Reason #8 in our little series about why using a vacation rental helps your wallet and provides more 'bang for your buck' (I love that phrase) than a hotel or Bed & Breakfast.
Privacy
Enjoy privacy and seclusion at a vacation home that you could never get in a hotel. In a vacation rental you don’t have to share a hot tub or hear the television in the hotel room next door. You won’t be disturbed by kids running up and down the halls early in the morning, or partiers coming back late into the night.
You can sit on your own porch, overlooking a beautiful mountain view – without having to share it with strangers! You also don’t have to worry about security. There’s no need to lock your valuables in the hotel room safe, and we have measures in place to guarantee the safety and security of our properties.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #7, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
Simplify! Call Carolina Mornings toll free at (877) 902.9441 to reserve your Asheville Vacation Rental. Let our Vacation Planners help you find the perfect mountain vacation cabin to make your getaway a unique experience!
December 31, 2008
December 30, 2008
New Year's in Asheville
Still looking for New Year's plans in Asheville?
The Mountain Xpress has some free - or at least cheap - ideas for those who'd like to hear some good music. Mo Daddy's, Zambra, and Barley's Taproom are some of the downtown spots foregoing a cover charge.
Downtown Asheville is the place to be on New Year's Eve if you want a guaranteed celebration all night long. Anywhere you go, there will be plenty of fun and plenty of people to have fun with.
West Asheville will also have music at the Westville Pub, for $5. This might be a better bet for those looking for more calm surroundings. Westville is really popular, but West Asheville has a much more manageable downtown strip than the heart of Asheville.
Hendersonville is probably another good bet for those wanting to do something fun, but not wanting to deal with lots of people and the difficulty of navigating a busy downtown Asheville.
Check out the full article for details on these happenings, have a Happy New Year, and of course be safe!
The Mountain Xpress has some free - or at least cheap - ideas for those who'd like to hear some good music. Mo Daddy's, Zambra, and Barley's Taproom are some of the downtown spots foregoing a cover charge.
Downtown Asheville is the place to be on New Year's Eve if you want a guaranteed celebration all night long. Anywhere you go, there will be plenty of fun and plenty of people to have fun with.
West Asheville will also have music at the Westville Pub, for $5. This might be a better bet for those looking for more calm surroundings. Westville is really popular, but West Asheville has a much more manageable downtown strip than the heart of Asheville.
Hendersonville is probably another good bet for those wanting to do something fun, but not wanting to deal with lots of people and the difficulty of navigating a busy downtown Asheville.
Check out the full article for details on these happenings, have a Happy New Year, and of course be safe!
December 26, 2008
Reason #7: Why a vacation rental pays off
Reason #7 in our little series about why using a vacation rental helps your wallet and provides more 'bang for your buck' (I love that phrase) than a hotel or Bed & Breakfast.
Eat In
Vacation rentals offer custom kitchens, all fully equipped for your cooking needs. Guests can eat homemade muffins and make coffee just the way they like it, while sitting on the porch and taking in a beautiful mountain view. Many people enjoy having the option to cook at home instead of eating out. Having a kitchen in a vacation rental allows for a romantic dinner for two in, or cooking a meal for a large group of family members. While eating out in a new town can be tons of fun, it’s also very costly to eat every meal of a vacation in a restaurant. Being able to save money by cooking at ‘home’ makes your vacation more affordable or leaves extra money in your vacation budget for a special meal out, such as at one of Asheville’s fanciest restaurants.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #6, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
Eat In
Vacation rentals offer custom kitchens, all fully equipped for your cooking needs. Guests can eat homemade muffins and make coffee just the way they like it, while sitting on the porch and taking in a beautiful mountain view. Many people enjoy having the option to cook at home instead of eating out. Having a kitchen in a vacation rental allows for a romantic dinner for two in, or cooking a meal for a large group of family members. While eating out in a new town can be tons of fun, it’s also very costly to eat every meal of a vacation in a restaurant. Being able to save money by cooking at ‘home’ makes your vacation more affordable or leaves extra money in your vacation budget for a special meal out, such as at one of Asheville’s fanciest restaurants.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #6, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
December 24, 2008
From us to you...
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
from
Carolina Mornings
from
Carolina Mornings
We wish you lots of joy and peace through the season and happiness and prosperity in the new year! We celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah among our staff members. What do you celebrate, and what is one special tradition you cherish?
December 23, 2008
The case for homeownership
Yep, even in this economy!
Real Estate Insights, the online magazine from the National Association of Realtors, responds to the Wall Street Journal's skepticism regarding optimistic real estate homeowners and investors.
In The Housing Wealth Debate, Lawrence Yun, NAR Research's Chief Economist, comments on the same research and information as the Wall Street Journal while attempting to put it in a different perspective.
The issues he covers include - owning a home is still a good long-term investment, the rise of home prices, confidence in the rise of home value, the fundamentals of home pricing, and the investor and academic debate.
It's an interesting article no matter where you stand as a home owner or potential buyer.
Real Estate Insights, the online magazine from the National Association of Realtors, responds to the Wall Street Journal's skepticism regarding optimistic real estate homeowners and investors.
In The Housing Wealth Debate, Lawrence Yun, NAR Research's Chief Economist, comments on the same research and information as the Wall Street Journal while attempting to put it in a different perspective.
The issues he covers include - owning a home is still a good long-term investment, the rise of home prices, confidence in the rise of home value, the fundamentals of home pricing, and the investor and academic debate.
It's an interesting article no matter where you stand as a home owner or potential buyer.
December 17, 2008
Reason #6: Why a vacation rental pays off
Reason #6 in our little series about why using a vacation rental helps your wallet and provides more 'bang for your buck' (I love that phrase) than a hotel or Bed & Breakfast.
Amenities
Rentals often include a full range of amenities that hotel rooms cannot offer their guests. Our properties offer, at the very least, fully equipped kitchens ready to make breakfast or dinner, and include all the necessary linens and towels. Many rentals include additional amenities that fit into your ideal vacation home. Enjoy your own, private outdoor hot tub or cozy up in front of your warm living room fireplace. Have a game of billiards in the game room, or surf the web over the rental’s Internet connection. Or pick any combination of these amenities that are ideal for you, and you are still sure to find a property that matches your desires.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #5, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
Amenities
Rentals often include a full range of amenities that hotel rooms cannot offer their guests. Our properties offer, at the very least, fully equipped kitchens ready to make breakfast or dinner, and include all the necessary linens and towels. Many rentals include additional amenities that fit into your ideal vacation home. Enjoy your own, private outdoor hot tub or cozy up in front of your warm living room fireplace. Have a game of billiards in the game room, or surf the web over the rental’s Internet connection. Or pick any combination of these amenities that are ideal for you, and you are still sure to find a property that matches your desires.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #5, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
December 11, 2008
VACATION RENTALS or HOTELS
I would like to hear from all of you which type of accommodation do you prefer while traveling?
Do you prefer the the consistency of a hotel or the flexibility of a vacation rental? Can you tell me why you prefer one over the other or when to use one rather that the other?
December 8, 2008
Santaland Diaries
Asheville Community Theatre proudly announces the seventh remount of their sold out smash hit The Santaland Diaries by David Sedaris, adapted for the stage by Joe Mantello. In years past, this show has been consistently sold out. Here at Carolina Mornings, we have put together a great Dinner Theater Package wanting to promote our local community. So far this has been extremely popular and we only have a few more packages available.
Package includes:
2 tickets to Santaland and a $50 gift certificate to Zambra (tapas and wine bar) for just $55.
Available Dec 13th only, with a minimum of a 2 night reservation.
FREE SKIING @ SKI THE WOLF
Where else can you get more value from your vacation getaway than securing a vacation rental with Carolina Mornings, in Asheville, NC ? With every night of your stay, not only do you get a fully furnished vacation home nestled in the mountains, downtown or the countryside, but you get a FREE, yes FREE ski lift ticket good at SKI THE WOLF, located 30 min north of Asheville, NC, each and every night of your stay!
Has any other vacation rental company in this area offered such a great deal? I do not think so. In addition you can also play a free round of golf at Reems Creek Country Club, take a free trolley tour of Asheville and play inside Fun Depot. We call this free package our Mountain Discovery Pass. MDP. Our guests our treated with many extras, at no additional costs. Our vacation mountain getaways give visitors more bang for their buck!
Has any other vacation rental company in this area offered such a great deal? I do not think so. In addition you can also play a free round of golf at Reems Creek Country Club, take a free trolley tour of Asheville and play inside Fun Depot. We call this free package our Mountain Discovery Pass. MDP. Our guests our treated with many extras, at no additional costs. Our vacation mountain getaways give visitors more bang for their buck!
December 5, 2008
One last reminder! Kids, Paws and Claus
Please don't forget, and please come help us celebrate the holidays while gathering canned goods for MANNA FoodBank!
- T.G.I. Friday’s and Bruegger’s Bagels on Hendersonville Road,
- State Employees’ Credit Union and Starbucks Coffee on All Souls Crescent Road,
- Rita’s Cantina on Garfield Street and La Paz Restaurante,
- The Garage at Biltmore.
These businesses will have bins available through Dec.14, 2008.
THANKS!
Carolina Mornings will host the first annual “Kids, Paws and Claus” charity event , for MANNA FoodBank, complete with stunning holiday decorations, refreshments, and jolly Santa Claus.
- When:
Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008 from noon-5 p.m. - Where:
In the heart of Biltmore Village 8 Village Lane, at the Biltmore Village Villas. - Who:
Entire families – kids, pets and kids at heart! Cameras welcome! - Admission:
Donate at least 3 canned goods for the MANNA FoodBank.
- T.G.I. Friday’s and Bruegger’s Bagels on Hendersonville Road,
- State Employees’ Credit Union and Starbucks Coffee on All Souls Crescent Road,
- Rita’s Cantina on Garfield Street and La Paz Restaurante,
- The Garage at Biltmore.
These businesses will have bins available through Dec.14, 2008.
THANKS!
December 3, 2008
Pedal-Powered Monorail Coming to Asheville
Yes, that is correct. The new and improved Momentum: Science and Health Adventure Park (formerly known as The Health Adventure museum) should be opening its doors to residents and tourists in 2010. Located on 10 acres, the new building will be LEED certified, utilizing green, eco friendly principles!! Of course one of Momentum's mission is to include environmental education. And what better way to highlight green transportation but to use the the eco friendly people pedal monorail!
Momentum will also include an indoor climbing structure, the region's first digital dome theater and a tree house.
This sounds like it is going to be an amazing destination for families of all shapes and sizes.
Huge winter savings!!
Stay two nights, get a third night for just $11!
Eagle's View
If these or any other rentals interest you, give us a call at 1-800-770-9055! You may book online at any time, or over the phone Mon-Fri 9 am - 6 pm, Sat 11 am - 3 pm.
Sunrise (also has other specials)
Blue Ridge Getaway (also has other specials)
Country Cabin Getaway (also has other specials)
If these or any other rentals interest you, give us a call at 1-800-770-9055! You may book online at any time, or over the phone Mon-Fri 9 am - 6 pm, Sat 11 am - 3 pm.
November 30, 2008
ZAMBRA and David Sedaris-Some of my favorite things
Ok, I put together this great vacation getaway package because I love dining at Zambra and anything that David Sedaris writes puts me in a great mood. So with a dooming economy in the horizon, why not enjoy while we still have the opportunity.
Zambra is amazing: Supports Asheville Sustainable Agriculture Project, using local produce, has been awarded the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence and the wine list was voted best in Asheville. The dining experience has been featured in Southern Living, on the Food Network and recognized in the New York Times, LA Times, the Boston Globe and Charlotte N & O.
Couple dinner with a night with Mr. Sedaris' Santaland Diaries and you will temporarily forget this is 2008 when your money market funds plummeted 40% and your kids' college fund has shriveled up. A wonderful way to celebrate and get into the holiday spirit.
What does Santa and Foodbanks have in Common?
Well this upcoming weekend, Santa will be encouraging kids, including the furry four legged ones, to come to Biltmore Village with cans in hands and contribute to MANNA Foodbank. The holiday season is a time to think of others in need. Children can celebrate this season and help the needy-all at the same time. A novel idea. Saturday December 6 from 10 AM-6PM and Sunday, December 7th from 12-5pm Join Santa by Helping Hunger Take a Holiday. Come down to Biltmore Village, enjoy the Dickens Festival, bring cans of food to donate and hang with Santa.
November 29, 2008
AVL on the list of 10 Best Places to Live
Yahoo's Real Estate has placed Asheville on the top 10 best places to live. Since AVL is situated at the highest part of the Appalachian Range and surrounded by the Great Smokey and Blue Ridge Mountains-what is not to like? Also states the low cost of living, affordable housing and diversity with families and retirees make this one of the top 10 places to live.
November 28, 2008
Take advantage of slow winter season deals
A few updates from the executives and vacation specialists at Carolina Mornings:
*We now have a TWO NIGHT minimum across the board, including Christmas and New Year's!
*Our luxurious Biltmore Village Villas are now just $552 for two nights, $236 each additional night. This is a discount of $150 for a 2 night stay, and $75 off the regular additional night price!
exception: The Retreat is now $602 for a 2 night stay, and $261 for each additional night. This is a discount of $100 for a 2 night stay, and $50 off the regular additional night price!
*Take advantage of over 35 other property specials!
*NEW for the holidays: Dinner Theater Package
2 tickets to Santaland (a great David Sedaris play) and a $50 gift certificate to Zambra (tapas and wine bar) for just $55. Reservations are required for Zambra's.
Available Dec 13th only, with a minimum of a 2 night reservation.
With low gas prices and these great deals we hope to see you soon!
*We now have a TWO NIGHT minimum across the board, including Christmas and New Year's!
*Our luxurious Biltmore Village Villas are now just $552 for two nights, $236 each additional night. This is a discount of $150 for a 2 night stay, and $75 off the regular additional night price!
exception: The Retreat is now $602 for a 2 night stay, and $261 for each additional night. This is a discount of $100 for a 2 night stay, and $50 off the regular additional night price!
*Take advantage of over 35 other property specials!
*NEW for the holidays: Dinner Theater Package
2 tickets to Santaland (a great David Sedaris play) and a $50 gift certificate to Zambra (tapas and wine bar) for just $55. Reservations are required for Zambra's.
Available Dec 13th only, with a minimum of a 2 night reservation.
With low gas prices and these great deals we hope to see you soon!
November 26, 2008
Reason #5: Why a vacation rental pays off
Reason #5 in our little series about why using a vacation rental helps your wallet and provides more 'bang for your buck' (I love that phrase) than a hotel or Bed & Breakfast.
Pet Friendly
Most hotels are not pet friendly, but many vacation rentals welcome your family fido. Many people enjoy bringing their dogs on vacation. This is especially true for long vacations, when dogs must be separated from owners and placed at expensive boarders. Pet-friendly vacation rentals allow you to bring your dog on vacation, without tripping over each other in a small (and hard to find) pet-friendly hotel room. Some rentals even have fenced yards for dogs to run around and play. Other rentals have large properties and trails right outside the door, where you can take your dog for a walk unleashed. For both dog and owner, this kind of freedom really makes a difference over having to leash a dog to walk through hotel halls and down a busy street. Many people particularly like to bring their dogs when visiting areas with hiking.
Also: See our post on pet-friendly Asheville!
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #4, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
Pet Friendly
Most hotels are not pet friendly, but many vacation rentals welcome your family fido. Many people enjoy bringing their dogs on vacation. This is especially true for long vacations, when dogs must be separated from owners and placed at expensive boarders. Pet-friendly vacation rentals allow you to bring your dog on vacation, without tripping over each other in a small (and hard to find) pet-friendly hotel room. Some rentals even have fenced yards for dogs to run around and play. Other rentals have large properties and trails right outside the door, where you can take your dog for a walk unleashed. For both dog and owner, this kind of freedom really makes a difference over having to leash a dog to walk through hotel halls and down a busy street. Many people particularly like to bring their dogs when visiting areas with hiking.Also: See our post on pet-friendly Asheville!
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #4, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
November 25, 2008
Thanks for your canned goods!!
Thanks to everyone for coming out the Col. Bruce Hampton show at the Garage at Biltmore on Saturday night - and bringing canned goods along with you! The Garage collected over 130 cans of food from concert-goers.
You helped get the spirit started for our Kids, Paws and Claus event. But don't forget to come out and enjoy the event too! There will be free refreshments and Santa will providing photo ops with people and pets, sponsored by Carolina Mornings and the Biltmore Village Villas.
In the heart of Biltmore Village, at the Biltmore Village Villas
Location (Google Map)
Saturday, Dec 6 from 10 am - 6 pm
Sunday, Dec 7 from noon - 5 pm
Let us know if you have any questions, and...
Thanks again, as always!!
You helped get the spirit started for our Kids, Paws and Claus event. But don't forget to come out and enjoy the event too! There will be free refreshments and Santa will providing photo ops with people and pets, sponsored by Carolina Mornings and the Biltmore Village Villas.
In the heart of Biltmore Village, at the Biltmore Village Villas
Location (Google Map)
Saturday, Dec 6 from 10 am - 6 pm
Sunday, Dec 7 from noon - 5 pm
Let us know if you have any questions, and...
Thanks again, as always!!
November 21, 2008
Free daily ski lift tickets with every reservation!
We are happy to announce that our popular Mountain Discovery Pass, which we started in April 2008, now includes another free amenity.
Carolina Mornings has teamed up with Wolf Ridge Ski Resort (Ski the Wolf!) to offer all of our guests one free ski lift pass for each day of their stay.
This is a $50 value!!
For the 2008-09 season, Ski the Wolf offers:
* Two Beautiful Rustic Ski Lodges with Massive Stone Fireplaces
-Upper Wolf Ridge Lodge accommodates families and walk-ins
-Lower Wolf Ridge Lodge accommodates groups
* Top Rated Snow Sports School with highly skilled instructors
* Night Skiing and Special Events
* Two Quad Chairlifts, Two Double Chairlifts, and One Surface Lift
* 100% Snowmaking Capability
* Two places to park, Rent Top Quality Shaped Skis, Boots and Snowboards, purchase lift tickets/area passes and ski
(from the Ski the Wolf Web site)
Ski the Wolf is located 30 minutes north of Asheville, near Mars Hill. Carolina Mornings offers many rentals near Asheville and Wolf Ridge, so you're sure to find a great mountain home, cabin, or chalet nearby.
Also included in the Mountain Discovery Pass (click to find out more):
FREE... golf tee time, Asheville historic trolley tour ticket, Lake Lure boat tour ticket, whitewater rafting ticket, recreation center one hour play time including climbing wall, bumper cars, batting cages, mini-golf & much more.
Total savings: $189 value, each day of your reservation. Even if you do just one activity per day, you'll still save $189 during your trip! The more days you choose to do an activity (many may want a golf tee time each day, for example), the more you'll cumulatively save!
Carolina Mornings has teamed up with Wolf Ridge Ski Resort (Ski the Wolf!) to offer all of our guests one free ski lift pass for each day of their stay.
This is a $50 value!!
For the 2008-09 season, Ski the Wolf offers:
* Two Beautiful Rustic Ski Lodges with Massive Stone Fireplaces
-Upper Wolf Ridge Lodge accommodates families and walk-ins
-Lower Wolf Ridge Lodge accommodates groups
* Top Rated Snow Sports School with highly skilled instructors
* Night Skiing and Special Events
* Two Quad Chairlifts, Two Double Chairlifts, and One Surface Lift
* 100% Snowmaking Capability
* Two places to park, Rent Top Quality Shaped Skis, Boots and Snowboards, purchase lift tickets/area passes and ski
(from the Ski the Wolf Web site)
Ski the Wolf is located 30 minutes north of Asheville, near Mars Hill. Carolina Mornings offers many rentals near Asheville and Wolf Ridge, so you're sure to find a great mountain home, cabin, or chalet nearby.
Also included in the Mountain Discovery Pass (click to find out more):
FREE... golf tee time, Asheville historic trolley tour ticket, Lake Lure boat tour ticket, whitewater rafting ticket, recreation center one hour play time including climbing wall, bumper cars, batting cages, mini-golf & much more.
Total savings: $189 value, each day of your reservation. Even if you do just one activity per day, you'll still save $189 during your trip! The more days you choose to do an activity (many may want a golf tee time each day, for example), the more you'll cumulatively save!
November 20, 2008
Everyone likes a discount
Col Bruce & the Quark Alliance will play a show at the Garage at Biltmore this Saturday, Nov 22. Col Bruce Hampton, Ret. has been playing music since 1963, solo and with several different collaborations. The Discordian Society will also play at Saturday's show.
Tickets at the door are $10
Doors open at 9 pm and the show starts at 10 pm
Location (Google maps)
Where's the discount you might ask?
Remember our Kids, Paws and Claus MANNA FoodBank charity event?
Bring 2 cans of food to donate to the cause and the Garage will personally pay half of your entry fee ($5).
Most of us probably have a couple of extra canned food items in the pantry, whether it's soup or green beans, so bring 'em on and enjoy a great show at half price!
Help hunger take a holiday in WNC! Thanks everyone :)
Tickets at the door are $10
Doors open at 9 pm and the show starts at 10 pm
Location (Google maps)
Where's the discount you might ask?
Remember our Kids, Paws and Claus MANNA FoodBank charity event?
Bring 2 cans of food to donate to the cause and the Garage will personally pay half of your entry fee ($5).
Most of us probably have a couple of extra canned food items in the pantry, whether it's soup or green beans, so bring 'em on and enjoy a great show at half price!
Help hunger take a holiday in WNC! Thanks everyone :)
November 19, 2008
Reason #4: Why a vacation rental pays off
Reason #4 in our little series about why using a vacation rental helps your wallet and provides more 'bang for your buck' (I love that phrase) than a hotel or Bed & Breakfast.
Personal Experience
What kind of vacation home appeals to you? Whether it’s a rustic log cabin, a cottage, a downtown condo, or an old farmhouse, you can find the right vacation property to fit your dream. Do you like to be in the middle of the city, or secluded in the mountains? Vacation rentals allow you to get a taste of a personal experience you might not be able have on a daily basis, but can still manage to have on vacation. Maybe the rural life is perfect for you, but you love the idea of spending a week or two living in the middle of a bustling city. Or, maybe you can’t afford to buy a mountain view chalet, but you can save enough to stay in it for your vacation.
Wherever you are happiest, and whatever new personal experience you want to have, there are plenty of rentals to choose from, often at reasonable prices. Vacation properties provide an alternative to the drab, standard hotel décor you can find anywhere in the United States. Plus, their location and living space combine to form a completely personal experience you can’t have anywhere else - or in any hotel room.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #3, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
Personal Experience
What kind of vacation home appeals to you? Whether it’s a rustic log cabin, a cottage, a downtown condo, or an old farmhouse, you can find the right vacation property to fit your dream. Do you like to be in the middle of the city, or secluded in the mountains? Vacation rentals allow you to get a taste of a personal experience you might not be able have on a daily basis, but can still manage to have on vacation. Maybe the rural life is perfect for you, but you love the idea of spending a week or two living in the middle of a bustling city. Or, maybe you can’t afford to buy a mountain view chalet, but you can save enough to stay in it for your vacation.
Wherever you are happiest, and whatever new personal experience you want to have, there are plenty of rentals to choose from, often at reasonable prices. Vacation properties provide an alternative to the drab, standard hotel décor you can find anywhere in the United States. Plus, their location and living space combine to form a completely personal experience you can’t have anywhere else - or in any hotel room.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #3, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
November 17, 2008
Cabin cocktails - just in time for Thanksgiving
Mix up one of these great cabin-themed cocktails for the gang - perfect for your Thanksgiving stay at one of our Carolina Mornings vacation rentals! (Okay, you can probably enjoy it just as well even you aren't staying with us - but we hope you are!)
From Amy Wisniewski at Chow.com, the Log Cabin:
Do you have a great cabin cocktail? Have you tried one of these? Let us know, or please share your favorite drink!
From Amy Wisniewski at Chow.com, the Log Cabin:
Rating (easy-difficult to make): EasyFrom webtender.com, a different Log Cabin:
Prep time: Under 5 minutes
Makes: 1 drink
Sip a bit of fall any time of year with this apple- and maple-flavored brandy drink.What to buy: We liked Sortilège maple liqueur for the smooth and not-too-sweet blending of Canadian whiskey and maple syrup.
Ingredients:Preparation:
1. Combine liqueur, brandy, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice, and shake vigorously.
2. Pour everything, including the ice, into an 8-ounce rocks glass, top with sparkling cider, and gently stir to combine.
Ingredients:From DrinksMixer.com, Cabin Fever:Preparation:
- 2 1/2 oz Canadian whisky
- 1 tblsp Cream
- 1 tblsp Orange juice
- Fill with Orange soda
Shake all ingredients but the soda with ice. Strain into highball glass. Fill the glass to the top with the orange soda.
Rating (taste on a scale of 1-10): 9.7
Serve in: Coffee mug
Makes: 1 drink
Ingredients:
Preparation:Pour the Bailey's irish cream and creme de menthe into a coffee mug, and stir. Add hot chocolate, and top with whipped cream. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings and a maraschino cherry if desired, and serve.
Do you have a great cabin cocktail? Have you tried one of these? Let us know, or please share your favorite drink!
November 15, 2008
Reason #3 Why a vacation rental 'pays' off
Here is reason #3 in our little series about why using a vacation rental helps your wallet and provides more 'bang for your buck' (I love that phrase) than a hotel or Bed & Breakfast.
Be A Local
Staying in a vacation rental gives you the perspective of a local, rather than a tourist. This is, of course, particularly true if you are staying for an extended period of time, but it still applies for shorter vacations. Whether you are staying in your own rental home right downtown or in the middle of the mountains, you are much more likely to get the local feel for the area while you’re visiting. You can shop at local stores and restaurants instead of, or in addition to, experiencing the tourist attractions.
In Western North Carolina, the opportunity to rent properties with a mountain feel is particularly special. Waking up every morning to our beautiful ranges and seeing our frequently spectacular sunsets each evening is a treat most hotel rooms cannot offer (and definitely not for the prices!). Staying in your own mountain getaway rental home gives you the full experience of the serenity, simplicity, and calm of the Blue Ridge lifestyle.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #1 and reason #2, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
Be A Local
Staying in a vacation rental gives you the perspective of a local, rather than a tourist. This is, of course, particularly true if you are staying for an extended period of time, but it still applies for shorter vacations. Whether you are staying in your own rental home right downtown or in the middle of the mountains, you are much more likely to get the local feel for the area while you’re visiting. You can shop at local stores and restaurants instead of, or in addition to, experiencing the tourist attractions.
In Western North Carolina, the opportunity to rent properties with a mountain feel is particularly special. Waking up every morning to our beautiful ranges and seeing our frequently spectacular sunsets each evening is a treat most hotel rooms cannot offer (and definitely not for the prices!). Staying in your own mountain getaway rental home gives you the full experience of the serenity, simplicity, and calm of the Blue Ridge lifestyle.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #1 and reason #2, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
November 12, 2008
Carolina Mornings and Biltmore Village Villas Help Hunger Take a Holiday with "Kids, Paws and Claus," a Charity Event for MANNA FoodBank
Carolina Mornings and the Biltmore Village Villas are teaming up to bring Santa Claus to the Biltmore Villas for a Holiday Meet-and-Greet charity event for MANNA FoodBank. Bring your entire family (even your pets!) to meet Santa and help hunger take a holiday in western North Carolina!
Asheville, NC - November 12, 2008 - Carolina Mornings will host the first annual "Kids, Paws and Claus" charity event on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008, noon-5 p.m. The event will be held in the heart of Biltmore Village inside the Biltmore Village Villas, complete with stunning holiday decorations, refreshments, a jolly Santa Claus and the opportunity to donate canned goods to the western North Carolina community.
Carolina Mornings is Asheville's leader in luxury mountain vacation rentals and is excited to be hosting an event contributing to MANNA FoodBank's efforts.
"At Carolina Mornings, we love giving back to the community," said Shari Goldstein, chief executive officer and founder of Carolina Mornings. "We hope this event brings in a lot of food for our WNC neighbors who are in need, and we are looking forward to making this a yearly event."
"Kids, Paws and Claus" offers a chance for entire families – kids, pets and kids at heart – to meet Santa Claus at the Biltmore Village Villas while helping MANNA FoodBank. Cameras and video cameras are welcome.
MANNA FoodBank is a non-profit organization that distributes food to 331 partner agencies in 16 counties in western North Carolina. MANNA FoodBank distributed more than six million pounds of food in 2007 and this year, they are hoping to do more. MANNA FoodBank's mission is to involve, educate, and unite people in the work of ending hunger.
"According to a recent study, we estimate that 115,500 different Western North Carolinians seek emergency food assistance in a single year," said Josh Stack, communications and marketing coordinator at MANNA FoodBank. "That's one in six of our neighbors and double the national average."
While guests can donate canned goods on site at the Biltmore Village Villas the weekend of the Santa Claus Meet-and-Greet, other sponsors will be hosting MANNA FoodBank collection bins prior to the event.
"We want to collect as much food as possible. We hope that making the bins available at local businesses can help make it easier for people to give," said Goldstein.
Drop-off bins for canned goods are conveniently located at several businesses, including: T.G.I. Friday's and Bruegger's Bagels on Hendersonville Road, State Employees' Credit Union and Starbucks Coffee on All Souls Crescent Road, Rita's Cantina on Garfield Street and La Paz Restaurante and Cantina at Biltmore Plaza. These businesses will have bins available until Dec. 7, 2008.
"Hunger has a cure. It's each and every one of us. We would be upset if a physician had a cure to cancer and refused to share this cure with the world," said Stack. "Hunger has a simple solution: food. There's enough to go around. We hope the community will show up with cans in hand to enjoy this event."
For additional information on the first annual "Kids, Paws and Claus" charity event, contact Shari Goldstein or visit http://www.carolinamornings.com.
About Carolina Mornings:
A leader of excellence in luxury mountain living, Carolina Mornings has a much sought-after selection of the finest vacation home rentals in the Asheville, N.C. area including captivating Blue Ridge Mountain chalets, Smoky Mountain log cabins, elegant downtown lofts and luxury vacation villas located at the center of historic Biltmore Village.
Contact:
Shari Goldstein, Chief Executive Officer
Carolina Mornings
919-442-3001
http://www.carolinamornings.com
###
View this press release on the web.
"At Carolina Mornings, we love giving back to the community," said Shari Goldstein, chief executive officer and founder of Carolina Mornings. "We hope this event brings in a lot of food for our WNC neighbors who are in need, and we are looking forward to making this a yearly event."
"Kids, Paws and Claus" offers a chance for entire families – kids, pets and kids at heart – to meet Santa Claus at the Biltmore Village Villas while helping MANNA FoodBank. Cameras and video cameras are welcome.
MANNA FoodBank is a non-profit organization that distributes food to 331 partner agencies in 16 counties in western North Carolina. MANNA FoodBank distributed more than six million pounds of food in 2007 and this year, they are hoping to do more. MANNA FoodBank's mission is to involve, educate, and unite people in the work of ending hunger.
"According to a recent study, we estimate that 115,500 different Western North Carolinians seek emergency food assistance in a single year," said Josh Stack, communications and marketing coordinator at MANNA FoodBank. "That's one in six of our neighbors and double the national average."
While guests can donate canned goods on site at the Biltmore Village Villas the weekend of the Santa Claus Meet-and-Greet, other sponsors will be hosting MANNA FoodBank collection bins prior to the event.
"We want to collect as much food as possible. We hope that making the bins available at local businesses can help make it easier for people to give," said Goldstein.
Drop-off bins for canned goods are conveniently located at several businesses, including: T.G.I. Friday's and Bruegger's Bagels on Hendersonville Road, State Employees' Credit Union and Starbucks Coffee on All Souls Crescent Road, Rita's Cantina on Garfield Street and La Paz Restaurante and Cantina at Biltmore Plaza. These businesses will have bins available until Dec. 7, 2008.
"Hunger has a cure. It's each and every one of us. We would be upset if a physician had a cure to cancer and refused to share this cure with the world," said Stack. "Hunger has a simple solution: food. There's enough to go around. We hope the community will show up with cans in hand to enjoy this event."
For additional information on the first annual "Kids, Paws and Claus" charity event, contact Shari Goldstein or visit http://www.carolinamornings.com.
About Carolina Mornings:
A leader of excellence in luxury mountain living, Carolina Mornings has a much sought-after selection of the finest vacation home rentals in the Asheville, N.C. area including captivating Blue Ridge Mountain chalets, Smoky Mountain log cabins, elegant downtown lofts and luxury vacation villas located at the center of historic Biltmore Village.
Contact:
Shari Goldstein, Chief Executive Officer
Carolina Mornings
919-442-3001
http://www.carolinamornings.com
###
View this press release on the web.
November 10, 2008
Reason #2 Why a vacation rental 'pays' off
Reason #2 in our little series about why using a vacation rental helps your wallet and provides more 'bang for your buck' (I love that phrase) than a hotel or Bed & Breakfast.
Home Away from Home
Moving into a vacation property for your visit gives you a homey feeling while you’re away. A hotel room is often cramped, and hotels tend to have a cold, temporary atmosphere. All hotel rooms look virtually the same, with the same commercial linens, bedspreads and towels. Vacation rentals offer cozy couches and recliners, pillows, blankets, and linens with a homey flair of style, and a teapot waiting on the stove. Property owners often leave warm, welcoming touches such as these so that you’ll better enjoy your stay in their home.
Also, the cleanliness of hotel rooms can be questionable. Owners of vacation properties take pride in their homes. If owners do not clean the property themselves, they hire reliable cleaning crews or property management services to come in between guests. They hold those providing these services accountable to keep their home in perfect condition.
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Looking for more reasons? See reason #1, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
---------------
Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
Home Away from Home
Moving into a vacation property for your visit gives you a homey feeling while you’re away. A hotel room is often cramped, and hotels tend to have a cold, temporary atmosphere. All hotel rooms look virtually the same, with the same commercial linens, bedspreads and towels. Vacation rentals offer cozy couches and recliners, pillows, blankets, and linens with a homey flair of style, and a teapot waiting on the stove. Property owners often leave warm, welcoming touches such as these so that you’ll better enjoy your stay in their home.
Also, the cleanliness of hotel rooms can be questionable. Owners of vacation properties take pride in their homes. If owners do not clean the property themselves, they hire reliable cleaning crews or property management services to come in between guests. They hold those providing these services accountable to keep their home in perfect condition.
-------
Looking for more reasons? See reason #1, or stay tuned for the next entry in this series on Why a vacation rental pays off!
---------------
Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
November 6, 2008
NC election decision finally called - Obama wins
According to the News & Observer (Raleigh, NC), the Obama win in North Carolina is finally official. This morning, they were still reporting him the apparent, but still unofficial, winner of the state. This article stated:
But this afternoon, they have updated with this article:
So much of this election has historic meaning, but for North Carolina it is also significant because the state has not voted for a Democratic candidate since Jimmy Carter in 1976. Durham County voted nearly 76% for Obama, a huge margin and by far the biggest in the state. Other surprises were rural counties such as Jackson, Chatham, and Pitt County tipped to Obama.
Democrat Barack Obama is the unofficial winner in North Carolina, but the victory over Sen. John McCain won't be sealed until provisional ballots are counted and certified next month...."Our law allows us to say who the unofficial winner is," Bartlett said, "but you know we have a formal process in which we audit records."
The county canvasses are Nov. 14, and the state is scheduled to certify the results Dec. 1.
But this afternoon, they have updated with this article:
The Associated Press declared Obama the winner after canvassing counties in North Carolina to determine the number of outstanding provisional ballots. That survey found that there are not enough remaining ballots for Republican John McCain to close a 13,693-vote deficit.For those keeping track, this means there is a small tenth of a percentage point difference between the two - rounding to 50% Obama, 50% McCain. Although we aren't deciding the election, we're nearly the Florida of 2000.
So much of this election has historic meaning, but for North Carolina it is also significant because the state has not voted for a Democratic candidate since Jimmy Carter in 1976. Durham County voted nearly 76% for Obama, a huge margin and by far the biggest in the state. Other surprises were rural counties such as Jackson, Chatham, and Pitt County tipped to Obama.
Reason #1 Why a vacation rental 'pays' off
This is the start of a little series about why using a vacation rental helps your wallet and provides more 'bang for your buck' (I love that phrase) than a hotel or Bed & Breakfast.
Reason #1: Space for the Money
Often, the price you pay for the extra space in a vacation rental is not much more than the cost of a hotel room. I’ve actually read that, on average, hotels cost 50-80 percent more per square foot than a vacation rental!
In a vacation rental, families get extra room for the kids, instead of cramming into one hotel room with two beds, or one of those fold down cots. And couples on romantic getaways get privacy and seclusion to spend time just being with each other.
When you aren’t cramped between beds and a television, like you are in a hotel or B&B where your bedroom and living space combine into one, you can spread out – and finally slow down and relax while on vacation.
Families can play games together, one person can get some quiet time in the bedroom while someone watches a movie in the living room, and couples can enjoy the luxury of romantic meals in the dining room or on the porch. In Asheville area mountain vacation rentals, you'll also get the pleasure of great views and nearby or even on site hiking or waterfalls!
In other words, by renting a vacation home, you can get a lot more – above and beyond just extra space – for your money.
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Want to know more reasons a vacation rental is better for your vacationing wallet in this slow economy? Stay tuned for Reason #2 and more!
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Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
Reason #1: Space for the Money
Often, the price you pay for the extra space in a vacation rental is not much more than the cost of a hotel room. I’ve actually read that, on average, hotels cost 50-80 percent more per square foot than a vacation rental!
In a vacation rental, families get extra room for the kids, instead of cramming into one hotel room with two beds, or one of those fold down cots. And couples on romantic getaways get privacy and seclusion to spend time just being with each other.
When you aren’t cramped between beds and a television, like you are in a hotel or B&B where your bedroom and living space combine into one, you can spread out – and finally slow down and relax while on vacation.
Families can play games together, one person can get some quiet time in the bedroom while someone watches a movie in the living room, and couples can enjoy the luxury of romantic meals in the dining room or on the porch. In Asheville area mountain vacation rentals, you'll also get the pleasure of great views and nearby or even on site hiking or waterfalls!
In other words, by renting a vacation home, you can get a lot more – above and beyond just extra space – for your money.
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Want to know more reasons a vacation rental is better for your vacationing wallet in this slow economy? Stay tuned for Reason #2 and more!
---------------
Already convinced? At Carolina Mornings we have around 90 properties to choose from, and our vacation specialists will help you pick out which one is perfect for your stay.
November 4, 2008
Election Day in Asheville
We are very politically motivated here at Carolina Mornings, so we want to say - please, please GO VOTE today if you haven't early voted already. We don't care if you vote for Obama or McCain, or the write-in of your choice... as long as you pick the right candidate. Just kidding!
Really, exercising your right to vote feels really good when you do it, so go get in line! In Asheville, polling places are open 6:30 am - 7:30 pm, and as long as you make it to the line before 7:30 (even if it's at 7:29) you are guaranteed to get in to vote.
And if you need more incentive than that, a lot of companies around the country are providing freebies to voters.
Just a few corporate locations that I've heard word-of-mouth about:
Ben & Jerry's will give you a free scoop of ice cream between 5-8 p.m.
Starbucks will give you a free cup of coffee.
Krispy Kreme will give you a free red-and-blue star shaped donut.
As far as local Asheville businesses, I've only heard about West End Bakery offering free coffee.
Has anyone else discovered local freebies? Please share by leaving a comment! Thanks :)
At all of these places, your word should be enough to get you these offers. As I understand it, law prohibits the trade of products for votes, so this marketing attempt must be a courtesy to everyone without proof being shown.
Really, exercising your right to vote feels really good when you do it, so go get in line! In Asheville, polling places are open 6:30 am - 7:30 pm, and as long as you make it to the line before 7:30 (even if it's at 7:29) you are guaranteed to get in to vote.
And if you need more incentive than that, a lot of companies around the country are providing freebies to voters.
Just a few corporate locations that I've heard word-of-mouth about:
Ben & Jerry's will give you a free scoop of ice cream between 5-8 p.m.
Starbucks will give you a free cup of coffee.
Krispy Kreme will give you a free red-and-blue star shaped donut.
As far as local Asheville businesses, I've only heard about West End Bakery offering free coffee.
Has anyone else discovered local freebies? Please share by leaving a comment! Thanks :)
At all of these places, your word should be enough to get you these offers. As I understand it, law prohibits the trade of products for votes, so this marketing attempt must be a courtesy to everyone without proof being shown.
November 1, 2008
More things to celebrate at Carolina Mornings!
Well this was a great week of celebration at Carolina Mornings. In addition to the Sky High Award, we are proud that our Director of Property Management, Larry Miller, was the recipient of the Velosports Community Award! We often see Larry coming or leaving the office decked out in his cycling gear and we all want to say Congratulations!
I have learned a bit about the Velosports Performance Center and thought I would share it with all of you!
Velosports Performance Center is a local training center that began a developmental cycling team in 2008.
Their mission is to develop men's cycling in Western North Carolina by:
* Building a diverse team of men of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
* Seek to create a way of life based on the enjoyment of racing, setting a good example for others, respecting and demonstrating fundamental ethical principles through racing, and working to promote and improve our local community.
Part of every riders's contract is to volunteer and give back to our community through cycling. Team VPC does this every year through:
* Promoting over 30 races each year with age divisions from Juniors to Masters and in all levels from beginner to Professional.
* Promotion and development of junior riders through Velosport's own junior program, Asheville Youth Cycling.
* Community participation through volunteering and charity rides such as the Meals on Wheels Ride in mid-June, Buncombe County Child Care programs such as the Children's At-Risk program, and The Asheville Grand Prix benefiting the Children First organization.
I have learned a bit about the Velosports Performance Center and thought I would share it with all of you!
Velosports Performance Center is a local training center that began a developmental cycling team in 2008.
Their mission is to develop men's cycling in Western North Carolina by:
* Building a diverse team of men of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
* Seek to create a way of life based on the enjoyment of racing, setting a good example for others, respecting and demonstrating fundamental ethical principles through racing, and working to promote and improve our local community.
Part of every riders's contract is to volunteer and give back to our community through cycling. Team VPC does this every year through:
* Promoting over 30 races each year with age divisions from Juniors to Masters and in all levels from beginner to Professional.
* Promotion and development of junior riders through Velosport's own junior program, Asheville Youth Cycling.
* Community participation through volunteering and charity rides such as the Meals on Wheels Ride in mid-June, Buncombe County Child Care programs such as the Children's At-Risk program, and The Asheville Grand Prix benefiting the Children First organization.
October 31, 2008
Carolina Mornings receives Sky High Growth Award
We are really proud to say that for the second year running, Carolina Mornings has been honored by the Asheville Chamber of Commerce with a Sky High Growth Award.
The Sky High Growth Award recognizes small businesses that have grown and expanded in several areas over the previous year. The fortunate combination of endless entrepreneurial spirit from our owner Shari, hard work and contributions from our entire team, and maybe a bit of luck have allowed Carolina Mornings to grow and keep growing over the last 10+ years.
Thank you, Asheville Chamber, for recognizing us!
Here is Larry (first person on left), our Director of Property Management & Broker-in-Charge, accepting the award for Carolina Mornings:
photo from the Asheville Chamber's Flickr album of the event.
The Sky High Growth Award recognizes small businesses that have grown and expanded in several areas over the previous year. The fortunate combination of endless entrepreneurial spirit from our owner Shari, hard work and contributions from our entire team, and maybe a bit of luck have allowed Carolina Mornings to grow and keep growing over the last 10+ years.
Thank you, Asheville Chamber, for recognizing us!
Here is Larry (first person on left), our Director of Property Management & Broker-in-Charge, accepting the award for Carolina Mornings:
photo from the Asheville Chamber's Flickr album of the event.
REI opens in Asheville
It's always surprised me that Asheville didn't have an REI. In fact, for a long time I just assumed that we did, but I'm not a huge "outdoorsy" person and just occasionally liked going into Mast General Store - a local NC icon. The current Asheville store has been in the same downtown location since the 1940s.
Finally someone important at REI realized there was a huge market to be tapped in Asheville, where outdoor activities, even just small-time hiking and camping, are HUGE. And so, they opened the Asheville store. It's a very appropriate location too, away from downtown and around other recent retail space additions over in East Asheville (off of Long Shoals Road for those of you that know Asheville well).
Although I fully support Mast General Store and will continue to do so (as I do all local business), I also love REI. When I'm here working at the Carolina Mornings East Branch office, living in Chapel Hill and Durham, I go to REI all the time. I really love that it is a consumer cooperation, meaning that customers can 'buy' a membership at a one-time fee of $20, and are actually buying into the co-op. I love that mentality in a large company, but also, I get a check in the mail once a year for 10% of what I purchased. The membership paid for itself in my first shopping trip as a member.
Go check out the new REI, especially if you've never been to one. Just don't forget about our great local businesses, either. They are what make Asheville unique!
October 30, 2008
Romantic Vacation in AVL
Imagine celebrating the holiday season nestled in your own private vacation rental atop of one of the mountains surrounding Asheville? Perhaps a B & B is what comes to mind when thinking about spending some holiday time away from the hustle and bustle of daily living. But why spend a getaway hanging out with strangers around the dining room table? Sure the breakfasts are always delicious, but privacy is not one of the premium amenities.
With a vacation rental, you certainly get more for your money! The whole house is included in your stay! No sharing of the common areas, no need to stay in a cramped room to enjoy some private time alone. Aside from having your own private Asheville log cabin home, usually with a fireplace, hot tubs and private decks and porches, you also can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen! Save money and bring your food in and never leave the confines of your romantic paradise in the mountains of Asheville!
With a vacation rental, you certainly get more for your money! The whole house is included in your stay! No sharing of the common areas, no need to stay in a cramped room to enjoy some private time alone. Aside from having your own private Asheville log cabin home, usually with a fireplace, hot tubs and private decks and porches, you also can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen! Save money and bring your food in and never leave the confines of your romantic paradise in the mountains of Asheville!
October 29, 2008
New Property! Creekside Chalet
We welcome the owners of our newest property, Creekside Chalet! 
This home is settled in a gated mountain community. Creekside Chalet has 3 bedrooms (2 queen beds and 2 twin beds), and 2 bathrooms. With a sleeper sofa, the home sleeps 8 people. Enjoy the spacious living areas, which have plenty of room for everyone - and amenities like satellite television, high-speed Internet, and a game room that will keep everyone happily entertained. Or enjoy some quiet time on the comfortable couches in front of the cozy gas log fireplace.
There is just as much fun and relaxation outside of the chalet as inside. The huge covered deck has a peaceful view and comfortable seating, as well as a table for dining al fresco. Plus, the community park is a short walk away, with fun for the kids and picnic tables for a lunch out at the park.
Creekside Chalet is located in Rutherfordton. This small mountain town is about 30 minutes to Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, and easy hour's drive to Asheville.
Rates: $422 for the first 2 nights, $171 each additional night
Current special: discounted rates until the end of the year (excluding holidays) at $362 the first 2 nights, $141 each additional night
This home is settled in a gated mountain community. Creekside Chalet has 3 bedrooms (2 queen beds and 2 twin beds), and 2 bathrooms. With a sleeper sofa, the home sleeps 8 people. Enjoy the spacious living areas, which have plenty of room for everyone - and amenities like satellite television, high-speed Internet, and a game room that will keep everyone happily entertained. Or enjoy some quiet time on the comfortable couches in front of the cozy gas log fireplace.
There is just as much fun and relaxation outside of the chalet as inside. The huge covered deck has a peaceful view and comfortable seating, as well as a table for dining al fresco. Plus, the community park is a short walk away, with fun for the kids and picnic tables for a lunch out at the park.
Creekside Chalet is located in Rutherfordton. This small mountain town is about 30 minutes to Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, and easy hour's drive to Asheville.
Rates: $422 for the first 2 nights, $171 each additional night
Current special: discounted rates until the end of the year (excluding holidays) at $362 the first 2 nights, $141 each additional night
October 27, 2008
Tips to get more travel for your money
The LA Times travel section recently published an online article of Tips to make your budget go farther for less. These are all great travel tips, and are worth checking out no matter what... but what if you know where you want to go and are attempting to apply these tips to your destination? We hope that destination is Asheville, and if so...
Here are four great tips from the article, made relevant to Asheville (Western NC) travel, as well as stays with Carolina Mornings:
Look for coupons and promo codes.
Utilize the Chamber of Commerce/Visitor's Center to achieve this tip. ExploreAsheville has online coupons available for local attractions, businesses, and accommodations. There's also a page for area specials and packages. Carolina Mornings offers our own packages and property specials, as well as our Mountain Discovery Pass which includes free passes to area attractions.
Don't focus solely on airfare.
If you live in the Southeast, think about traveling closer to home by coming to Asheville. You can still get a great vacation away, without having go too far or for as long.
If you live elsewhere in the country and plan to visit Asheville, look to cut costs in other areas of travel. Vacation rentals are nearly always a better 'bang for your buck' than hotels, especially if you are traveling with others and can split the cost of a house rather than booking several hotel rooms.
Timing is everything.
Consider dates that are outside of peak seasons. In Asheville, our peak times are summer, October, and holidays. While it is true that at a lot of accommodations you'll find cheaper rates in the off-season, our Carolina Mornings properties typically keep the same rates all year long. However, in our off-seasons the nightly minimums are shorter and you have a great chance of getting a good property special - like a gas rebate or discounted nights.
Plus, traveling outside of the summer months you'll have fewer visitors to contend with, and much clearer skies (our mountains are often obscured in the summer by smog).
Eat, drink and be merry, but don't blow your budget.
Remember that 'bang for your buck' I mentioned earlier? One reason for this is that vacation rentals give you the option to eat in during your stay. Grocery shopping and cooking at 'home' is a great way to cut down on costs and still eat well.
Then you can splurge on a few great meals at Asheville's many tasty restaurants. Another great thing about Asheville is that most restaurant food prices remain reasonably priced, and the food is still great!
Here are four great tips from the article, made relevant to Asheville (Western NC) travel, as well as stays with Carolina Mornings:
Look for coupons and promo codes.
Utilize the Chamber of Commerce/Visitor's Center to achieve this tip. ExploreAsheville has online coupons available for local attractions, businesses, and accommodations. There's also a page for area specials and packages. Carolina Mornings offers our own packages and property specials, as well as our Mountain Discovery Pass which includes free passes to area attractions.
Don't focus solely on airfare.
If you live in the Southeast, think about traveling closer to home by coming to Asheville. You can still get a great vacation away, without having go too far or for as long.
If you live elsewhere in the country and plan to visit Asheville, look to cut costs in other areas of travel. Vacation rentals are nearly always a better 'bang for your buck' than hotels, especially if you are traveling with others and can split the cost of a house rather than booking several hotel rooms.
Timing is everything.
Consider dates that are outside of peak seasons. In Asheville, our peak times are summer, October, and holidays. While it is true that at a lot of accommodations you'll find cheaper rates in the off-season, our Carolina Mornings properties typically keep the same rates all year long. However, in our off-seasons the nightly minimums are shorter and you have a great chance of getting a good property special - like a gas rebate or discounted nights.
Plus, traveling outside of the summer months you'll have fewer visitors to contend with, and much clearer skies (our mountains are often obscured in the summer by smog).
Eat, drink and be merry, but don't blow your budget.
Remember that 'bang for your buck' I mentioned earlier? One reason for this is that vacation rentals give you the option to eat in during your stay. Grocery shopping and cooking at 'home' is a great way to cut down on costs and still eat well.
Then you can splurge on a few great meals at Asheville's many tasty restaurants. Another great thing about Asheville is that most restaurant food prices remain reasonably priced, and the food is still great!
October 24, 2008
Riverview Hideaway
Riverview Hideaway is a great way to get to know Asheville since it's located right in town, with views of both the French Broad River and the Blue Ridge Mountains. 
Sit on the great porch and enjoy your front yard, and you'll get the real experience of living here.
Relax in the open living space, which has plenty of natural light and a style that reflects the local Asheville arts culture.
This property has 3 bedrooms (one room has a queen bed, one has a full bed, and the third has a full and two twin beds all together) and 2 bathrooms, and sleeps 8 people.
Rates: $402 for two nights, $161 each additional night.
Current special: Enjoy discounted fall rates of $382 for two nights, $151 each additional night.
Sit on the great porch and enjoy your front yard, and you'll get the real experience of living here.Relax in the open living space, which has plenty of natural light and a style that reflects the local Asheville arts culture.
This property has 3 bedrooms (one room has a queen bed, one has a full bed, and the third has a full and two twin beds all together) and 2 bathrooms, and sleeps 8 people.
Rates: $402 for two nights, $161 each additional night.
Current special: Enjoy discounted fall rates of $382 for two nights, $151 each additional night.
October 23, 2008
Asheville fall color update & the White House perfect Christmas tree
With all of our new properties, I haven't had much time to give you the scoop on what's happening in Western NC.
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Yesterday was the Fall Color Guy's weekly update on Fall Leaf Color. Here's the report:
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Biltmore Estate is in their fall season now until November 1. From Ashley, our Biltmore Partnership Coordinator:
At Carolina Mornings, we have Biltmore tickets available to add to any reservation. They are $49 per adult, $25 per kid 10-16 until the end of October (prices go up in November for the winter holiday season). Our tickets are also good for two consecutive days.
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In other news, the White House found their perfect Christmas in Western North Carolina again this year. That makes 3 times in 4 years, according to this Citizen-Times article.
Of the things Western North Carolina does really well, Christmas trees are near the top of the list. Which reminds me of a wonderful book I loved as a kid, and I'll leave you with this -- if you've got youngsters in your family, and you celebrate the Christmas holiday, you might want to investigate The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree (oh, and grown ups beware: I tear up now just thinking about it)!
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Yesterday was the Fall Color Guy's weekly update on Fall Leaf Color. Here's the report:In higher elevations the leaves have peaked and is starting to crawl down the North Carolina mountains. In elevations lower than 4,000 feet, the leaves are just starting to peak. It is still a wonderful time to pack the car and head to the North Carolina mountains for some hiking, fishing, biking or just relax while sipping some hot coco and take in the view. Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or enjoy the history of NC mountain culture. Grab the camera, load up the family and come catch the fall hues and cooler weather!There is a longer update for the week of October 19, as well as local reports from individuals in each county, which of course includes the city of Asheville.
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Biltmore Estate is in their fall season now until November 1. From Ashley, our Biltmore Partnership Coordinator:
Guests will find every kind of fall beauty they could hope for at Biltmore... fall gardens bursting with thousands of colorful mums, pastoral and mountain views, vibrant colored forests, and rolling countryside.The photo up top is a current picture of their fall season walled garden, full of pink mums.
At Carolina Mornings, we have Biltmore tickets available to add to any reservation. They are $49 per adult, $25 per kid 10-16 until the end of October (prices go up in November for the winter holiday season). Our tickets are also good for two consecutive days.
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In other news, the White House found their perfect Christmas in Western North Carolina again this year. That makes 3 times in 4 years, according to this Citizen-Times article.
An at least 18 1/2-foot-tall Fraser fir from River Ridge Farms of Crumpler [Ashe County, NC] will spend the holidays in the Blue Room of the White House, the N.C. Department of Agriculture says.The National Christmas Tree Association reported on Tuesday that the tree was selected.
The Blue Room Christmas Tree was handpicked by Director of the Executive Residence and White House Chief Usher Stephen Rochon, Superintendent of Grounds Dale Haney and White House Chief Floral Designer Nancy Clarke on Oct 21, 2008. The tree will be cut in late November and sent to Washington, D.C.-----------------------------------
Of the things Western North Carolina does really well, Christmas trees are near the top of the list. Which reminds me of a wonderful book I loved as a kid, and I'll leave you with this -- if you've got youngsters in your family, and you celebrate the Christmas holiday, you might want to investigate The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree (oh, and grown ups beware: I tear up now just thinking about it)!
October 22, 2008
New Properties! Pumpkin Patch
We love the great autumn theme at Pumpkin Patch, but we're sure the property will be just as quaint during any other season! 
You'll feel nice and cozy in the comfortable living areas of Pumpkin Patch. The living room and kitchen are great for hanging out and chatting or enjoying television, books or games. 
There are 2 bedrooms (both with queen size beds) and 1 bathroom. Play in the hot tub on the back deck, or relax in the porch swing!
There are 2 bedrooms (both with queen size beds) and 1 bathroom. Play in the hot tub on the back deck, or relax in the porch swing! Pumpkin Patch is located in Hendersonville, about 45 minutes south of downtown Asheville. But you don't even have to drive that far to experience some Western NC fun - Hendersonville is a historic town and has many great restaurants.
Rates: $432 for 2 nights, $176 each additional night
Current Special: Enjoy discounted rates - $372 for 2 nights, $146 each additional night - from now until Thanksgiving. In addition, reservations for four nights or longer will receive a $50 gas rebate.
October 20, 2008
New properties! Autumn Delight
Another new fall property at Carolina Mornings is Autumn Delight. 
The windows, porch space, and furniture in this home personify the crisp, cool, and clear light that the Autumn season represents in Asheville.
Autumn Delight has 3 bedrooms (one king, two queen size beds) and 2.5 baths. There is also a queen size sleeper sofa in the living room, to comfortably sleep 8 people. Among many other amenities, enjoy the 180-degree view from the hot tub on the porch!
This property is located in a lovely neighborhood setting in Bat Cave (Henderson County), NC. It is approximately 40 minutes to Asheville and Biltmore Estate, but just minutes from Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.
The windows, porch space, and furniture in this home personify the crisp, cool, and clear light that the Autumn season represents in Asheville.
Autumn Delight has 3 bedrooms (one king, two queen size beds) and 2.5 baths. There is also a queen size sleeper sofa in the living room, to comfortably sleep 8 people. Among many other amenities, enjoy the 180-degree view from the hot tub on the porch!
This property is located in a lovely neighborhood setting in Bat Cave (Henderson County), NC. It is approximately 40 minutes to Asheville and Biltmore Estate, but just minutes from Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.
Rates are discounted for fall!! Just $452 the first 2 nights, and $186 each additional night.
October 17, 2008
New Properties! A Mountain Escapade
We're glad to have A Mountain Escapade re-join us as a property we represent.
This property is in a great location - outside of town so you have a 'getaway' feeling, but an easy drive to Asheville. The interior is nicely decorated with comfortable furniture and amenities like a large television, wireless Internet access, and a wood fireplace.
A Mountain Escapade has 3 bedrooms (one king, one queen and two twin size beds), and 2 bathrooms so it comfortably accommodates 6 people.
Read more about this property and see more photos on the Carolina Mornings Web site.
Rates: $502 for the first 2 nights, and $211 for each additional night. (Don't forget - minimum nightly stays apply based on the time of year.)
Current Special: For October stays 3 nights or longer, receive a $25 gas rebate!
Stay tuned for our other new properties: Autumn Delight (featured Monday 10/20), Pumpkin Patch (featured Wednesday 10/22), and Riverview Hideaway (featured Friday 10/24)!
October 15, 2008
Leaf Update!
A post over at BlogAsheville says now is the time to head up to the Blue Ridge Parkway's higher elevations and do a little viewing or hiking. There is also a great photo of fall color from just yesterday posted there, if you need visual encouragement!
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It sounds like those of you who have already planned a trip to the mountains in the next few weeks are really going to luck out. Last year fall color was kind of a dud, so if you came last year and were disappointed, you should consider coming back to make up for it!
We're still taking October reservations, with several properties still available. As always, check them out on the Carolina Mornings Web site.
Ok, if you don't get up on the Blue Ridge Parkway this weekend or before, you'll be very sorry for about a year. There's still more color to come in the middle mountains and the foothills, but the ride up to this autumn wonderland is lined with maple leaves blood red, sassafrass' warm yellows, late-blooming asters and a color palate as diverse as our wonderful ecosystem.The fall foliage report at VisitNC.com hasn't been updated as of this posting today, but last week's update says that at the high elevations, colors were starting to really pop.
With the maples and burning bushes showing bright reds, oranges and yellows and the birches, goldenrod and poplar showing darker hues, there is plenty for everyone’s eyes to enjoy. Lower elevations and the piedmont areas are showing little leaf color, but are plentiful in colorful fall events and attractions.You can get more information on leaf colors by calling 1-866-6leaves.
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It sounds like those of you who have already planned a trip to the mountains in the next few weeks are really going to luck out. Last year fall color was kind of a dud, so if you came last year and were disappointed, you should consider coming back to make up for it!
We're still taking October reservations, with several properties still available. As always, check them out on the Carolina Mornings Web site.
October 13, 2008
New specials from our owners
Gas Rebates:
Autumn Special: Free Gas, $150 Value! at Sunrise CottageOctober Special: $50 and $25 Gas Rebates Available! at Blue Ridge Getaway, Country Cabin Getaway and Ekho Cottage
October Special: Stay 3 nights or longer and receive $25 Gas Rebate! at A Mountain Escapade and High Acres
$25 and $50 Gas Rebates Available throughout the Fall! at Cozy Creek, A Bird's Nest, Asheville's Downtown Loft
Discounted rates:
Fall Special: $20 Gift Certificate or Stay 3 nights and add a 4th night for ONLY $11! at Bull Creek Cottage
Discounted nightly rates! at Pie in the Sky, Blue Ridge Getaway, Dogwood Studio, Bear's Den Mountain Cabin, Mountainside Getaway & Dillsboro Mountain View
Book now for winter... and enjoy two nights with a third night for only $11! at Asheville Getaway & Rivertime
Military specials:
**Also valid for parents of active service men and women.
Waived pet fee for one dog at Trout Rock
October 10, 2008
Great Black Mountain College article
Check out this really great article about Black Mountain College, Legacy of NC's Black Mountain College Continues.
Here's an excerpt:
Black Mountain College opened its doors in Asheville in 1933, testing limits in
education, art and society as students and faculty worked together to cultivate
everything from minds to food. There were no bells that rang when classes ended.
Students didn’t get report cards with As or Fs.
“Students had to take charge of their own education and that was totally the opposite of most colleges in that era,” Allen said.
It was founded by classics professor John Andrew Rice, who had been fired from Rollins College in Florida. He took several colleagues and some promising students with him and opened the school.
At first, the entire campus was inside a YMCA building. Later the faculty and students built cabins on a farm that everyone worked on. People living in the area thought “it was a nest of communist and homosexuals,” said alumnus and author Michael Rumaker.
At a time when racial segregation was the law, two blacks taught there in 1945, and by 1947, five black students were enrolled.
There are constantly events in Asheville related to Black Mountain College. Find out details at the Black Mountain College Museum Web site.
Photo from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Mountain_College
October 9, 2008
Weekly Weekend in Asheville
Thursday, Friday & Saturday
96th Annual Cherokee Indian Fair
Saturday, Oct 11
Doc Watson & David Holt: Hills of Home
96th Annual Cherokee Indian Fair
Each year the fair offers an opening parade, midway, fireworks, traditional Cherokee food and competitions that bring out the best of the Eastern Bands basket makers, carvers, quilters, gardeners and more. The fair also attracts high-quality entertainment to perform each evening in the amphitheater. The fair began as a way for members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to showcase their arts and crafts and invite neighboring communities to the Qualla Boundary, the tribes traditional homeland. The fair has grown since its early days, but its original focus remains. This is a hugely popular event among Eastern Band members and a great opportunity for visitors to experience the fun, welcoming qualities of the Cherokee culture. Gates open 10 a.m. daily with Nightly shows.
Saturday, Oct 11
Doc Watson & David Holt: Hills of Home
Two priceless performances by superstars of traditional American folk music, legendary performer Doc Watson and Grammy-winning musician and folklorist David Holt.
12 p.m., Diana Wortham Theatre
Tickets: $45. Get them by calling 828-257-4530 or visiting above Web site
Sunday, Oct 12The acclaimed touring showcase of odd and hilarious found videos, will make a one-night-only appearance in Asheville next month as part of its 2008 North American tour. Hosts Joe Pickett and Nick Prueher, whose credits include The Onion and the Late Show with David Letterman, are excited to present their unique blend of video clips and live comedy in two big shows. The shows are being sponsored locally by the Media Arts Project (The MAP) and OrbitDVD. This one-of-a-kind event compiles more than an hour’s worth of footage from videos that were found at garage sales and thrift stores and in warehouses and dumpsters throughout the country. Curators Pickett and Prueher host each screening in-person and provide their unique observations and commentary on these found video obscurities. From the curiously-produced industrial training video to the forsaken home movie donated to Goodwill, the Found Footage Festival resurrects these forgotten treasures and serves them up in a lively celebration of all things found.8:00 p.m. & 10 p.m., Asheville Arts Center
Tickets to the Found Footage Festival are $10 and are available online at www.brownpapertickets.org or around Asheville at Static Age Records, Harvest Records, TV Eye, Orbit DVD or at the door.
The Asheville Choral Society (Lenora Thomas, Music Director), one of Western N.C.'s premiere performing arts organizations, will perform Sir Paul McCartney's oratorio Ecce cor Meum (Behold my Heart) -- the first performance in the Southeast and only the second performance in the U.S. since its Carnegie Hall debut.
4 p.m. Diana Wortham TheaterTicket prices recently dropped from $75 to just $40.
See many more events on ExploreAsheville.
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Interested in making a last minute trip to Asheville? Give Carolina Mornings a call at 800.770.9055 or visit our Web site to view all of our Asheville vacation rentals, log cabins, condos, chalets and more!
October 8, 2008
Asheville ranked in the top 50 performing cities of 2008
From the Mountain Xpress:
Asheville has placed 46 on the Best-Performing Cities 2008 list, just released by the Milken Institute/Greenstreet Real Estate Partners—up 71 spots from the city’s 2007 rank. That’s the second-largest gain among all 200 cities on the list.That's some good news for the locals on "Main Street" concerned about the economy. Let's hope we move up again for next year's ranking!
The annual study, Best-Performing Cities: Where America’s Jobs Are Created and Sustained, ranks metropolitan areas by how well they’re creating and sustaining jobs and economic growth.
Factors used to determine the ranking include: short- and long-term job growth; wage and salary statistics; and the concentration of high-tech industries. Asheville’s rise in the rankings was driven primarily by strong one-year and five-year job growth.
October 6, 2008
Fall leaf colors will be gorgeous
Each Wednesday, those interested in the status of fall color in Asheville and the surrounding Western North Carolina mountains can turn to VisitNC's "Fall Color Guy" - Dr. Howard S. Neufeld, a professor of plant physiology at Appalachian State University in Boone.The Fall Foliage Report states that, as of October 1, "Cool crisp nights are setting the stage for bright color across the state. A hint of color is present in the highest elevations; lower elevations are still patiently waiting."
The current Asheville area, which is where our Carolina Mornings properties are located, has the following report:
While the colors in this area are still subtle, there is plenty of beauty to be found. County Road, in the Lake Junaluska area, is a quick drive full of twists and turns that is always beautiful and is currently showcasing a large maple tree showing tinges of yellow that is simply beautiful. There are also a few reds popping up along this stretch.
Nights continue to be slightly cool and the days are moderate in temperature.
Sounds like good news for all of our guests planning to come in the next few weeks. If you like the idea of being surrounded by beautiful fall colors, it isn't too late to book with us - we have plenty of Carolina Mornings properties still available and now just a 2 night minimum stay! Check it out on our Web site, or call us toll free at 800.770.9055.
September 30, 2008
Most stations now have gas in Asheville as panic subsides
The Asheville Citizen-Times reported this morning that 2/3 of Buncombe County (Asheville) gas stations had gas Monday night, and others received gas during the night. Lines have subsided in Asheville, though stations still are experiencing shortages/outages between deliveries. The Colonial Pipeline is supposedly back to flowing at full capacity, which means the Southeast should be on the road to gas recovery.
The important thing to remember is not to panic. Get as little gas you need, when you need it - don't top off every day, leave enough to go around. Things are only going to get better, so there's no need to horde!
Also, visitors should keep in mind that gas is pricier than average. I assume this has to do with basic supply-and-demand economics, although it seems to me the oil companies, or in our case the Colonial Pipeline, ought to be able to do some price control for the gas stations who in turn can keep costs down for us!
At any rate, expect to pay somewhere between $4.00-$4.50/gallon for unleaded regular. The Citizen-Times article reports the average at $4.13 (23 cents more than the state average).
The important thing to remember is not to panic. Get as little gas you need, when you need it - don't top off every day, leave enough to go around. Things are only going to get better, so there's no need to horde!
Also, visitors should keep in mind that gas is pricier than average. I assume this has to do with basic supply-and-demand economics, although it seems to me the oil companies, or in our case the Colonial Pipeline, ought to be able to do some price control for the gas stations who in turn can keep costs down for us!
At any rate, expect to pay somewhere between $4.00-$4.50/gallon for unleaded regular. The Citizen-Times article reports the average at $4.13 (23 cents more than the state average).
September 27, 2008
Biltmore Luxury Condos - Press Release
Experience Asheville and Biltmore Estate in Comfort at Biltmore Luxury Condominiums
Enjoy luxury accommodations in the heart of Biltmore, with flexible stays from weekend getaways to seasonal rental terms. Carolina Mornings, Asheville’s premiere vacation rental company, provides full property management and concierge services to all guests.
Asheville, NC (1888PressRelease) September 27, 2008 - Experience the beauty of Asheville in luxury condominiums located right next to the entrance of Biltmore Estate. Biltmore Estate owner George Vanderbilt, architect Richard Morris Hunt, and landscaper Frederick Law Olmstead constructed Biltmore Village, located just outside the Estate, in the 1890’s. The design was intended to match the aesthetic of the Estate, though the Village was originally built for the Estate’s employees and their families.
Read full press release.
Enjoy luxury accommodations in the heart of Biltmore, with flexible stays from weekend getaways to seasonal rental terms. Carolina Mornings, Asheville’s premiere vacation rental company, provides full property management and concierge services to all guests.
Asheville, NC (1888PressRelease) September 27, 2008 - Experience the beauty of Asheville in luxury condominiums located right next to the entrance of Biltmore Estate. Biltmore Estate owner George Vanderbilt, architect Richard Morris Hunt, and landscaper Frederick Law Olmstead constructed Biltmore Village, located just outside the Estate, in the 1890’s. The design was intended to match the aesthetic of the Estate, though the Village was originally built for the Estate’s employees and their families.
Read full press release.
September 26, 2008
UPDATE: New Minimum Night Requirement for October!
We have just updated our October nightly minimum for all Carolina Mornings (Asheville Cabins) properties. While we usually only accept 4 night rentals, we've decided to drop it down to just a two night stay! Plus, many properties are offering discounts or other specials as incentive to come visit.
Some of our properties are keeping longer requirements, but almost all are allowing weekend-long stays in an attempt to increase bookings for October. This is a GREAT time to visit Asheville - I believe it's even better than a summertime visit (see reasons below). Most years you won't find this kind vacation rental opportunity since many rental home owners bump their nightly minimum for leaf season.
5 reasons why October is a better time to visit than summertime:
1. Fall feels so re-freshing after a long hot summer!
2. Typically beautiful weather, usually warm days and not-TOO-cold nights.
3. Clear mountain views, since they are no longer obstructed by summer smog (I always joke that the mountains hibernate in summer and come back out in the fall).
4. Leaf colors, of course.
5. Downtown Asheville is a bit less crowded with other visitors.
Some of our properties are keeping longer requirements, but almost all are allowing weekend-long stays in an attempt to increase bookings for October. This is a GREAT time to visit Asheville - I believe it's even better than a summertime visit (see reasons below). Most years you won't find this kind vacation rental opportunity since many rental home owners bump their nightly minimum for leaf season.
5 reasons why October is a better time to visit than summertime:
1. Fall feels so re-freshing after a long hot summer!
2. Typically beautiful weather, usually warm days and not-TOO-cold nights.
3. Clear mountain views, since they are no longer obstructed by summer smog (I always joke that the mountains hibernate in summer and come back out in the fall).
4. Leaf colors, of course.
5. Downtown Asheville is a bit less crowded with other visitors.
September 25, 2008
Asheville gas shortage - Update!
Word on the street is that most stations have gas, there are shorter lines, no fights, and the streets in general are pretty quiet. I guess people are staying home today, but this is a good sign of improvement!
September 24, 2008
Gas Shortage Update from the Asheville Chamber of Commerce
The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce is working with government officials and oil industry representatives to maintain open communication regarding the current gas situation. As part of our efforts, we want to share some key message points that can be conveyed to your employees, customers and any out-of-town visitors or clients.
- Fuel supplies should be increasing throughout the next week and, hopefully, returning to normal by late next week. Already, some stations are reporting a small increase in gas allotments.
- The Chamber, along with local government, continues to encourage residents to only purchase the gas they need. Motorists should refrain from hoarding gas supplies, so that other community members will have access to fuel as well.
- Updated information about availability can be found at:
For those communicating with visitors or clients from out-of-town, consider sharing the following message:
- Like other parts of the South, the Asheville area has experienced fuel supply issues this week. Although gas allotments are increasing daily, we recommend visitors to the area, purchase fuel before arriving in Asheville to avoid possible lines in this region.
- We anticipate that supplies will return to more normal levels next week.
- Once in town Asheville's visitors can visit Exploreasheville.com to find Fall Gas Saving Adventures and Park Your Car Itineraries.
Even as supplies increase conservation and reduction measures will aid in returning supplies to normal. Governor Mike Easley assured residents today stating, "This is a temporary shortage. We have been assured by the oil companies that some supplies are on their way today and larger additional supplies are expected through the pipeline very soon."
Drivers should eliminate non-essential trips, car pool when possible, and take advantage of alternate transportation such as public transit (ashvillenc.gov), walking, or bicycle riding.
For up to date information on the gasoline shortage please visit the City of Asheville news page.
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