Monday, April 16, 2012

Vacation Planning

Vacations are a necessity for Garth and I. We need them in order to recharge and reconnect. We crave the quality time without interruptions like work, household chores, etc. The change of scenery is also refreshing and energizing.

Planning a vacation is always a process for us because the options are endless. South Beach? Las Vegas? Smokey Mountains? Daytona Beach? Texas? Nashville? First, we had to narrow down our options and decide where we wanted to go. Then I will research the area to death. Read every review. Look at every picture. Call and find out the deals. I am relentless. I want the best deal. I want to be at the nicest place. And I want the best view. Anyone else like this when planning a vacation?

I told you planning a vacation is a long, drawn out process, mainly because we are just indecisive and will go wherever the best deal is. Well, the best deal was in the Smokey Moutains in Gatlinberg, TN. We have a lovely cabin nestled in the mountains with a breathtaking view. I. Am. So. Excited. Five glorious days with my man in the mountains. Heavenly! I love road trips so I am excited for that part of the trip too. I think we made a great decision and that this trip is so “us.” We may even check out Nashville on our way home, which I think would be awesome. We love BBQ and country music so I think I would just love this city.

I’ve been getting some great recommendations, but am always open for more tips for Gatlinberg and Nashville. What are recommendations? Must see attractions? Out of this world restaurants? I want to hear it! Thanks!!!!

11 comments:

Aishlea said...

We go to Gatlinburg frequently and it is so beautiful! There is Ober Gatlinburg, which you can take a tram up the mountain to. They have skiing and ice skating and fun stuff. One place to eat in Gatlinburg is the Pancake Pantry- yum! Also, there is the Ripley's Aquarium which is fun! Dixie Stampede in Pigeon Forge is a good meal with a fun show. And also the Tanger Outlets. :) We've been lots of times if you have specific questions. You will love it...and Nashville too!

Brittney Galloway said...

That sounds like a great vacation! I know Gatlinburg can be a real budget friendly location. When driving back through Nashville, I'd recommend stopping by the Loveless Cafe. It's a real experience and has beautiful grounds, wonderful food, and is fun to sit in the same seats as famous people!

Hollie said...

My hubby and I got married in Gatlinburg and go back to visit every year! We like to eat at the Apple Barn and Chop House in Pigeon Forge and Pancake Pantry and the Peddler in Gatlinburg. Ole Smoky Distillery and Cade's Cove are fun little distractions, and shopping at Tanger!

Lauren said...

what a great trip!

Nick & I think that vacations are vital to the survival & rejuvenation of our marriage!

We're going to Chicago at the end of May for less than 48 hours, but I'm already so excited about those hours of alone time!

Erin said...

If you are staying in Galtiburg you have to eat breakfast at Pancake Pantry. Even if you aren't staying in Pigeon Forge take the short drive and eat at Calhoun's for the best steak ever!! You need to try out the Apple Barn too, there apple fritters are to die for. There are also the Tanger Outlets. :) If y'all like being outdoors head over to Cades Cove - it is gorgeous!!!

Crystal said...

Cades Cove is nice. We enjoy looking at the old buildings and some of the wildlife you might get to see. If you like bbq, Bennets BBQ in Pigeon Forge is super yummy (be prepared to take home food, you get a ton of it). I love just walking up and down and looking at all the stores. The ski lift ride up the mountain is also fun. We always play mini golf when we go there (actually our favorite mini golf places are in Pigeon Forge).
There is so much to do, I'm sure you guys will have a great time. The weather here has been very nice too.

The Pink Growl said...

OMG I live in Knoxville, just about 40 mins down the road from Gatlinburg. You definitely need to stop by the Outlets if you are in a shopping mood, and just make your way through the downtown Gatlinburg area where you can find just about anything to get into. Apple Barn is FAB if you like a Southern meal. Maybe horseback riding? Hope you have fun!

Rachel said...

I am a born and raised Nashvillian and my fiancee's family has a cabin in Gatlinburg, so we go at least once a year to relax- yes to Apple Barn! And Tanger outlets to shop.
Let me know if you decide to come through Nashville! I'd love to give some recommendations!
Happy Monday to you! :)

Kelsey Claire said...

That sounds perfect! So jealous!

Adrienne said...

That's so cool! We always know exactly where we want to go, but it's awesome you don't. You get to try exciting new things! I've never been to either, but have a blast!

LWLH said...

Ooooh that sounds wonderful!!