Destinations Spring 2015

An Advertising Section

• Air travel tips

• Luxury camping

• Uncrowded beaches

Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

Friday Harbor, Washington

2 | Sunday, March 1, 2015 | DESTINATIONS

Tips for air travel......................4Glamping: Glamour camping .............................10Beach vacations, minus the crowds ..............14

Table of CONTENTS

PUBLISHER AND PRESIDENT Laura Hollingsworth

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES John Ward

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Emily Daniel

ADVERTISING WRITER/EDITOR Diane Hughes

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Crystal Elliott

TN-0001040891complimentary amenities such as golf, fishing, amusement parks andmore

866.907.5755 • www.gulfshoresrentals.com

We Got Beach!We Got Beach!

Are you ready for spring?

It’s been a trying winter in much of the

country, including here in Middle Tennessee. We’ve battled ice,

snow and freezing pipes during “Icemaggedon.” We’ve endured

days of not being able to leave the house — unless you count that

neighborhood sledding outing. Well … if you’re ready to emerge

from this seasonal cocoon, fear not — spring is on the way. And

to help you plan your spring getaway, this issue of Destinations

is packed with useful information for your next excursion.

Happy travels!

DESTINATIONS | Sunday, March 1, 2015 | 3

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��


The Transportation Security Admin-istration is tasked with keeping us all safe at airports and in the air over the U.S. It can be a thankless job, and some-times even TSA agents get cranky and lose their sense of humor. So it pays to be patient and bring your own sense of humor when you travel (but NO terror-ism jokes, folks).

In addition, it’s helpful to know the routine ahead of time. If you don’t fly frequently, navigating the ins and outs of air travel can be trying at best. Do I take off my shoes for the TSA screening? Can I pack my shampoo in my carry-on? What about knitting needles? Here are answers to some of those questions and info on where to learn more about the requirements of TSA screenings.

SHOESYes. If you’re between the ages of 13

and 74, you need to take off your shoes before screening. You don’t, however, need to place them in a bin. Just put your shoes directly on the belt to pass through the X-ray machine.

TIP: Wear slip-on shoes. It will reduce the time it takes you to get through the

line and on to your gate.

POCKET KNIVESIn general, sharp objects are not

allowed in the airplane cabin. If you have a handy-dandy pocket knife — even a small Swiss Army knife on your key ring — pack it in your suitcase. Otherwise, you’ll risk giving it up at the checkpoint.

TIP: Scissors with blades smaller than 4 inches are allowed in your carry-on. Small needles for medical purposes are also permitted, as are knitting needles.

LIQUIDSRemember the 3-1-1 rule. Use 3-ounce

bottles in a 1-quart clear zip-top plastic bag. One bag per traveler (removed from your carry-on and placed in a bin for screening). Items in the bag include liq-uids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes. You may pack larger amounts of liquids, but they’ll have to go in your suitcase. (And we highly recommend double or triple zip-close bags so that said liquid doesn’t end up all over your stuff.

TIP: You’re allowed more than 3 ounces of baby formula, breast milk or liquid medications; these items do not

have to be in a plastic bag for screening, but you should offer them for inspection at the checkpoint.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDRENTake your infant or young child out of

a stroller or baby carrier and carry the child through the metal detector. Stroll-ers and carriers go on the belt with your other items to be X-rayed. For more tips on traveling with kids, visit http://www.tsa.gov/tsa-kids/parents-page.

TIP: At Nashville International Air-port, you’ll find a children’s play area at the end of all three concourses.

75 OR OLDERIf you’re at least age 75, there’s no

need to remove your shoes when going through the metal detector. You’re also allowed to wear a light jacket.

COMPUTERSIf you’re traveling with a laptop, DVD

player or CPAP machine, you’ll need to remove it from your carry-on and send it separately through the X-ray machine. Same goes for full-size game consoles. Tablets, smartphones and portable games can stay packed in your bag.

TSA PRECHECKTSA PreCheck is a program that

allows qualified travelers to skip the

more stringent screening. Some of us call it the “special line.” Travelers who screen through the PreCheck line don’t have to remove shoes, belts and jackets, and their 3-1-1 liquids and computers can remain stowed in their carry-on.

It’s an effort to make the screening process more effective and efficient. By identifying travelers who are believed to pose no safety threat, lines move more quickly — and travelers are less stressed.

There are two ways to earn a coveted spot in this line: apply and pay a fee or be randomly selected while in line or when receiving your boarding pass.

Qualified individuals can submit an application and pay $85 for a five-year enrollment in the program. After being approved, applicants receive a KTN, or Known Traveler Number. You’ll then use that number when you book a flight. Other travelers may be chosen ran-domly at the gate (by TSA agents who select by observing behavior) or via a computer risk assessment when obtain-ing a boarding pass.

While PreCheck is available at Nash-ville International, it is not available at all airports. To find a list of participat-ing airlines and airports, see eligibility requirements or submit an application, visit tsa.gov/tsa-precheck.

Let’s face it. Air travel is not what it used to be. Smaller seats. Tired, cranky travelers. Bag fees. TSA checkpoint lines.

But don’t let the trials and tribulations of air travel get you down. With a little planning and preparation, your next flight can be a bit less bumpy. From the latest on TSA regulations to helpful apps to use when traveling, here are some tools and tips to help you avoid travel turbulence.

Come fly with me…

TSA tips & more

GETTY

IMA

GES

By DIANE HUGHESTennessean Custom Publications


BNA is also an official enroll-ment center for the program, which allows you to enroll without traveling to another city. Located in the ticketing lobby of the air-port, the center is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

REMEMBER: Guidelines listed here are established by the TSA, but TSA agents have the final say on whether to allow an item — or a person — on the plane.

WHAT’S NEW AT NASHVILLE’S AIRPORT?

Surfing, sipping & more

Free Wi-Fi Nashville International (BNA) joins the ranks of

awesome airports offering free Wi-Fi to patrons.

You’ll be able to log on in most publicly frequented

areas including gates, the food court, ticketing,

baggage claim and ground transportation.

Drinks to goRushing to get packed, endure traffic and make it

to the airport can leave the most seasoned trav-

eler a little frazzled. If you’ve ever gotten through

the security checkpoint and thought, “Boy, I could

use a drink,” now you can actually enjoy that adult

beverage while waiting at your gate. No more leav-

ing your SO or friend at the gate holding the bags

while you quickly gulp a double and race back to

join them. Now you can enjoy a glass of wine, grab

a beer or sip a cocktail anywhere in the secure side

of the terminal.

Blazing a trail with Uber, LyftNashville International was the first U.S. airport to

officially recognize ridesharing services Uber and

Lyft. Denver International soon followed suit, and

Louisville and LAX are considering it. Other air-

ports are cracking down on the rideshare services,

which are not covered by permits at most airports.

“We were never opposed to [them] operating at

BNA,” says BNA Corporate Communications Man-

ager Shannon Sumrall. “But just like all commercial

ground transportation operators, they needed to

be permitted and pay user fees. We worked with

both companies, the outcome being the addi-

tion of Transportation Network Companies as a

new class of operators in our Commercial Ground

Transportation Policy.”

TRAVEL APPS TO TRYGreat travel apps designed to amuse you, keep you organized and help you stay on schedule

FLYING APP - FREE Track flights, get up-to-date flight info and earn stamps for travel achievements (like crossing the Atlantic). You can also amuse yourself by measuring how far you are from the moon, following the flights of friends or seeing who has flown the most miles. iOS

AM I GOING DOWN - 99¢It might sound morbid, but this app can actually calm the nerves of skittish flyers by pointing out just how ridiculously unlikely it is that your plane will go down. Am I Going Down calculates the likelihood (really, the unlikelihood) of your plane crashing. iOS

GATE GURU - FREEGet flight departure/arrival times, receive alerts on gate changes, and find the near-est/best place on the concourse to grab a bite to eat. Also gives tips on where to pur-chase a gift in the airport and allows fel-low users to direct you to the best layover lounges. Even offers insider info to help you

find the fastest-moving line at the security checkpoint. iOS, Android, Windows

ONTHEFLY - FREESearches Google’s ITA Matrix software to help you find the best price on a flight. Searches large carriers and allows you to compare date, time, duration and price. To search budget airlines, try Skyscanner or Momondo (both free). iOS, Android.

HOPPER - FREEBilled as a way to “save money with the bunny,” this app gives you the best times to fly and purchase a ticket and shows you the lowest fares available. It also “predicts” coming price changes and can even moni-tor fares to locations you choose and notify you when it’s time to buy. iOS, Android

FLIGHT TONIGHT - FREEWant to make a quick getaway? Need to rush out of town to see a sick friend? This

When I fly, can I bring my …?Just go to TSA.gov and look for the “When I fly, can I bring my” search box and type in an item. From liquids to knitting needles to firearms, the quick and easy search results will give you details on whether you can pack an item in your carry-on, in your suitcase or if the item is totally prohibited.

> > TRAVEL APPS, 6

GETTY

IMA

GES

ISTO

CK


For more information:www.dicksonoutdoorshow.com

(615) 446-2349

“The UTGardens and 2015 GardeningTrends”Friday, March 13th at 5:00 p.m.

Dickson County FairgroundsFriday, March 13 – 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.Saturday, March 14 – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.Sunday, March 15 – Noon to 4 p.m.

Admission $3 • Children 12 &Under Free • Free Parking$1,000 in Door Prizes • Petting Zoo & Bounce Houses

Free Education Seminars by:

Come kick o� spring 2015 with fun for the whole family!

TN-000

1040

904

TN-0001040916

You may have heard Nashville International Airport referred to as BNA. Or perhaps you’ve seen BNA on the bag tags placed on your luggage for a return flight. Maybe you’ve even driven on BNA Drive.

WHAT DOES BNA MEAN? BNA is Nashville’s IATA code, a three-letter designation that helps identify major airports around the world. IATA stands for International Air Transport Associa-tion; BNA stands for Berry Field Nash-ville, Berry Field being the name given to the landing strip when Nashville’s first airport opened in 1937. Built as a Works Progress Administration proj-ect, the field was named for Col. Harry Smith Berry, a decorated World War I veteran who then served as Tennessee administrator for the WPA program. Berry lived and died in Hendersonville, Tenn.; he is buried in Nashville’s Mount Olivet Cemetery.

app will give you the lowest fare on last-minute travel. Just plug in your city of origin and get a list of the cheapest flights leaving your city on that day. iOS

PACKING PRO - $2.99Create, share and print a pack-ing list designed for your needs and destination. Using fac-tors like length of trip and the weather at your destination, the app will generate a list to ensure that you pack everything you need. Other variables include pets, babies and religious affili-ation. iOS

HIPMUNK- FREE Not only will Hipmunk help you find the cheapest airfare, it will also make it easier to find a flight that’s low on incon-veniences (plane changes or layovers) and high on amenities you want (like Wi-Fi). The app even delivers last-minute hotel deals that you can book directly through the app. iOS, Android

>> TRAVEL APPS, FROM PAGE 5

WHAT IS BNA, ANYWAY?

When the first airplane landed at BNA in 1936, pilot Elmer Van Sickle (left), stewardess M. Har-man and co-pilot Gene Kruse were greeted by Nashville Mayor H.E. Howse, Col. Harry Berry and Cmdr. Luther Luton. FILE / THE TENNESSEAN

BNA’s namesake, Col. Harry Berry (center), is shown in this 1962 photo taken at Berry Field. Berry is flanked by Amer-ican Airlines representa-tives Jeff Lewis (left) and James Bass. The men are standing in front a plane known as the “Tin Goose.” The vintage aircraft made a stop at BNA on its way to the Smithsonian Institution. FILE / THE TENNESSEAN


| 800.486.9777

FEATURing: 3 Hot Destinations in beautiful Mexico.

What your package includesRound-trip Air Service, Round-trip Airport/Hotel Transfers, Accommodations as Selected, Accommodation Tax, Services of our Friendly Destination Representatives

Go for the fun all-inclusive!All meals, unlimited drinks, land/water activities & FUn. One low, value-packed price!

SCOOPThe

RIVIERAMAYA

2 3 COZUMEL

Visit Us Online

100’s of Vacations!vacationexpress.com

LOW $100 Depositper person

CANCUNCancun offers extraordinary, all-inclusive beachfront hotels designed for every budget. get more value

without sacrificing all-inclusive luxury. SLEEP:• Riu Cancun - newly renovated luxury resort famous for its nightlife• Hard Rock Hotel Cancun - Family-friendly resort that offers an amazing kids club and tons of fun for adults too• Grand Oasis Palm - get more bang for your buck at this ideal family retreat• Sun Palace - Luxury adults-only escape in paradise• Iberostar Cancun - This family-friendly, luxury resort will take your breath awayThe Treasures of the Caribbean Are Calling You to Cancun!

Only 45 minutes away from Cancun International Airport, Cozumel is a beautiful island that radiates local charm and warm, Mayan heritage.PLAY:• Interact with ocean life at Stingray Beach• Take a self-drive buggy on a sight- seeing excursion• Marvel at the fine art exhibits of the Museo de la Isla de CozumelExist in the Moment!

Experience the pure bliss that could only come from visiting Riviera Maya. An hour away from Cancun International Airport, Riviera Maya is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and relaxation revelers. PLAY:• Get the perfect tan on Akumal’s silky beaches• Catch a ride on the ferry to Cozumel • Spend a day in trendy Playa del Carmen exploring the eclectic shops, galleries, cafes & clubs• Snorkel in Xel-Ha, the largest natural aquarium in the world • Tour ancient Mayan ruins in TulumPlan your stay at the NEW five-star Royalton Riviera Cancun resort!

Hey! Did u hear about the all-inclusive packages that Vacation Express has to Cancun? Flight included!

Everything is included in the package. Roundtrip non-stop flights, all meals, all drinks, a local rep that will help us, and includes taxes!

I’m so serious! No catch. 6nts every Sun from Nashville Mar-Aug. All-InclusivePackages are low too, they start at $869 pp

Check out Royalton Riviera Cancun. This would be a perfect getaway!

r u serious? What’s the catch? How many nights? Do they go any where else?

What about the resorts? Can we get nice ones at prices like this?

All-inclusive? What’s that?

...Message Send

< Messages ContactAmy

LIVE IT TO BELIEVE IT

non-Stop Flights from Nashville

WinTer GeTaWaySCancun ......................................from $999*

Riviera Maya ...........................from $999*

eaSTer dealSCancun ...................................from $1169*

Riviera Maya ........................from $1099*

SprinG SpeCialSCancun ......................................from $899*


SuMMer STealSCancun ......................................from $989*


6 nights, all-inclusiveair + Hotel packages

departures every Sunday starting Mar 15

*Advertised prices available for bookings made electronically through your travel agent or on vacationexpress.com; small service fee of $10 applies when booking through Vacation Express Call Center. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Prices based on lowest travel date at time of printing. For full terms and conditions, hotel and description of all services, please refer to the Vacation Express 2014 Brochure or visit vacationexpress.com. Some upgrades are subject to availability upon check-in. Packages at the above prices are limited and are subject to change without prior notice. Vacation Express public charter flights operated by Interjet Airfares are per person, reflect lowest available airfare at time of printing, are subject to change and based upon availability of class of service. Baggage charges and allowances vary by carrier, most major carriers are charging a fee for checked baggage. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Must book by 4/15/2015.


| 800.486.9777

FEATURing: 3 Hot Destinations in beautiful Mexico.

What your package includesRound-trip Air Service, Round-trip Airport/Hotel Transfers, Accommodations as Selected, Accommodation Tax, Services of our Friendly Destination Representatives

Go for the fun all-inclusive!All meals, unlimited drinks, land/water activities & FUn. One low, value-packed price!

SCOOPThe

RIVIERAMAYA

2 3 COZUMEL

Visit Us Online

100’s of Vacations!vacationexpress.com

LOW $100 Depositper person

CANCUNCancun offers extraordinary, all-inclusive beachfront hotels designed for every budget. get more value

without sacrificing all-inclusive luxury. SLEEP:• Riu Cancun - newly renovated luxury resort famous for its nightlife• Hard Rock Hotel Cancun - Family-friendly resort that offers an amazing kids club and tons of fun for adults too• Grand Oasis Palm - get more bang for your buck at this ideal family retreat• Sun Palace - Luxury adults-only escape in paradise• Iberostar Cancun - This family-friendly, luxury resort will take your breath awayThe Treasures of the Caribbean Are Calling You to Cancun!

Only 45 minutes away from Cancun International Airport, Cozumel is a beautiful island that radiates local charm and warm, Mayan heritage.PLAY:• Interact with ocean life at Stingray Beach• Take a self-drive buggy on a sight- seeing excursion• Marvel at the fine art exhibits of the Museo de la Isla de CozumelExist in the Moment!

Experience the pure bliss that could only come from visiting Riviera Maya. An hour away from Cancun International Airport, Riviera Maya is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and relaxation revelers. PLAY:• Get the perfect tan on Akumal’s silky beaches• Catch a ride on the ferry to Cozumel • Spend a day in trendy Playa del Carmen exploring the eclectic shops, galleries, cafes & clubs• Snorkel in Xel-Ha, the largest natural aquarium in the world • Tour ancient Mayan ruins in TulumPlan your stay at the NEW five-star Royalton Riviera Cancun resort!

Hey! Did u hear about the all-inclusive packages that Vacation Express has to Cancun? Flight included!

Everything is included in the package. Roundtrip non-stop flights, all meals, all drinks, a local rep that will help us, and includes taxes!

I’m so serious! No catch. 6nts every Sun from Nashville Mar-Aug. All-InclusivePackages are low too, they start at $869 pp

Check out Royalton Riviera Cancun. This would be a perfect getaway!

r u serious? What’s the catch? How many nights? Do they go any where else?

What about the resorts? Can we get nice ones at prices like this?

All-inclusive? What’s that?

...Message Send

< Messages ContactAmy

LIVE IT TO BELIEVE IT

non-Stop Flights from Nashville

WinTer GeTaWaySCancun ......................................from $999*


eaSTer dealSCancun ...................................from $1169*

Riviera Maya ........................from $1099*

SprinG SpeCialSCancun ......................................from $899*


SuMMer STealSCancun ......................................from $989*


6 nights, all-inclusiveair + Hotel packages

departures every Sunday starting Mar 15

*Advertised prices available for bookings made electronically through your travel agent or on vacationexpress.com; small service fee of $10 applies when booking through Vacation Express Call Center. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Prices based on lowest travel date at time of printing. For full terms and conditions, hotel and description of all services, please refer to the Vacation Express 2014 Brochure or visit vacationexpress.com. Some upgrades are subject to availability upon check-in. Packages at the above prices are limited and are subject to change without prior notice. Vacation Express public charter flights operated by Interjet Airfares are per person, reflect lowest available airfare at time of printing, are subject to change and based upon availability of class of service. Baggage charges and allowances vary by carrier, most major carriers are charging a fee for checked baggage. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Must book by 4/15/2015.



Never been camping? Have you always wanted to try roughing it but thought it was just too much work? Too inconvenient? Too lacking in creature comforts? Maybe you tried camping once and have bad memo-ries of the cold hard ground and a battle with insects.

Well, we have a novel travel suggestion for you. It’s called glamping. Think of it as glamour camping. Camping with bling.

If your idea of roughing it is to call room service, this may not be the vacation for you. But if you’re a little adventurous — and somewhat needy in terms of comfort — glamping could be a great experience.

Even in the world of glamping, amenities and lev-els of comfort vary. From locations with no electricity and a shared bathhouse (that you’ll have to walk to) to pampered amenities like massage, Wi-Fi and an en suite (no late night walks to the bathroom!), there are plenty of options for getting closer to the great outdoors while still choosing the conveniences you’re willing (or eager!) to live without.

“Many people are put off by traditional camping because of all the preparation it takes to get ready and then the challenges of a good night’s sleep,” says JoAnn Adams Antonelli, who, along with Rick Lucas, owns and runs The Martyn House in Ellijay, Ga.

Antonelli and Lucas have worked hard to remove

any obstacles to your enjoyment of a “camping” experience. At The Martyn House, you won’t have to search for the perfect camping spot, erect a tent, for-age for firewood or sleep on the ground.

“We took all those little hiccups and created a way to enjoy nature and be comfortable, too,” says Antonelli.

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONSAt The Martyn House, Antonelli and Lucas have

put their own unique twist on the bed and breakfast industry. They’ve created The Farm, an 18-acre prop-erty that features luxury sleeping tents from India.

The tents (with names like Nightingale Nest and Bohemian Bungalow) accommodate two twins or one king-size bed and are equipped with electricity and a bathroom (composting toilet) with on-demand hot showers. At 12x12, the tents are spacious and include a sitting area. The private bath measures 6x12, and there’s even a 6x12 porch with a table and chairs.

Each tent is tucked away in the woods to allow for privacy. Equipped with fans for cooling in summer time and heaters to warm you in the cooler months, these accommodations are designed for comfort.

“Our bedding is luxurious, and the tents are whim-sical with all the comforts of home,” says Antonelli.

In fact, Antonelli insists the only difference you’ll notice between one of these tents and your own bed will be the peaceful sounds of nature you’ll hear out-side as you drift off to sleep. It’s the perfect setting to

allow guests to connect with nature and disconnect from their hectic day-to-day life.

“We try to give our guests the experience we would want if we got away for a few days from the hustle and bustle of life in the fast lane,” Antonelli says.

She adds that guests frequently express how they appreciate the slower pace they experience during a stay at The Martyn House. It’s a time, guests tell her, when they’re able to disconnect from electronics and find some quiet time.

“Yes, there is electricity and Wi-Fi — although we highly discourage it,” Antonelli says.

While a glamping getaway can be a time to discon-nect from technology, at The Martyn House, it’s also a time for reconnecting with humans. To that end, Antonelli says, every night on The Farm at The Mar-tyn House there’s a community bonfire where she and Lucas gather with their guests.

“It’s great to see how connected people become when sitting around a bonfire chatting,” says Antonelli. “We have found these evenings to be some of the most rewarding moments here at The Martyn House.”

MEALS & MOREWhen it comes to meals on The Farm, you have

a few options. First off, breakfast is served on Satur-day mornings at The Farm and on Sunday mornings

Plan a luxury outdoor getaway

> > GLAMPING, 12

A view of Nightingale Nest inside and out. It’s just one of the luxury tents offered at The Martyn House in Ellijay, Ga. COURTESY OF THE MARTYN HOUSE

Let’s go glamping!


OCOEE RIVER BASINCANOPY TOURS

Come Discover WhatWILDWATER Has Been DoingFor The Past 45 Years In TheRafting And Zipline Business!

Add Canopy Tour Ziplines To YourOcoee River Rafting Experience

For A Full Day Adventure!

Upper Olympic& Middle

Ocoee TripsClose to:

Atlanta, GA &Chattanooga, TN

wildwaterrafting.com866-319-8870

[email protected]

OCOEE River Rafting


at In Towne (the bistro/coffee bar/music venue that Antonelli and Lucas run just a couple of miles away from The Martyn House).

“This year we are opening our gourmet glamping communal kitchen for those guests who want to cook for themselves or hire one of our chefs for the night,” says Antonelli.

If you decide to cook, “Piazza Lucas,” the outdoor kitchen, has a brick pizza oven and grill. Antonelli notes that each tent is equipped with an electric tea kettle, a French press and a selection of coffee and tea. But, she says, most of her guests just want to relax.

“We have found most of our guests want to be more pampered, and cooking is not on their list of glamp-ing experiences,” she says. “If they bring a cooler, it’s usually filled with adult beverages and snacks.”

RELAX & UNWINDSpeaking of adult beverages, there are plenty of

places to enjoy them on the property. In addition to the outdoor kitchen, Antonelli and Lucas have

created several outdoor living spaces for guests to enjoy. There’s “Posh at the Pond,” an outdoor living room and bar with a fire pit. “The Lawn” has a big deck covered with one of the luxury tents to create another outdoor living room/bar combination that is complemented by a fire pit, a bocce/croquet court and a space for tossing horseshoes.

For the ultimate glamping indulgence, book an hour with the staff massage therapist. At $95 for 60 minutes ($140 for 90 minutes), you can enjoy a Swedish, aro-matherapy or deep tissue massage. For $80 per couple (plus tax and gratuity), splurge on a candlelight dinner that includes a complimentary glass of wine.

ADULTS ONLYThe Martyn House Farm offers just about every-

thing you could want in a pampered back-to-nature getaway. But there is one thing you won’t find here: children. There’s a strict adults-only policy.

“We wanted to create a place where adults can get away, where couples could have romantic getaways and gals could have carefree girlfriend getaways,” says Antonelli. “As we all know, children are very busy,

loud and curious. For our guests, we wanted a much more laid-back, intimate and quiet experience. We created a space that was really not as child friendly as it is adult friendly — and we have found that our guests love that it is that way.”

So, if you want to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature — but still want to sleep in a comfortable bed and take a hot shower — The Mar-tyn House might be the perfect outdoor getaway.

The Martyn House912 Flat Branch Road, Ellijay, Ga.

(about 3 hours, 40 minutes from Nashville and 40 minutes from the Ocoee River)

Available April 1 to Dec. 1 Starts at $220 per night, two-night minimum

themartynhouse.com706-635-4759

Nearby activities: Biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, whitewater rafting, antiquing

Queen-size rustic log bed with high-thread-count sheets and a trundle bed. Some yurts (a type of tent) offer a sleeper sofa or air mattress for more guests. Tents have a mini fridge, microwave and coffeemaker plus dishes, utensils, pots/pans. Patio area has grills and a fire pit for cooking. Each yurt has its own private bath and shower in the adjacent bathhouse. There’s also a shared hot tub. Electric lights and ceiling fan. Air conditioner in summer; heaters in cooler months.

Rates: $85 per night, based on four-person occupancy. $5 per person, per night for more than four occu-pants. Max six guests per yurt.

On-site or nearby activities: Horseback-riding, wagon rides or the chance to be “Dude For a Day.” Other activities in the area: whitewa-ter rafting, zip line, Long Creek Falls and Blue Ridge Scenic Railway.

On the Web: blanchemanor.com

Other glamping sites BLANCHE MANOR YURTS

Copperhill, Tenn.

LAKEDALE RESORT

Friday Harbor, Wash.

Located in the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington state, Lake-dale Resort has canvas tent cabins furnished with a queen-size bed, table, chairs and a futon. You’ll also find a battery-powered lantern in your room and fire ring and chairs right outside your tent. There’s no electricity, internet access or running water in the tents (Wi-Fi is available at the nearby General Store on the property). Shower facilities and toi-lets are a short stroll away; self-serve continental breakfast every morning in the centrally located mess tent.

Rates: Starting at $179 per night, double occupancy. May 1-Sept. 30.

On-site or nearby activities: Kayaking, wildlife boat cruise, whale watching, Whale Museum, hiking, biking, fishing, zip line, lavender farm. The resort sponsors on-site activities for a modest fee: jewelry making, birdhouse painting and tie-dye crafts.

On the Web: lakedale.com

NANTAHALA YURT VILLAGE

Bryson City, N.C.

Enjoy the sounds of nature from the comfort of your heavy-duty canvas yurt nestled in the woods on a 22-acre compound. Accommo-dations include queen-size bed or futon sofa bed, CD/AM/FM player, mini fridge, coffee maker, picnic table and charcoal grill. Private bathrooms and showers are located in an adjacent building. Sleeps up to four.

Rates: $89 per night

On-site or nearby activities: Rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, gem mining, waterfall deck

On the Web: wildwaterrafting.com or bit.ly/YurtVillage

WESTGATE RIVER RANCH

River Ranch, Fla.

Canvas tents set on platforms in the woods offer portable heat and air, gas grill, mini fridge, microwave, electrical outlets, private bath/shower facility, king and twin beds, and morning coffee service. Shop at the general store and cook for your-self or dine at the on-site deli or one of two restaurants on the grounds. Wi-Fi available for a fee; weak cell phone reception.

Rates: $143-$224 per night, double occupancy, depending on day of week, time of year, etc.

On-site or nearby activities: Rodeo, horseback riding, airboat rides, archery, bungee jumping, din-ner hayride, fishing, mini golf, pet-ting farm, pony rides, tennis, zip line.

On the Web: bit.ly/WestgateRanch

>> GLAMPING, FROM PAGE 10


GATLINBURGPIGEON FORGE

SEVIERVILL

E

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS

Family fun is alive andwell in the Smokies!Every season here is filled with unique attractions,

entertainment, shopping and events, all guaranteed tomake lasting memories. Come to Gatlinburg, Pigeon

Forge and Sevierville where providing fun for your familyis always at the top of our to-do list.

ComeExperiencetheSmokies.com

TN-0001040915


Most of us spent the ice storm of 2015 dreaming of a beach vacation, but with canceled flights and snarled traffic, there was just no getting there — or anywhere for that matter! But spring is almost here, so plan your beach escape now.

If your idea of the perfect beach

getaway DOES NOT include rubbing elbows at crowded bars and beaches or dealing with throngs of rowdy revelers, well, we understand. And we’ve done a little research and discovered some off-the-beaten path destinations where you’re more likely to enjoy the sun and

surf in relative peace and quiet. So, grab your steamy romance novel, pack your swimsuit and load up on sunscreen, ’cause it’s time for a little beach therapy. If the sea calls to you, but the masses don’t, one of these destinations could be the beach retreat for you.

Away to the beach … away from the crowds

Break away from the typical beach routine

ISTO

CK


EXPLORE THE GRAND STRANDJust 10 miles and a world away from the more-

populated Myrtle Beach, Murrell’s Inlet is an old fishing town known as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina. Located along South Carolina’s so-called Grand Strand, you’ll find a lot — or noth-ing — to do here. You can dine on the waterfront. Charter a boat. Breathe in the salt air. Take a stroll on the Marshwalk and dine (options from laid-back to upscale), shop or enjoy some live music.

The Waccamaw Neck Bikeway will appeal to cyclists. The paved route follows U.S. Highway 17 (also known as the Coastal Highway) and con-nects to Huntington Beach State Park. The park is an ideal place to hike, fish, swim, boat, picnic or engage in a little bird watching. While you’re there, take a tour of the house and grounds at Atalaya Castle, the former winter home of businessman Archer Huntington and his wife, sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington.

Just across the street from the park, you’ll find Brookgreen Gardens, another property for-merly owned by the Huntingtons. Enjoy the sculp-

ture garden, designed by Anna Huntington, along with beautiful fountains and moss-draped trees. There’s also a butterfly house and aviary, and you can tour a historic cemetery.

If you’d like, explore more of the Grand Strand and opt for a night of bright lights in the big city of Myrtle Beach, about a 30-minute drive away. (You can always return to your quiet beach enclave after a night on the town.) The Myrtle Beach Board-walk & Promenade offers a bevy of bars and

restaurants situated on a fishing pier. You’ll also find an arcade and Ferris wheel (the “Sky Wheel”) plus a number of shops and attractions. About 15 minutes in the other direction, you’ll find Pawley’s Island. Settled by rice planters who established plantations along the rivers in the area, Pawley’s Island is a quiet seaside town where locals regale visitors with ghost stories and beachcombers enjoy the silky-smooth sand dunes. Venture a few miles inland and you can explore the black water of the Waccamaw River from the seat of a kayak. You’ll have moss-draped cypress trees as a back-drop and plenty of wildlife to view. The occasional gator sighting will help keep things exciting.

The entire Grand Strand offers opportunities to fish, golf, explore the area wildlife or just relax and enjoy the view from miles of secluded beachfront. Whether you prefer a fancy resort or a cozy beach cottage rental, in Murrells Inlet and the surround-ing area, you’re sure to find accommodations and activities to execute the perfect beach getaway.

Murrells Inlet, South carolina

ON THE WEBmurrellsinletsc.com, visitmyrtlebeach.com, brookgreen.org, southcarolinaparks.com/huntingtonbeach

Stunning Brookgreen Gardens is a popular desti-nation in Murrells Inlet. ISTOCK


NO BARRIERS TO RELAXATION

Sitting on the north Flor-ida Gulf Coast is one of the Sunshine State’s unspoiled barrier islands. No crowds here. No big buildings or big box stores. Just the peace and quiet that comes when you journey the short drive from Florida’s main-land to the peaceful envi-rons of St. George Island.

Accessible by road via a single bridge, this 22-mile-long island is described by visitors as peaceful and non-pretentious. It’s a paradise where beachgoers can sun, swim and enjoy fresh seafood. It’s a quiet place where you can watch dolphins playfully swim while you search for shells on the beach. But there’s much more to do here.

Highlights on the island include Cape St. George Lighthouse, a replica of the original lighthouse that once stood on adjacent Little St. George Island. The new lighthouse stands as the center-piece at Lighthouse Park and Keep-er’s Museum. If you visit the island during the full moon, you can enjoy a moonlight tour of the lighthouse and experience stunning views of the coast.

And when the moon’s not full, this barrier island is the perfect place to stare at the stars. Zoning and building codes have helped manage growth here and maintain the island’s serene sensibility, so you won’t find a lot of bright lights and garish neon signs. With the nearest big city being 70 miles away, St. George affords the dark skies coveted by serious stargazers.

With several beaches to visit, you can easily change your beach per-spective during your stay. Bring your own or rent a bike and enjoy the island’s 6.3-mile bike trail. Explore the marshes, boardwalks and hiking trails, and be on the lookout for more than 300 species of birds documented in this area. There are plenty of places to rent beach chairs, umbrellas, paddle

boards, surfboards and more. Book an airboat ride, take a sailboat sunset cruise or attend a watercolor workshop at the local art gallery. Take the kids for a dolphin encounter.

The island is also known as a nesting ground for the threatened loggerhead sea turtle. Look for them, just don’t dis-turb them, and please observe all the rules designed to protect the turtles, including not leaving items on the beach and following lighting guidelines after dusk.

If you get restless on the island, make the 10-mile drive to Apalachicola and visit the Maritime Museum or Apala-chicola Museum of Art. The town is also home to a pair of historic homes: Raney House Museum and Orman House. Adjacent to Orman House is Chapman Botanical Garden, which serves as a living tribute to Dr. Alvin Wentworth Chapman, a Florida bota-nist and prolific cataloger of southern plants.

In nearby Carrabelle, about a half-hour from the island, you can kayak or canoe on the Apalachicola River Paddling Trail System, hike on the Coastal High Bluff Trail or visit Tate’s Hell State Forest where you’re likely to spot hawks, eagles, deer and raccoons. Maybe even a bear or bobcat.

This getaway is a peaceful destina-tion that incorporates sun, surf, nature, wildlife, adventure and some of the rich history of the Sunshine State. St. George Island is a great place to kick back, relax and enjoy the beauty of the Florida seashore.

St. George Island, florida

Cape St. George Lighthouse in St. George Island. ISTOCK

ON THE WEBseestgeorgeisland.com/stgeorgelight.orgfloridastateparks.org/park/St-George-Island, ApalachicolaHistoricalSociety.org

THE #1 RESORT ON FLORIDA’S EMERALD COASTVACATIONYour Perfect

FREE NIGHT THIS SPRINGSTAY 3 NIGHTS GET 1 FREE

USE PROMO CODE FREE4

Restrictions apply. See website for details.

888.953.2435Sandestin.com/TN

Beach to Bay Accommodations • Four Championship Golf CoursesYear-Round Events • Endless Free Amenities • TennisWater Sports • Dozens of Shopping & Dining Options


800.486.9777Vaca�io� Exp�ess p�blic cha��e� �igh�s ope�a�e� b� S��wi�g Ai�li�es, Ae�o�exico, I��e��e�, Swif� Ai�, LLC o� X��a Ai�wa�s. See Ope�a�o�/Pa��icipa�� Ag�ee�e�� fo� �e�ails.

*Price based on lowest travel date at time of printing. Advertised prices available for bookings made electronically through your travel agent or on vacationexpress.com; small service fee of $10 applies when booking through Vacation Express Call Center. Prices are per person, based ondouble occupancy. For full terms and conditions, hotel and description of all services, please refer to the Vacation Express 2015 Brochure or visit vacationexpress.com. Some upgrades are subject to availability upon check-in. Packages at the above prices are limited and are subject to changewithout prior notice. Vacation Express public charter �ights operated by Interjet, Sunwing Airlines, Xtra Airways and Swift Air, LLC. Airfares are per person, re�ect lowest available airfare at time of printing, are subject to change and based upon availability of class of service. Baggage chargesand allowances vary by carrier, most major carriers are charging a fee for checked baggage. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Book by 4/15/15.

CAnCun AndrIVIErA mAyA

PuntA CAnA

jAmAICA

GrAnd BAHAmAISLAnd

30+ OtHErEXOtIC SPOtS

Ove� 25 yea�s of Fl�i�g wi�h Excl�sive Vaca�io� Packages

2015Sche��le

E��o� All-I�cl�sive Vaca�io� Packages wi�hExcl�sive no�-S�op Fligh�s · All-I�cl�sive reso�� · mealsd�i�ks · Local rep�ese��a�ive · taxes · F�ee 1s� Checke� Bag

Moreexc��sivevacationpackages inc��ingnon-stop�ig�ts fromNas�vi��e!

Weeklo�gSPRING VACATIONSExc��sive Non-Stop F�ig�ts +A��-Inc��sive Resort

f�o� nashvilleLOW$100deposi�

pe� pe�so�

CANCuN6ntS, S�� ma� 15 - A�g 2

jAMAICA6ntS, mo� ma� 18 - A�g 3

GRANd bAhAMA ISlANd4ntS, Va�io�s ma� 25 - j�� 29

PuNTA CANA5ntS, F�i ma� 13 - ma� 86ntS, mo� ma� 18 - A�g 315ntS, Va�io�s Sep 7 - Oc� 25

S�a��i�gf�o�

$869*

no�-S�opFligh�s

Destinations Spring 2015

Documents

Transcript of Destinations Spring 2015