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chocolate-brownies · 6 years ago

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The Twin Cities might be known for its’ sub-zero winters and skyscraper-climbing raccoons, but there is no shortage of healthy eats, cozy yoga studios, and truly enchanting boutiques. Together, Minneapolis and St. Paul are their own little wellness Disneyland.

We asked Sacred Space’s owner (and Twin Cities native), Caitlin Gottschalk what her top picks were for soaking in all the good-vibes Minneapolis + Saint Paul has to offer.

Where to Practice

Sacred Space Yoga + Meditation 1955 Johnson St. NE, (612) 361-1138 Sacred Space is a sanctuary for your personal yoga or meditation practice. Our supportive community is built to serve both new-comers and veterans to meditation and yoga. We offer guided and self-guided classes that can awaken a novice practice or deepen an existing one. Already have a yoga studio or home practice? Sacred Space aims to support those looking to find affordable ways to enrich your self-care to new depths with bi-weekly moon meditations, private Reiki Sessions in our Yurt or come to a community Crystal Soundbath on Sundays at 10a! First month unlimited: $35. Sign up in-studio. All welcome.

Studio One Yoga Locations:Roseville, White Bear Lake, and Stillwater Craving some heat? Check out one of Studio One Yoga’s heated vinyasa or hot classes. Studio One welcomes anyone who is ready to relax, work hard, laugh or let go. In addition to offering heated yoga, they also have a wide-array of restorative, yin, and beginner-level classes to suit all styles and moods.

Tula Yoga + Wellness 99 Snelling Avenue North Saint Paul, MN 55104, (651) 645-5551 Find yourself in Saint Paul? Stop by Tula Yoga + Wellness on Snelling. This cozy exclusively by-donation studio has a wide array of daily classes and also offers aerial yoga. It’s a mellow and welcoming space with heartfelt teachings, guaranteeing you a blissful morning, evening, or afternoon.

Also check out: Healing Elements Wellness, Radiant Life Yoga, Imbue Yoga and Yess Yoga

What to Eat

J. Selby’s 169 N. Victoria St., (651) 222-3263 J. Selby’s is a plant-based eatery location in St. Paul, Minnesota with a menu FULL of delicious food (a must-try is the vegan buffalo wings made from deep-fried cauliflower). J. Selby’s serves both familiar favorites and new, exciting dishes all re-imagined and recreated as completely plant-based fare to help us all move toward a sustainable, environmental friendly, compassionate way of enjoying food. This awesome new addition to Saint Paul is great for a quick, healthy-bite.

Tiny Diner 1024 East 38th St., (612) 767.3322 If you are looking for locally-grown, sustainably-sourced, wild-crafted, and hand-picked meals that taste like your grandma made it, this is your spot. Tiny Diner has an abundant garden outside where you can see fresh herbs get plucked and added to your omelette (true story). The Tiny Diner and Farm is a small place with big ideas. Every month they pay tribute to diner towns across the USA, exploring different ways to use our Midwestern bounty. They produce energy with their patio roof and solar array, increasing urban soil fertility, and create a natural habitat for pollinators and urban wildlife. If that isn’t enough, they make an amazing Sage Cream Soda. Sip and savor on the adorable patio.

Passionflower 747 Cleveland Ave S., (612) 444-1624 Passionflower features wholesome wellness shakes, superfood smoothies, and recovery beverages that are as beautiful as they are nutritious (expect unexpected ingredients like coconut cream and dragonfruit, and churro whey powder). Founded by Danny Litin, this locally-born gem is is made to fuel your body and sweeten your soul. Passionflower is conveniently located in the heart of Alchemy, which offers hybrid yoga, strength, and intense conditioning to change the body and renew the mind.

Where to Shop

The Future 2223 E. 35th St., (612) 444-1624 The Future is a project space, artist market, Aquarian lab, artist residency, library, workshop and event space in South Minneapolis. The storefront is a small retail space that features a curated selection of handmade offerings by artists, witches, weirdos and healers, with a focus on items to make a body or space more powerful and positive. Think: rare, handmade tarot decks, crystals-a-plenty, and hand-wrapped sage bundles. The shop is always shifting it’s material and offerings so check back often. It sits next-door to Imbue Yoga which is one of the most quaint and calm studios in the area.

Khazana 2225 Lyndale Ave S., (612) 339-4565 Khazana (the Urdu word for “treasure”) is a gallery, boutique, and community gathering space located in Minneapolis. Owner Anju Kataria started collecting treasures from around the world as a child growing up in India, and continues to travel globally to meet and work with passionate craftspeople. Khazana lives up to it’s name and is a true hidden-gem. The artifacts and treasures in this epic space have the power transport to another time and place entirely. Anju’s eye and care for her finds is impeccable—if you find something for yourself there and are lucky enough cross paths with Anju, be sure to inquire about it’s story.

Duke Albert 2516 Central Ave NE If you’re looking for luxury incense, incredible candles, or face-care so good you could practically eat it, this is your spot. Duke Albert is a new lifestyle collective bringing chic-casual home goods, apothecary, books and other sundries to the heart of Northeast. They always have a rotating selection of perfectly curated finds the owners are down-to-earth and the vibes are oh-so-sweet sweet. It’s one of the best treat-yo-self spots in the neighborhood.

Where to Spend Time Outdoors

Como Lakeside Pavillion 1360 Lexington Pkwy N. Como is right by the water and home to Spring Cafe. (Easy grab-and-go eats. You have to try their $3 Elote.) The Pavilion is known for outdoor concerts, musicals, and other performances, but it’s also great place to just stop and soak in your surroundings. Within walking distance, you can visit the Como Zoo and Botanical Gardens, or you can take advantage of their kayak, pedal boat, canoe, or paddle board rentals! Best part—they also offer donation-based yoga on Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am with Sara Wait.

CHS Field 360 Broadway, (651) 644-3517 CHS Field is home to the Saint Paul Saints and is located in Lowertown, a vibrant neighborhood on the east end of downtown Saint Paul. Lowertown is well-known for its thriving arts community, beautiful parks, unique historic character, and a booming farmer’s market. Tickets for games are under $20—if you’re around for a Friday Home Game, make sure you stick around for fireworks afterward.

Movies in the Park Offered all over the city. Check website for full calendar. Parks across both Minneapolis and Saint Paul offer free movies (both old and new) during the summer months. Bring-your-own blankets, snacks, pillows, friends, and probably bug-spray. The shows start 15 minutes after sun-down.

Have a Good Time

Can-Can Wonderland 755 Prior Ave N., (651) 925-2261 Can-Can Wonderland is an artist-inspired and designed 18-hole mini golf course. It lives up to it’s name as a wonderland—prepare for wild murals, live music, crazy cocktails, oodles of vintage pinball machines, and an evening full of whimsical entertainment.

Salt Salon + Spa + Cafe 3947 Excelsior Blvd. 952-300-2153 If you are looking for a place to unplug, unwind, and get pampered then scoot on over to the new Salt Salon, Spa & Cafe. They have full salon services if you’re looking for a cut, color, mani or pedi. But they also have one of the most beautiful salt caves in the metro—and we have a few! Bonus? They give you a complimentary pot of french-press coffee or loose-leaf tea while you wait for you appointment. The ambiance alone is worth the stop.

—

Caitlin Gottschalk, RYT-200, has been enthralled with the magic of yoga for over 10 years. She currently runs CTG Yoga which is a lifestyle company that focuses on mindfully-made drygoods to inspire or enhance graceful living. You can see her journey on Instagram (@ctgyogalife) where she does interactive micro-blogging, offering daily tips and tricks on healthy and conscious living. When not on her mat, she enjoys getting lost in the woods, reading tarot cards, stargazing, juicing leafy greens, and composing dreamy electronic music to dance unapologetically to.

The post The Yogi’s Guide to Twin Cities appeared first on Wanderlust.

#sleep sounds #sleep music #white noise app #nature sounds #relaxing sounds #rain sounds for sleeping

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petraself · 7 years ago

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Dueling DIY: Before and Halfway Reveal?

My friend Charlotte and I are in a DIY battle to renovate our guest bedrooms. Catch the entire series here.

Hey folks! I’m sure you guys expected me to post this last Wednesday (sorry about that), but these last two weeks have been nuts!

My birthday was on the 1st… and like clockwork, I was hit with epic hayfever that left my face swollen, sneezing, and itchy. Not a pretty picture. It makes me feel miserable, and feel so lame, all at the same time. I think it’s the mundaneness of being taken down by tree dust. Or that I somehow manage to forget not to leave the house until June when I’m excited that spring has finally returned.

Still, I at least got to go out to dinner and put on a nice dress and flowers and all the mushy stuff with K, and I also got a new power tool (because he knows my love language, ha). I’ll get to why I was outside to make matters worse at the end of this post, but I need to give you a Dueling DIY update first!

As we touched on with the last update, Charlotte (of At Charlotte’s House) was thinking she was probably going to be done with her guest room makeover by our next scheduled post. And since her room was a little smaller than mine, it’s not exactly a surprise that the challenge is ending sooner than I’ll actually finish all the big builds in the room (I still have the built-ins to finish, plus two custom-made pieces of furniture to create for the double-duty use of this room… a lot going on!).

But, that isn’t really ever the point of Dueling DIY. I still plan to fully finish this room, but the goal is always to light a fire under my ass and actually make some progress after years of stalling. I think my room has done just that! So, it’s time to toot my own horn a little, fully furnished or not. Let’s go wall to wall and cover the biggest leaps forward that we’ve seen thus far, and what’s yet to come!

Before: boring and cluttered

During the “before” tour, I showed you a freshly cleaned-out room. Lots had been donated to Goodwill, which was a start, but the room had ZERO personality.

Progress: a cozy corner

I added a beautiful sage green to two of the walls, and a super pale gray to a third. A final wall will be painted after the built-ins are complete (and will match the wall on the right). But how awesome does this same corner look now compared to before? The picture ledges turned out exactly as I imagined, and got a ton of my artwork out of boxes. Win!

I also added DIY curtain rods to the window that have a nifty hanging rod built in, which allowed me to create some hanging planters. I still like them, but as you can see, I already switched them out. K made that call, actually… he didn’t like that they were deliberately hanging at different heights. Since this room will serve as his office space when he needs it (and I’m trying to make him feel welcome in what was my house exclusively for years), I made a switch to pre-made ones from Amazon, and will pick my battle another day.

Before: cluttered TV wall, too-hot room

ugly boob light

Clutter and a boob light… snore.

Progress: a place for remotes, a comfortable breeze

I know I’m not breaking the mold with these two upgrades, but adding another picture ledge beneath the TV and a bright, breezy ceiling fan (with remote) has made this room so much more comfortable to even be in! We removed the old visible storage as well, and there will soon be a custom-built piece to fit right under the TV and house a set of K’s vintage speakers. He is really excited to develop a piece for the blog, so I may give him the reigns with that one for his first project to share his design from his POV.

As for the little nook o’ nothin’ right next to the door, that space will get a few easy shelves for K’s vintage records and video games. When the built-ins are finished, we may switch what’s displayed where; but with all his stuff moved into the house in odd places, getting things out of the living room will be a step in the right direction!

Before: the bed wall

Progress: still “the bed wall”, but way cooler!

The Murphy bed has been talked about repeatedly already, but in the last two weeks, there have been two significant changes:

It’s painted the final color of the future built-ins; and

I’m working on the art on the front!

The green tape in the photo was a way to visually see what size art I want on the wall. The two smaller vertical pieces are where the handles need to be for optimal leverage. My goal with the art piece is to make it so that the handles are somehow incorporated into the art, so when closed, it looks like a really cool wall and not the exposed bottom of the bed. So far, here’s what it looks like!

Murphy bed wall art

Ignore the plywood scraps behind the art… that’s just a flat surface to work on. This is a happy stopping point until I get some input from K on what we should do next (I’m thinking of adding some scroll saw pieces so it’s got some geometric and swooping shapes to it). And as for where the handles fit…

I’ve cut out a place on each side that should fit right over the handles once installed! I cut these using a scroll saw and then glued them to another piece to keep them stable (that front part of the wood that hides the handle is super thin, so it would never hold on its own). It probably still looks a little confusing with the plywood in the background, but I’ll have a post dedicate to the entire DIY process once I figure out how the rest is going to look, stain it, etc.

Dueling DIY Vlog #4

Since this is the official end of Dueling DIY: Guest Room Gauntlet, I made one last vlog update as well! You will now find four episodes over on my YouTube channel, and I’ll be adding each of these to a playlist on the Dueling DIY: Guest Room Gauntlet tag in case you ever want to see them in sequence. If you want to see more about how I plan to make the art on the Murphy bed work too, I have a short clip of the handle placement, and wait for Charlie’s input around the 2:20 mark.

And as for that reason I was outside, getting attacked by hay fever demons? Here’s a sneak peek:

Things are finally happening with the new shed and platform deck! I’ve been planning things since last fall, and things are now majorly underway. These are the big reasons I was trying to make headway with the guest room before spring, since I knew that it would be way too hard to try to do the bulk of the Murphy bed and all this at the same time. I’ve decided that I’ll batch out the posts as two separate series (series-es? hehe) so I can give more details on things like pre-treated lumber (such as when to use ground contact, etc.), framing the walls, and all that. It’s all a huge learning process for me, so I’ll pass on as much info as I can (we’re still talking about structural details that will likely vary a good bit depending on location and what codes to follow, so it might be hard to answer specific questions if they haven’t applied to me/my yard).

That’s all for now, but check in again this week. My goal is to post every other day (including weekends) until all of the goings-on have been posted about, but I have several complex tutorials in my pipeline that I’ve been wanting to share, so it’s mostly a matter of how much sleep I get until the hay fever goes away (which unfortunately after a winter of not enjoying warm weather, makes it hard to stay inside!).

So, tell me: what have you been working on or planning that you’re really excited about?

P.S. One more thing: Charlotte and my friend Erin Spain have a podcast called North South Makers, and they asked me on as their first guest interview! You can check me out on Episode 34 right here. They’re also going to be my roomies at Haven in Charleston this July. I’ll be sure to include any road trip shenanigans when we do a recap.

The post Dueling DIY: Before and Halfway Reveal? appeared first on Ugly Duckling House.

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mrrolandtfranco · 7 years ago

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15 Most Romantic Cabin Getaways According To Travelers

Secluded cabin rental for two? Step right this way for tried and tested romantic destinations where love is most definitely in the air.

Romantic Cabin Getaways Loved By Travelers

Reviews tell us a lot about the kind of vacations a destination is good for. So when we were looking for some of the best places for romantic cabin getaways, we checked what travelers had to say. At FlipKey (part of the TripAdvisor family), we used a special algorithm to analyze every single TripAdvisor review, identifying which locations across America had the highest percentage of reviews mentioning romance. What’s left are some of the top romantic cabin getaways that travelers rave about—each boasting secluded cabin rentals available to book on FlipKey. No matter the season, these inviting destinations make excellent retreats for couples in need of some time away together.

There’s no doubt that a cabin makes a pretty romantic setting, whether it’s nestled high up in the mountains or perched on a cliff by the sea. When you book a secluded cabin rental with FlipKey, you get the whole property and its amenities to yourselves, so you can take your morning coffee on a private porch, in a scenic garden, or tucked up in bed with a jaw-dropping view.

Here are 15 traveler favorites for romantic cabin getaways, from red-rocked desert towns to pretty lakeside villages.

Jenner, California

A couple of hours’ drive away from the throng of San Francisco on a rugged stretch of Cali coast is where you’ll find lovely Jenner. This coastal village is ripe for seal-spotting, beach-combing, and uninterrupted ocean-gazing, and it’s one of the quieter spots featured in this list. Peace at last.

See all FlipKey rentals in Jenner!

Saugatuck, Michigan

“This home exceeded our high expectations. First, the view took my breath away; it never got old. The elevation and combination of door walls, windows and screened porch off the back and side of the home provide a treehouse atmosphere, while cozy woodwork and furnishings convey warmth. We spent many hours sitting in the screen porch enjoying the sounds of birds and crickets chirping.” — FlipKey Reviewer

On the shores of Lake Michigan stands the small town of Saugatuck. Leave your stresses at the door of your rental—it’s time to relax. You can chill out on Oval Beach, hike across Saugatuck Dunes State Park, or browse the little art galleries in town. Alternatively, you could simply go from cabin to beach to cabin every day, making the most of your time out together.

See all FlipKey rentals in Saugatuck!

Logan, Ohio

Here’s another beautifully quiet place to hole up in a secluded cabin hideaway. When you’re ready to venture out, try a gentle forest walk in Lake Logan State Park or go boating on a lake full of catfish. At nearby Hocking Hills State Park, don’t miss the atmospheric Rock House, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls.

See all FlipKey rentals in Logan!

Hood River, Oregon

“The house is perfect for a family or a couple looking for a centrally located place to stay with gorgeous views of the Gorge. It’s comfy and walking distance to eateries and local grocery stores. Can’t really ask for more than that. Nicely equipped for our needs along with a garage spot and laundry. We’re already looking at dates for a summer visit so we can enjoy the deck and a wonderful glass of wine.” — FlipKey Reviewer

Hood River ticks all the boxes for romantic cabin getaways, with the scenic Columbia River flowing by, plenty of hiking trails for long walks, and picnic stops for undisturbed lunches for two. There are also plenty of good places to eat here, with farm-fresh food lending a truly local touch.

See all FlipKey rentals in Hood River!

Manitou Springs, Colorado

People used to come to Manitou Springs to drink the naturally carbonated mineral water, thought to have healing powers. You can still taste it today, but if you’re here for romance, you’ll probably want to chug along taking in the views from the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Here, the highest cog train in the world will take you up through a romantic landscape of rocky terrain and pine forest, finishing with gorgeous views over the Great Plains. Don’t miss the amazing Manitou Cliff Dwellings, preserved Anasazi homes full of artifacts to explore.

See all FlipKey rentals in Manitou Springs!

Big Sur, California

Not many people, plenty of space, and uninterrupted Pacific views. Sounds pretty romantic to us. Just book your private cabin and you’re all set for the couple’s trip of a lifetime. Driving the coastal road along this breathtaking stretch of California is up there with our all-time favorite activities—do make a stop to snap the famous Bixby Bridge in all its glory.

See all FlipKey rentals in Big Sur!

Aspen, Colorado

“Very gracious family home. We had a wonderful time. This home had everything for amenities.” — FlipKey Reviewer

It’s easy to see why so many couples choose Aspen for their romantic cabin getaways. Take a horse and carriage ride, ascend the mountain on the Silver Queen Gondola for awe-inspiring views, or book your places on the Aspen Cooking School’s culinary course for couples. We’re sure your first visit won’t be your last.

See all FlipKey rentals in Aspen!

Mendocino, California

Discover the towering Redwoods, ocean views, and Victorian seaside homes of pretty Mendocino. There are beaches and walking paths to wander at Mendocino Headlands State Park, plus some charming villages to visit in the surrounding area. Just up the road is Fort Bragg, with its glistening Glass Beach and the Skunk Train chugging gently through the forest.

See all FlipKey rentals in Mendocino!

Dahlonega, Georgia

This is gold-rush territory, so you may want to start your visit at the fascinating Dahlonega Gold Museum, before wading into the river to pan for some of the sparkly stuff yourselves. After that, explore the pleasant historic center, which welcomes you in for romantic wanderings among its 19th-century structures.

See all FlipKey rentals in Dahlonega!

Luray, Virginia

“We love it. The yard is huge with 2 types of grills and a fire pit. The view is phenomenal. The interior is beautiful. The owner is very nice and easy to work with.” — FlipKey Reviewer

This is the cabin capital of Virginia, so you’re in the right place for a romantic cabin retreat. Luray is set in the spectacular Shenandoah Valley, so you can set off to fish and hike in Shenandoah National Park or paddle on the river. A visit to the atmospheric Luray Caverns is a must, with its lofty caverns and huge natural rock formations, all beautifully lit for visitors.

See all FlipKey rentals in Luray!

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

This area is rich in cozy cabins with glorious views. From spelunking to spa days, there’s plenty to keep couples entertained. Be sure to motor along the Blue Ridge Parkway with the top down for the ultimate romantic drive. Stop off along the way at the curious Blowing Rock itself, which directs the mountain winds upwards.

See all FlipKey rentals in Blowing Rock!

Stowe, Vermont

The mountain resort of Stowe is stunning throughout the seasons, whether you’re here to ski, leaf-peep, or simply escape the daily grind. This is one for the outdoorsy types, so peel yourselves out of your secluded cabin rental and get involved in the season’s activities. Finish up the day with an intimate meal, accompanied by remarkable alpine views, at the Austrian-style Cliff House Restaurant.

See all FlipKey rentals in Stowe!

Lake George, New York

The lake is the focal point of romantic cabin getaways in Lake George, so be sure to board a traditional steamboat for a daytime tour of the shore, or, even better, a romantic dinner cruise when the sun goes down. Take a drive or hike up Prospect Mountain for unbeatable views of the surrounding area, or set off to the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves to see the largest marble cave in the east.

See all FlipKey rentals in Lake George!

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is utterly charming all year round, with its Bavarian character and warm welcome. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through town in the spring, sleigh rides through the snow in the winter, and wine-tasting sessions whatever the weather. Simply heaven.

See all FlipKey rentals in Leavenworth!

Sedona, Arizona

“We had everything we needed here for a comfy stay and we loved the location just minutes from Bell Rock trail and convenient to attractions, food and whatever you want to do in Sedona. The beds were comfy, the home was stocked with pots and pans and dishes, coffee and tea, plenty of towels, bedding and wifi.” — FlipKey Reviewer

Ok, ok, you won’t actually find a wealth of cabin rentals here in sunny Sedona. But this place scored way too highly on the travelers’ romance scale to be left out of this list. Whatever kind of rental you choose, expect a scenic desert town bordered with pine forests and imposing red rock. You can enjoy this striking landscape on a jeep tour, or head out just the two of you to catch some sun and slip down the natural water slide at Slide Rock State Park.

See all FlipKey rentals in Sedona!

The post 15 Most Romantic Cabin Getaways According To Travelers appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

from The FlipKey Blog http://ift.tt/2ByPN4Z

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janerchambers88 · 7 years ago

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15 Most Romantic Cabin Getaways According To Travelers

Secluded cabin rental for two? Step right this way for tried and tested romantic destinations where love is most definitely in the air.

Romantic Cabin Getaways Loved By Travelers

Here are 15 traveler favorites for romantic cabin getaways, from red-rocked desert towns to pretty lakeside villages.

Jenner, California

See all FlipKey rentals in Jenner!

Saugatuck, Michigan

See all FlipKey rentals in Saugatuck!

Logan, Ohio

See all FlipKey rentals in Logan!

Hood River, Oregon

See all FlipKey rentals in Hood River!

Manitou Springs, Colorado

See all FlipKey rentals in Manitou Springs!

Big Sur, California

See all FlipKey rentals in Big Sur!

Aspen, Colorado

“Very gracious family home. We had a wonderful time. This home had everything for amenities.” — FlipKey Reviewer

See all FlipKey rentals in Aspen!

Mendocino, California

See all FlipKey rentals in Mendocino!

Dahlonega, Georgia

See all FlipKey rentals in Dahlonega!

Luray, Virginia

“We love it. The yard is huge with 2 types of grills and a fire pit. The view is phenomenal. The interior is beautiful. The owner is very nice and easy to work with.” — FlipKey Reviewer

See all FlipKey rentals in Luray!

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

See all FlipKey rentals in Blowing Rock!

Stowe, Vermont

See all FlipKey rentals in Stowe!

Lake George, New York

See all FlipKey rentals in Lake George!

Leavenworth, Washington

See all FlipKey rentals in Leavenworth!

Sedona, Arizona

See all FlipKey rentals in Sedona!

The post 15 Most Romantic Cabin Getaways According To Travelers appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

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kevingbakeruk · 7 years ago

Text

15 Most Romantic Cabin Getaways According To Travelers

Secluded cabin rental for two? Step right this way for tried and tested romantic destinations where love is most definitely in the air.

Romantic Cabin Getaways Loved By Travelers

Here are 15 traveler favorites for romantic cabin getaways, from red-rocked desert towns to pretty lakeside villages.

Jenner, California

See all FlipKey rentals in Jenner!

Saugatuck, Michigan

See all FlipKey rentals in Saugatuck!

Logan, Ohio

See all FlipKey rentals in Logan!

Hood River, Oregon

See all FlipKey rentals in Hood River!

Manitou Springs, Colorado

See all FlipKey rentals in Manitou Springs!

Big Sur, California

See all FlipKey rentals in Big Sur!

Aspen, Colorado

“Very gracious family home. We had a wonderful time. This home had everything for amenities.” — FlipKey Reviewer

See all FlipKey rentals in Aspen!

Mendocino, California

See all FlipKey rentals in Mendocino!

Dahlonega, Georgia

See all FlipKey rentals in Dahlonega!

Luray, Virginia

“We love it. The yard is huge with 2 types of grills and a fire pit. The view is phenomenal. The interior is beautiful. The owner is very nice and easy to work with.” — FlipKey Reviewer

See all FlipKey rentals in Luray!

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

See all FlipKey rentals in Blowing Rock!

Stowe, Vermont

See all FlipKey rentals in Stowe!

Lake George, New York

See all FlipKey rentals in Lake George!

Leavenworth, Washington

See all FlipKey rentals in Leavenworth!

Sedona, Arizona

See all FlipKey rentals in Sedona!

The post 15 Most Romantic Cabin Getaways According To Travelers appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://www.flipkey.com/blog/2017/12/04/romantic-cabin-getaways-secluded-rentals/

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agosnesrerose · 8 years ago

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Our Perfect Country Weekend

Last weekend Andrew and I took a whole weekend away. Alone. We have not been away for more than one night from Henry since he was born and it was about time. We needed to relax and be alone and focus on us as a couple for a little bit. But I didn’t want to be TOO far from Henry quite yet, so we chose to go to a part of Connecticut I had not been to but had read and heard a lot about- Litchfield County near New York. And we got to stay at The Mayflower Grace, which I had blogged about wanting to go to FOREVER ago (in 2009 to be exact) and is 2.5 hours from Boston and just over an hour from NYC. The images that caught my eye and heart specifically were of the spa (above, which met every expectation). I adore how this property mixes old New England charm and modern sensibilities.

We got massages in the spa, which were AMAZING. Equally amazing was time spent relaxing here looking out at nature with just some magazines to read and tea to sip!

Hands down the most beautiful spa I have ever been to. From top to bottom.

The indoor pool (I forgot my darn bathing suit! ARGH!)

There are great workout classes and yoga and such to really get you all blissed out.

Our room was charming and old school– and since it was 70 degrees out (???) we got to sit on our private patio and open the two sets of french doors to let the breeze in.

Each room looks a bit different…. but all very quintessential New England traditional.

This image is from one of their suites. DROP. DEAD.

The main inn building is wonderful too– fires always going, a great bar and restaurant we ate at both nights (super delicious) and kind, courteous staff.

And a great patio that was enclosed for winter (I swear I took a picture, but guess not so this one is borrowed from Quintessence!)

The exterior in springtime. We’re already planning to go back in the warmer weather!

A few minute drive down the road is a little village called New Preston. Do not be fooled by how tiny it is, every single shop there is INCREDIBLE. Even Andrew was amazed. I was basically losing my mind.

J. Seitz is an awesome blend of home and fashion, everything with a soulful, cozy vibe. Think leather, wood, bohemian clothing, lots of furniture from Cisco Brothers and some antiques too.

Next door is Pergola, which is exactly how you want your house/greenhouse (hypothetical greenhouse that is) to look like. Gorgeous plants, pots, garden accents, home accessories, art and gifts. I bought a gorgeous pot that I can’t wait to fill in the spring.

And right down the street is Privet House, a mecca of amazing homewares, furniture, antiques, apothecary items and accents. I was kind of dying (and certain that my life would be vastly improved by dousing everything I own in this room spray that basically smells like good taste, if good taste had a scent). I want to carry it in my purse and spray it wherever I go, but that would make me look like an insane person.

We then ventured out to Kent, CT to check out a couple other shops- namely RT Facts. We got there and I knew this was a special spot. The exterior is piled with incredibly finds from stone figures to outdoor furniture and antique doors. Unfortunately no one seemed to be there. So cut to me running around the three buildings absolutely bereft that I couldn’t go in. And then I found that the doors were unlocked (which was confusing/awesome). So I popped in to take some pictures and go BANANAS over every inch of the spaces. Like this nook filled with carved wood pieces. Why would you need them? No reason other than to hang in a group like this for its pure awesomeness!

Huge marble fireplaces, busts and architectural details filled one of the buildings.

This is just a pile of awesome- from the iron doors to the stone remnants and mini greenhouse.

The blue of this antique cabinet was stunning, as were these vintage wood doors!

GAH! I was literally screaming over the beauty of this place. Andrew can attest to that.

The main shop was locked (booooo) so I had to take snaps through the windows.

Andrew casing the joint

A gorgeous iron bench that would be lovely in a garden!

So many stone doggies. This pair of golden retrievers was INCREDIBLE ( and probably cost more than a Honda!)

GRILLED CHEESE BREAK.

(This was the best grilled cheese I think I have ever had-and I’ve had them all- from 109 Cheese and Wine.)

Ok, back to New Preston. I did not take my own pictures in Plain Goods shop, because I was kind of freaking out over how perfect it was. And how I wanted to burn everything I owned and replace it all with only linen, cashmere, rustic wood, raffia and white paint. I am pretty sure I blacked out and emerged 30 minutes later with some expensive perfume and a cashmere scarf I absolutely did not need.

They also carry baby stuff. Incredible baby stuff that makes one think “$160 isn’t too bad for a cashmere kimono cardigan, right? I mean, it’s kind of a staple?” (ha) If only Henry could be swatched in fine linen and cashmere and only play with Alpaca fur teddy bears!

Stop it with these bibs.

The women’s, men’s and home selections also make you want to be a better person, basically. You know, only wear the perfect trench while eating organic soup out of perfect, simple bowls and dabbing your mouth with crisp striped linen napkins (not dripping Cambell’s soup on a ratty sweatshirt and mopping it up with a paper towel a la moi.)

For those who love fine antiques, there are so many places in Woodbury to stop as well.

One place that is a must visit, if only for appreciating high end woodwork and antiques as well as the GORGEOUS property its on, is Mill House Antiques. What a spread! My parents have the most beautiful yew wood dining table from here.

This Greek Key mirror was a stunner!

They also have fine rustic antiques too if shiny mahogany isn’t your bag

I highly recommend this area for a weekend visit for those in the area!

The post Our Perfect Country Weekend appeared first on Elements of Style Blog.

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janerchambers88 · 7 years ago

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15 Most Charming Mountain Getaways Down South

Summer or winter, there’s nothing like heading up, up, and away into the mountains. Let’s explore some charming cabin vacations down South where the welcome’s warm and the scenery is second to none.

Southern Mountain Getaways With Small Town Charm

We’ve chosen 15 charming mountain towns where you can have a fantastic getaway, whatever the season. These places are blessed with a small-town air and breathtakingly scenic backdrops of forested peaks and endless sky. Take your pick of quaint cabin vacations in the South, whether you fancy fall foliage, winter snow, spring greenery, or summer splendor. That’s the wonderful thing about the great outdoors—it’s open all year round!

Once you know where you’re going, it’s time to get that cozy mountain rental sorted. There’s plenty of choice, ranging from cabins with forest views to quaint downtown apartments just steps from the local restaurants. When you book a vacation rental, you have access to amenities like a full kitchen, bubbling hot tub, and loads of space, so you can check in and feel right at home

Here are 15 southern mountain getaways we think deserve a closer look. When you’re finished browsing, vote for your favorite at the bottom of this list!

Helen, Georgia

Time for an adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Start with a ride on the Unicoi Zip Line or an afternoon of horse trekking on a Chattahoochee Stables tour. Add a few rounds of mini golf, some tubing on the river, and maybe a vineyard tour to round a perfect day during your mountain getaway. Evenings in Helena are meant for kicking back with a beer and a plate of the Bavarian-style cuisine this place is famous for.

See all Helen rentals on FlipKey!

Mountain View, Arkansas

First stop in Mountain View should be the Ozark Folk Center State Park, where you can learn about local history, traditional craftsmanship, and folk music. Leave some time to browse the antique stores in the afternoon, then at the end of the day catch some live folk music, especially exciting in the warmer months when the musicians spill out into the town and play in the open air.

See all Mountain View rentals on FlipKey!

Brevard, North Carolina

Come to Brevard to experience the stunning natural beauty of Transylvania County. With its tumbling waterfalls and cycling trails with jaw-dropping views, this mountain getaway is sure to delight. Spend a day kayaking on the French Broad River and retreat to your private cozy cabin as the sun goes down.

See all Brevard rentals on FlipKey!

Hiawassee, Georgia

“We felt like it was just us on that mountain. Sitting in the chairs on the huge back porch with a steaming cup of coffee was just what I needed. The view was breathtaking. The cabin was perfect.”— FlipKey Reviewer

Hiawassee is perched on Lake Chatuge, a beautiful spot for boating, jetskiing, fishing, and more. This really is a four-season cabin getaway, with the Georgia Mountain Fair in summer, the blooming rhododendrons at Hamilton Gardens in the spring, eye-catching leaf tours in the fall, and foggy lake vistas and snowbound scenery in winter.

See all Hiawassee rentals on FlipKey!

Highlands, North Carolina

Book your Highlands rental and set out to discover the Nantahala National Forest. Go fly fishing in the Chattooga River, enjoy a round of golf with mountain views at the Old Edwards Club, and drive right under the Bridal Veil Falls. In town, you can stroll around the art galleries and round off your day with a meal at Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro.

See all Highlands rentals on FlipKey!

Hot Springs, Virginia

Hot Springs is a top choice for snow sports, with good snowboarding and skiing amenities on offer at the Homestead Resort. Alternatively, take your bike out along the Hidden Valley Trail or rent some clubs and hit the Cascades Golf Course. Whether you prefer snow-covered slopes in the winter or verdant mountains during the summer, Hot Springs offers mountain getaways like no other.

See all Hot Springs rentals on FlipKey!

Birmingham, Alabama

A picturesque mountain town cradled by the Appalachians, Birmingham welcomes outdoorsy types, so pack your mountain bike or hiking gear. You’ll need them if you plan to explore Oak Mountain State Park—the Red Trail is particularly recommended for avid cyclists. Locals recommend filling up for breakfast at neighborhood favorite Bogue’s and relaxing with a craft beer in the evening.

See all Birmingham rentals on FlipKey!

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

“Great location. Beautiful home. Clean. Well stocked with everything needed to relax. Even stayed an extra night because it was so nice. Would come again and recommend.”— FlipKey Reviewer

When visiting Pigeon Forge, you must take a driving tour to fully appreciate the epic scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains. Wind along the tree-lined roads, and be careful not to miss Cades Cove, a valley where you’ll find pioneer log cabins and grist mills, and maybe some white-tailed deer or coyotes. There’s also the Dollywood theme park and water park, part-owned by local country-singing legend Dolly Parton.

See all Pigeon Forge rentals on FlipKey!

Slade, Kentucky

The main attraction in Slade is Natural Bridge State Park, with its sandstone bridge and scenic hiking trails. Next door you can see the geological delights of the Red River Gorge. From spectacular cliffs and roaring waterfalls to fields of beautiful wildflowers, there’s nothing quite like a mountain getaway in Slade. Book your cabin rental to get one step closer to discovering it all.

See all Slade rentals on FlipKey!

Dahlonega, Georgia

Here in the Blue Ridge foothills, you can pan for gold in the river, sample the goods in a local winery, and explore the historic center filled with 19th-century buildings. Make sure you stop in at the Dahlonega Gold Museum for some fascinating gold rush history. Ready for an adventure? Leave town and head west to see the impressive 600-foot Amicalola Falls and wander through the surrounding state park.

See all Dahlonega rentals on FlipKey!

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a breath of fresh air, any time of year. For a bit of local history, take an audio tour of the grand Biltmore House, then set off on a hike through Craggy Gardens, culminating in a picnic with soaring views. When you’re not exploring the beauty of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, retreat to a comfy cabin on the outskirts of this majestic mountain town.

See all Asheville rentals on FlipKey!

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

“The barn is the most beautiful cabin I have ever seen. We enjoyed our stay & will be back again soon!” — FlipKey Reviewer

Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains and known for its flowing natural springs, Eureka Springs is an idyllic cabin vacation destination down South. Spend a day soaking in a spa or choose a high-octane tour of the treetops with Ozark Mountain Ziplines. Just 11 miles north you’ll find the Promised Land Animal Park, complete with a petting zoo for the kids. With its awe-inspiring beauty and vibrant downtown packed with enticing shops and places, this alluring mountain town boasts something for everyone.

See all Eureka Springs rentals on FlipKey!

Shenandoah, Virginia

From summer hiking to winter skiing, there’s plenty to keep you entertained in the Shenandoah Valley. Grab a mountain cabin hideaway to make the most of those inspiring valley views, and spend your days touring the wineries, seeing the splendid formations in the Luray Caverns, or fishing in the Shenandoah River.

See all Shenandoah rentals on FlipKey!

Burnsville, North Carolina

Burnsville’s a friendly little place, known for its quaint town center, its local arts and crafts scene, and its farmer’s markets. Hop in your car to track down the area’s 200 Quilt Blocks, painted squares mounted on local buildings. This charming mountain town is just a short drive to lovely Asheville and a couple of hours’ drive from our next and final pick, Gatlinburg.

See all Burnsville rentals on FlipKey!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

“The cabin exceeded our expectations. It is especially clean, and most importantly, comfortable. There is a home away from home feel to the cabin. It was far enough away from the noise and close enough to be convenient to the attractions of Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge.” — FlipKey Reviewer

A family-friendly vibe, lively center packed with places to eat, and the splendid Smoky Mountains right at your doorstep—Gatlinburg ticks all the boxes for an unforgettable mountain getaway. Try your hand at horseback riding, fly fishing, and black bear spotting along 800 miles of hiking trails, and don’t miss the waterfalls of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

See all Gatlinburg rentals on FlipKey!

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post’s poll.

The post 15 Most Charming Mountain Getaways Down South appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

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kevingbakeruk · 7 years ago

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15 Most Charming Mountain Getaways Down South

Southern Mountain Getaways With Small Town Charm

Here are 15 southern mountain getaways we think deserve a closer look. When you’re finished browsing, vote for your favorite at the bottom of this list!

Helen, Georgia

See all Helen rentals on FlipKey!

Mountain View, Arkansas

See all Mountain View rentals on FlipKey!

Brevard, North Carolina

See all Brevard rentals on FlipKey!

Hiawassee, Georgia

See all Hiawassee rentals on FlipKey!

Highlands, North Carolina

See all Highlands rentals on FlipKey!

Hot Springs, Virginia

See all Hot Springs rentals on FlipKey!

Birmingham, Alabama

See all Birmingham rentals on FlipKey!

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

“Great location. Beautiful home. Clean. Well stocked with everything needed to relax. Even stayed an extra night because it was so nice. Would come again and recommend.”— FlipKey Reviewer

See all Pigeon Forge rentals on FlipKey!

Slade, Kentucky

See all Slade rentals on FlipKey!

Dahlonega, Georgia

See all Dahlonega rentals on FlipKey!

Asheville, North Carolina

See all Asheville rentals on FlipKey!

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

“The barn is the most beautiful cabin I have ever seen. We enjoyed our stay & will be back again soon!” — FlipKey Reviewer

See all Eureka Springs rentals on FlipKey!

Shenandoah, Virginia

See all Shenandoah rentals on FlipKey!

Burnsville, North Carolina

See all Burnsville rentals on FlipKey!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

See all Gatlinburg rentals on FlipKey!

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

The post 15 Most Charming Mountain Getaways Down South appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://www.flipkey.com/blog/2017/11/15/charming-mountain-getaways-south/

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mrrolandtfranco · 7 years ago

Text

15 Most Charming Mountain Getaways Down South

Southern Mountain Getaways With Small Town Charm

Here are 15 southern mountain getaways we think deserve a closer look. When you’re finished browsing, vote for your favorite at the bottom of this list!

Helen, Georgia

See all Helen rentals on FlipKey!

Mountain View, Arkansas

See all Mountain View rentals on FlipKey!

Brevard, North Carolina

See all Brevard rentals on FlipKey!

Hiawassee, Georgia

See all Hiawassee rentals on FlipKey!

Highlands, North Carolina

See all Highlands rentals on FlipKey!

Hot Springs, Virginia

See all Hot Springs rentals on FlipKey!

Birmingham, Alabama

See all Birmingham rentals on FlipKey!

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

“Great location. Beautiful home. Clean. Well stocked with everything needed to relax. Even stayed an extra night because it was so nice. Would come again and recommend.”— FlipKey Reviewer

See all Pigeon Forge rentals on FlipKey!

Slade, Kentucky

See all Slade rentals on FlipKey!

Dahlonega, Georgia

See all Dahlonega rentals on FlipKey!

Asheville, North Carolina

See all Asheville rentals on FlipKey!

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

“The barn is the most beautiful cabin I have ever seen. We enjoyed our stay & will be back again soon!” — FlipKey Reviewer

See all Eureka Springs rentals on FlipKey!

Shenandoah, Virginia

See all Shenandoah rentals on FlipKey!

Burnsville, North Carolina

See all Burnsville rentals on FlipKey!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

See all Gatlinburg rentals on FlipKey!

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

The post 15 Most Charming Mountain Getaways Down South appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

from The FlipKey Blog http://ift.tt/2ijwcOL

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