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12 years ago I had no idea that there was a term that would describe the style of camping my friend was creating as she showed up on campsites with her family dressed in Donna Karan and stepping out in shoes by Salvatore Ferragamo. Each year we laughed at her stories of sneaking away from the campsite to go home to take an early shower only to return as if she roughed it out like the rest of the family. I think they knew better. Now I have the pleasure of sharing this article that will change where and how she goes camping from now on.
Glamping is the new hot term that describes camping that includes all of the luxury and comfort of a home or hotel. Also known as boutique or luxury camping, it allows campers to enjoy the outdoors in beautiful locations around the world in a style that fits their lifestyle and personality. “People have been discovering that there are all these different options, different glam sites where they can leave their comfort zone a little bit and be out in mother nature and truly enjoy their vacation,” shares Ruben Martinez from the website directory www.GlampingHub.com.
GlampingHub.com currently represents about 500 sites around the world. They help walk visitors through desired accommodations that can range from the following:
- Yurt – A tented dwelling covered by weather-resistant fabric.
- A motorhome – A vehicle that is designed for individuals to live in
- Igloo – Yes, it is a home built of blocks of know
- Safari Tent – A canvas tent perfect for staying while enjoying adventures such as safaris and expeditions.
- Tipi – A tent typically made of animal skins with a ventilation opening at the top and flap door.
- Bell Tent – A cone-shaped tent with a single supporting pole
- Tree House – Yes they do exist and are secure and fun
Martinez says accommodations range from $50 a night all the way up to $2000 depending on how glamped up you want to go and notes that there is something from everybody. From Africa, Europe and Canada to of course right here in the U.S., there is an overwhelming selection that will have you luxury camping for years to come.
Cross the border to Canada to the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort that received an award this year from Conde Nast for the Most Excellent Lodge. The resort is nestled near the village of Tofino on Vancouver Island. Clayoquot specializes in remote experiences that range from hiking, fishing, whale watching, climbing and horseback riding just to name a few and is preparing for its 2013 season which will open this month on May 19 and run through September 29. “People want the outdoors but they want the luxury,” says Kathy MacRae the resort’s Director of Marketing and Social Media when asked about what attracts glampers to the resort. The tents themselves offer an experience to remember. There are a total of 20 with 12 classified as the new Luxury Ensuite Bathroom Tents that can host up to five people and eight are the Deluxe Outpost Tents that are perfect for couples looking to get away. Make reservations to join the resort this June for its Wilderness, Wine, Music, and Adventure Weekend scheduled for the 6th -9th that will feature fresh and local cuisine paired with some of Canada’s top wineries.
Head back over to the states and you’ll be sure to find a few locations that are just hours away from home. In California, we are spoiled with venues up and down the coast. From Sunset to ShermansTravel.com, El Capitan Canyon, 20 miles outside of Santa Barbara, is noted as a premier luxury camping resort on 300 acres of land that plays host to 26 canvas tents and 108 cedar cabins. Enjoy the outdoors before sneaking away for a little wine tasting.
California isn’t the only state known for glamping. Arizona, Montana, Utah, Colorado, and Idaho are just a few other states to check out when planning your luxury getaway with the help of sites like www.GlampingHub.com as well as reviews from trusted travel resources.
More and more people are ditching the hotel for something quieter and relaxing with plenty of one on one time with nature. Glamping is not just a trend but a lifestyle that perhaps we as Americans are just starting to catch on to. Whatever the case, we love it and may not show up in Ferragamos, but will definitely enjoy every bit of luxury that each location is known for.
