Innovative Solo Shelter Solutions: Alton Walkabout Swag

BY  Abdul Aziz May 2, 2023

If you are looking for a destination for your next vacation, chances are you came across Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Nestled at the foothill of the Great Smokies, Gatlinburg is a bustling town, continuously gaining a reputation as an ideal vacation destination. It offers breathtaking views of the mountains along with tons of outdoor activities and a rich culture full of history. However, before packing your bags, you must book accommodations first. Gatlinburg welcomes millions of visitors each year from all around the world, sometimes making it challenging for families to find suitable accommodations that cater to their needs. If you want to avoid this mistake or are looking to save some extra bucks, it is wise to book lodgings beforehand. This guide will share some tips on how to find the perfect place for your stay. Book The Best Lodgings For A Vacation In Gatlinburg: Things On Your Checklist Gatlinburg has the potential to become a case study for capitalizing on its proximity to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park and beautiful landscape.  However, tourism development in Gatlinburg has been a continuous effort for 20 years. This consistent effort even showed in Forbes Magazine naming it one of the prettiest towns in America in 2012.   Under the leadership of Cindy Cameron Ogle, the City Manager, Gatlinburg has experienced this metamorphosis. Further, the Airbnb Market Data for 2023 in Gatlinburg shows a huge demand for short-term and long-term accommodations (temporary) in this part of the world.  The vacation rental company had 1,797 active listings in Gatlinburg as of 12th September 2024. Further, in 2023, Airbnb enjoyed an average occupancy rate of 66%. Also, the median rate of daily occupancy was $235.  So, being a hotspot for Tennessee tourism, Gatlinburg has many excellent accommodation options. However, you need to consider the following factors to optimize your experience.  1- Be Clear About What You Want: Whether planning a solo trip or visiting Gatlinburg with family, the first step is to decide what you are looking for from your accommodation. Even though Gatlinburg is a small town, it offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels and cabins to camping underneath the clear night sky. Note down what you will need from your accommodation and research different options. For example, a one-bedroom cabin is an ideal option if you are visiting Gatlinburg solo. On the other hand, if it is a family trip, consider booking a cabin with multiple bedrooms and basic amenities like a kitchen. It will come in handy, especially if you decide to stay on the outskirts. Many cabins also come with additional perks, like an indoor pool. It is an excellent, fun activity if you have kids. They can enjoy the warm, crystal-clear water while you plan for the day. By choosing Gatlinburg cabins with an indoor pool, you can also swim whenever you want without worrying about privacy or sunburn. 2- Location Is The Key For Booking Lodgings On A Vacation In Gatlinburg: Location is the deciding factor that can make or break your vacation experience. The primary purpose of the vacation is to unwind while exploring a new city and culture. You cannot do that if your location does not give you access to popular tourist spots. Choose a place that will put you in proximity to significant attraction spots and also allow you to enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery that Gatlinburg has to offer. Similarly, if the purpose of your location is pure relaxation, staying at a place located in a crowded area will ruin the vacation for you. In that case, you need to book a place that gives you access to mountains or hiking trails. Gatlinburg offers numerous challenging hiking trails, thanks to The Great Smoky National Park. If you are traveling by plane, you should also factor it in. Do not choose a place far from the airport or inconvenient to commute. Most cab services charge extra if your accommodation is located at a distance from the airport. You will also have to pay for public transport. You can avoid paying those additional chargers. 3- Research Different Options: Once you have decided on the type and location of the accommodation, it's time to go into research mode. Many credible websites, such as Airbnb and Booking, provide several options based on availability or your needs. Research the options by answering the following questions: How long are you going to stay? How many rooms will you require? Will you need cooking facilities? Do you have any special conditions? Do you need wifi, a pool, or any other additional perk? Can the place give access to public transport? Researching beforehand can save you from many mistakes. It can also help you plan your budget accordingly. For instance, booking a three-bedroom condo is a waste of money if traveling solo. Similarly, a one-bedroom cabin may not be sufficient for a family of 4. Take into consideration every option and choose the one that suits your needs. 4- Reviews Can Be Helpful: See what other people are saying about the place by reading online reviews. These reviews give insight into what other tourist experience about the accommodation. The reviews can be invaluable because they present the facts about the accommodation in question. When deciding between two or more accommodations, this information can be helpful because you can usually tell immediately how much the reviewer enjoyed the accommodations. You can also explore travel blogs for detailed reviews and ratings. The place with higher ratings usually indicates credibility. 5- Consider The Timing Of Your Visit: Since Gatlinburg attracts millions of tourists, the timing of your visit can matter the most. Gatlinburg is nestled between the mountains, and its pleasant weather during summer attracts millions of visitors. Most lodges are fully booked during summer, making it difficult to book accommodation. Many people also experience long queues for a table at the restaurant. And in a jam-packed season, it can be difficult for families to enjoy outdoor activities or explore the city to a full extent. 6- Book Early: If you do choose to visit Gatlinburg during summer, it is wise to book early. Imagine a family vacation is due, and you have taken some days off from work. Everything is in order except booking a place to stay. You go to the website only to realize that your ideal hotel or cabin is sold out for the days you want to visit. Therefore, always book early. Do not wait till the last minute. Booking early gives you peace of mind that your ideal place is waiting for you, and you can also save money because the price usually goes up during the busy season. Things To See On A Vacation In Gatlinburg On A Budget: A Quick Rundown Gatlinburg is one of the most budget-friendly travel destinations in the USA. Further, it is a great destination for family holidays.  September to October is the best time to visit Gatlinburg, and in case you have plans to visit the city this fall, you can explore the following places.  1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park stands between the borders of Tennessee and North Carolina. You can cherish the beauty of the Smoky Mountains here and encounter the most fascinating wildlife. Furthermore, it is a great place to learn about the Southern Appalachian culture.  2. Anakeesta Anakeesta, a theme park in Gatlinburg, is a great spot for family vacations. Enjoy mountain coasters and zipline tours here and behold the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.  3. Gatlinburg Space Needle https://www.instagram.com/spaceneedletn/p/Cu5ba8BRyfr/ Gatlinburg Space Needle is an observation deck. You can get the best views of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg downtown from a 400 feet height from Gatlinburg Space Needle.  Along with these places, you can also stop by the Moonshine Mountain Coaster, Gatlinburg SkyPark, Mysterious Mansion, etc.    Final Thoughts: Taking a vacation is an excellent way to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of the daily routine and recharge your battery. But most people find it overwhelming when it comes to booking. When planning for a vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is booking a place to stay during your vacation. Many people are stressed out when they plan for accommodation, but you don't need to worry about that. Follow the strategies discussed to avoid mistakes. The key is to identify your priorities and act accordingly. Read Also: Tips For Vacationing In Gatlinburg Great Vacation Ideas For Adventurers 4 Fun Trip Ideas To Plan For This Year

BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 7, 2023

The Smokies are a delight for those with a dash of daring in their DNA. It laps rough-hewn peaks, emerald tapestries of woodlands, and a cornucopia of creatures both large and small. Sit back, grab your favorite beverage, and let us walk you through a sampler of some Smoky Mountain marvels, from lung-expanding hikes to pulse-quickening aqua antics. The Magic Of The Smoky Mountains The Smoky Mountains, true to their name, wear a shroud of mystical blue fog that heightens their age-old allure. This ageless range of mountains holds a mesmerizing mosaic of sights. It offers verdant woods stretching to the horizon, valleys plunging into deep shadows, and waterfalls leaping in cascades. It also has a veritable zoo of wildlife going about their business. Whether you’re an admirer of Mother Nature, a thrill-seeker, or a reflective wanderer, the Smoky Mountains extend a warm welcome. The charm of the Smokies lies in their staggering diversity. Imagine a bustling feathered metropolis of over 200 bird species, an underwater neighborhood of 50 fish species, 39 varieties of reptiles slithering and basking, and 65 kinds of mammals scampering and prowling. This bursting-at-the-seams diversity paints a vibrant canvas of life, a cornerstone of the Smoky Mountains experience. Hiking Trails That Will Take Your Breath Away The Smoky Mountains roll out a staggering 800 miles of trails that cater to every degree of hiking prowess. Each track has its allure, with a fair few leading you to stunning vantage points. These structures whisper tales of yore, and the waterfalls serenade your journey. One of them is the crest of Mount LeConte, where you will encounter views that will leave you speechless. When you come to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, camping is a must! It offers a front-row seat to the wilderness and lets you savor the mountain quiet once the sun dips below the horizon. Imagine bedding beneath the watchful boughs of giant trees and waking to a dawn chorus of birdsong. It’s an experience that’ll etch itself into your memory and will add a pinch of magic to your mountain trek. Rushing Rapids: Whitewater Rafting In The Smokiest Whitewater rafting in the Smoky Mountains is an adrenaline-pumping experience that combines the thrill of navigating through turbulent waters with the joy of witnessing stunning natural beauty. The Pigeon River, with its fast currents and series of rapids, offers an exhilarating rafting adventure. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rafter, various rafting trips are available to cater to different skill levels. Safety is a top priority during these trips, with experienced guides leading the way and providing necessary instructions. As you paddle through the turbulent river, you will also enjoy the picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and a sense of camaraderie that comes with facing the rapids together. A Bird’s Eye View: Zip-Lining Adventures The Smoky Mountains are just as impressive from the air as they are from the ground. Zip-lining in the Smokies provides an unparalleled perspective of the mountains as you soar through the treetops and over ravines. Not only is this an exhilarating experience, but it also offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Many zip-lining companies offer tours of varying lengths and difficulty levels, accommodating everyone from beginners to seasoned adventurers. Along with the thrill of speed and height, you’ll also have the chance to learn about the local flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides, making it a wholesome and enriching adventure. Galloping Through The Wilderness An adventure in the Smoky Mountains wouldn’t be complete without a horseback ride through its scenic trails. Riding on a horse allows you to travel at a slower pace. It provides ample time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Trails pass through quiet forests, across sparkling streams, and along the ridges of the mountains. They offer breathtaking views along the way. The stables within the park provide trained horses suitable for riders of all experience levels. Guided horseback tours offer a unique opportunity to learn about the history and ecology of the park from experienced guides, making it an engaging and educational adventure. Pedaling Through Panoramas A bicycle journey through the Smoky Mountains is nothing short of extraordinary, plunging you headlong into the splendor of these towering landscapes. The park has several cycling-friendly trails that meander through dense woods, trace bubbling brooks, and circumvent historical edifices. The Cades Cove Loop Road, temporarily off-limits to motorized commuters for part of the week, is a favorite among the pedaling populace. It offers awe-inspiring views of the mountains and a chance to encounter local wildlife. Saddling up for a ride through the Smokies enables a truly intimate communion with nature. The steady rhythm of cycling tunes you into the symphony of the woodland, the aromatic perfume of the trees, and the ever-changing backdrop of breathtaking vistas, making it an overwhelmingly gratifying escapade. Fishing: The Quiet Adventure For those who find their thrill in the calm and collected, fishing in the Smoky Mountains is a joy unmatched. With a staggering 2,100 miles of streams bustling with trout and other piscine populations, the park presents an array of opportunities for fishermen. Fishing offers a serene pastime and a platform to admire the natural beauty of the streams and their surroundings. Each year, the park issues thousands of fishing permits, contributing to the conservation efforts in the Smoky Mountains. It’s a rewarding way to enjoy nature while helping to preserve the biodiversity of these majestic mountains. Winter Adventures: Snow Sports In The Smoky Mountains With winter’s arrival, the Smoky Mountains don a cloak of shimmering white, morphing into a haven for winter sports buffs. Whether it’s zipping down the slopes skiing and snowboarding at Ober Gatlinburg - Tennessee’s solitary ski resort - or embarking on a journey of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing across the park, the Smokies are bursting at the seams with frosty escapades. The bracing chill of winter air, the distinct crunch of snow beneath your boots, and the exhilarating rush of swooping down powdered slopes - winter in the Smokies is nothing short of a fairy tale. A dusting of snow over the Smoky Mountains adorns the landscape with a pristine beauty that elevates its allure. The Unforgettable Wildlife Experience One of the Smoky Mountains’ treasures is the chance to observe an array of wildlife thriving in their natural homes. Whether it’s the iconic black bears that are synonymous with the park or the elk, who made a comeback in the park in the early noughties, the park teems with opportunities for wildlife watching. Stumbling upon a deer nibbling at the meadow’s edge or spying a coyote skulking in the underbrush - watching these wild beings in their natural theatre is a humbling experience. But bear in mind these creatures aren’t part of a petting zoo, so maintaining a respectful distance is crucial for both your safety and theirs. Conclusion The Smoky Mountains roll out a carpet of endless outdoor escapades for those with an adventurous spirit. The Smoky Mountains are a cornucopia of exhilarating exploits. You can clamber up hiking trails and set up camp or plunge into water sports. You can also take in the beauty of the wildlife or relish the icy thrill of snow sports. No matter what you do, it guarantees a memorable adventure that will leave you with an insatiable itch for more. So buckle up and prepare to lose yourself in the enchanting wilderness of the Smoky Mountains. Read Also: Planning A Beach Holiday In 2023? Here Are 5 Things To Buy In Advance 7 Creative Truck Cap Camping Ideas To Use In Jungle Adventures 6 Outdoor Activities You Can Have In Arizona

BY  Mashum Jan 20, 2022

Sailing is the best way to travel because you have a lot of freedom. You can actually get much closer to nature and see how it can help you relax, rejuvenate, and calm your inner self and go back with more experience and more love towards the location. If you want to enjoy adventure and wildlife, you should choose far-flung locations for your sailing trips. You will be able to confront magnificent wildlife, explore remotely placed islands, and try out exciting adventure water sports. You can encounter the most incredible sights of nature by just sitting on the deck of your sailing yacht. When you decide to enjoy adventure and wildlife on your sailing holiday, you need to choose your sailing destinations accordingly. Let us see the best adventure and wildlife sailing destinations. If you want to enjoy adventure and wildlife, you should choose far-flung locations for your sailing trips. You will be able to confront magnificent wildlife, explore remotely placed islands, and try out exciting adventure water sports. You can encounter the most incredible sights of nature by just sitting on the deck of your sailing yacht. Boats don't have to burn a hole in your wallet either. You can pick up plenty of bargains from used boat auctions online to fuel your next seaworthy adventure! 1. Vancouver Island in Canada One of the best places to enjoy adventure sports and wildlife is Vancouver Island in Canada. The stunning scenic beauty will make you go crazy once you reach the place by sailing. It is a great combination of witnessing amazing wildlife and enjoying various kinds of adventure sports. This place is ideal for kayaking and snorkeling. So if you are a fan of either of the two, opt for Vancouver for your memorable sailing trip. 2. The Whitsundays in Australia In the Whitsundays, you are likely to witness incredible and stunning locales with diverse wildlife. This is the location where you can enjoy a spectacular scene of nature without any obstructions from the deck of your sailing yacht. The Whitsundays in Australia is the best place to enjoy diving, scuba diving, and surfing. You will surely have some unforgettable moments here at the white sand beaches. 3. Phuket in Thailand There are a lot of places in Thailand that you can choose for your sailing holiday. But Phuket is one of the picturesque and exotic locations where you have the chance to enjoy adventure water sports and wildlife together. It consists of some ancient villages where the only occupation for residents is fishing. The idyllic islands in Phuket will make a dreamy background to your sailing yacht deck. You can enjoy snorkeling, deep-sea diving, scuba diving, and swimming in Thailand’s Phuket. 4. Abacos in the Bahamas The beautiful beaches are the most attractive things about this location. You can choose this location for its famous diving spots. You can sail in the Bahamas all year-round and it has that perfect weather to enjoy the place and to relax and rejuvenate yourself for which you have arranged your sailing holiday. 5. Belize in Central America Another place that you choose for enjoying wildlife and water adventure in abundance is Belize situated in Central America. It has a barrier reef that has a shelter for all those coming by sailing. Belize consists of rainforests that are incredible to watch. You can also witness the ruins of the Mayans here. Snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, kayaking, and deep-sea diving are some of the adventure water sports to enjoy on your sailing trip to Belize. All You Need to Pack for Your Caribbean Sailing Holiday If you have mastered the art of travel packing efficiently and effectively, then you surely deserve kudos! Most of you may look confused about what to pack when you decide on a sailing holiday either as a couple or as a family. Amidst all the excitement of sailing to a new destination can make you forget everything for a moment. But you need to be very careful and cautious about the things that you pack because remember you are going on a sailing voyage and you will be in the middle of the ocean. You have chosen the sun-soaked Caribbean as your sailing location and spend your vacation wisely. Packing for a laid-back island getaway can be difficult. Here is a guide that you can follow to pack items for your Caribbean sailing trip like a professional. Essential Travelling Documents First things first, you cannot even imagine traveling to a destination without your travel documents. Before you forget and just after you have booked your catamaran or sailboat for the trip, be ready with all the necessary documents. The documents you need for the Caribbean sailing trip are, The passports of you and your family members. Proper identification forms. Booking papers. Paper mentioning your itinerary. Additional documents are required for the trip. Essential Clothes  The Caribbean region is warm and it gets hotter. So you must carry summer clothing particularly. You cannot imagine your Caribbean vacation without swimsuits, bathing suits, bikinis, and summer short beach dresses. Choose outfits that are breezy, loose-fitted, and lightweight. The material must be dry-fit so that you don’t feel uncomfortable when you perspire. You can pack party dresses if you plan to visit any nightclub. Essential Accessories As a thumb rule, hats and shades are musts for your Caribbean sailing holiday. You can pack stylish designer hats inside your lightweight duffel bag that will protect you from sun exposure when you sit on your yacht deck or sunbathing. The pair of sunglasses should be polarized and you should be able to take pleasure from the magnificent views of the surroundings. Toiletries Bring only your necessities. Pack only those that are an absolute must for your Caribbean sailing holiday. Try to pack a travel-size toiletry set and liquids that take up less space inside your bag. Try to avoid carrying unnecessary makeup items. Some toiletries that you can pack are, Sunscreen Insect repellent Hair care products Basic makeup products like mascara, lip gloss, and powder Moisturizer Perfume or deodorants Personal Hygiene essentials Personal grooming items Electronic Items You can carry electronic items like your camera, mobile phone, iPad, and eBook. Try to avoid carrying your laptop. Leaving behind your work essentials will help you enjoy your trip more and rather not think about what is happening in your workplace. You can also make some cloth pouches for carrying your electronic items to make them splash-proof and keep them safe in your beach tote bag or your backpack. Read Also: Ski Resorts of Idaho A Cruising Tour of Komodo Island Want an adrenaline-filled activity? Try Zipline Smoky Mountains! 9 Things Every Traveler Should Know When Visiting Shanghai