Michigan Vacation Rentals

by

4 Michigan Festivals You Won’t Want to Miss!

Michigan’s weather can be quite unpredictable but the winter itself is downright freezing, there is no telling a local that it isn’t. How do Michiganders do it every year? Easy. They embrace it with downright silly and quite cool festivals and events. Check out the four festivals and events you definitely don’t want to miss this year!

Plymouth Ice Sculpting Festival

svedka bar

Jan. 9th through Jan. 11 is your chance to see the best of the Midwest come and show us what they got for skill with something that requires freezing cold temps. This world class event happens every year in downtown Plymouth, Michigan, opening up with a classic ribbon cutting. Check out the interactive exhibits and be sure to take pictures of the amazing pieces of art. The following Saturday, enjoy a jazz performance by Cynthia Kaay Bennett, a hockey game with the Detroit Red Wings, Dueling Chainsaw competitions and the Reyka Vodka Fire and Ice show at promptly 7:30. Don’t forget, amazing festival food, which can only be that much better in the winter! For more information: be sure to check out the Plymouth Ice Sculpting Festival Website.

SISU Ski Fest

SISU

While this may be only the 6th year and running, it is certainly no baby when it comes to skiing. Jan. 9th is your chance to ski through mining fields, bluffs alongside the Montreal River and eventually to the “Finnish” line in Ironwood. Participate in either race. The SISU Full Combined: 42K SISU ski marathon plus 10K SISU snowshoe race—or the SISU Half Combined: 21K Heikki Lunta plus the 5K snowshoe race. Not in a racing mood? Slap on some skis and taste test from the Taste N Tour. Who doesn’t want to ski, eat, and watch entertainment? That’s a no brainer! For more information: Check out the official SISU Event Page

Winter Comedy Arts Festival

TC

Traverse has an all star lineup coming this year and you surely won’t want to miss this tantalizing lineup for the weekend of Valentines day. Bill Maher headlining can be enough to want to head to the Travers area but even if not, also check out Michael Moore with his satire on today’s politics and “The Goldbergs” Doug Benson helps host this serendipitous event. Don’t forget the kiddos in the car, there is plenty to entertain them with such as a mini golf ice course, a really big mountain to sled on, and even better a Ferris wheel for the kids to freeze on. Hopefully no one likes the handlebar. Can you believe that Maher is even paying to come and host? This guy has a freaking show for crying out loud! For an upcoming schedule , please check out this out: Traverse City Comedy Arts Festival

Brew-Ski Festival

What is not to love about beer, recreation and music? Hop onto your skis on Saturday, March 14th and enjoy a leisure ski around to over 240 snow bars, allowing to treat your taste buds to everything from Bocks to IPAs and Ambers to Stout beers and everything in between. Enjoy delicious food and great live music from the Galactic Sherpas. Head over to the Zoo Bar for the after party with the Aaron Vaughn Band at 5 PM and then over to the Slopeside Lounge for a wrap up party at 9 PM. A perfect way to celebrate the near ending of old man winter! To see a list of breweries that were represented last year, click here.

by

Read these 8 tips before booking your Michigan vacation rental

Vacation Rentals are the trend for 2015. Why? It’s no surprise to us; we’ve known about the advantages of a MI vacation rental for years. There are lots of pet friendly options, homes with fireplaces and fire pits, cottages near the water and hunting cabins in the sticks. You have private parking and sometimes piers for your boat. Vacation rentals give families room to spread out and enjoy each others company.

MI vacation rental sunset

What do you need to do before you book your vacation rental? Here are some tips:

  1. Inquire about your vacation rental with the actual owner or manager before you book. They know the property (and the area) best and will have you living like a local on day one.
  2. If you are looking to bring your pet, be sure you know the Pet Policy. Some will not allow certain breeds or sizes of dogs. It might also be good to check out if there is a kennel or fenced in area for your pet while you’re gone.
  3. Know the cleaning policy. Some rental owners or managers charge a cleaning fee and don’t expect much cleaning. There others who expect to have the place ready for the next renters. Whatever the case may be, it’s always wise to take pictures or note any possible previous damage. Be very thorough.
  4. Picking up the keys. Some rentals may have a lock box on the door. Some owners might meet you at the property or have them hidden somewhere. Property Managers might have you stop at their office and pick up the keys. Know before you go!
  5. Ask about mobile phone reception. Vacation rentals can be remote. If you need use your cell phone for directions, or to check in, make sure you will have cell coverage. We recommend you have a physical map in the vehicle just in case. Ask about Wi-Fi availability too.
  6. Always ask about general supplies and what you should bring. Some supply bed sheets but not towels, or vice versa. Some supply both. Always ask about a medical kit or if you need to bring certain kitchen items that you can’t live without (like a bottle opener, muffin pan, crock pot) …you get the idea.
  7. Check out the calendar of events or a town’s Facebook page to research area events. Keep in mind that rental prices are often higher during summer, Holiday’s, and big events.
  8. Ask who you need to contact if you have any emergencies. If there is a leaky faucet or a light goes out, you will know whom to contact.

MI cabins with beaches

Wherever you GO in Michigan, you’ll have a better vacation experience in a cabin, cottage, lodge or home. See our growing selection at RentMichiganCabins.com. Avoid booking website commissions and book directly with the rental owner and save!

by

Quaint Cottage Near Lake Michigan Has Everything — Just ask Ken and Kelly

Do you remember the times as a kid where you didn’t have a care in the world and all you did was chase fireflies, push your friend in the lake, and played Cowboys and Indians? Don’t you wish you could go back to the simpler times where life was easy and your biggest worry was where you were going to catch your next thrill? While we may not be able to go back fully to those times, we can surely sit back and worry less. Crocker’s cottages can certainly remind you of this.

For the last 30 years, Ken and Kelly Crocker sure have made an effort in making sure that we simply admire and participate in everything that their cottages has to offer. Their long time family cottages sit right next to each other on a 208 acre lake 20 miles NE of Ludington in Fountain, MI. You can rent them separately as well as together to a large extended family. They each have their own private drives, frontage, playground, fire pit, dock and each come with 5 non-motorized boats. It is a quiet woodsy setting but still only 20-25 minutes from Ludington or Manistee and Lake Michigan. They even provide firewood for your nightly campfires, WIFI, games, large charcoal grill with your grilling tools you need and a sand volleyball court with rackets and balls, etc… Each has their own swim raft, L-shaped dock, boathouse, decks and swings overlooking beautiful Ford Lake.

Let your imagination run wild and while it is next to impossible to run out of stuff to do, these cottages are in a perfect area too. Situated close to the popular areas in Michigan and close to the lake can sometimes bring unwanted noise, traffic, tourist prices and crowds, these cottages are just far enough out to really enjoy the point of your vacation, and that is to relax. Sit back at night, roast your marshmallows by the fire pit and enjoy the vast night sky blanketed by stars, a vision you can’t get in crowded resort towns.

Take a day trip to Lake Michigan and read a book on the beach where the water is unsalted and shark free. Enjoy Ludington State park that has a unique marked canoe pathway or hike the many acres of woodlands, dunes, and marshlands. Check out the lighthouse or catch your dinner in the calm lake water.

Kelly and Ken’s favorite time of the year is fall and we couldn’t argue with that. The array of fall color and the warm waters welcome you with open arms. To book your next vacation, visit their listing here: Fountain Michigan Vacation Rental

At RentMichiganCabins.com, you always book DIRECTLY with owners and property managers assuring you get the best rental rate! Avoid booking through a 3rd party listing websites and avoid higher rates because of commissions.

by

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!

by

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

by

Why a vacation in Oscoda, MI is really what you need

…And we can give it to you!

Oscoda, Michigan really is a great place to visit, so great that it was voted Best Beach Town in Michigan. Originally this North Eastern Michigan community was into logging and is home the Lumberman’s Monument, a 14’ bronze statue. Now this town is known for its great fishing on the Au Sable River and Lake Huron, the world class golfing, and hiking in the Huron National Forest to the Wine and Hops trail showcasing all the breweries and wineries along the shoreline. Check out our growing selection of Oscoda cabins for rent by owner and enjoy all the Oscoda has to offer! At RentMichiganCabins.com you always BOOK DIRECTLY WITH THE OWNERS OR PROPERTY MANAGERS TO GUARANTEE THE BEST RENTAL RATE.

Image

Oscoda’s beaches are nothing short of spectacular. The perfect beaches’ gently call your name, inviting you to lay on its’ sand or walk the shoreline in hope of finding all of you answers for you can be just the reason to stay. Pack a picnic basket and your favorite book and head out the beach for an afternoon of sun and relaxation from your Lake Huron vacation rental.

The AuSable river flows with magnitude as you canoe or fish its waters. There is plenty to do on this river as you can tube and kayak too. According to sources, this river has been designated a blue ribbon trout stream award. It is best known for brown trout. If seeing this river is enough, be sure to check out the hiking trails along the river.

Image

If going to hit some balls on the golf course is more up your ally, there is nothing short of the best here. Oscoda offers many opportunities for the sport. Courses can range from Scottish styles to Parkland styles giving every type of golfer a different type of game and view.

Hiking is very popular among the 35,000 acres of diverse trails. These trails can lead from national forests to coastal sandy trails and overlooking the AuSable River.

The Last week in July is a great time to visit Oscoda as the world’s toughest and richest canoe marathon hits the AuSable River starting a 9pm and going through the night. The week is full of excitement and festivities around the Annual #AuSable River Canoe Marathon. This race starts in Grayling Michigan and ends in Oscoda, be sure not to miss it!

Image

by

A website as unique as Michigan Vacation Rentals

Many business owners dream of one day becoming the next Google, Microsoft, or Ebay. When it comes to the vacation rental industry; companies like vrbo, HomeAway, Flipkey stand out. So, why does our RentMichiganCabins.com Executive Summary start with, “We are NOT the next vrbo. We are the FIRST RentMichiganCabins.com”?

Every major directory-style website has (or is) switching to a commission only membership option for rental owners – that’s a scary trend. Are rental owners being forced into always advertising this way? Vacation rentals are not hotel rooms. They are 2 different industries. — so vacation rental owners and their properties should not be treated like hotel owners and their 600 room buildings. Plus, the customers who stay at vacation rentals should always be considered property of the rental owners, or managers, not the property of a 3rd party website.

We find it hard to believe that vacation rental owners would want to give up their right to have vacationers book directly with them.

Introducing RentMichiganCabins.com! An informational website where renters connect and book directly with rental owners, or managers. We never take a commission on bookings, and renters communicate directly with rental owners (who by the way) are the best tour guides. More to come.

Image