Weekend trips or extended weekends are great for quick getaways, especially in the US where vacation days are limited. Short stays in cottages are a good option, either by renting or co-owning. It’s important to plan around available time, budget, and number of travelers. Cooking and outdoor activities are part of the experience. Larger companies offer more luxurious options, while single or multi-family rental units are available for larger parties.
As it is becoming increasingly difficult to get extended vacation breaks, weekend trips or extended weekends are great ideas for getting away. Most people find it difficult to take more than a few days off, especially in the United States, where total vacation days average about two weeks. Short stays in cottages are often the answer to finding a suitable and quick getaway. If one does not own a cottage, there are many rental options available. When choosing short cottage breaks, it’s important to consider the amount of time available, your spending budget, and the number of travelers in the party.
First, a vacationer should plan the itinerary around the available time allotted for travel. Ideally, travel time will be less than five hours if only the weekend is free for vacation. Many employers are happy to give workers a day or two off at the end of the week, especially if given well in advance. Beach cottages are excellent options if one is relatively close to the coast. For inland residents, North Woods cottages or ‘cabin living’ is an amazing way to see nature and some great lakes on short cottage breaks.
It’s a good idea to pack food or stop at a grocery store on the way to the cottage, which can save you money. The cottage will most likely be some distance from towns and restaurants so cooking is a big part of the experience. Cooking over a campfire is another authentic option for short cottage breaks. Lighter liquid and charcoal are required if a gas grill is not available. Fishing and camping gear offers other fun options for those short cottage trips.
Secondly, spending budget is an important factor in deciding where and what to do on a short cottage break. Cottages are often passed down through families, allowing the inheriting parties to distribute the costs and responsibilities of owning a vacation cottage. Because owning a property in a cottage can be extremely expensive, two or three families often co-own a property where they swap weekends using the place. All parties are responsible for property taxes and maintenance.
Another popular option is to rent a vacation cottage. There are many independently owned cottage spaces available to rent in the woods or on a lake. All weekend rental properties should be fully furnished with basic cottage decor. Beds and linens can be provided. Some larger amenities, like refrigerators, are sometimes not included.
Larger companies operate quality resorts with multiple cabins arranged in cookie-cutter patterns. These are often cleaner and more luxurious options, but less authentic than renting a cottage yourself. They are more of a hybrid between a high class resort and a holiday cottage.
Consider the number of travelers in the party. Single families should have no problem settling into a cabin for a quick cottage trip. Pullout sofas are the order of the day for extra guests. Multi-family rental units are also available for larger parties for short cottage stays.
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