ARE YOU READY FOR SOME ADVENTURE....
Back by popular demand, we are bringing new life to this old feature favorite. Life is short and that’s why we encourage you to make 2016 a year of traveling fun! Watch for this column highlighting Trendy Travel Hot Spots in each monthly issue.....
TRENDY TRAVEL HOT SPOT #1:
Dog Bark Park Inn, Idaho - Airbnb We’ve heard some unique stories about Airbnb rental and one thing we know for sure, it has fast become known as the trendy way to travel low-key and economical, not to mention it offers some pretty unique places to stay. From a houseboat rental in Copenhagen or a real-life Scottish castle, to a bamboo eco cottage in Bali or a bubble under the stars in France, whatever your definition of unique is, Airbnb’s one-of-a-kind options are endless. But being that we are west suburbanite midwesterns, I thought I’d keep it closer to home and invite you to learn more about this odd-shaped inn located in Idaho. Quirky and off-the-wall unique, this peculiar, dog-shaped home is located at the edge of Cottonwood in rural Idaho, offering expansive views of prairie grain fields and surrounding mountains which I’ve learned are specatcular at any time of year. The area offers many things to do such as scenic drives, museum fun and outdoor activities including jet-boat tours, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, nature hikes and more. The homeowners are happy to provide a list of fun things to do for their guests, so don’t be afraid to ask. After all, it’s not everyday that you venture out to Cottonwood, Idaho. You’ll love browsing the adjacent Dog Bark Park visitor center, gift shop and artist studio where owners Dennis & Frances fashion canine carvings by chainsaw. It just doesn’t get more unique that that. The beagle-shaped home sleeps 4 and just in case you were wondering, yes, dogs are permitted. Average price: $98/night. www.airbnb.com, search “Dog Bark Park Inn B&B”
TRENDY TRAVEL HOT SPOT #2: The House On the Rock, Wisconsin Charming, unique, and filled with history, this Spring Green, Wisconsin gem is truly a must-visit. The House on the Rock began in 1945 when a man named Alex Jordan had a towering goal: to build a retreat as awe-inspiring as the view from the rock upon which the House would eventually be built. What took shape is a truly remarkable achievement. Perched on a 60-foot chimney of rock, the house and surrounding exhibit buildings are famous for their architecture features; collection of armor; jeweler's art pieces; room-size musical instruments; doll house collections; replicas of the Tower of London's crown jewels; four-story sea monster; animated circus orchestra; and the world's largest carousel with more than 20,000 lights and 269 real and mythical creatures. The House on the Rock is open year round and offers different experiences depending on the time of year. The days of week, hours of operation and portions of the tour that are open vary depending on the experience. www.thehouseontherock.com
