By Eric Jay Toll

Susan Stevie, COO of SheBuysTravel, has stayed in luxe accommodations around the world. “My preference is always a place where privacy and amenities rule. From private shoppers who prestock our kitchen to private chefs to cook the meals to concierge property managers who curate our one-of-a-kind local experiences, top-of-the-line properties make it easy to create lasting memories with friends and family,” she says.

Those luxuries are the icing on an already yummy cake. The best beachfront properties include all of the high-end basics: gourmet kitchens, dreamy beds with high-thread-count sheets, private pools, great outdoor spaces, toys for your surfside fun, views for miles and waves practically lapping at your back door.

Here are 10 exceptional beachfront property management companies to jump start planning your next memorable getaway with friends or family.

Casa Teresa Luxury Villas

You’ve seen Costa Rica pictures from your social media friends, sweeping vistas of romantic settings with gentle swells kissing white sand beaches. And then there’s the home you want for a few days or weeks right there on the shore. Unlike the others on the list, Casa Teresa Luxury Villas exclusively manages and provides concierge services to a single property.

Casa Teresa Luxury Villa is a single-destination luxury beachfront rental. Located in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, there are only two villas: Casa Teresa and Casa Teresa Grande. Staying at either of the properties can be packaged with active adventures in Costa Rica. Offering reliable Wi-Fi, the Villas are also touted as a base for digital nomads for working vacations.

• The 4,700-square-foot Casa Teresa sleeps eight in its four bedrooms.
• Casa Teresa Grande has seven bedrooms in the 16,000-square-foot villa and can sleep up to 21 people
• Optional full-time concierge service and personal chef are available
• Additional experiences and activities can be arranged

Website:        https://casateresacr.com/the-villas/

Email:                inquiries@casateresacr.com 

Beach House Boutique

One of the top beach destinations in North America is Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. The unique coastal setting is popular because it’s in the United States and easily accessible from most other states.

Beach House Boutique offers a collection of beachfront properties expressly in the Hilton Head Island area. In addition to beachfront homes, the locally owned property management company provides a boutique hotel experience by renting beachfront condominiums and townhomes.

Beach House Boutique manages modern vacation rentals with unique designs or character. It emphasizes providing five-star hotel experiences with the privacy of an individual property. The staff supporting rentals are all local residents.

• Features remote check-in with post-arrival personal follow-up
• Local support and concierge-style service from the company’s resident staff
• Some properties are three or more stories, and many include elevators
• Kitchens are pre-stocked

Website:        https://hiltonheadluxerentals.com/

Email:                reservations@hiltonheadluxerentals.com 

Elite Destination Homes

Elite Destination Homes is a luxury beachfront and vacation rental property management company that has been in business for 20 years. It manages homes and villas in the United States, the Caribbean, Mexico, France, and Italy.

• Full-service assistance for experience planning
• Concierge services at the property
• Private chef services included
• Pre-stocked groceries included

Website:        https://elitedestinationhomes.com

Email:                Inquiry@elitedestinationhomes.com 

Oliver’s Travels

“Why do ordinary?” asks Oliver’s Travels, a property management company representing worldwide vacation homes. Its villas, châteaux and manors are filled with quirky and characterful vacation places. Company staff personally inspects the properties offered and ensures a consistent experience. The firm promises that it provides detailed information about the homes in case it means there might be something more you need to pack or less you need to take.

• Area adventure and trip planning
• A “need to know” checklist for each offering
• Concierge services for the rentals
• Destination rentals capable of handling large groups, such as a wedding

Website:        https://www.oliverstravels.com

Email:                https://www.oliverstravels.com/contact-us/ 

OneFineStay

OneFineStay is a global property management company that offers luxury beachfront rentals in Asia, the Caribbean, Central America, Europe, Mexico, Spain and the United States. The company also manages private apartments, homes and villas in resort destinations and major urban centers. Hotel-style amenities and 24-hour/seven-day guest support are part of the package.

• Local trip and experience-planning support from destination specialists
• Hotel-style concierge services, including grocery delivery and ground transportation
• Custom services for business or family vacations, celebrations and destination events
• Earn points as part of All-Accor Live Limitless (Fairmont, Raffles and Sofitel hotels)

Website:        https://www.onefinestay.com

Email:                advisors@onefinestay.com 

Plum Guide

With more than 40,000 inspected properties managed, Plum Guide says it’s the world’s largest curated vacation rental platform. Guests select destinations and properties using artificial intelligence to match the desired trip with the best available homes or villas. The property management company has rental offerings in more than 500 countries.

• Strict 150-point criteria property vetting program
• Has local partnerships for activities and experiences
• Focus is on an ultimate property experience
• Local Plum Guide representative meets guests as they arrive

Website:        https://www.plumguide.com

Email:                info@plumguide.com

Quintess Collection

A membership luxury travel club, Quintess rentals are luxury properties worldwide—membership results in personalized service, exclusive rates and concierge support. The focus is bringing family and friends under one roof for a destination vacation. Quintess offers a smaller, curated selection of luxury properties. As a member, the property manager also provides discounted luxury hotel bookings worldwide.

• Offers ultra-premium travel experience planning
• On-site concierge services
• Arranges custom activities, like cooking classes at the property
• Membership pricing is not listed on the website

Website:        https://quintess.com/

Email:                info@quintess.com 

Top Villas

Top Villas is a vacation rental company offering a range of upscale villas and properties. It primarily focuses on popular destinations like Orlando, Florida, the U.S., the Caribbean, and other North American resort areas, as well as European and Asian properties.

• Flexible cancelation policy
• Trip-planning advisors for destination
• Five-star hotel-style concierge services with local support
• Available in-rental private chef

Website:        https://www.thetopvillas.com/en_us

Email:                info@thetopvillas.com

Villaway

Focused on short-term luxury beachfront rentals,  Villaway manages properties worldwide, including Africa. The organization says it is designed to move quickly, “at the speed of life,” providing direct services to its guests. It represents properties that local property management partners have vetted.

• Complete trip and experience planning assistance
• Locally-experienced concierge services
• Personal chef services
• Pre-stocked groceries

Website:        https://villaway.com

Email:                reservations@villaway.com

Wander

With a tech-forward flavor, Wander is a new rental platform with properties primarily in the United States. It promises hand-picked properties within the top one percent of vacation rentals. The platform maintains 100 percent control over its offerings so that standards are uniform across the inventory. Wander provides luxury hotel-level amenities and state-of-the-art technology.

• Full-time text-based concierge services
• Hotel-grade amenities
• No pre-checkout cleaning requirements
• In-app or online assistance planning experiences and activities

Website:        https://www.wander.com

Email:                hello@wander.com

Read More

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• 30 Tropical Places to Visit for a Vacation in Paradise
• The Best Florida Panhandle Beaches for Families
• Time for Summer Vacay! 10 Best Places to Visit in July

The post Luxury by the Sea: 10 Exceptional Beachfront Rentals appeared first on She Buys Travel.

London offers fun for families, but finding the right place to stay is crucial. Based on experience, I recommend skipping the hotel and booking a flat through Airbnb instead. You’ll have a more authentic experience, have room to spread out and you might even save a few pounds!

My adult children are very lucky. They have jobs. The downside is that their employers sometimes send them thousands of miles away from Mom and Dad to work. And, while FaceTime is better than no time, it’s still not the same as an in-person hug. So we packed up the family to visit my son who was working in a seaside village in England. We decided to meet up in London before heading to the coast.

One of our daughters was joining us too, so I started looking for 2 rooms for 4 adults in Central London.

I began with the chain hotels where I have memberships, such as Marriott and Hilton. Of course, I didn’t have enough points for free rooms, but each brand had several properties in prime locations.

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I had two problems, though, with booking a hotel in London: price and tourists. Room rates at 4-star properties in prime locations were priced at $500 per night and I was going to need 2 rooms. For family chit chats, we’d need to gather in one of those rooms or in the hotel lobby. And, chain hotels in London were bound to be full of American tourists. We’ve earned our reputation abroad as “ugly Americans” because of the behavior of large packs of Yankees traveling together.

So I scrapped the hotel option and searched Airbnb. I’ve had wonderful prior bookings with Airbnb in Paris and NY’s Finger Lakes.

I was fortunate to find a 3-bedroom flat in my price range in South Kensington, one of London’s upscale neighborhoods. I booked it and crossed my fingers, hoping that reality would meet my expectations.

Fortunately, our Airbnb rental was perfect. Here’s why I think Airbnb is the best lodging choice for families in London.

1. Located Steps from Heathrow Airport via the Tube

After taking an overnight flight from the States, an American family wants hassle-free, inexpensive transit from the airport to their accommodations. Our Airbnb flat in South Kensington was a 4-minute walk from the Gloucester Road tube station on the Piccadilly Line. The ride was about 35 minutes. The hardest part was remembering to look the opposite way when crossing the street after exiting the station.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Besides the Tube connection from Heathrow to Central London, there’s a 15-minute train option, the Heathrow Express. It’s another option if you’re in a hurry to get touring. But it costs twice as much.

2. Staying at an Airbnb – Feel Like a Brit Within Minutes

Nothing will make you feel more like a local than referring to your flat in the mews. For those of you wondering what I’m talking about, a flat is an apartment and a mews is a street of former stables converted to residences. They are charming, with cobbled streets and quiet nights, since they’re tucked behind the auto roads.

3. Gathering Places Made Airbnb the Best Family Lodging Choice in London

When traveling with my family, I prefer to stay in a place that feels like home. And the heart of any home is the kitchen. Having access to one, especially a well-equipped modern one like our Airbnb in London, made it easy for us to plan our touring for the day while enjoying a home-cooked breakfast. That helped reduce trip costs.

4. Live like a Local in a London Airbnb

I chose my Airbnb because it was located in a neighborhood. My old neighborhood, to be exact. I’d lived in London for 6 months and part of the excitement about our trip was that I’d get to show my kids the streets I wandered when I was their age. We drank pints in my old pub and ate our meals in small restaurants recommended by our Airbnb host.

5. Getting Around is Easy for Families in London

We learned the ins and outs of riding the Tube quickly so we could get where we needed to go on time. Missing the Changing of the Guard in front of Buckingham Palace would have been a drag. We also relied on the cheapest form of transportation around – foot power. Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, the Royal Albert Hall, Natural History Museum and Harrods were all within easy walking distance.

Perhaps my favorite reason to use Airbnb is to indulge my vice for luxury real estate. Even if I have no intention of using Airbnb for my trip, I still log in and search for high-end residences. I daydream about staying in a manor house and pretending to be Lord and Lady Grantham.

Alternatively, I drool over sleek, contemporary flats with walls of glass. My actual home is comfy (read: dog- and kid-friendly) and brimming with stuff. In my fantasy life, I live like a mod hipster. And that’s what vacations are to me – a chance to live out a dream.

Read More:

• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in London for a Jolly Good Stay
• Best Countries to Visit with Kids
• 16 Surprising Places Americans Can Travel Without a Passport
• What to Do When Your Expedited Passport Doesn’t Arrive in Time
• Comprehensive International Packing List for Families

The post 5 Reasons Why Airbnb is the Best Lodging Choice for Families in London appeared first on She Buys Travel.

It was a group of six friends wanting to get away.

Why rent a luxury beachfront home for a trip

“We rented a six-bedroom house on the beach in Florida,” said John Peele, Mariposa, California. “We lived for 10 days in swim trunks and sandals. We walked out to the beach at night, stood in the water, and watched the moon.”

A friend getaway is one reason people rent luxury beachfront destinations in North America or anywhere in the world. Special events like graduation, milestone anniversaries or family reunions are often celebrated by renting a large luxury home.

“We rented one home for the bridal party and one home for the family,” said Sue Skidmore, Phoenix, Arizona. “It was going to be a destination wedding, and we decided to have a destination for the family.”

There are many reasons for deciding to bypass hotels and make your own resort for a family trip.

“Beachfront rentals can be very affordable when split among the group,” said Maria Maningas from the Philippines. “You can also save money buying fresh seafood locally and cooking at the rental instead of eating out for every meal.”

Why renting from a property manager beats AirBnB

The primary reason is that luxury property management companies individually vet and curate the offerings; they don’t take on every property offered. AirBnB does general inspections, and it accepts many different hosts. The offerings may or may not be exclusively for vacation rentals.

The host property owner generates each AirBnB listing profile, while property management companies offer organized and uniform listings. Through the specialized companies, the rentals are consistently maintained and cleaned. Quality from an owner-offered rental through a home-sharing website can vary greatly.

All of the luxury rental companies offer pre-planning assistance for ground transportation, area experiences and activities and full-time concierge services. Owner-offered properties are bare-bones.

“An (individual owner) property can have a long list of what you have to do before check-out,” Skidmore cautioned.

The property management companies take care of that so renters do not have to do so.

How to book a luxury beachfront rental

Skidmore said that you can use a property management company, a vacation rental broker like AirBnB or direct from a property owner. She recommends using a property management company in the destination.

“I would never rent from an individual owner,” she cautioned. “I prefer using a company that specializes in offering and servicing the rental.”

If you want to bring the family to a beachfront rental in South Carolina, enter “luxury beachfront rentals in South Carolina” in your favorite search engine. Moving past sponsored listings, you’ll find the names of real estate and property management companies that locally lease and serve the type of home you want to rent.

She Buys Travel found ten top-flight property managers for you: Luxury by the Sea: 10 Exceptional Beachfront Rentals.

Information from the property management companies and reservations can be made online or by email. It is good to have a list of questions you want answered when you contact the company before deciding to reserve.

What to know and ask before booking

Depending on the trip’s purpose, take a look at the local Chamber of Commerce events and activities calendar. It may make sense to avoid big event weekends because rental prices tend to skyrocket during a major tourist event.

If a specific location or property is desired, it makes sense to have alternate dates in case the home is already booked for the first-choice weekend. Maningas says to be sure to check what the weather will typically be at the time of year that you plan to book.

“Make sure the place is going to be well-stocked,” said Peele. “You want to know that there will be wood for the fireplace, propane for the barbecue, plenty of beach towels, and things like that.”

Skidmore, a veteran of multiple luxury beachfront rentals, said that many of the homes have small footprints and are three or four stories tall.

“That’s a lot of steps to climb up and down every day,” she said. “Many of those homes have elevators. Depending on the mobility of people in your group, you might want to place with one.”

Peele and Skidmore both recommend asking about the rental location in proximity to things to do and how to get there. Peele said that you want to know that there are places to go and eat nearby. Skidmore adds that you want those to be within walking distance so that you don’t have to drive everywhere.

Here’s the top advice from luxury resort renters

Read the contract

“Read the contract carefully before signing,” Skidmore cautions. “You might find that bad weather, even a hurricane, is not a reason for a refund if you cancel or end up with cabin fever from the storm.”

She said the contract would contain all kinds of warnings about how you will be charged for this and that, like smoking in a non-smoking home, failing to launder the linens and towels or breaking something, but little protection offering credits or refunds for when service at the property fails to meet expectations or promises.

Skidmore suggests specifically asking about maintenance response. When she and her family stayed at a luxury beachfront home, the refrigerator died on a Sunday, and the repair didn’t take place until Tuesday.

“That meant going three days without cold milk or cold beer,” she said. “We didn’t get any kind of credit for that inconvenience.”

Check the typical weather

“Check the weather in advance if you’re planning weather-impacted activities, like surfing,” said Maningas. “Weather, wind and waves can vary throughout the year, so be sure to have a backup plan.”

Know what the place is really like

Many property managers offer “concierge services” or promise “five-star luxury.” Ensure that you know what that means, what to expect and how quickly to expect it.

Skidmore said that they rented a luxury home in one upscale beachfront community only to find that the place was “pretty shoddy.” She also suggested making sure that the beachfront property meant that you had access directly from the house to the beach, or if there was a pool or hot tub, make sure it was exclusively for your use.

These tips apply whether renting through a property manager or taking a chance with reserving a non-curated property from a general listing website.

The post Planning a beachfront getaway? Do it like this instead of what you think appeared first on She Buys Travel.

The writer was hosted.

A wooded retreat is a place to relax and recharge your body, mind, and soul. An hour north of Seattle in the shadow of the Cascade Mountains lies a forest haven, the Index Cabins. These Pacific Northwest gems developed from a family retreat into a unique collection of six riverfront vacation rentals, including the rustic luxe Treeframe cabin. Here’s what you can expect during your stay.

Not Your Typical Mountain Cabin – Washington’s Index Cabins

There are times we need to leave the bustle of life behind and recharge our body, mind, and soul. Returning to nature offers us a simple remedy to do just that, be it a walk in the woods to forest bathe or sitting by the river’s edge sipping your morning cup of coffee. At the Index Cabins in Washington, both of these activities are found right outside your door.

The brainchild of Nick Pietsch (pronounced Peach – like the fruit)and his wife Nassim, the Index Cabins began as a desire for a family retreat. And as families do, it grew. Combine Nick’s background in geology with his love of the outdoors and you can see why the shores of the Skykomish River created the setting for a perfect getaway. Now they offer six cabins on their secluded riverfront property and invite you to share in this rustic luxury.

Why Book with Index Cabins? Sustainability, Location, and Luxury

What sets the Index Cabins vacation rentals apart is the commitment to sustainability without compromising on luxury. The eco-friendly materials used in every cabin’s construction, coupled with the minimal environmental impact, offer guests an indulgence with a lighter footprint and an opportunity to unwind in lushness while supporting sustainable living practices.

Beyond sustainability and giving a nod to the history of Index with their suite of cabins, the Pietsches also give back to the community. A portion of every booking gets donated to the Sierra Club, Forterra, The Washington Trails Association, the Tulalip Foundation, Friends of Heybrook Ridge, and the Index Historical Society.

The Index Cabins

We check in near sunset at the Index Cabins, affectionately dubbed by locals as the “Pietsch Pit,” and discover them to be a combination of artistic architectural design as well as sustainability. Nick uses reclaimed wood and recycled materials in all the cabins designing them with a natural ethos or as he says, “a clean, contemporary, and fun’ look.

Situated near the base of Mt. Index, this property spans five acres of land adorned with red cedars, Douglas firs, and alder trees that gracefully rise from the forest floor. Among these trees find accommodations from trendy and modern like the property’s showstopper, the Treeframe (more on that later) to a rustic tiny cabin like the one called Clay Baby.

Families or groups may enjoy spreading out in the Amos cabin or Persis cabin, the first two getaways built, appropriately named after the founders of the town.  If innovation and sustainability rank high on your list, try a night or two sleeping inside the Sea Containers, a 640-square-foot space created out of repurposed shipping containers with some truly magnificent views.

Whichever cabin you choose on this riverfront property, trendy or quaint, it will always feel luxurious.

The Family of Six Cabins To Choose From:

• Clay Baby boasts a small footprint with all the luxury. Sleeps three guests with one bathroom.
• Amos Cabin accommodates four guests. At this beautiful riverfront getaway in the Cascade Mountains, you will be lulled to sleep by the peaceful sounds of the Skykomish River. Perfect for a family, with two bedrooms and one bath.
• Persis may be tiny but she is also mighty, sleeping three guests between two bedrooms and one bath. She even has an outdoor shower for a true northwest feel and views of the river.
• The Sea Containers are eco-friendly, sustainable, and ultra cool. Designed from old shipping containers they feature floor-to-ceiling windows and a roof-top hot tub. Sleeps four guests between two bedrooms with 1.5 baths.
• O’Neill Cabin fits the needs of a larger group or family sleeping five guests, with two bedrooms and one shared bath.
• The Treeframe Cabin is the showstopper for the perfect romantic or weekend getaway. Literally set up in the trees this mountain chalet sleeps three with one loft bedroom and one bath.

The Treeframe – Rustic Elegance

Nestled amid the grandeur of the Northwest forest lies a secluded haven known simply as the Treeframe cabin. Part of the Index Cabins located on the North Fork of the Skykomish River in Index, Washington this architectural gem is not the treehouse of your youth. You are not far from the city but will feel worlds away as you snuggle in for a cozy weekend built just for two. With the floor-to-ceiling windows gaze out into a wooded wonderland or snuggle up by the cabin’s cozy fireplace while imbibing your drink of choice.

The Treeframe is an elevated A-frame cabin perched 13 feet above the ground between four evergreen trees, two Douglas Fir, one Cedar, and the only Spruce tree found on the property. The cabin’s interior is meticulously designed to provide a serene, comfortable, and relaxing retreat, for those days when a little escape into nature is most needed.

A Romantic Retreat 

Walking up the staircase adorned with fairy lights, we were greeted by an ambiance that seamlessly fused modern furnishings with the warmth of the surrounding natural elements, inviting the outdoors in. The 455-square-foot cabin’s open-plan layout welcomed us into a space adorned with minimalist yet cozy and inviting furnishings like the sherpa blankets thrown over the back of the couch and soft enough to snuggle under for that cozy feeling of hygge.

And don’t forget to cuddle your four-legged friend under that Sherpa, for these vacation rentals are pet-friendly.

This modern treehouse features luxury amenities such as a sleeping loft with a plush king bed adorned with soft linens, a glowing fireplace for more of that hygge feeling, heated floors in the bathroom,  WiFi, and a jacuzzi hot tub built for two nestled on the edge of the forest. Sink into the warm water, take life down a notch or two, and listen to the distant hoot of an owl from its perch in a night tree. The perfect beginning to a romantic getaway.

Inside the cabin, enjoy the skylights and picture windows for they not only offer breathtaking views but also infuse the space with an abundance of natural light, creating a soothing environment that encourages relaxation.

Thoughtful Amenities Inside The Treeframe

• AC/Heat
• Allows pets
• Dine alfresco
• Plush bed linens and blankets
• Riverfront access
• Hair and body soaps
• Coffee Maker
• Air fryer
• Microwave
• Fully stocked kitchen with pots, pans, and utensils
• Dishes and silverware
• Wifi and Bluetooth with speaker
• EV charger if needed
• Fireplace, very cozy on a blustery winter night
• Free Parking
• Fridge/Freezer
• Hammock
• Hot tub

Dinner for Two? Two Options

The cabin’s amenities are thoughtfully curated to enhance your experience. From the cozy blankets and warm floors to a well-stocked kitchen equipped with state-of-the-art appliances such as an induction stove top and countertop air fryer, every aspect of the Treeframe cabin exudes comfort, convenience, and sustainability. The easy blend of contemporary design and rustic charm ensures that you can unwind and rejuvenate in style during your self-catering stay.

You will find coffee mugs next to the coffee maker to start your day and wine glasses to pour your favorite pinot at the end of the night.

Stock up the full-size refrigerator with ingredients from home and prepare to dine in as you create a savory meal for two. The small kitchen is fully equipped with pots, pans, and dishes leaving only the food to be supplied by you.

The Index General Store is the only grocer in town with limited stock and hours so your best bet is to shop beforehand. If a run to the supermarket is essential, you will find the Red Apple Grocer in Sultan, about 13 miles from Index, or Safeway in Monroe which is a bit further at 19.5 miles west of Index. The locals tend to drive into these larger towns to do their shopping as well.

If you prefer an evening out, take a drive into town (about 1 mile) and dine at The North Fork Kitchen, where you have a front-row seat to the spectacular mountain views. Here Chef Fabian offers a delightful dining experience showcasing Pacific Northwest cuisine with a creative twist. We sampled the locally foraged Grilled Mushrooms paired with a main course of pesto ravioli. Delish!

Things To Do in Index

Beyond the lavish accommodations, the Treeframe cabin rental offers an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary. Lounge on the deck with a good book, savor a morning coffee while taking in the panoramic views, or embark on an outdoor adventure in the surrounding wilderness. The Treeframe cabin provides the perfect base for those seeking to connect with the great outdoors.

The property is not operated as a resort so guests looking for things to do can venture into the surrounding region. Index’s allure remains constant all year long because of its scenic location in the Cascade foothills with easy access to outdoor adventures.

Ski and Snowboard at Stevens Pass

For a little fun in the snow begin by heading east on US Hwy 2. The highway is easily accessed from Index, leading every snow bunny and winter sports enthusiast up into the Skykomish Valley and Stevens Pass, a very popular skiing area. Bring out the snowboards and skis and be ready to hit the slopes.

Get Outdoors with A Hike

Index has an array of hiking trails that cater to various skill levels. The Lake Serene Trail, a popular choice, leads day adventurers through lush forests to a pristine and stunning alpine lake offering breathtaking views.

Another rewarding trail to explore is  Heybrook Ridge Trail, now a county park it provides panoramic vistas of the Skykomish River Valley with its majestic surrounding peaks proving to be a haven for outdoor lovers.

Heybrook Ridge is a well-maintained trail incorporating a smaller ADA-accessible loop trail within it, making time in the woods available to everyone.

Kayak the White Water Rapids or Fly-fish in a Quiet Spot All Your Own

The Skykomish River presents an ideal setting for fishing and kayaking enthusiasts, offering opportunities for serene moments on the water or thrilling rafting amidst the rapids. Grab all of your gear or book a guided river tour at the Outdoor Adventure Center, located at the River House in town, and go play in the water.  

Rock Climbing the Index Town Wall

Additionally, rock climbers from all over the world flock to the area known as the Index Town Wall to conquer the 1,000-foot granite cliff that makes Index a renowned rock climbing destination.

Running the length of town, this colossal granite wall sits as the backdrop for town life beyond the range of climbs it holds for adventurers of all skill levels.

When it’s time to refuel, restock your trail mix and water bottle at the Index General Store, a local mercantile offering up the necessities in comfort food and beverages.

The post Index Cabins in Washington Review: A Weekend in the Trees appeared first on She Buys Travel.

The writer was hosted.

Epic views from Big Bear lakefront vacation homes are like having a never-ending supply of tranquility on tap. Cabin rentals are an ideal lodging option in this four-season destination popular with skiers, boaters, hikers, and those who prefer to simply unwind.

It took me just under 2 hours to get to Big Bear Lake from Orange County, CA, and 90 minutes for my son and his wife to get there from Los Angeles, making it a great location for our weekend getaway in Southern California.

Lakefront Cabins

I toured a variety of Big Bear Lake cabin rentals that are managed by Destination Big Bear, listed below. Lakeside cabin rentals come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and prices but those listed below include:

• Gorgeous mountain views
• Lake views
• Outdoor hot tub
• Game room
• Pool table
• Games
• Washer/Dryer
• Dishwasher
• Free wifi
• Fireplace
• Check-in time is 1:00 and check-out is 10:00 am.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Many cabin owners do not allow Duraflame logs. Ask ahead.

Destination Big Bear manages 400 Big Bear vacation rentals that cater to all types of getaways. Here’s a glimpse of some of the gems.

1. The Grand on the Shore:

• Luxuriously furnished and decorated
• Optimal location close to The Village, Big Bear Lake and Bear Mountain
• Chef’s Kitchen & great room
• Master suite has lakeview, fireplace, spa tub, and huge walk-in closet
• Room with Bunk beds
• Game room in basement
• Sleeps 16

This spacious luxury cabin is decorated with a contemporary Western theme and offers all of the comforts of a four-season retreat. Its great location is perfect for snowboarders and skiers because it is minutes away from Bear Mountain and Snow Summit ski resorts.

The show stopper is the floor-to-ceiling windows in the chef’s kitchen and connected great room with enormous windows that frame Big Bear Lake. The basement has lake views. pool table, air hockey, treadmill, card table, bar, and sliding doors to the deck.

BOOK NOW

2. Cali Bear Lakefront:

• Super private * My pick for privacy
• Beach path
• Multiple sets of bunk beds
• Master suite includes fireplace, jacuzzi tub and views of Big Bear Lake
• Sleeps 12

Cali Bear Lakefront is a large and cozy cabin overlooking Big Bear Lake. This is my pick for privacy – it has a great location at the end of Blue Jay Lane. It includes all of the amenities listed above, has a fun contemporary western decor, a lower-level deck and a path to the beach.

BOOK NOW

3. Gilner Point:

• Luxurious Mansion cabin – my new term
• Sleeps 13 easily 
• Private sandy beach
• Boat slip
• Garage access
• Romanesque decor in basement overlooking Big Bear Lake

Groups up to 13 will have plenty of space and privacy (no piling up in a room needed) in this luxurious cabin. The entry is dramatic rustic elegance with a chef’s kitchen and a great room overlooking Big Bear Lake. 

There are bedrooms and lake views on several levels. I think it’s even possible to get a view of Big Bear Lake from the copper soaking tub in the master en suite bathroom. If not, you can get one from the jacuzzi tub in the basement bathroom. The basement took me by surprise – it’s called the Caesar Room on the website, which is fitting for the decor.

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4. Lakeside Living:

• Huge backyard
• Sleeps 8 
• No hot tub

It’s probably the quilt hanging off the loft railing above the red plaid sofa that makes me think of Grandma’s house. Lakeside Living is a cozy chalet with gorgeous lake views. The sitting area in the backyard and deck with Adirondack chairs overlooking Big Bear Lake are my favorite features here.

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5. Lakefront Manor

• Close to the Village, Big Bear Lake, Bear Mountain
• Sleeps 15
• Multiple fireplaces
• Giant yard
• Pet-friendly – Fenced yard for pets
• 3,000 sq. ft
• Huge game room

Lakefront Manor is all light and Big Bear Lake views. Every room on the first floor offers a fireplace and lake views. I wasn’t in love with the purple sponge print in the master suite but the giant bathroom, walk-in closet, amazing lake views and fireplace stole the show. The basement has additional bedrooms and a game room that walks out to a deck and a pet-friendly fenced yard. This cabin is a short 5 minute drive to the Village.

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Lakeside Cabin Rentals in Big Bear Lake

1. Lakeview Escape:

• Great location near The Village and Big Bear Lake
• Strong wifi for remote work
• Sleeps 12
• Pet-friendly
• Fun retro game room with old school games (Donkey Kong, Pac Man ++…)

My son, his wife, and I stayed at Lakeview Escape for 3 nights. We loved the location because we could walk to The Village and Big Bear Lake was less than a block away. The hot tub is loaded with jets and we had long conversations there daily. The kitchen is well stocked with plates, bowls, and utensils so we made use of it for leftovers and breakfast.

The game room in the loft is retro with an old radio (that works), pool table, and game table with 400 options so we ended each day with a fire, music, and competitive game of Pac-man and Donkey Kong.

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2. Pinehurst

• Sleeps 7 
• Pet-friendly
• Remote location

Pet-friendly and a true pine log cabin, it is located in a wooded neighborhood, very near the ski slopes. As soon as I walked in I noted the shuffleboard table and giant fireplace which gives it a playful vibe. The hot tub is built into the back deck overlooking trees and the fenced yard.

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3. Hidden Oaks:

• Pet-friendly
• Sleeps 8 
• Wooded backyard

Located in the Upper Moonridge area, this secluded cabin was a little hard to find at night.  My favorite features at Hidden Oaks were the fireplace in the master bedroom and the fat puffy comforters on the bed.  I visited in the fall and enjoyed daily serene hot tub soaks in the backyard, surrounded by colorful trees. The kitchen was well stocked with pans and condiments.

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Big Bear Lake and Big Bear City

Big Bear Lake is in the heart of the San Bernardino National Forest, surrounded by towering pines, a bike path and campground. The air is crisp, and the scenery is breathtaking. Its four-season activities make a Big Bear vacation fun for skiers, boaters, hikers and bikers.

Big Bear Village dead ends into Big Bear Lake Marina and is about 8 miles from Snow Summit and Big Bear Mountain. Big Bear City is about 4 miles from Big Bear Village, on the east shore of the lake and is host to the annual Oktoberfest.

The post Ultimate Lakefront Cabin Rentals in Big Bear Lake, CA appeared first on She Buys Travel.

The writer was hosted.

Heading to Yellowstone National Park? America’s first national park is an epic vacation destination, as a standalone stop or part of a road trip exploration of the Wild West. Your trip may include a pit stop outside the park in Cody, WY. It’s the closest community to Yellowstone’s East Entrance, with lots of fun things to do and a wide range of lodging options including the cowboy cabins in Buffalo Bill Village.

The Buffalo Bill Cabin Village includes many room amenities that make it appealing to families, including its convenient location on the quiet end of Cody’s main drag, Sheridan Ave. The look is vintage Americana. The 83 log cabins are arranged in a tidy layout to the rear of the larger Buffalo Bill Village Resort property. When you open the door to your private, rustic one-bedroom cabin, you’ll be surprised to find unexpected amenities like high-end toiletries and plush bedding.

Want to know more? Here’s why a stay at the Buffalo Bill Cabins in Cody, Wyoming is one of the best places to stay near Yellowstone.

Why Buffalo Bill Cabins Works for Families

• Vintage log cabins in a range of room types
• Friendly staff
• On-site restaurant and lounge
• Heated outdoor pool
• Free parking for cars, trailers and RVs
• Free airport shuttle service to Yellowstone Regional Airport
• Lawn areas for play

What Might Not Work for Families

• Free wi-fi but service is patchy
• Kitchen amenities limited to microwave/mini fridge
• Cancellation within 72 hours of arrival will be charged one night

Buffalo Bill Village Resort

The Buffalo Bill Village cabins are one of the lodging options located in a resort complex on Sheridan Avenue in Cody, Wyoming. Sheridan is the town’s main drag, where you’ll find most of the restaurants, bars, shops and noise. But the Buffalo Bill Village is located a block from the start of the commercial strip; you’re a quick walk away but there’s quiet in the evening.

The resort, operated by generationally family-owned Blair Hotels, includes the cabins, a Holiday Inn and Comfort Inn and the Buffalo Bill Village gift shop.

The Buffalo Bill Cowboy Cabins

The 83 cowboy cabins are historic log cabins, constructed in phases during the 1940s when the site was a campground adjacent to the original Cody rodeo arena. They’re Inst-a-dorable, resembling life-size versions of their toy Lincoln Log counterparts.

They come in a range of sizes so you can find one to fit your family whether you’re a couple, traveling with littles or a multi-gen mix of many groups. With no stairs or elevators to contend with, they’re a particularly accessible choice if you have elderly relatives traveling with you.

Check-in after 3 pm for the cabins in the Village gift shop. The friendly front desk staff will provide you with all the details and your room keys – actual keys, so come prepared with a key ring! Check-out time is 11 am.

Most visitors in Cody arrive by car. The cabins offer the convenience of free parking steps from your front door. You can leave the bulk of your luggage in your car and only drag in what you need for your night’s stay.

Guests arriving at Yellowstone Regional Airport can arrange for the Buffalo Bill Village Resort’s complimentary airport shuttle service. There are three daily scheduled commercial arrivals and departures through Denver on United Express. Private and semi-private charters also use the airport.

The Buffalo Bill cabins are an economical choice for families staying in Cody. Early season rates are approximately $100-$140 per night, depending on the size of the cabin; high season rates are about $250.

Inside the Cabins

Get settled in your deluxe cowboy cabin and pull back the retro curtains, emblazoned with John Wayne quotes, to check out the tilt-in windows with original hardware. Wayne, America’s cowboy, once served as Grand Marshal of the Cody Stampede parade.

The cozy family-friendly rooms are furnished with function in mind. Each cabin’s configured differently. My Single King Bed Cabin had several chairs, an armoire, dresser, desk and table for one tucked into a nook. My traveling companion’s room was larger, with a separate sitting area and two double beds.

The bedding has a very luxe feel with a plush pillowtop that provided much-needed cushioning after a day spent adventuring in Wyoming’s great outdoors.

The cabins’ private bathrooms feature walk-in showers and pedestal sinks. I was tickled to find boutique brand Beekman 1802 toiletries in the cabin. They’re a new addition, sourced by General Manager Quintin Blair. He fell for the feel and smell of the New York-made products during a stay at the posh ($2000+ per night!) Brush Creek Lodge and Spa.

Additional Cabin Details

The cabins are equipped with wall air conditioning units. There’s no heat since the cabins are only open May through September. If you’re chilly, call the front desk for extra blankets. The friendly housekeeping staff operates from their headquarters in the cabin village, providing quick response to requests. Their carts are stocked with the usuals like TP and towels but they also carry Cheerios to feed the resident bunnies.

The rooms come equipped with cable TV and the resort has free wifi. But the service is patchy, something that you get used to while traveling throughout the West. I found the service much stronger in the Holiday Inn lobby. If you need a reliable signal, consider traveling with a hot spot. I had no trouble connecting to my iPhone.

There are no kitchenettes in any of the cabins. If you desire a microwave and/or mini-fridge and your unit doesn’t have one, call the front desk to have one delivered. No grills are available on the property but there are picnic tables on the grounds.

Buffalo Bill Cabin Room Amenities

• Flat-screen TV with cable channels
• Air conditioning
• Plush pillowtop bed
• Hair dryer and Beekman 1802 toiletries
• Stuffed toy bison (available for purchase)

Buffalo Bill Cabin Dining

Cabin guests have access to the dining options in the Buffalo Bill Village Resort. QT’s Restaurant is a full-service eatery in the Holiday Inn. The breakfast buffet’s a popular option. The baby back ribs are a dinner favorite but also consider anything Italian on the menu, since it’s Chef Carrie’s specialty. The hotel’s Bottom’s Up lounge is the place to relax and relive the day’s adventures over an evening cocktail.

With three different sets of guests in the Buffalo Bill Village, the dining situation can get a little confusing, particularly in the early morning when everyone’s looking to get on the road to Yellowstone. Here are the specifics:

• Complimentary coffee service is available for cabin guests in the Holiday Inn lobby or Buffalo Bill Village gift shop.
• A continental breakfast is included in the room rate for Comfort Inn guests. It’s served in the Sarsaparilla Saloon in the rear of the gift shop.
• The Holiday Inn serves a hearty breakfast buffet at QT’s for $19.95. Children under 6 are free. Cabin guests can’t charge to their rooms at the restaurant, so bring a credit card or cash.

Things to Do at Buffalo Bill Cabins

• Guests staying in the Buffalo Bill Cabins have access to the outdoor heated pool at the Holiday Inn next door. At check-in you’ll be provided with a map of the property and shown the location of the gated pool. You’ll find pool towels in a cabana on the pool deck with loungers, tables and chairs and umbrellas. Imagine how great a swim feels after a long day cooped up in the car!
• Include time during your stay to browse in the Village gift shop. The selection of vintage Western jewelry in particular is very appealing. I bought a lovely pair of opal and sterling silver earrings for $50. Cabin guests receive 10% off gift shop purchases.
• There’s a selection of outdoor games available for guest use including a giant Connect Four and Cornhole. They’re available by request. Inquire at the reception desk.
• Attend the nightly welcome reception in the gift shop from 4-6 pm.

Explore Cody

If you are planning your trip and time permits, plan to spend two nights in Cody. You will welcome the break from days spent on the road because Cody has many fun things to do for all ages. Make your first stop (especially if you need a pit stop), the Cody Visitor Center. Besides clean restrooms, there are a ton of brochures and maps for the Cody Yellowstone area. The friendly staff is happy to offer up recommendations for their favorite local places and spaces.

Two of the town’s attractions are must-dos. First, you’ll need a few hours to explore the 5 museums that make up the Buffalo Bill Center of the West:

• Buffalo Bill Museum
• Plains Indian Museum
• Cody Firearms Museum
• Draper Natural History Museum
• Whitney Western Art Museum

Then you’ll want to head over the nightly Cody rodeo for an evening of cowboy fun including bull riding and roping tricks.

Other things to do in Cody include:

• Explore the great outdoors on a horseback ride, river raft trip or off-road excursion
• Visit Old Trail Town, a collection of vintage Wild West buildings including the infamous hideout of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Or head to Kirwin, a ghost town in the Absaroka Mountains.
• Get a deeper understanding of guns and their integral role in Western culture at the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum or Cody Firearms Experience.

About Blair Hotels

Buffalo Bill Village Resort is one of three properties operated by family-owned Blair Hotels, a hospitality company started by Quin Blair. Blair, an Illinois native, arrived in Cody in 1929 with $15 in his pocket, according to his 2013 obituary.

Blair’s interests were wide-ranging. He was an orchestra conductor and pharmacist before launching his career in the hospitality industry. Today, over 100,000 vacationers pass through the three Buffalo Bill Village resort properties each season, according to General Manager Quintin Blair, Quin’s grandson.

Additional Blair Hotel properties include Cody’s Holiday Inn and Comfort Inn, a Holiday Inn in Riverton WY and The Ranch at UCross, a 31-room family vacation guest ranch in the foothills of the Big Horn Mountains.

Deluxe Cowboy Cabins in the Buffalo Bill Village Resort, 1701 Sheridan Avenue, Cody, WY 82414

The post Rustic Charm in the Wild West: Buffalo Bill Cabins Cody Wyoming Review appeared first on She Buys Travel.