Author: Joe Mogensen

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Why Rent a Vacation Home in Saugatuck, Michigan? Todd Smith Explains Why!

As life unwinds within your bustling family or if your soul become restless in an effort to experience coastal life where art and humanities are the attractions among a beach town, you will be rest assured in Saugatuck-Douglas, Michigan. Saugatuck-Douglas is known as the Art Coast of Michigan –with a wide assortment of art galleries, fine restaurants, vineyards…and of course, all of the popular activities our proximity to Lake Michigan affords. Moreover, we invite you to stay at a wonderful beachside cottage called Great Lakes Manor. These cottages are nestled in some of the most desirable areas of the nation and we can’t make that up.  Conde Nast’s Traveler Magazine has spotlighted these towns as one of the 25 top shoreline towns in America and the 11th greatest beach town in America and we are talking lots of competition!

Great Lakes Manor Frotnt Yard

The Great Lakes Manor Cottages are top notch in the area and owner, Todd Smith says “My family and I have always loved unique properties: finding them, restoring and/or personalizing them, and sharing them with friends. About 10 years ago, we acquired our first property and after renovations to make it comfortable for our personal use, decided to dip our toes in the vacation rental world….and found out we loved it! We made many new friends along the way, friends who loved and enjoyed our home as if it was their own. We decided this could become an interesting business for us, and so acquired our second property, and now enjoy making new friends, and creating atmosphere with all the comforts of home: in interesting places.”

Close to everything, but still away from it all!

We love the location of your place…close to downtown Saugatuck and Lake Michigan but off the busy streets tucked away in a peaceful setting. We enjoy getting on our bikes and riding down the street to Lake Shore Drive where we can leisurely take in the coastline. This last time we stayed, the weather was so beautiful that we spent time each day sitting relaxing by the pond and enjoying all the birds singing. Our cottage was so clean and fresh. We are definitely coming back!

The history of the place is fascinating as well, which dates back to 1870 when the property was built, consisting of a five bedroom Manor house and three detached cottages, each of which rents together for your next all-together family and friends vacation or separately for your own little getaway. It is even a bike friendly town allowing you easy access to everything in Saugatuck, Michigan. Great Lakes Manor was acquired by Todd Smith and family back in 2010 and began a massive renovation of the 5 bedroom manor house which had been running as a B&B but then turned it into a vacation rental. Todd continues to say that “With a hot tub, small pond, and recreation room for all our guests, the property offers something for everyone. And we’re just a mile in either direction from the area’s two favorite beaches, and a short bike ride into the twin towns of Douglas and Saugatuck, too!” So enjoy the swaying hammock, a dinner and a show, a sip of wine at the winery or paint by the water, pick one or all!

Rest in a Hammock!

Rest in a Hammock!

Keep in mind, this gorgeous area is very popular so between April-October is our peak season and most rentals require a two night minimum stay just as the cottages do, but Manor House requires a 3 night minimum night stay. If traveling in the winter, there is still plenty to do! Ride in a horse drawn carriage under winter blankets, walk along the frozen coast and duck into a shop for hot cocoa. Don’t forget your snowshoes or skis!

Enjoy one of the local favorite attractions, which is the Saugatuck Sand Dune Rides. Strap into an open-air “Suburban”-type vehicle with your friends and enjoy a thrilling, heart pumping, adrenaline adventure as your tour guide takes you through Saugatuck’s privately owned sand dunes. This cottage can also be perfect for older families and weddings as well as a perfect team building vacation.

Gorgeous Claw Foot Bathtub

Gorgeous Claw Foot Bathtub

Advice from Todd? “People tend to forget the beach towels and sunblock so if that happens to you, be sure to check out the small business about a half mile from us that rents beach equipment and cycles, sundries and even ice for the cooler!”

“This area is historic, relaxed, and peaceful. This not only describes our property but the area as a whole” Grab your paint brushes, your picnic basket and your favorite wine and enjoy Saugatuck’s rich history, friendly locals and have a great stay at Great Lakes Manor and Cottages.  For additional information, check out this property’s details page.

Relax and Enjoy the warm hot tub on cooler nights

Relax and Enjoy the warm hot tub on cooler nights

Get to know your owner! Todd Smith most enjoys the spring time when the cycle of life renews itself. He tells us that he will probably regret retiring as he loves to stay active and enjoy all that life offers us! You might even find him hiking in the area!

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Make “Someday” Today: Battling the Fears that Keep You From Traveling

insightful!

Theresa Christine's avatarTremendous Times

Man and woman at waterfall Let’s talk hopes, dreams, & fears.

This post is available to listen to and/or download on Soundcloud.

Over July 4th weekend, I’m proud to say I checked a pretty big thing off of my bucket list: I went skydiving!

This is something that I’d sort of put in the back of my mind to accomplish someday. It’s so effortless to say that, isn’t it? Someday I’ll go to that museum, someday I’ll hike through the Grand Canyon, someday I’ll live abroad… It’s just easier to declare, “I’ll do that one day,” than to actually act on it, even if it means doing a small something that is part of a bigger something. And this doesn’t just go for exploring the world. Anyone can say, “I’ll show more appreciation to others tomorrow,” or “Next month I’ll take the bus to work instead of drive.” Making the change and doing…

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5 advantages of booking directly with vacation rental owners and property managers

RentMichiganCabins.com invites you to book your Michigan vacation rental DIRECTLY with rental owners and property managers! It’s the best way to avoid ugly booking pitfalls. There are many advantages – here are our top 5.

  1. The commission fees vacation rental owners pay to 3rd party booking websites (typically about 18%) inflates costs, which renters end up paying.
  2. After making your reservation, you can make any changes necessary directly with the rental owners or property managers.
  3. Avoid the double booking jungle and the follow-up attempt to cobble together a discount for alternative travel dates. 3rd party booking websites can be frustrating and full of unpleasant surprises. The owners, or property managers are the best source for current availabilities.
  4. Early check in and late checkout options are best addressed with the owners and managers. Booking indirect means you have to talk to the 3rd party website you booked through who in turn needs to talk to the owners/property manager.
  5. Many of the “middlemen” booking websites have inadequate and poor customer service, plus the booking process can be misleading and confusing. Also, those sites won’t help you with suggestions about “what to do” once you’ve arrived at your vacation rental. Owners and property managers are your best tour guides.

When you send an inquiry, or call about any listing on RentMichiganCabins.com, you’re communicating directly with the vacation rental owner or property manager — the expert who will help you create a memorable vacation experience and give you some tips on how to ‘live like a local’.

Relax. Enjoy your search. You’re on cabin time now!

RentMichiganCabins.com5

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Brainerd, MN – An Outdoor Mecca for Reel Livin’

Brainerd, MN may be a mecca for outdoor recreation, however have we really seen everything that Brainerd may have to offer? You can bike, hike, snowmobile, race, fish, swim, and much more!

Let’s just dive into it and what we mean by that is, diving with the Minnesota School of Diving in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation area. This school offers lots of different activities. One that stuck out to me is what they call all appropriately a Fun Dive. Fun Dives are offered throughout the season. These dives consist of underwater diving in different depths and sites – great for beginners and experts. Fun Dives also include a BBQ with hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, etc. Spend the day on Minnesota lakes!

mndive

Click here  to view a Dive from the Minnesota Scuba Diving School!

Diving isn’t the only thing you can do in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation area. This area has ample opportunities to go out and enjoy what you love to do. Thirty years ago this area was abandoned by the mining companies. With the neglect of these companies and the clean-up effort of the DNR, this area now boasts over 25 miles of sandy shoreline that kiss clear, pristine waters.

Looking for more noise and excitement? Brainerd is home to the “World Fastest Drag Strip” at the Brainerd International Speedway. This speedway has three world class race strips and also offers driving courses for all kinds of enthusiasts and also features racing for snowmobiles and motocross. One of the favorite events here is Lake Jams, in June. This is where you take the naturally beautiful backdrop of the Brainerd area and combine with the music industry hot shots such as REO Speedwagon, Bret Michaels, Clay Walker and Maggie Rose. Be sure to plan your next vacation around Lakes Jam or in August for the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals.

Exploring the Paul Bunyan State trail is ranked as one of the best things to do in Brainerd — 120 miles of paved recreation heaven for the adventurist. The pavement definitely makes hiking and biking the long trail easier. Make this a day recreation trip and come back to stay at one of our cabins in Brainerd, right off of North Long Lake, one of Minnesota’s largest lakes.

North Long Lake is known for its walleye population, but largemouth bass and northern pike can be abundant in this 6,000 acre lake. Need a place to stay after all day in the sun? The Reel Livin’ Resort in Brainerd is the perfect place for you to stay! You can access to their 14 foot boat, or fish right off the pier! They have several cabins, outfitted with WIFI, outdoor grills and fire pits for evening enjoyment as well. Gather around the fire here to relax and recoup with loved ones! RentMinnesotaCabins.com helps you create these Cabin-Time memories!

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Another great asset to the Brainerd Lakes area is Deacon’s Lodge– Brainerd Golf Course. This stunning layout will spoil you! The lush green landscape translates into pure bliss when walking the course as you go through wetlands, lakes and forest scenery. There is also lodging on the golf course that accommodates up to 20 guests. Enjoy the wet bar, poker and pool table along with discounted golf rates if you stay at the lodge. August and September are the best months to golf!

deacons deacons1

If you enjoy the winter recreation that Minnesota has to offer, check out the many options you have. Whether you take a liking to winter tubing, skiing or snowboarding the place to be is Mount Ski Gull. This is nonprofit facility that caters to everyone and leaves no one out and believes in compassion. This is a great facility to use for the family!

Whether you’re here for the summer, fall or winter; Brainerd has pretty cool opportunities for the entire family, so buckle up and head the Brainerd for a spectacular and memorable vacation!

ski

We recommend your start your search for Minnesota cabins, cottages, lodges and homes at RentMinnesotaCabins.com. Our one-of-a-kind Narrow Your Search tool and  interactive map will help you find Minnesota vacation rentals that fit YOUR needs. We believe your Minnesota vacation should start with the Search. And the best part is, you connect, plan and book directly with rental owners or managers to assure you get the best rate. Booking through 3rd party websites means you’ll likely pay more (for the same rental) to cover listing commissions.

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#LakeGeorge vacation homes! More than just a place …a whole lot more.

You can’t call it “a New York vacation” if you don’t visit Lake George! The majestic mountains and serene waters make this place luxurious and outstanding all in its own glorious ways. Let us tell you why the scenery can’t be unmatched and why all the extra cool factors make this your first vacation hot spot.

Lake George resides within Warren County with many spectacular options of activities to do as well. Enjoy what people over the last century have been doing while visiting this famous area. Sit on the beach and relax with a book, or take a boat and try your luck at first class fishing — it is one of New York’s finest fishing lakes.

Fishing and a stay of one of these Lake George vacation rentals won’t disappoint. Attention anglers: When lake temps hover around the 65 degree mark, the fish are biting! You will find fish close to 90 in. long in most waters.  Lake trout may be one of the most desired of all but there are many other opportunities for rainbow trout and salmon. Salmon and lake trout are best caught in shallow water during the colder waters but are limited to the deep waters in the heat of the summer. Pan fish and black fish are also common in this lake. Cold water fish can be found here as well.

While it’s not the actual Lake George, the area boasts some of the best attractions in the area. Let’s go tubing down the 17 mile long Hudson River! Nothing like getting a true experience like white water rafting as well.  Can you paddleboard? This is the rage these days! Learn your way on Lake George!

Whether it’s boating, fishing, or even just kicking back at the beach; the waters will mesmerize you.

Let’s look above the waters for a second and indulge in the beauty of the vast skies. Lake George has a stunning view of the sunrises and the sunsets don’t disappoint either. While enjoying the beauty, take in a little activity such as hot air balloon festivals in the area, even small airplane rides.

Go ahead, live like a queen, or king. These waters have been vacation hot spots for the rich and famous and there is no reason why you can’t enjoy them either.  Here is a list of the best vacation rentals ever:

The Estate Cottages on Lake George: These cottages sit right amongst the heated pool, Jacuzzi and beach of Lake George. This resort also supplies complimentary canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats. Each cottage has its own covered porch supplied with charcoal grills and best of all, its Monday Night Luau, Wednesday night S’mores Party, and Friday afternoon Farewell Pizza Party!

cottage

The Estate House on Lake George: Want to live like a millionaire? You can! On a limited budget that is. This House is terrific for your group of family members or friends and can provide you with a memory of a lifetime. This place was once called home by a Scottish duke. This place boasts fireplaces, balconies, Jacuzzis, luxury amenities, the whole nine yards.

estate

Cooper’s Point on Lake George: Sleeps 11 and resides on an island once reserved for the rich and famous but this vacation rental allows to live like one without the clink in your pocket. Wake up the Adirondacks in your view while sipping coffee on one of the grand balconies, taking it all in before the group gathering.

coop

We invite you to enjoy a little piece of heaven – because you deserve some fun and relaxation; that’s what we mean when we say enjoy Cabin-Time. Check out our other blog posts, then head over to www.RentNewYorkCabins.com to see our growing selection of NY vacation homes for rent!

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Let’s go for an off-road #ATV ride in #Minnesota

ATVing and Off highway vehicles, OHV for short, are growing in popularity and is quite possibly one of the most popular outdoor sports in Minnesota. We want to share with you some of the best places to ride.

ATVing in Minnesota

Before we get in to all the good trail information, let us give you a few facts before you hop on.

  • riders born after July 1st 1987 has to pass a required safety course for ATVs and OHMs ( off-road motorcycles)  if you’re under the age of 16.
  • nonresidents will also need to posses registration papers if the vehicle is not registered in Minnesota. This registration costs 21.00*. riders also don’t need it if they are related to the person’s property if the trail is owned by a relative or spouse.
  • also be sure to check for current conditions on trails as this year’s roads could have been washed out due to heavy rain.

Rates could change, check with local DNR to see current rates.

Minnesota has over 1,000 miles of off-road trails and range from easy to difficult with challenging courses. One of the areas known for OHV riding is Iron Range. This area has over 4,000 acres of land and 36 miles of various types of trails. This park has no entrance fee currently and is open almost all year round except for Minnesota’s firearm deer hunting season. This area has 3 gas stations.

The next recreational area you should know about is the Moose Lake/Deer River area; called the SOO Line North Trail. This could be one of the easiest areas for ATVs and OHMs so bring the beginner or the kids along and hit the trails with ease. You will find food, gas and lodging. We suggest renting a Deer River cabin on Moose Lake for less of a hassle and the ultimate experience that this lodging can offer.

This old abandoned railroad trail unwinds its 15 mile course along many little ponds and hardwood forest.

sno

Our favorite trail for MN snowmobiling (or the ski-doo or Arctic Cat) is the Paul Bunyan Trail that leads us through 15 different towns. Of course, we recommend you rent cabins in Brainerd and cabins in Walker. The Paul Bunyan trail is free to access and is well marked for recreation users throughout its 112 miles. This makes it the longest trail in Minnesota and 19 of those miles are paved! With so many lakes alongside the trail, this trail offers fantastic views of nature, wildlife, and various Minnesota towns. Walker sits on Leech Lake, the 3rd largest lake in Minnesota. Walker has magnificent Pine trees, a great beach, and panoramic views of bluffs. This trail also offers many activities, contest, games and local events — make sure your next vacation stay is right alongside this trail. Get a group together, bring the snowmobiles and enjoy all that our Leech Lake vacation rentals have to offer.

A quick reminder about our RentMinnesotaCabins.com website. Once you find a vacation rental(s) you like, you inquire and book directly with rental owners – booking direct is the only way to assure you are getting the best rental rate. Booking through other 3rd party websites likely means your paying more for the same rental because of the booking-commission. BOOKING DIRECT JUST MAKES SENSE.

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#PetFriendly #NewYork #VacationRentals We Swear By!

Our first pet friendly vacation rental blog was quite successful and we still have 4 vacation rentals that we know you will also enjoy with your pet! Let’s face it, they are part of the family.

Seneca Lake CottageSeneca Lake Vacation Rentals in Watkins Glen, NY is a great rental if you are looking to relax with inspiring beauty or even to try a little adventure. This rental comes with hopes and dreams-that do come true! Right on a wine trail and complete with a tiki bar on the beach, this pet friendly vacation rental allows up to 2 small size dogs and even has extra sleeping areas on the enclosed porch! It sleeps up to 8 people too! You will never be bored here, there are plenty of hiking (complete with mini waterfalls), fishing, boating, and skiing.

Beachfront CottageBeachfront Vacation Cottages: The Deck House is a great pet friendly vacation rental. This rental is right on Olcott beach with boardwalk access to the Pier! Comes fully furnished. Our favorite part is the organized bonfire at night on the beach. This rental is walking distance to restaurants and shopping. WIFI access all over the property!

Lake Desolation Vacation RentalSky View Cottage, a Middle Grove Vacation Rental has great opportunities in it’s exceptional location just 3.5 hours from New York City. This cottage comes with a fully equipped kitchen, sleeps 6, has both a charcoal and gas grill. This newly renovated cabin sits at the foothills of the Adirondack mountains and close to everything considered cool. The Saratoga Springs is just 15 minutes away, 45 minutes away from the famous Lake George. Enjoy the natural beauty right in your own backyard – YOUR PET CERTAINLY WILL! Home to the Adirondack Hot Air Balloon Festival! This is also a superb ice fishing lake and one of the first to freeze. If a nice cold beer is calling your name after all the recreational activities, head to the only tavern on the lake.

Pet Friendly Lake Desolation RentalBring Fido and your good to go!