes after official sunset? Take this quick quiz to learn a few other rules and regulations so that you're ready for a day of relaxing fishing. Q: True or False: In a single day of fishing, you can keep up to five caught trout or small mouth bass. A: True. Although the Park's main attraction and only species native to the Southeastern United States is the Appalachian Brook Trout, it's also common to catch wild, stream-bred rainbow trout and...
Pigeon Forge Vacation Rentals
The heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, for those of you who haven't heard the news yet, makes a great place to settle down for a few days and allow the rest of the world to carry on without you. This peaceful, lush, dense-with-opportunities location tends to have an immediate calming effect on world-weary folks, and after a few short minutes it's already possible to breathe more deeply and forget about any sort of troubles. Pigeon Forge is the place to be, and to completely ensure privacy and tranquility, make your home away from home a vacation cabin tucked away into the woods. Pigeon Forge is nestled near the most popularly visited National Park and contains so many attractions that it becomes...
5 Tips to Enjoy Gatlinburg on a Budget
Situated right next to the Great Smoky Mountains and Dollywood, fun in Gatlinburg is easy to find-but the real trick is to do it on a budget. By keeping just a few tips in mind as you plan your vacation, you'll be able to have a great trip while knowing that you are getting the best deal on all of your expenses. Tip#1: Make a list of all the activities you and your family want to do while on your vacation, you will be creating a list of your planned expenditures. Should your family want to ski or whitewater raft, for example, you will know exactly what your major costs will be before you decide how to spend the rest of your trip. Tip #2: Be sure to check that your chosen activities are available...
High Velocity Vacations in the Smokies
If you've had your fill of boring beach vacations, and long, slow days meandering through dusty antique stores doesn't thrill you, then your vacation plans need a shot of adrenalin. Sounds like it's time for a fast and furious adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains, where speed and excitement combine to make your trip a non-stop adventure. Setting New Land-Speed Records With the smell of scorched rubber in the air, and two wheels on the pavement as you barrel around the track, the competition is hot on your tail. For NASCAR lovers, the thrill of the chase never gets old. And at NASCAR SpeedPark in Sevierville, TN there's plenty of racing fun for the whole family. From the Baby Bristol to the Smoky...
Better Brand Building
This article is about the benefits, pitfalls and thinking that were involved in a building a new brand. While it's my story of involving my speaking business, you should think about your own story, your passion, and what fits into your life. CAUTION: Realize this, it's taken a LONG time, it was hard work, and it was painful at times. If you're not willing to experience those things then keep doing what you're doing. Have you asked yourself these questions? Are you happy with the answers? 1. Are you working harder to secure fewer and fewer customers? 2. Are you finding price to be a MAJOR concern for your buyer? 3. Are you generating interest from clients but not having a good ratio of inquiries to...
The Grandeur Of Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park is located in northwestern Arizona about 75 miles north of the cities of Flagstaff and Williams. The park covers well over one million acres and is more than twice the size of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The Canyon, cut by the raging Colorado River, is immense in size, averaging 4,000 feet deep for its entire 277 miles in length. It is 6,000 feet deep at its deepest point and 15 miles at its widest. If you have seen pictures of the canyon and have ever dreamed of visiting it, you will be shocked when you first lay eyes upon it. Grand Canyon is immense and it truly is like nothing you have ever seen or experienced. This canyon is a gift that the good Lord has...
A Closer Look at Pigeon Forge Real Estate
Those looking to invest in real estate should not overlook Pigeon Forge, TN. Though the 2000 census estimates the number of permanent Pigeon Forge residents at just over 5,000, the population during the popular summer months can soar to tens of thousands. Pigeon Forge has doubled in the last 25 years, and the real estate business is booming. A great number of people who buy Pigeon Forge real estate do so in order to rent out the property during the busy tourist season. Cabins of all sizes are always being bought and sold, with some going for as much as $500,000. Savvy investors can make their money back in just a few short years by putting the property up for rent. Pigeon Forge is located in a...
Golf Holidays Part 2
If you are looking for holiday golf sunglasses that are not long distance, new golf destinations such as Turkey, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco and Cyprus have begun to emerge. In terms of long-term, places like Australia, the Caribbean, the Far East, and New Zealand have become much more attractive to the masses. These jumps luxury golf flights can be booked with relative ease through the worldwide web. If you're looking to play golf in Turkey, Antalya and Belek region has many 5 star hotels offer golf at prices ranging from $ 400 for a golf getaway for 7 nights. The Aphrodite Hills Resort in Paphos, Cyprus is another destination for high quality golf is available at very affordable prices. Another golf...
Always Believe in Yourself
Some people may not know the inspiring story of Althea Gibson, who would in 1957, become the first African-American (man or woman) tennis player to win the Wimbledon Tennis Championship, but those that have heard her heroic story, know that it is one you will never forget. Wilma Rudolph was a proud champion, who in the 1960 Olympics Games, became the first American woman to capture three track & field gold medals, and claimed the title of the world's fastest woman. Langston was a great poet, who had several books of poetry published, and also, won several awards for his poetry. All three of these great figures in history inspire so many people, and illustrate how hard-work and dedication can get...
From Adversity Can Come the Seeds of Greatness!
The message is how out of adversity can come the seeds of greatness. Nothing is either good or bad except thinking makes it so. A woman suffers the loss of a loved one. While regularly visiting the graveside she notices how badly maintained other people kept there loved ones gravesides. She decides to establish a service to maintain gravesides with fresh flowers. She now generates more income from this business than her main job. Out of adversity came the seeds of greatness. Wilma was 20th of 22 children, born prematurely doctors did not expect to survive. At age 4 she contracted double pneumonia and scarlet fever and her left leg became paralyzed. Doctors said she would never walk again. Aged 9 she...
How to Go About Finding Help For Your Nashville Wedding
Planning for your Nashville wedding is not an easy task. It is not simple for people who don't have experience with wedding planning. You have to be assured that everything falls into places and things will go on perfectly as anticipated on the wedding day itself. Remember that your wedding is a memorable event so it entails careful planning. You should take note of the following points so that you can have assistance about planning for your wedding. The first thing is to look for your friends from your younger years whom you have not seen for years. Especially for girls, you can get a lot of useful tips from these people especially from those who have already been married. Furthermore, if you...
Miscellaneous Thoughts About Wedding and Reception Venues
The good thing about having your wedding in middle Tennessee is that there is a vast array of locations where you can get married. Just in the past few years, the number of "wedding businesses" set up for couples to get married has grown quite a bit. This offers a wider selection of types of venues as well as sites that suit all kinds of tastes, interests and budgets. However, you can't just choose based on what you like best or even the money angle. Here are some of things you need to take into account as you narrow down your search. Your guests have to have a place to sit, right? Unless you having a very short, simple wedding where everyone could remain standing for the entire ceremony. But that...
Get Refreshed During Student Life at Gatlinburg
June is an exciting month in the Smokies as teens and young adults pour into the area for Student Life at Gatlinburg. This five-day event offers inspiring worship services, eye-opening Bible studies and Christian concerts that keep your spirit high and your faith bolstered. While the days are packed with lots of inspirational activities, there is also free time allowing for fellowshipping and sightseeing. This is the perfect combination of motivation and excitement in a Christian environment. Whether you're planning to bring a large youth group or just a few friends and family members, Student Life at Gatlinburg is the place to be. The agenda is filled with fun from beginning to end including...
Gatlinburg Hotels - The Garden Plaza Hotel
The Garden Plaza Hotel Gatlinburg strives to be the ultimate in family friendly Gatlinburg Hotels. This is the Gatlinburg hotel to choose if you are traveling with children. It is the largest hotel in the Gatlinburg area and not only works to keep the kids happy but also lets the pets come along for the trip. The Garden Plaza Hotel has two indoor swimming pools, a state of the art fitness center, on site restaurant and pizza snack area that serves pizza and subs, and a host of other amenities to make a family vacation a great experience. In addition, there are special kid's suites available at the Garden Plaza Hotel that come fully equipped with bunk beds. The Garden Plaza Hotel are special...
Location Less than an hours drive from Memphis, fifteen minutes from the City of Bolivar, in Southwestern Tennessee, the gated golf course community of Grand Valley Lakes is in development because many people are sick and tired of the city life. Why deal with problems like overpopulation, smog, bad sanitation and a host of other discomforts when Grand Valley Lakes offers all of the benefits of the city life without the trials and tribulations. Lakes and Rivers According to the Official Grand Valley Lakes Website, this subdivision "has three scenic lakes on it, one that is 225 acres, one that is about 20 acres, and Lake Duffer." There is even a marina with covered slips, fishing, and beaches to relax...
Take a Picnic Basket When You Go to Cade's Cove
What is Cade's Cove? A cove is a relatively flat valley between mountains or ridges, according to the Smokey Mountains Association. Cade's Cove is a perfect example of this definition. Located just 23 miles south and west of Gatlinburg, high in the Smokey Mountains Cade's Cove takes you back in time to the early 1800's when the cove was first inhabited. This has been home to as many as 125 families since the first settlers came over the mountain on old Cherokee Indian trails about 1820. The main road you take into the cove from Gatlinburg didn't even exist until 1934 when it was built by the park service. When you decide to take the windy mountain road to visit the cove take a picnic basket along...
National Parks Books for the Armchair Traveler
National parks books can be wonderful for children and adults to leaf through. Spectacular photography and plenty of historical information can be found on all national parks and monuments around the world. For those of us that are unable to sacrifice the time to explore all of the national parks and monuments around North America, here are a few national parks book suggestions. National Parks of America published by the Graphic Arts Center of Publishing Company featuring the brilliant photographs of acclaimed photographer, David Muench, and co-authors Stewart and James Uddell should be on everyone's coffee table. Muench captures scenes of personal and primal importance in this collage of America's...
National Park Service and it's Legacy
Artist George Catlin has been credited with presenting the notion of a governmental organization to protect our wilderness and wildlife. His essays reflected anxiety toward the continuing development and its effects of the westward expansion over the natural wonderland. George Catlin expressed the theory of creating a policy or agency to protect the wilderness. The lands of Yellowstone and Yosemite received protection under specific preservation laws in the mid 1800's. Later the National Park service had begun to be established. The potential for a booming tourism market inspired many keen investors to band together and lobby for the creation of a National Park service. Most importantly supportive...
Breathing Peace
I live in the middle of the Great Smokey Mountains, just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Needless to say, the area that surrounds me is known for its unique beauty, peaceful breeze, and calming stillness. Having the fortunate opportunity to spend my days amongst the quietness that nature affords, my churning thoughts, ironically, have become louder (no longer hidden under the distraction of city nightlife, surface-scratched relationships, and media outpourings.) This can be at times so very annoying. The sounds of judgment, negativity, and chaos circle their way in and out of not only the collective mind, but this individual mind as well. Oh, when solace is all around me, my search leads me to...
Grab Some Excitement at These Top 7 Fall Destinations
Ooh, the colors! The fabulous eye assaulting colors of fall viewed in the cool atmosphere where there are never any crowds. Just think of it. You can if you want to visit one of the top 7 fall destinations where you can find a vacation rental to meet your specifications. Doesn't make a difference whether you're a leaf looker, love a touch of the vine or are mesmerized by canyons of concrete - there's a spot on the list for you to enjoy including: 1. Florence, Italy- Considered by many art aficionados as the center of the known universe. It possesses some of the greatest sculptures, paintings and murals know to Western civilization. Additionally, there is no trip to the major European cities that...
Real Estate Investment Opportunity in North Georgia
If you have ever had the good fortune to visit the mountain towns of Ellijay or Blue Ridge, then you know the area as one of the most picturesque in the country. Because of the mountains and National Forests as well as the relatively undisturbed natural scenery it has become the choice for many people to have a vacation home or buy a second property. Tourism is one of the largest driving forces of the economy in the Blue Ridge area, and some of the people that come and visit immediately fall in love with the place and want to own a property there. Unfortunately for a large number of buyers, the area is so nice that they ended up purchasing properties that were a little bit beyond their means. It has...
The Value of Perseverance
I recently went on an amazing leadership retreat to the Smokey Mountains in Tennessee. There was no real plan or itinerary; however there were plenty of things to do if you chose to do so. One thing I did was go on a hike. I have this love for nature and enjoy just looking at all the diversity it has. I have found that nature also has a lot to teach us about life and ourselves if we are keen to pay attention. There was a fairly large group of us who went on this hike (around 14 of us). The trail we hiked followed the path of a mountain stream. It was quite beautiful and we were quick to explore the giant rocks that littered the stream. It wasn't some rippling brook. It was well over 40 or 50 feet...
The Charm of a Gatlinburg Wedding
Nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg's romantic and beautiful outdoor scenery is perfect both for honeymoons and weddings. Hundreds of couples take their oaths in Gatlinburg each year, both in casual and formal settings. Indeed, the Smoky Mountains are such a popular wedding location that they have been dubbed as the wedding and honeymoon capital of the South. Couples typically choose to get married in either the Great Smoky Mountains National park, in a Gatlinburg wedding chapel, or in their own romantic Gatlinburg cabin. Many Gatlinburg wedding chapels have a traditional church atmosphere. The typical Gatlinburg wedding chapel is a beautiful white building with glass...
Top 5 National Parks to Visit When You Travel
If you are looking for reasonably priced vacations, why not consider the many national parks that are scattered across the United States. There are many great destinations with beautiful vistas to enjoy and fun activities that the entire family will love. If you are not sure where to begin, here is a look at the top five you may want to visit when you travel. #1 - Great Smoky Mountains NP One of the top national parks to visit is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and it actually is the most visited of the national parks as well. There is a reason that so many people visit this park. There are mils and miles of trails to hike, beautiful mountain vistas to enjoy, lovely waterfalls, streams, and...
The Most Unique Restaurants in Pigeon Forge, TN
When you travel, chances are you're looking for unique restaurants to eat at. Places that depict the personality of the town you're visiting. Sure, you could eat at a franchise, but why? You can do that anywhere. If you're in the mood for a true Smoky Mountain vacation then country cookin' will definitely be on your menu. Here are several outstanding restaurants to check out the next time you're in Pigeon Forge or the surrounding areas. Log Cabin Pancake House Breakfast is the most important meal of the day so start your morning off right with a hearty southern meal. Made-from-scratch pancakes (never from a mix!) are light, fluffy and piled high. Of course no self-respecting southerner would be...
Enjoy Your Holidays in Pigeon Forge Bed and Breakfast
The urban life is very tiring, both mentally and physically. Most people living in big cities find themselves unable to deal with the pressures of their lives and the competitive businesses that they are involved in. This is the cause of a lot of illnesses like depression and cardiac problems. The best way to avoid these complications is to take a holiday and spend some time alone, preferably in the midst of nature. Nature has a strange healing power that can cure and strengthen the mind to get back to its normal capacity. This is why the Smoky Mountain bed and breakfast resorts and the Pigeon Forge bed and breakfast are so highly recommended to urban residents. Set at the foot of the spectacular...
Three Ways to Relax in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg boasts activities to please the whole family and fill every hour of your vacation. Daily entertainment from outdoor adventures to theme park attractions awaits, but what if you want to take a vacation from your vacation and relax for the day? Here are a few ways to have fun and enjoy the Smokies at a slower pace. Focus on the food! Eating should be an enjoyable experience, and Gatlinburg offers a bevy of restaurants perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (and snacks in between!) to please any palate. To start your day, rise and shine to a delicious breakfast-even fix it yourself if you were staying in one of numerous and beautiful Gatliburg cabins! But who wants to cook on vacation? Let...
What is Your Definition of Wealth?
When one considers the often heard term "wealth management," what does that actually mean? Is this a term that applies only to those who are already wealthy? For that matter, how does one define "wealthy"? Is it having a million dollars in the bank and investments? Five or ten million? In actuality, the determination of wealth is largely a personal definition based on one's own attitudes and aspirations towards a chosen lifestyle. Wealth management describes the tools and methods to achieve that level of wealth and/or maintain it to serve current or future lifestyle aspirations. Therefore, the first question that should be asked in determining a personal goal of wealth is, "What level of wealth is...
Any couple that wants to spend a honeymoon at a secluded cabin should be aware of the cost of renting one of these cabins. Vacation rentals can cost different amounts of money according to the time of year that the vacation will be held in. A typical rental will be one that is going to cost a few hundred dollars a night to use. Most rentals will cost at least two hundred dollars a night to use. Larger cabins are going to be worth more money. Most honeymoon cabins should not be too expensive though. This comes from how these cabins will be ones that work with small parties in mind. Many vacation rentals can work with special deals for couples that stay for an entire week. For example, honeymoon...
A Guide to Rocky Mountain Vacations
The legendary Rocky Mountains stretch from New Mexico up through the United States and into Canada. The Rocky Mountains are over 3000 miles long, spanning parts of Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming before continuing into Canada. Stories of early adventurers like Lewis and Clark exploring the Rocky Mountains are legendary. The majestic Rocky Mountains are a major tourist destination in the western United States. Visitors can participate in a number of activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and many more. The Rockies are home to several campgrounds, ghost towns, gold prospecting sites, and national parks. Some of the biggest tourist attractions in the...
Children Learn What You Teach -- So Be Careful What You Teach!
On our swing through Tennessee last weekend, we stopped to see my daughter -- my oldest child -- who had moved there from Atlanta last year. She took a new job in the whitewater rafting business. She loves the outdoor recreation industry. Her old job was in the same business, but she worked in an office building in Atlanta managing several outposts in north Georgia. She decided it didn't make much sense to live in the city if she loved being in the country. I'm proud of her for making that rational decision that helped her move her life in a more peaceful direction. From an early age, I pushed my kids to do well, to be the best, to see no limitations, to succeed in everything. It's the American way...
PSL Power Rankings #7
What an absolutely insane first few weeks it's been in the NFL. Seventeen teams, 17!!!, are still over .500. And it's just crazy how one week a team (let's say, the Giants) can look like total crap and then the following week come out and smoke a top-five team like the Falcons. Powerhouses like the Bengals losing to junk teams like the Buccaneers and surprises like the Saints are making this season something to watch. It's almost impossible to tell who's going to be left standing at the end of the year. Especially after Monday night's Bears-Cardinals game. Chicago has looked like far and away the best team in the NFL. The offense was rollin' up the points, the defense was shuttin' teams down...
View 7 States From the Peak of Clingmans Dome
At 6,643-feet high, Clingmans Dome isn't just the highest point in the Smoky Mountains...it's the highest point in the entire state of Tennessee. As a matter of fact, it's second only to Mount Mitchell in having the highest mountain peak east of the Mississippi. Believe it or not, on a clear day you can stand at the Dome's observation tower and see over 100 miles and seven states. That's quite a view. Even on a cloudy day the view is over 20 miles in any direction. It's like standing on a cloud and looking out over the world. The road leading to Clingmans Dome stretches for seven miles. Along the way you'll find several spots where you can pull off and enjoy the view. For the hiker, pick up one of...
Gatlinburg Lodging Choices
As you plan your trip to Gatlinburg Tennessee, lodging choices should be top of mind. Why? Because there are so many choices available to you, in a variety of price ranges, amenities, accommodations, activities and more. And, you have to book your lodging before you travel to Gatlinburg. There are many, many visitors that go to Gatlinburg every day. Particularly, July and October are busy months for visitors to Gatlinburg because of the artisan festivals that happen during those times. Here are some tips to follow to choose the best hotel for your exciting Gatlinburg trip! - Price. Set your price per night or per week for your Gatlinburg trip. In this economy, it is important to set your budget and...
Life Training - Adversity - Will You Break Or Break Through?
You can learn through Life Training that Adversity can make you stronger. It is not your enemy. In fact, Adversity is proof that an enemy exists. Adversity is an opportunity for promotion. Without Goliath...David would have stayed a lowly shepherd boy. With Goliath...David became a King! A rodeo rider wants the meanest bull he can get! He'll get a better score. You need to remember, that it's not what you are going "through" that matters ... it's what you are going "to" that matters! Adversity CAN make you stronger... if you let it Wilma Rudolph was the 20th of 22 children. She was born prematurely and doctors didn't expect her to survive. She did ... but at the age of 4, she contracted double...
Best Road Trips for Adventure: Explore the edges of the map on these remote roads. Classic American road trip destinations, Death Valley and The Pacific Coast Highway both have names promising adventure. Death Valley and the ghost towns, narrow canyons and open deserts around it are like an invitation for tough guys and people looking to escape society's bars, while the Pacific Coast Highway promises the clear beauty of American beauty oceanside - dramatic cliff-faces, beaches, secluded coves, mountainous forests, and protected wildlife. Best Road Trips for Luxury: Wind in your hair freedom in style. These road trips are made for honeymoons. Best case scenario the car is something sleek, open topped...
The Historic Blue Ridge Parkway
Considered a national treasure, the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Managed by the National Park Service, the Parkway traverses 29 counties and two major metropolitan areas, Roanoke VA and Asheville NC - and averages 16 million visits annually. The Parkway's mission is to preserve the natural scenery and resources along its rural Southern Appalachian route, as well as provide recreational opportunities for the public and a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the mountains. An All-American Road as designated by the National Scenic Byways Commission, the Blue Ridge Parkway turns 75 years old in...
Capturing Memories With Photography
Most of us look forward to our vacations, time away from work and our everyday lives. That precious vacation time takes forever to get here and seems to be over in an instant. We all want to hold on to those wonderful feelings and memories as long as we can, and one of the best ways to capture memories and impressions is through photography. With the economy the way it is, many people are opting to spend their vacation time somewhere close to home, which often means driving instead of flying. Which is not a bad thing as traveling by automobile we tend to see a lot of interesting things along the way to and from our destinations. I was reminded of that when I recently perused some of the great...

