From Camping to Glamping Comfort Under the Stars

FROM CAMPING TO

COMFORT UNDER THE STARS

Story by Mary Miller | Photo & Design by Katie Jo Stewart

Camping is traditionally geared around getting back to basics, the bare essentials. Glamping, or glamorous camping, on the other hand, is all about enjoying a natural setting in a primitive dwelling that is decked out with all the luxuries. You can relax with all the modern amenities.

Both camping and glamping start with the decision to visit a beautiful destination. Enjoy what nature offers: inspiring sunrises and colorful sunsets, majestic mountain scenes, refreshing clean air and calming bodies of water. When glamping, rather than a basic tent you can enjoy a cozy shelter such as a cabin, an RV, a safari tent or a yurt. Even tree houses have been set up by some as glamping destinations. For your sleeping pleasure while glamping, a real mattress is a must. Imagine climbing into bed: you sink into a memory foam mattress, are enveloped in a luxurious comforter and surrounded by many fluffy pillows. After waking, you sit up and push your toes into a plush throw rug adorning the floor. String lighting decorates the ceiling. The next necessity for glamping is conjuring a way to relax. Lie back in an outdoor lounging chair with a large, colorful umbrella overhead. Enjoy a cocktail or your favorite drink, while reading a book or browsing the internet. Of course, there is a portable power station nearby and a side table conveniently available. Gourmet meals are the fare for the glamping life, rather than cooking over a campfire, unless that is your pleasure. If you choose a campfire, or a propane barbeque, you could flame broil filet mignon smothered in buttered mushrooms. Delivery or a night out at the nearest village pub are also options. Whether you are camping or glamping, s’mores cooked over campfire coals are a delightful tradition. Glamp up your s'mores using chocolate mint patties, peanut butter cups or truffles in place of just plain chocolate bars. If you want to enjoy the beauty of nature without giving up the comforts of home, consider treating yourself to the glamping experience.