Friday, October 5, 2012

If you like snow...

When we were in Gatlinburg a few days ago, we talked with several of the locals.  The weather word at this point is that the winter of 2012-2013 could be very different from the last winter.

The 2011-2012 winter was practically a non-event, with mild temperatures and very little snow.  But that could change for the coming winter.  Colder and more snow!  That's what we heard from the folks we spoke with.

We decided to check out the rumors.  So we went to the Web site for the Old Farmer's Almanac.  They seem to be saying the same thing.  You can check it out for yourself at this link:  http://www.almanac.com/weather/longrange/region/us/8.

Now, please don't think we're trying to scare you away.  Yes, our cabins are up in the mountains over Gatlinburg.  But in 16 years of renting them, we have had only 2 or 3 times when guests were either snowed in or couldn't get to one of the cabins.  And if you are really concerned, we offer comprehensive travel insurance on our reservation site at a very modest price that may protect you against weather difficulties.   

But if you're a snow lover - or a skiier - you're gonna have a blast!  We're only about 10 minutes from Ober Gatlinburg.  And starting on January 2, 2013, the rates drop to only $159.00 per night (plus tax).  So make your reservations now, while we still have good availability and you can get the dates you want.  If you have more questions, please write to me - Dave - at dave@smokiesrentdirect.com.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

After the rain...

We made a very fast trip to All Decked Out in Gatlinburg on Monday night, arriving after dark ... in the rain!  The forecast was for more rain today.  But after a brief early-morning shower, the sun peaked through the clouds, which were very low.  In fact, we were in the clouds!  I grabbed my camera and took a few exterior pictures - like this one:



















Then I went over to the house across the street and took this picture from their deck:


















The point is this.  Sometimes we hear people say, "Oh, I don't want to go to Gatlinburg if it's going to rain."  But these pictures are proof that some of the best scenes are in periods where it is raining or has just finished raining.  Don't let the weather stop you.  It's beautiful in Gatlinburg in all types of weather!

We'll tell you more about this trip in coming posts.  As usual, there is lots going on!