by Danielle Garrett of PlanIt Travel Designs for The Aha! Connection
How do you define glamping? It can mean different things for different people. I read several definitions, but my favorite is from the Urban Dictionary…”satisfying your craving for the outdoors and your penchant for a good meal, nice glass of wine and a comfortable bed.” Yep, sign me up…that’s me! I only camp when forced, ha!
Glamping has become very popular in recent years, but some hardcore campers may frown upon glamping as being non-adventurous and the easy way out. I would debate that based on my recent experience. Glamping is just a different way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors and it’s frankly a really cool experience. Take my husband for example…he’s a true outdoors-man, an Eagle Scout, grew up camping and still loves to camp. I thought he might think glamping was silly, but he absolutely loved the experience of mixing camping elements with modern conveniences. The live music and outdoor bar under the string lights with the sun setting beyond the mountain range sealed the deal for him!
This past week my family spent a week in Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Wow, the scenery is stunning in this area! I cannot say enough great things about the beautiful scenery and the number of available activities. Most of our trip was spent in Jackson visiting with our oldest who is working as a fly-fishing guide this summer, but two nights we ventured over to Yellowstone. One of the highlights of our trip was glamping those nights in West Yellowstone at Under Canvas. I was super impressed with how Under Canvas was set up and run. They struck the perfect balance (at least for me) between the feeling of sleeping outdoors and some modern amenities that you find in a hotel (think a hot water shower in the morning, a private working toilet, coffee, and tea in the morning that you don’t make yourself and fresh towels). Under Canvas partners with West Elm for all their furnishings and decor, which was pleasing to the eye and to the back (it was one of the most comfortable beds I’ve even slept in!).
One thing to note is the price…glamping is not cheap (especially if you are comparing it to camping). It can be just as much as a regular hotel (even a nice hotel), but you are paying for the experience and the ambience. Glamping offers the most value if you are going to be back by early evening to enjoy their amenities! Another thing to note is you are still in a tent, so there is no a/c. In the summer it can get hot during the day, but you are supposed to be off exploring during the day not sitting in your tent. The evenings cool down and in Yellowstone it was quite cold at night. Most tents have a wood burning stove, which kept our tent just perfect! One last thing for the ladies, there is no electricity so blowing dry your hair is out! I told you glamping still had camping elements…that’s roughing it! 🙂
The bottom line is glamping is a fun experience for the family or a unique adults only trip. The Garrett family thought it was super cool and can’t wait to do it again soon! In fact, Under Canvas has a location right outside the Great Smoky Mountain National Park!! Click here to see some of the other top glamping destinations.
Please remember to travel responsibly, wear your mask and do not travel unnecessarily if you are elderly or immune-compromised! And remember to check your destination’s travel restrictions/requirements before and during planning, as well as double-checking before departure!
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