Gatlinburg TN Area Information

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Advice About Damage Fees

Anyone who has had the pleasure (not so much) of paying damage fees might have appreciated this article before they went on vacation. In a continuing effort to make our guests vacations more relaxing, we have decided to explain damage fees and how to avoid them.

In short, damage fees cover the cost of items broken during a renter's stay. In an ideal world, business would love to cover costs regarding damages, but it hardly ever happens. Damage fees can occur for several different reasons. Normal things include broken lamps, hot tubs, beds, TV's, or excessive trash.

On a more positive note, the overwhelming majority of visitors have no issues relating to damages. The damages policy is in place to help protect the items and belongings of cabin rental owners.

There are a few things individuals can do to help avoid damages. In no particular order...
  1. Inspections - Upon arriving at the cabin rental, take a few minutes to inspect the cabin. Look for things out of the ordinary or that might need to be fixed. This take just a few moments and can eliminate the possiblity of you being charged for something you did not break.
  2. Don't Take Anything - Regardless of how much you might like something in your cabin rental, you can't take it home with you. If you do, you will be charged.
  3. Pet Friendly Cabins - If you are a pet enthusiasts reserve a cabin that is pet friendly. Yes, you might have to look longer and pay a little more but it is worth it.
  4. Ask For Help - If you think something is broken and needs repair, please call the management company. They have individuals on staff for these type problems. Do not attempt to fix something because you might actually break it. Also, if you are unfamiliar with how something works ask the management company for advice.
  5. Be Honest - This is an easy one.
  6. Be Aware Of Breakables - If children are present, be aware of breakables that are close to the ground. Try, within reason, to move breakables out of reach of children.
  7. Lastly, Treat The Cabin Like It's Yours - This might be the easiest way to make sure the property stays in tip top condition.

Following just a few easy tips can help save time and money. If you still have questions, please call our office at 1-800-684-7865.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Celebrate Veterans in Gatlinburg TN

Voted as one of the Top 20 Events by the Southeast Tourism Society, the Veteran's Day Celebration will be held on November 11, 2009. It will take place at the Smokies Plaza near Ripley's Aquarium and will start at 11am. The 7th annual Gatlinburg Veteran's Day Celebration will have many activities for you to watch and enjoy. There will be a flyover by military planes, music, speakers and memorials for those who fought for our country. Also, Gatlinburg is now a regional site for the Observance of Veterans Day that couples with the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA.

Only 40 cities throughout the nation are official regional sites. It's an honor to be chosen as an official site and also an honor to show our respect to those who fight for our country. Many veterans will be at this Veteran's Day celebration. They all have interesting stories to tell about what all they have seen by serving in the military.

Be sure you get to Ripley's Aquarium to help celebrate this day. Wear your red, white and blue. Also an American Bald Eagle will be there celebrating too. Music will be provided by three local high school bands and also Knoxville Pipe and Drum will be there. Celebrate with everyone as they recognize the heroic work our veterans have done for our country!

As fall rapidly moves to winter, Gatlinburg TN will continue to be busy through the Holiday season till around January 2. For more information about our Gatlinburg Cabins or questions you may have, please call our office at 1-800-684-7865.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Chili Cookoff in Gatlinburg

Unlike spring and summer in Gatlinburg TN, the fall and winter months offer a barrage of seasonal events and shows. From light shows to Tunes and Tales, Gatlinburg is full of excitement. This November and December are no different than years past. One event that stands out amongst others is the Winter Magic Kickoff and Chili Cookoff.

Unlike other events, the chili cook-off is one event you can really participate in. At the 20th annual Chili Cookoff, imagine tasting some of the South's finest chili recipes. The home-style chili will range from mild to wild. The city of Gatlinburg will host the event on the downtown Parkway on November 4th from 4-9 PM. A small admission is required.

Also, running in conjunction with the Chili Cookoff is the Winter Magic Kickoff. Winter Magic will run from 5-8PM on November 4. The city of Gatlinburg will turn on over 3 million twinkling lights. There will be live entertainment by Marvelettes. A beautiful display of fireworks will be set off at dusk. This event is sponsored by Mountain Rentals of Gatlinburg.

If you are around Gatlinburg during the first week in November make your way down to the Parkway and enjoy some seasonal fun. For more information, please visit the Gatlinburg Chamber website.

Monday, October 05, 2009

The Cabin is the Attraction

Directly from dictionary.com...

Vacation - a period of suspension of work, study, or other activity, usually used for rest, recreation, or travel; recess or holiday.

One question: Why are they so darn stressful?

Do you happen to be a part of a family that has a strict itinerary planned before you even arrived to your vacation destination? You have scheduled dine out nights, planned chore charts (handles all cleaning activities), and attractions lists? Surprisingly, I bet there is a "free time" chart.

I don't know about you, but aren't vacations supposed to be relaxing? What good is a vacation if you are more stressed when you arrived home than when you left? How many people take a day off of work after your vacation is over? That is a vacation day to recoup from your vacation. How do you even explain that to your boss?

What about this? Has anyone ever thought about making the cabin rental the attraction? You put all your effort into finding that perfect Gatlinburg cabin so you can achieve true relaxation. You find the perfect deck, largest TV, and plenty of game tables to enjoy at the cabin.

Imagine the fun of sleeping late and going to bed early, watching movies on the big screen, playing games with friends, watching the sunset from the deck, enjoying the Smoky Mountain atmosphere, and most of all....relaxing! That is a vacation to me. Plus, you can save a lot of money.

The above statements are just trying to prove a point. I do know that some attractions are fun and exciting. In fact, you should enjoy some of them. I just think we have forgotten the point of a vacation. Remember, spending time with your family should your first priority. Enjoy the attractions, but don't forget the point of your vacation....relaxing.

Thursday, October 01, 2009

Beautiful Foliage in Gatlinburg

Fall is here. It seemed to take a little longer this year, but over the past few weeks it has fully crept into our beautiful Gatlinburg Tennessee. Fall foliage is not quite in full swing but should progress nicely now that the weather is dropping to lower temperatures at night. Full fall foliage should peak around the third week in October. The trees will most likely be bare by the

As October moves in, accommodations will start to fill up fast. Like most would guess, October is one of the busiest months next to July. Cabins tend to book first, but most other accommodations will continue to book. Reserving an accommodations in mountains is one great way to experience fall foliage and the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

There are several events that will take place over the next few weeks that will help families enjoy the outdoors. They include Wagon Rides, Harvest Festival, Craftsmen Fair, Chili Cook-off, and Trolley Ride of Lights.

Another way to experience fall foliage is to go on a scenic tour through the Smoky Mountains. Take a drive through Cades Cove or on Newfound Gap Road. Enjoy a hike through one of the many hiking trails in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.

If you have had the ability to experience peak fall foliage then you understand the importance of taking a quick vacation and witnessing the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Seriously, it should be on everyone's list of things to try once.