Editor's note: Each month, we'd like to introduce you to one of our wonderful Glamping Hub hosts and what inspired them to create a glamping site. This month, we have Matt, who manages a unique hotel crafted out of repurposed shipping containers in Round Top, Texas.

Meet Matt White. Antique savior, hotelier, and Dead devotee. White is the creator of the first shipping container hotel in Texas and is quickly capturing the attention of couples, families, and friends from all over with this unique destination. Heck, even a group of Emirates flight attendants traveling with World of Crew came all the way from Dubai and left saying that White’s shipping container hotel was one of the most amazing places they have ever experienced.

Set in wanderlust, these six unique accommodations were inspired with a craving to create, an obligation to recycle, and a passion for making people happy. Detail-driven and passively forcing you to relax, White invites you to unplug, put your favorite record on (literally), take a dip in the one-of-a-kind pool, meet a random neighboring cow or two, and enjoy a sunset (a badass sunset, that is).

Vintage goods and antique salvage have been a part of White’s life since he was a child. He grew up attending antique shows with his father and would refurbish goods to be sold at flea markets. Later in life, White would study horticulture and design; establish parent company and antique showroom Recycling the Past, which doubles as a grand ballroom for large events, and outfit hundreds of restaurants and storefronts—REI, Urban Outfitters, Ralph Lauren, and Nordstrom, to name a few.

All of this lead up to the birth of his unique hotel in 2016. Just like everything on-site, the idea for the shipping container hotel came from the past, as well. Born from childhood imagination, these containers are the grown-up versions of carefully constructed cardboard box forts where anything is possible.

Each shipping container is outfitted with 100% recycled materials and adorned with antique treasures from all over the world. No two are exactly alike, but all promise the most comfortable bed you could wish for (often mentioned in the reviews), a hammock, complimentary coffee and tea, Topochico sparkling water, and Mexican Cokes.

Welcome to the land of the restored, repurposed, and relaxation. Stay a while. See something you like? You’re in luck—everything is for sale. As a guest, you will receive a complimentary 20% off your purchases for up to $100. You can leave with peace of mind—and your favorite one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Guests from far and wide have come to enjoy this experience. Who would White love to host? Besides Jerry Garcia, White would like to see Richard Branson and the Dali Lama visit. Richard Branson was chosen out of admiration for overcoming challenges to achieve success—and because he would make for interesting conversation. He picked The Dali Lama because he is a peaceful and inherently good person who leads a life of simplicity to achieve happiness. With that said, it may come as no surprise to you that one of the principles of the Buddhist lifestyle is to take care of things and repair them.

“If you use an object for as long as you can carefully, repairing it when necessary, you will find that not only your relationship with these objects begins to change, but so will the way you relate to people. People who endlessly chase after new things have lost their freedom to earthly desire. Only those who can enjoy using their imaginations when working with limited resources know true freedom.” - Shoukei Matsumoto, Buddhist monk

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To book one of Matt's unique glamping accommodations in Texas, click here, here, here, here, here, or here!

It was a searing hot day in July, I had been standing in line at the Colosseum in Rome for about one hour, and I still hadn't even reached the shaded area yet. It was at this moment that I realized that perhaps summer was not the best time to attempt to visit one of the world's most popular historic sites. In each photograph I was in that day, I am as red as a lobster, awkwardly posing to hide most of my sweaty t-shirt, and with several tourists beside me, all struggling to find the perfect selfie spot.

Holidays are supposed to be relaxing, a time when you can escape the pressures of everyday life, and off-season vacations offer cheaper flights, a larger variety of accommodations, shorter lines, less crowds...and less awkward posing!

Mallorca

For such a small island, yet the largest of the Balaeric Islands, Mallorca has a fascinating and diverse landscape that is made up of luxury beach resorts, picturesque mountain villages, ancient ruins, and superb geological formations. With only five days of rain and an average high of 23 degrees Celsius (~74 degrees Fahrenheit) in October, you can explore all the delights of the island at your leisure while still enjoying the best bits of summer!

The Greek Islands

Renowned for their idyllic beaches, great weather, and delicious cuisine, the Greek Islands make for an amazing off-season destination, whether it’s for a luxury, five-star getaway or a budget-friendly backpacking odyssey. You can wander the romantic streets of Santorini, swim by the white volcanic rocks of Sarakiniko Beach on Milos, and enjoy a couple of Mythos beers while admiring the Acropolis of Lindos for an unforgettable holiday.

Chile

Why not try something away from the obvious and venture into the sublime natural beauty of Chile while embarking on an array of outdoor adventures? You can enjoy a romantic night stargazing in the Mars-like Atacama Desert, with several top-level observatories offering extraordinary astro-tourism experiences. Alternatively, you can go skiing in the Andes at Valle Nevado, which is only 46 kilometers away from Santiago, Chile's capital, and features over 7,000 acres of skiable terrain. What’s more? The geysers at El Tatio, the mountains of Torres del Paine, and the glaciers throughout Patagonia are breathtaking natural wonders not to be missed.

Baja California

Baja California is ideal for those yearning for a tropical getaway without heading too far from home. With the peninsula sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, Baja California features paradise-like beaches, where you can enjoy an array of water sports, such as world-class surfing, supreme scuba diving, and adrenaline-fueled jet skiing. Away from the water, guests can immerse themselves in nature by trekking through dense jungle on the back of a mule, exploring the Trinidad Canyon and its ancient cave paintings, or hiking along the Sierra de San Francisco for a complete sense of seclusion. Whatever piques your interest, Baja California has it all.

New South Wales

Aside from its iconic coastal cities and its second-to-none surfing hot spots, New South Wales is home to a plethora of natural attractions and outdoor experiences that can be enjoyed at a much more leisurely pace during the off season. The spectacular, limestone Jenolan Caves in the Blue Mountains showcase stunning calcite formations; the powerful Kiama Blowhole is the largest blowhole in the world; and the Walls of China in Mungo National Park are an ancient, breathtaking structure that can be admired from a cycle trail or a self-guided drive tour. The best part? All of these are within easy reach of several of our glamping sites.

Big Sur, California

Enjoy the last of the warm weather to the fullest in Big Sur, California, and bask in the sunshine on glorious sandy beaches, delight in its extraordinary cuisine, and sip on piña coladas in trendy, beachfront bars. Why not make it a truly memorable getaway and stay along the coast in one of our unique glamping accommodations? You'll have your choice of everything from tree houses and Airstreams to safari tents and yurts.

Hawaii

Hawaii boasts year-round sunshine, picturesque beaches, lush green mountains, and a laid-back vibe, making it the perfect destination for an off-season getaway. You'll take away incredible memories of scuba diving in waters teeming with life, looking down upon active volcanoes from a helicopter, and laying on a secluded beach with nothing but the waves to listen to.

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Check out more extraordinary accommodations in California here, and stay in the loop with the latest in glamping here!

1. Surfing

Waking up at the crack of dawn to squeeze into a wetsuit and hit the waves is a feeling like no other. Catch the perfect wave that carries you down the coast and launches you through the pipeline. Imagine exiting the pipeline onto the beach and right onto your glamping luxury tent! Spark up the fire and grab a cold one before settling in for a comfortable night sleep to prepare you for the following day's surf. With glamping accommodations in some of the best surf spots in the world, you can be sure to get to hit the waves in style.

2. Mountain Biking

Helmet on and gear set, you are ready to navigate your way down that mountain. The trek up was grueling, but it will all be worth it as you fly down the trails with the cool breeze and spectacular views. Hit the hills of Moab, Sun Valley, Crested Butte, Brevard, and many other stunning places to mountain bike. Ride directly down to your glamping site, where you can fully relax and recover for another day of action.

3. Whitewater Rafting

Hit the rivers paddle in hand and and helmet strapped tight. Brace yourself for the thrill of whitewater rafting on some of the U.S.’s top rivers. We're talking the Colorado River, French Broad, Chattooga, Arkansas, and many more. Regardless of where you decide to embark on this water-based adventure, glamping will be within a stone's throw. Finish up the day on the whitewater by relaxing at your luxury camping site with all the desired amenities.

4. Horseback Riding

Take a ride on arguably the most majestic animal to exist—the horse. Powerful, yet gentle, and elegant, yet sturdy, a horse can make a lasting impression. Horseback riding is an experience like none other, where you can navigate rough terrain to catch a glimpse of breathtaking sunsets. You will not only build a closer connection to nature, but with the animal that is making it possible. Nothing screams glamour more than horseback riding on a beach. Stroll down the coast directly to your glamping site for an unforgettable experience.

5. Hiking

A great way to exercise and explore a new environment is to explore it by foot. You can gain a much deeper appreciation for a location by staying closer to the ground and at a slower pace. That way you can have a more intimate hike through the pure, majestic wilderness of some of America’s finest National Parks. No matter where in the US you decide to hike, glamping will be available for you to enjoy all the necessities you would expect in a 5 star hotel. Book now for a truly unforgettable experience!

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Looking to plan a trip? Head over to Glamping Hub to browse our full inventory.

Are you headed to Hawaii any time soon? While you may be thinking surfing, beaches, and sunsets, there is so much more to the islands than their stunning shores. The interior of each island is filled with verdant green rainforests and teeming with adventure. Every island has its charm, that's for sure, but today we're going to focus on the Big Island of Hawaii and Volcanoes National Park. Get ready to get up close and personal with some of Hawaii's famous volcanoes, and take a look at what there is to do and where we recommend to stay!

The Property

To visit the National Park, we recommend booking this family-friendly yurt, found in Fern Forest, about 15 minutes by car from the park entrance. The yurt can sleep four people and has parking for two cars, so you don't need to worry about where to park the rental. The hosts, Don and Gypsy, will welcome you for your 3 p.m. check-in and show you around.

You'll notice not only does the yurt have the basics—linens, towels, and a full kitchen—there is also Wi-Fi, a Roku for evening entertainment, and a barbecue on the lanai out back. Don and Gypsy even provide snacks! And did we mention the yurt is solar-powered? Really, what more could you need?

Visiting the Park

After you wake up refreshed and are ready to go, you can head out for Volcanoes National Park. When planning your trip to the park, make sure to check the hours and which parts of the park are open. Due to lava flows and repairs, certain parts of the park may be closed to the public throughout the year.

To enter the park, every visitor must pay a fee. Each pass is valid for seven days; it is $25 per car, $12 per pedestrian or bicycle, and $20 per motorcycle. There are also certain days throughout the year that the park is free! Click here for more information.

At the heart of the park lie Kilauea and Mauna Loa, both active volcanoes. The Crater Rim is a popular drive and hike in the park, allowing visitors to see several steam vent and craters, and it overlooks as the skirt the edge of the Kilauea Caldera, too. Visitors can head below ground and even walk through the Thurston Lava Tubes—get there early to avoid crowds and congestion—or go high and stop for a photo-op at the Kilauea Overlook, which spans two miles and drops 400 feet! Apart from the Crater Rim Trail, other popular hikes include Halema'uma'u Trail, the Devastation Trail, and the Kilauea Iki hike.

Out and about

When you're not exploring Volcanoes National Park and the rainforest, the surrounding towns are home to some cool landmarks and delicious restaurants and cafés. Feel like eating breakfast out one day? Head over to Ohelo Cafe in Volcano Village or try the pancakes at the Kilauea Lodge, which are sure to be a hit. Other guests favorites include Kaleo's Bar & Grill in Pahoa, the malasadas at Tex Drive-In, Eagles Lighthouse Cafe, and Papa'aloa Country Store & Cafe.

After you've eaten your fill, take some time to see what else the island holds. There's a scenic drive down into Waipi'o Valley and beach; you can visit Akaka Falls, the Black or Green Sand Beaches, Rainbow Falls; and so much more!

Volcanoes, rainforests, waterfall hikes, delicious foods and even more beautiful beaches...what are you waiting for? Don't miss the chance to book a trip to the Big Island!

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Planning another trip? Head over to Glamping Hub to take a look at our full inventory.

In the pre-dawn air the sulfuric scent of combusting propane gas lingers, while the desert soil reverberates with the blasting of fire cannons. Illuminated faces gather around the burners as hot air slowly levitates colorful nylon fabric. The ascension has commenced with the rising sun over the horizon. Giant, colorful balloons appears before your eyes like a Jackson Pollock painting. Specks of color spot the blue New Mexico sky, creating a master work of art courtesy of hundreds of hot air balloons. The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta has begun.

The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is the largest display of hot air balloons in the world. That must explain why it's the most photographed event in America. People from all over the globe gather to witness the spectacle. Whether you are adding to the vast aerial fleet or enjoying the fiesta from the ground, fun is to be had and memories are to be made.

A great option for those wanting to enjoy the festivities from the ground is to go glamping! For the first time ever, Glamping Hub is proud to announce that there will be fantastic glamping accommodations available on-site, bookable here.

You don't have to settle for camping when you could be spending the weekend glamping in the lap of luxury. The spacious tent can fit either a queen-size bed or two twin beds, and additionally features a private bathroom and shower! Hang out with your fellow glampers in your own private lounge area where you can watch the balloons soar across the horizon without having to leave the proximity of your tent. Chill out by the campfire and roast sausages and s'mores, and spend quality time with your family while gathering around the picnic table. You won't want to miss out on the fun and beauty of this event, enjoying magical moments with those most special in your life.

The accommodation is only available from October 6th to the 15th (the duration of the fiesta). With close to one million people predicted to attend this year, you can expect that these accommodations are going fast. Next year, we will have an even larger presence at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, as Glamping Hub hosts its very own glamping village!

While enjoying all of the beautiful sights to be seen at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, make sure to stay in the most comfortable, luxurious setting offered on the grounds. For an unforgettable experience, book with Glamping Hub and enjoy a stay unlike any other!

To experience the best of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, click here!

1. Sonoma, California

Hands down, the best way to feel glamorous is by swirling a glass of red wine, and what better place is there to indulge than in California Wine Country? Napa Valley of Sonoma County in Northern California is home to some of the finest vineyards in the world, with optimal conditions for growing numerous varieties of grapes. What makes the environment so perfect is everything to do with the cool breeze that combs through the vineyards. At night, the crisp air chills the grapes and protects the thin, vulnerable skin. While glamping in Sonoma County, you will be able to experience the same breeze as you sip red wine cultivated on the very earth you stand upon. The best way to describe this experience is totally grounding, and you will only think about who you are sharing the moment with.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

The mountain oasis known as Asheville, North Carolina, is truly a gem in the American south and stands tall as a beacon for craft, culture, and cuisine, while boasting the energy of a bustling artistic epicenter. The inhabitants, along with glampers who visit, have an appreciation for the hand making of crafts that runs as deep as the roots of the surrounding spires of towering pine. This is apparent in the craft beer scene of Asheville, which attracts beer lovers from across the country. You may find yourself in The Thirsty Monk at one of their tastings, or for a longer event, you would certainly enjoy the city's Oktoberfest.

3. Damazan, France

While glamping in France, food lovers shall rejoice as eating well is inevitable. With traditions and recipes passed down from older generations, the French cuisine is sure to be the highlight of any visit. After collecting local produce from the town market, guests can prepare a meal inspired by the perfect surroundings. When dinner is ready, spirits are lifted as the bread is broken and the local wine is poured. Outside the French doors, the Canal Lateral reflects the bright, full moon light. What you are feeling now is within grasp at this beautiful cottage in the picturesque region of Damazan, France. Glamping here will allow you to be able to spend time with loved ones in an environment perfect for making memories.

4. Venice, Italy

Perhaps one of the most romantic destinations in the world is the one-and-only Venice, Italy. Imagine gently drifting in a gondola down a narrow canal on a warm summer day, and having just indulged in a tiramisu gelato. Glamping in Venice is truly an experience unlike most would have in Italy. Situated just outside of the city, your glamping site is just a short, beautiful boat ride away from the main square. In this bell tent, you can enjoy peaceful, quiet nights right by the coast.

5. Portland, Maine

With the Atlantic Ocean drifting onto the shores, Portland, Maine, boasts some of the freshest and most delicious seafood available. The lobster is a local legend, but the lore is for you to uncover. Discover the beautiful and historical city of Portland through the gourmet cuisine in through your taste buds. Feast on lobster rolls that boast a very liberal quantity of the coveted delicacy, warm your belly with creamy clam chowder, and try many more local favorites. To go glamping in Maine means you must come hungry for both local delicacies and plenty of adventure. Are you ready?

6. Granada, Spain

Granada, Spain, is a gastronomical city unlike anywhere else. You will not only eat well, but you will eat cheap. Order a glass of your preferred beverage, and then you will be presented with a delicious free tapa that pairs perfectly. Mind you, when you want more food, that means you will need to ask for another beverage to prompt another free tapa. Something else that sets this beautiful Spanish city apart are the amazing caves found dotted in the mountains. With polished furnishings and modern amenities, they are perfect for relaxing after a full day exploring the wonderful culinary opportunities that Granada has to offer.

7. Austin, Texas

When in Texas, glampers are going to need an appetite as big as the state itself. While Tex-Mex and Barbecue are a staple of the local cuisine, the city of Austin allows glampers to step out of their culinary comfort zone and try something new. Whether its a lively food truck festival or an unexpected fusion restaurant, glamping in Austin seamlessly mixes the perfect gastronomical adventure with fun outdoor activities that reconnect you with nature.

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Hungry for more? Head on over to Glamping Hub to check out some more fantastic getaways!

Editor's Note: We'd like to introduce you to one of our incredible Glamping Hub staff members and her experience glamping in the south of Spain! Emily, one of our Customer Support Specialists, stayed at one of these eco-friendly yurt rentals in Tarifa, Cádiz, Spain.

Choose three adjectives to describe the glamping site you stayed at before your trip and another three words to describe it post- stay. How did your expectations measure up to reality?

Before our stay, I imagined the place to be secluded, primitive, and quiet. After my stay, I would describe this place as special, equipped, and homey. The place was still so secluded and quiet, so two out of three of my previous thoughts is not bad!

What was the best part about the accommodation? How does it compare to past places you've stayed?

This experience was like no other experience I've ever had. The yurts were beautiful! The beds were comfy, the place was spotless (no bugs to be seen, surprisingly!), and the decor was earthy and romantic. Solar-powered fairy lights were scattered among the trees and bushes, guiding you to your yurt along the footpaths—the perfect detail to shed further light in the yurt as the sun went down, too.
The yurt was surrounded by trees, and as Cadiz is a windy place, we could hear the bustling of the leaves and the wind circling the yurt as we drifted off to sleep. It was the best eight-hours-a-night I've ever had!

Describe to us the area around the glamping site. What do you think the perfect time of year to stay here would be, and why?

The yurts are found down a gravel road a short drive from the center of town in Tarifa. It's far enough to feel disconnected but close enough to go in to the city if you wish.The acres of green land surrounding the place are home to horses, sheep, cows, and more—plus the views are breathtaking.

Summer is a great time of year, because the beach is only a short, eight-minute drive away, so you get the best of the mountains and beach. I do think this place would be equally as comfortable in other seasons, too, with perhaps a couple more blankets for bed time in the winter.

Tell us one thing about your first glamping experience that surprised you and why.

I always thought glamping meant that you may be restricted in certain ways but that the beauty of nature would make up for those little restrictions or amenities one is used to when staying in a hotel. I was very mistaken!

Here, you have hot showers, proper toilets, and a fully-equipped kitchen with a fridge, an oven, and a stove! There was a beautiful seating area with a modern barbecue, so I enjoyed fine wine and delicious home-cooked food throughout my stay. I did not feel deprived of anything—in fact, the exact opposite—it was a home away from home.

What is your ideal food item and beverage for a glamping trip, and why? If you have a special secret or recipe, please share with us—if you’re willing, of course!

The hosts provided us with an organic food hamper, which was a special treat for our group. We enjoyed tomatoes, avocados, fresh eggs, bread, chutneys, and marmalades that were all made by the host using products from their organic farm. They also gave us a bottle of their ecological wine...wow, delicious! Needless to say, the hamper lasted all of one breakfast for our group.

Do you prefer a more active or more relaxing getaway? Which did you opt for at the glamping site, and what was the best related activity in the area?

As this was a family trip, it was important that we could mix activities with downtime, and this place was perfect for that. There is a playground by the yurts, which is very charming: an old wooden boat converted into a climbing frame, in additino to a trampoline and two huge boxes of Lego. It was all perfect for keeping my two-year-old very occupied. That was my relaxation time and his activity time, which I spent chilling by the picnic tables outside of the yurt.

As I previously mentioned, we were extremely close to the beach and close to the mountains, which allowed us to go walking to digest all the food we consumed throughout the day. Both the kids and adults enjoyed animal watching and getting to know the on-site donkey, Pedro—not to mention Bimba and Bob, the two friendly dogs that roamed around the gardens. Off-site, there are many water sports to do, such as surfing, or you can go hiking in the mountains, too.

Fill in the end of the sentence: "This glamping site would be the perfect place for ___________________," and tell us why!

Everyone! Families because its kid-friendly,couples because its romantic, groups of friends because its close enough to whatever you want to do, whether it be city based or outdoorsy in nature. This place is ideal to spend quality time with whoever you want to—or even alone by yourself!

Would you recommend glamping to family and friends? Do you see yourself going glamping again? Let us know why!

Yes and yes. I will definitely go glamping again. These experiences are like no other and so easy with kids. They make standard hotel stays seem boring and unadventurous, so for me, there is no going back!

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To stay at this incredible yurt, click here, and for more options in Cadiz, Spain, keep exploring on Glamping Hub!

All photos were taken by Emily.

Editor's note: Each month, we'd like to introduce you to one of our wonderful Glamping Hub hosts and what inspired them to create a glamping site. This month, we have Anne, who manages a unique room rental and loft within a repurposed barn, as well as a romantic tree house—all amid the Healing Springs in Crumpler, North Carolina.

1. When was the first time you heard the term glamping?

I don't exactly remember when I first heard the term, but I thought that it perfectly suited to what I was trying to convey with some of my lodging options.

2. What inspired you to have your own glamping site?

I love the way that it makes you feel rustic, but with touches of little luxuries.

3. If you could describe your property or the glamping experience you offer in three words, what would they be?

Cozy, romantic, and comfort.

4. What was your first glamping/camping experience?

I have been camping/glamping for years! It's all about bringing little luxuries with you to enhance the experience of enjoying the outdoors.

5. Why would you recommend people to go glamping?

It allows you to appreciate the connection with nature and the outdoors without sacrificing life's little comforts.

6. What should people expect when they come to your glamping site?

Cozy, romantic luxuries surrounded by the beauty of Ashe County.

7. What makes your property unique?

The history, the Healing Spring, and the fact that we are in some of the prettiest country that North Carolina has to offer.

8. What's your favorite part about owning a glamping property?

The people! I love all the folks that I get to meet. I love hearing about what a nice time they are having and how they enjoyed my property.

9. What makes your property eco-friendly?

The use of recycled materials. Our tree house is built almost entirely out of reclaimed materials that are over 130 years old.

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Interested in a glamping getaway to North Carolina? See more of what Anne and her rustic glamping rentals can offer here, here, and here!

Editor's Note: We'd like to introduce you to one of our incredible Glamping Hub staff members and her experience at this unique pod rental in Rossendale near Manchester, England. Amy, our Partnerships Manager in the PR department, has been glamping many times before and grew up camping and traveling, but this was her first time glamping in the U.K.!

Choose three adjectives to describe the glamping site you stayed at before your trip and another three words to describe it post- stay. How did your expectations measure up to reality?

Green, quiet, and cozy were my expected adjectives for before our stay. I am happy to say that our experience was all of these adjectives, in addition to serene, peaceful, and tranquil.

What was the best part about the accommodation? How does it compare to past places you’ve stayed?

The best part of the accommodation was how unique it was! I was unsure of how to categorize these adorable wooden structures. "Huts" sounded too rural, and so did "shacks." I also heard a few new words, such as "wigwam" but that may also be too rustic. They were so nicely built, clean, and new. They were some of the most comfortable glamping accommodations I have visited.

Describe to us the area around the glamping site. What do you think the perfect time of year to stay here would be, and why?

The perfect time to visit would be early summer; however, I imagine these to be incredibly cozy in the rainy season, as well. There are miles of walking trails and artistic structures nearby that are worth seeing while the weather is nice. The grounds are so well kept, with tons of outdoor spaces to sit and listen to the creek or read a book.

Tell us one thing about your first glamping experience that surprised you and why.

I was surprised about how contemporary and well taken care of the bathrooms were. The facilities are brand new and nearby the accommodation. There is also an extensive DVD and book library in the game room, complete with a pool table.

I was also surprised how modern and cute the town of Rawtenstall is. I am not very familiar with that area, and I wrongly assumed that it would be a small country town. There are great restaurants, charming cafés, shopping, and more!

What is your ideal food item and beverage for a glamping trip, and why? If you have a special secret or recipe, please share with us—if you’re willing, of course!

My ideal food item for a glamping trip would be a boutique barbecue: artisan ciabatta buns, goat cheese, caramelized onions, bison burgers, and stuffed jalapeños with cheddar cheese and bacon bits! We were too tired after hiking all day so we opted to go out for dinner; however, you can create this special recipe right outside of the accommodations. There are barbecue starters available and nearby stores to purchase all of the necessary ingredients.

Do you prefer a more active or more relaxing getaway? Which did you opt for at the glamping site, and what was the best related activity in the area?

I enjoy both active and relaxing getaways equally. For this experience, we opted for a more relaxing weekend, with lots of walking in the countryside. My favorite activity nearby was the Singing Ringing Tree. The Singing Ringing Tree is a wind-powered sound sculpture that resembles a tree, overlooking beautiful views of Burnley.

Fill in the end of the sentence: "This glamping site would be the perfect place for ___________________," and tell us why!

A romantic getaway for a couple or a young family's first camping/outdoor adventure.

All creature comforts are available, and there are many nearby activities available—planning will be a breeze!

Would you recommend glamping to family and friends? Do you see yourself going glamping again? Let us know why!

I would recommend glamping to family and friends, as well as anyone looking for an outdoor experience with five-star facilities. Glamping is a great way to get close to nature and experience something new.

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Book today where Amy stayed or keep exploring on Glamping Hub and find your own adventure at one of our 500+ accommodations in England!

Editor's Note: This blog post was written by Sheila Miller of Yogapedia.

I was 16 the first time I took a big trip without my family or any of my friends. Everyone else knew one another, and as the new kid in an existing social structure, I had the opportunity to see the consequences of my choices clearly.

Going through our daily lives, it can be difficult to detangle our own patterns and habits from the world around us. Doing so is a crucial part of the yogic practice. The yogic sages taught that in order to create lasting transformation in our lives, we must extract ourselves from karmic and behavioral patterns, called samskaras. If karma is not a concept you find helpful, consider that the patterns of belief and interpersonal interaction in your family are probably much older than you are.

That first experience of traveling alone gave my 16-year-old self a chance to determine which sufferings I could directly control, and the three-and-a-half weeks I was away convinced me I had the courage to make difficult changes and face adversity alone. When I returned, I made two big changes. My life has been better ever since.

While that might not sound like yoga at first, one of the most critical aspects of a yoga practice is study of the self. Our physical prowess amounts to mere tricks if it doesn't relieve our suffering and change our behavior when we are in challenging situations.

Read on for more information: Svadhyaya: Spend a Lifetime Getting to Know Yourself & Deepening Your Yoga Practice

Removed from our usual surroundings, we can see ourselves more clearly. The process of using our powers of reason, analysis, and observation to learn about ourselves connects to every other part of the yoga practice. In the remainder of this article, I'll offer three ways travel can further inspire your yoga practice.

New Beginnings

Any disruption to our schedules can be an opportunity to form new, positive habits or abandon negative ones. Whether you'd like to eat oatmeal every day or begin setting aside 10 minutes daily for pranayama, a shift in your schedule and priorities gives a window in which to make it happen.

In addition to being free from many of our usual time constraints, we are less subject to the patterns and habits that govern us when we are outside of our usual environment. Before your next trip, you might choose a habit or activity that would bring you joy and plant the seeds of that life each day during your journey.

During an extended trip to Costa Rica, I finally started using my Neti Pot daily. Those fantastical sounding claims about it improving your sleep (among many other benefits)? They proved true for me.

Going Deeper

Yoga can be the purpose for travel, too. Setting time aside for dedicated practice, such as going to a retreat, can help you break through plateaus and elevate the baseline satisfaction you experience with your practice.

There are so many yoga and meditation retreats that it can be hard to choose. I recommend finding a teacher from whom you'd like to learn, a technique or practice you'd like to spend time with, or a place to which you feel a connection.

A retreat enables you to gather a store of resources to call upon when you return to daily life and to meet yourself very intimately. I did my first week-long, silent meditation retreat 20 years ago, and I still learn lessons from it to this day.

Letting Go

Even while traveling, we aren't free of our habits, patterns, and conditioning. A journey puts us outside of our comfort zone; it's up to us what we do while we're there.

One of Patanjali’s sutras on yoga that I have found especially helpful to work with while traveling is this one, Heyam duhkham anaagatam (Yoga Sutra II.16), which may be translated as "future suffering can be avoided." This means that if it hasn't happened yet, then we still have room to intervene.

Travel allows us to feel and to experience our own reactions to thoughts and circumstances. The clutter in our minds and hearts of needing to pay the bills, be at work and so on, quiets, and we have an opening through which to see what we would like to change.

Realizing we wish to change something in our lives can be frightening. Still, this is one of the most potent ways in which travel can fuel our practice of yoga. Simultaneously, being out of our usual environment affords us affirmation that we'll be alright. Through change, comings and goings, fear, and comfort, we'll be alright.

For tips on how to keep your sadhana while traveling: Yoga for Your Travels

OM To-Go

The main idea is this: Seeing the world and the lives of others helps us to better see ourselves and the impact of our actions more clearly. No matter where you go or whether you can bring your yoga mat, you can still bring your practice. Happy travels!

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