Author: Joe Mogensen

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Experience #Minnesota #Fall #Color Road Tours

We all know the inevitable winter is sneaking up on us after a wonderful but short summer in Minnesota. One thing we can count on every year is the triumphant change in colors that transform landscapes throughout the country. Strap on that helmet, buckle up, however you choose to experience fall color tours, this blog post will guide you through some of the area’s best shows.

Hinckley- St. Croix offers some of the best fall foliage in the state, trees looking all too much like a perfect picture painted.  If you don’t believe us, book a cruise on the Afton-Hufton Cruise line and sail away down the river, giving you ample opportunities to steal a glimpse of this brief miracle that fall offers us every year. Book fast as this area sees the colors change late September to early October with Maples and Oaks changing fast. It is only 50 miles northeast of the Twin Cities so make this a day trip! St. Croix Cruise Fall Tour

Lutsen- We can’t say enough about Sawtooth Mountain. To sum it up blatantly, it’s just really, really cool. Experience a fall color scene from below! This tour is an experience of a lifetime. Ride the mountain tram along Moose Mountain, a 1,000 feet above Lake Superior’s coastline. From the top, admire the sprawled out Superior National Forest. There is no better way to go! For more information head to: Sawtooth Mountain Gondola

Detroit Lakes Area- a wonderfully diverse landscape exists here and with efforts to maintain the eco system here, there’s plenty to be thankful here. With forests, refuges and lots of lakes that dot the landscape, this wide area has many roads to travel on, each providing unique opportunities to see something new. Our suggestion is to hop on Highway 10 in Frazee and head due west until you get around Detroit Lake. From there, take a left on 59. This trip can be long or short, depending on how you want to do it but don’t miss this fall color tour for sure!  Be sure to bring binoculars for rare glimpse of endangered waterfowl and species. Click here for a map! Detroit Lakes Area

Lake Country Scenic Byway- This year, this road will not only lend you a look at one the best fall tours in the Midwest this year but will also be the biological home of the Christmas tree that the White House will decorate for 2014! The two different forests, deciduous forests and coniferous forests hug the 88 mile scenic road that will have you in awe of the striking orange and yellow hues. Be sure to stop at Itasca State Park, the oldest state park in Minnesota and cross the Mississippi, where you can brag that you have seen the beginning of this legendary river as it winds down to the Gulf of Mexico.

Brainerd- Look no further than Brainerd for a triumphant fall color tour as the leaves begin to change. This already spectacular area offers some of the best recreational pleasantries around and fall is no exception. Enjoy several tours in the area and let your mind wander along these winding roads that let you pass time without even noticing. Enjoy the beautiful lakes as an additional backdrop to the fall foliage that surrounds you. While there, take in the little unique shops and charm of the area.

Of course, you’ll want to visit RentMinnesotaCabins.com to check out our growing selection of MN vacation rentals (currently 237). You just can’t beat a fall getaway in a Minnesota cabin, cottage, lodge or home. Oh yeah, at RentMinnesotaCabins.com you always book directly with the areas best tour guides THE RENTAL OWNERS. This assures you get the best rental rate too.

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Safe travels.

RentMinnesotaCabins.com

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The 5 Best #Fall Roads in #Michigan

There is a part of us that really loves fall. We can’t kid ourselves. The crisp air and the hot cocoa invites us in for some football, comfort food, the slow switch to fall scent candles, and a warm fuzzy blanket. This fall, get outdoors and enjoy the reoccurring miracle of nature that happens when the leaves change color and give off vibrant hues that paint the perfect fall picture.

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1. Glen Arbor- take Highway 22 along Lake Michigan to view the serene lakeside and vivacious fall color that is a scene rarely replicated by other areas in the region. Experience a vast lake behind all the beautiful color that highway 22 can show off. Be sure to check out the Sleeping Bear Dunes as well!

2. Ludington- US 10 provides ample opportunity to check out the beautiful arrays of fall color ranging from yellows to passionate reds. There’s plenty of scenic lake views of Lake Michigan and other lakes as well that makes this one of the favored trips in Michigan. To view a map of the possible routes for your fall color tour, check out: Ludington Fall Color Tour

3. Eagle River- Hop onto M-26 and hit the cruise control button because you will need it. As you pass wineries, churches, and lighthouses, it will be hard to pay attention to the actual road. You will be under a blanket of mesmerizing fall colors. Don’t forget to roll your window down slightly to take in the fall smells as well!

4. Cadillac- Dubbed as an unforgettable experience,  Cadillac is home to  several train fall color tours. While fall is amazing and the trees stay mesmerizing for a couple of weeks, one thing you have to experience is the locomotive tour. Sit back and relax while taking in the color transformation. Tickets do sell out fast so prepare ahead of time. If trains are not your cup of tea, plan on the middle of October for the best scenic drive.

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5. Ironwood- Head north on 513 towards Black River Parkway that twists and turns by forests and flowing waterfalls and takes you straight to a harbor on Lake Superior.  Add Copper Peak, a ski flying hill to the itinerary because the view is majestic from the observation deck, 1881 feet above sea level and sits 18 stories high. You can see Minnesota, Porcupine Mountian and the Apostle Islands, weather permitting.

Generally, we say that all of Michigan is great and we encourage everyone to stay at least a week and travel around to experience everything each area has to offer; from the sugary sand beaches that stretch for miles, to the forests and wildlife areas and bustling cities like the Grand Rapids. Michigan is truly an unforgettable experience.

For a list of vacation rentals head to www.RentMichiganCabins.com. We invite you to book your Michigan vacation rental DIRECTLY with the rental owners and property managers! Booking direct guarantees you get the best rate AND you avoid ugly double-booking pitfalls.

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Here’s a UP bonus suggestion: Brockway Mnt. Drive. Upper Peninsula chose the road as the region’s “favorite natural wonder” in a poll conducted by WLUC-TV.

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

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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!