American Glamping Business Issue 1

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Business

USA Special Issue

Frontier

The New Inside:

California Glamping Summit Preview Interview: John Romfo from Paws Up MaryJane Butters’ Amazing Airstream Renovation

Inspiration and Information for Glamping Operators Gl mping 00 Business

SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY Management Classifieds Business 2019-2020

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Holiday Parks

In March we will publish our second International Glamping Business Suppliers’ Directory If you have a product or service for the glamping sector you can be included for FREE Visit www.glampingbusiness.com to sign up for your free listing today

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Global Glamping Summit

USA Special

Connect the dots of outdoor tourism

AcroSS the USA The variety of natural landscapes across the US is breathtaking. This single country spans a distance of 1650 miles north to south and 2,800 miles east to west across the 48 contiguous states.

There’s a lot of outdoors to dive into. So it’s not surprising that glamping is taking off in the US as more and more travellers are demanding experiences that take them closer to nature.

“We are at the forefront of a huge wave in the US – glamping is going to be huge and we are positioned to be swept along with it ...”

Laurie Womer from Denver Tent Co, speaking about Global Glamping Summit Denver

Don’t mIss the boat: ConneCt wIth the Us DemanD for glampIng It’s the right time to be looking at setting up or taking your glamping business to the US and the Global Glamping Summit is the only US event to bring together those who share a passion for the outdoors and want to make it accessible to more travellers than ever before.

Glamping is a natural gateway for operators to access the demand for other growing outdoor trends, for example ecotourism and wellness tourism. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the wellness tourism market stood at $639 billion in 2017 and the wellness economy has grown by 6.4% annually from 20152017.1 While other sectors have suffered in the recent global financial slowdown, it’s clear consumer demand for outdoor tourism isn’t going anywhere. “in terms of experiences for guests I think that more exciting players will be moving into the industry and pushing the boundaries of imagination. ... a few will push the boundaries and bring some really

exciting experiences which I can't wait to hear about and experience myself. I couldn't imagine a better time to be doing this frankly.” Sonny Vrebac, Bubble Tent - Global Glamping Summit California Speaker The opportunities in the outdoor tourism market look to be only increasing as US travellers are looking beyond Africa’s safari parks for that once in a lifetime experience and are now searching closer to home.

lookIng for a CompetItIve aDvantage? ConneCt wIth soUrCes of InspIratIon The surge in demand for glamping is compelling, but don’t be lulled into thinking it offers those who are unimaginative a way to make a fast buck.

The trends we’ve been witnessing in the UK are also evident in the US: more potential operators are spotting the opportunity and setting up business leading to greater competition and increasing expectations from guests.

Sonny Vrebac, drawing on his experience of guiding Bubble Tent from nothing to generating millions of dollars of publicity, says “I think in an increasingly competitive market it's not just enough to put a yurt tent in your backyard and expect it to blow people away, what would you as a guest need to scream 'wow' and tell all your friends about?”

In search of the latest inspiration, the Global Glamping Summit California is blazing a trail beyond the Denver event with exhibitors showing full size, fully pitched tents. It’s the most tangible and interactive glamping dedicated expo in the US. If you’re serious about launching or growing your business in the US then

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you need to: 1. Experience accommodation structures for yourself: see and feel the high quality product and the light, spacious interior of a Bell or Safari tent.

2. Talk directly to exhibitors to visualise how you’ll find and transform a site to get guests to embrace glamorous camping there.

The growing list of confirmed exhibitors is up on the website so have a look now at the innovative suppliers, products and solutions lined up for Summit attendees.

from praCtICal ‘how-tos’ to lIghtbUlb moments: ConneCt wIth soUrCes of learnIng If you were there, you’ll have felt what we mean by the buzz in the seminar room at Denver. Sessions led by the pioneers of US glamping set the event alight with conversation and ideas. For California, expect an agenda that builds on that with practical know how, insights gleaned from personal journeys, common pitfalls and how to avoid them, quirky accommodation answers and unconventional approaches that lead to success.

The agenda is carefully curated to offer valuable insight for newly established operators and those further down the road who are looking to scale up by offering a separate stream for each.

Keynote sessions and panel discussions at the start of each day bring all attendees into one room to share ideas and learn from each other. Then you will zero in either Exploration & Creation or Growth & Innovation for practical and detailed learning concentrated on your biggest challenges. See the website for the full program.

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Global Glamping Summit

USA Special global glampIng sUmmIt CalIfornIa - speaker profIles key note & panel speakers

Ruben Martinez, Glamping Hub Ruben Martinez is the co-founder of Glamping Hub and Glamping With Pets, booking platforms, and technology dedicated to outdoor and unique glamping accommodations for guests looking for direct access to mother nature. With accommodations listed all over the world, Glamping Hub has become the market experts in the US and beyond. Property owners not only come to Glamping Hub to list their glamping accommodations for daily bookings but also to build custom booking technology for corporate events and other consulting services.

Glamping Hub has offices in Denver Colorado and Seville Spain with over 100 employees.

coveted Inc. 5000 list and Sarah was named to the EY Entrepreneurial Winning Womenlist from Ernst & Young. In 2018, Sarah co-founded the American Glamping Association with a goal of bringing consumer clarity to the fast-growing industry by providing accreditation to U.S. glamping properties that meet a baseline standard.

Neil Dipaola, Autocamp Neil is an expert in California coastal land use policy, affordable housing law, and sustainable development, and is a frequent guest lecturer for the Environmental Studies and Economics Programs at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

He has led the successful development of numerous, high profile public-private urban infill developments, hospitality developments, and college housing communities. He was recently awarded California’s highest environmental honor – The Governor’s Economic and Environmental Leadership Award – by Governor Jerry Brown, and the California Environmental Protection Agency for his work to develop prototype net-zero energy buildings.

in the unique position of having experience building, living in and commercially managing and renting various structure types.

Tim’s personal interest is in the development of alternative ways to live healthily and helping evolve the glamping industry with his ‘Forward to nature’ principle coupled with the vision of ‘quirky quality’.

Sonny Vrebac, Bubbletent Australia Sonny is cofounder of Bubbletent Australia with his partner Mayu, a new glamping site overlooking the widest canyon in the world- Capertee Valley.

Located in Australia’s Central tablelands some 3hrs away from Sydney.

A new Glampreneur, he stems from a theatrical background and a litany of startups with mixed success.

exploratIon & CreatIon stream

Sarah Dusek, Under Canvas Sarah Dusek founded adventure hospitality company Under Canvas Inc. alongside husband Jacob Dusek in 2009.

As CEO, Sarah strategically guides the brand while overseeing the development of future camps at some of America’s most beautiful destinations. In 2017, Under Canvas received a spot on the

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Tim Rees, Quality Unearthed Tim Rees is one of the UK’s leading experts in Glamping.

Founder of Quality Unearthed, an agency representing glamping structures in the UK and France, Tim is

Sarah Riley, Inspired Camping Sarah Riley is a professionally qualified business coach and visibility specialist who started her consultancy after jointly running a boutique hospitality business and being involved in the glamping industry for many years. She now shares techniques in her internationally acclaimed Glamping Business Start-Up Guide and Marketing Masterclass to help unique vacation rental owners set up their business, attract more guests and increase their profits in this increasingly competitive industry.

Global Glamping Summit

USA Special

Mackenzie O’Donnell, Mendocino Magic Mackenzie owns and operates Mendocino Magic in Northern California. The 600 acre former logging camp and commercial fishery transitioned into a year round campground in May of 2015 and is heralded as one of the most popular destinations for camping in the Emerald Triangle region, featuring the Holland Reservoir for campers to enjoy for private use. The campground was given a boost with the help of online marketing partner Hipcamp, whose servers and network allow the public to peruse and book available campsites online.

Kelsey Sheofsky, Shelter Co. Founders Kelsey and Mike Sheofsky launched Shelter Co. in 2012, at the helm of the glamping phenomenon.

Shelter Co. has produced corporate retreats for Google and Nike, full-scale 'glamp' sites at music festivals and private wedding weekends around the country.

Their unique trifecta of full-service events, rentals, and retail is part of what makes Shelter Co. unique from others in the industry.

growth & InnovatIon stream

David Leventhal, Playa Viva David is a high energy entrepreneur with tremendous knowledge across many subjects including sustainable travel and hospitality, conservation, and community development. He blends business savvy with a passion for social and environmental impact. He and his wife Sandra created Playa Viva which opened in 2009.

The hotel has received many accolades not only for Best of Show Hospitality Design for the bamboo treehouse but also for the Regenerative Business practices of the hotel.

Scott Hale, Brand New Stay Scott Hale is the founder and Chief Experience Officer of Brand New Stay®; a company specializing in redefining, reimagining, and reinventing hospitality venues and the guest experience.

Scott also founded LEANTO® which outfits and operates Luxury Camping experiences in the Northwest.

LEANTO® glamping in Moran State Park on Orcas Island launched in 2015, and offers fully-outfitted glamping sites.

Glampers enjoy Moran State Park’s 5,252-acres, 5 freshwater lakes, and over 30 miles of hiking trails with jawdropping vistas. In addition to a fiercely loyal guest base, LEANTO® also enjoys lots of media attention.

Alexis Stephens & Christian Parsons, The Tiny House Expedition Alexis Stephens and Christian Parsons are filmmakers, DIY tiny house dwellers, and

community educators. As cofounders of Tiny House Expedition, they are inspiring others to redefine home and rethink housing through thoughtprovoking storytelling, resource sharing and educational events. Their documentary work follows the people, culture and legal obstacles of the tiny house movement, and includes the acclaimed educational docu-series, Living Tiny Legally. They travel across North America with their tiny home and have visited numerous tiny house resorts and communities. With over 50,000 miles so far, they are humbly the world’s most traveled tiny house on wheels!

Ryan Miller, Autocamp With more than 10 years of experience as a creative strategist, Ryan leads the marketing and brand team at AutoCamp.

He co-founded AutoCamp with its first property, which opened in Santa Barbara in 2013. Following a wildly successful opening in Santa Barbara, Ryan was a key contributor to the opening of AutoCamp Russian River in 2016.

As a lover of the outdoors, Ryan graduated with a degree in Environmental Science from UC Santa Barbara. is passionate about travel and design, and resides in San Francisco, California.

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Glamping Association Interview

USA Special

The Dawn of

the AmericAn GlAmpinG ASSociAtion you announced the new glamping association at the Denver Conference what can visitors to the California global glamping summit expect to see 6 months on?

industry to see it become the giant it can become see us positioned well to help guide it into the future.

Sarah: The formal launch of the Association! We are now just about ready to start receiving applications for membership to really spearhead the acceleration of the association. Gaining members is now what we’re ready for!

Ruben: The idea is that we want to tackle the standardization gap in the glamping industry. Currently, because of the high growth of glamping in the US, there exists a need to provide business owners with the tools and resources so that they can provide a consistent experience for their guests. This will keep their guests coming back and help move the industry forward as a whole. As well, often new business owners can feel like they are taking on this endeavor on their own and our goal is to connect operators at all stages to the tools and resources that will help elevate their business.

why do you think you are best positioned to lead a trade association for the industry?

Ruben: Sarah and I have seen this industry grow the past several years and after countless conversations we agreed that this association is just what the glamping industry needs. It’s the right time here in the States to launch it and the demand for the resources that the association can bring became obvious after conversations with stakeholders in the US glamping community.

Sarah and I come from different backgrounds within the industry, which makes this partnership a strong one. Our intentions are to see the community grow and move in the right direction and the association is a platform to launch the industry forward.

Sarah: I don’t know that anyone feels qualified to launch out and do something they’ve never done before but that is what true entrepreneurs are doing all the time. As Ruben mentions, we both have been involved in the glamping industry for 8 plus years and have seen it grow dramatically in that time. We believe our expertise in leading our respective fields and our passion for the

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what issues are uppermost for the association?

Sarah: I couldn’t have said that better myself!

will you lobby for the industry at government level and if so - what areas are you looking out for?

Sarah: I certainly believe over time it may well become very appropriate for the association to lobby the government on certain issues that will affect all involved in the glamping industry.

Currently, for example, we are seeing the seasonal international students J1 workers program threatened in the US which would make hiring seasonal employees even more difficult than it already is in a tough jobs market. Being vocal about the issues and regulations that affect the industry will be a great role for the association to play.

Glamping Association Interview

USA Special

international Glamping Business catches up with Sarah Dusek of Under canvas and ruben martinez of Glamping hub to find out how the association is developing, what its main objectives will be and how US glamping businesses will be able to benefit from membership

what benefits can an association member expect to receive?

Ruben: The members will have a variety of benefits that will be centered around education and networks. Members will have access to member only tools and resources such as blog/podcasts/newsletter etc. We will also be providing an accreditation process that new and existing owners can go through and attain. This will verify that they are in line with the high expectations of the US glamping community.

Sarah: initially our first members will also play a significant role in shaping the association, in helping us set the standards we all want to adhere to and will play a very strategic role in developing the association.

will the association bring in expertise in areas such as zoning/legal/health and safety and how?

Sarah: Eventually, I’m sure yes. One of the resources we hope to provide over time is to provide access to information for people thinking about creating a new glamping site and those who are trying to understand how to permit a glamping location.

what has the reaction been to the glamping association thus far?

Ruben: The initial reaction to the association thus far has been very positive. This is an initiative that is a long time coming and is not only exciting for the industry as a whole but will positively affect business owners across all levels for years to come. The excitement comes from the recognition within the

industry that there is a need for tools and resources that will help elevate the business owner throughout their journey as an operator.

how do you plan to recruit new members?

The landing page has gained a decent traction through articles and social media and we have an initial list that has proven to be a great starting point for us. The Global Glamping Summit will be a great venue to inform the community about the association and what they can expect by joining it.

where will your meetings take place with members?

Sarah: We will likely have annual meetings in Denver and possibly sub-meetings in California once a year.

who else, if any, will make up the association team?

Drew Rhamy is on the ground here in Denver supporting our efforts for the AGA. Sarah: Currently the board consists of Robert Frisch from Firelight Camps . Myself, Ruben and David Monkman is the Director of the Financial Investment Group at the private equity company National Community Development Fund, following more than 15 years of economic development consulting.

Sarah Dusek and Ruben Martinez will be keynote speakers at the Global Glamping Summit.

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Lotus Belle Interview

USA Special

rolling stone Turned Glamping Belle

Jesica haden Walsh was travelling and working the festival scene when she came across the lotus Belle tent and its designer harriet Seddon. She tells us how a can-do attitude, social media savvy and the ability to say hi to everyone has built up a multi-national business (albeit a family one with a sales team of two). She is now setting up her own site in Byron Bay, cracking the USA and managing to avoid burn-out along the way… Steph curtis-raleigh finds out more Can you give us the background of how you co-founded lotus belle?

My home country is New Zealand but I spent a brilliant three years living in the UK. Many Kiwis gravitate there, as we have a strong ancestral connection. With a background in the film industry and PR, my skills found their way into the festival scene in the UK during the years of 20092012, when glamping was really starting to take off. With festivals like Glastonbury where the local area housed a tiny population and no hotels; the natural solution was to start creating pop-up hotels.

Christmas when I was 6 my folks bought my sister and I a Sir Edmund Hillary tent from Sears in New York. I kept it until I was about 25. It was similar to Kodiak in design. Since then, I was always on the lookout for my dream tent. I went through a few on my stint in the UK and then saw a very early prototype of the Lotus Belle in Wales (not far from where Hari lived) and just fell in love. It needed a bit of modifying for Down Under and that’s why we came up with the Outback. By making small modifications and marketing Lotus Belle as an “all weather tent” with varying models and accessories, it gave it global appeal.

I teamed up with Harriet Seddon the founder/designer and started Lotus Belle New Zealand, quickly followed by Lotus Belle Australia

how have you gone about growing the business since 2012 and expanding into new territories?

what was it about the tents that first attracted you and why do you think they are so loved the world over?

Harriet and I both had the same love of camping as kids. It seems we sort of had parallel lives in a way, on opposite sides of the globe. We both had tent bedrooms and spent long summers outdoors. For

It was an interesting journey. I’d not run a business before but knew I had it in me. I started out in my parents’ garage with very little money. I built my own website from scratch and utilised 3rd party sales sites like eBay, ETSY and Trademe. I also did a lot of “show and tells” which were invaluable because I started to connect with my customers and really understand what they wanted. The biggest success was Facebook in those early days. I was almost fanatical

with posting and kept my audience engaged. Before I knew it, we’d reached 100K followers. Having that social media audience has been a huge part of our success. We have a strong and loyal following and we also actively promote our customers, particularly the ones with their own businesses. We really want them to succeed!

what have been the highlights of the journey for the company?

Launching in the US was pretty amazing.

Again, I didn’t really know anyone and I started to go to festivals. In fact I reached out to customers and said, “Hi I’m Jessica, I see you have a Lotus Belle and I’d love to meet you”. I think Americans were blown away by that. Here’s this Kiwi gal wanting to meet people who had bought the tent.

Sort of like Croc Dundee saying “G’day” to everyone as he walks down the streets of Manhattan! But that’s how I was raised, my parents came off sheep farms and we said ‘Hi’ to everyone. Before long, I had calls from the likes of Soho House in West Hollywood asking me to do celebrity parties with the tents at Coachella. The word was getting around and I started to get publicity. We ended up in Forbes Magazine and countless other highlights.

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Lotus Belle Interview

USA Special I’ve recently been hand-picked to appear on one of Kevin Harrington’s shows (one of the founders of Shark Tank/Dragons Den).

I feel blessed to be someone who has helped put glamping on the world map.

what if anything, would you have done differently?

I made myself very accessible and did start to go through a burn-out phase. I have a very supportive family and my Dad is working for the company, so I’m lucky.

The recipe to me being able to do what I do is taking my downtime over September and that includes an annual fast. Some people don’t understand why I do that, but it’s an imperative re-set for me. I have to be disciplined; I work across 11 time zones.

I don’t know if I’d have done anything differently because I was so passionate when I started, that a bit of burn-out is inevitable, but when I see fellow entrepreneurs at the same stage I was back then and they ask for advice I always say “don’t burn out”. It’s easy to get blindsided, especially when you start as a grass-roots business and grow fast. Have friends in business too. That’s been invaluable. No one understands it better than someone who has been through it.

what should those joining the glamping sector as operators consider in the first instance?

Absolutely buy a quality product. You will get a much better return on your investment in the long run. If you think you are saving money buying an unnamed brand tent on Alibaba – think again. I can’t tell you how many conversations I’ve had with people, almost in tears who have just bought a badly made product with no customer support. We offer a 2-year manufacture warranty and a lifetime of support.

The other thing is don’t over extend yourself. It’s nice to think about lavish bathrooms etc. but it’s expensive. If you need to lower your prices and start off with an eco-chemical toilet or composting toilet then do that. Just make your customers aware. As long as you communicate, then they will be happy. At the end of the day, they are looking for an authentic

experience. Once you have a few bookings under your belt then you can look into upgrading into better facilities.

how does the Us market differ from others you are involved in?

I think the market in the US is behind but catching up to the UK and Australia and New Zealand. It’s a tricky place, because there is so much big business and you’re the little guy and that can be overwhelming but you just have to know your audience and develop their loyalty.

In the US, they think we are much bigger than we are. A well-known camping brand has 200 people in the call centre. We have 2! But we actually offer longer customer support hours than they do and longer warranties. I make sure people are aware we are a family-run business and I’m not afraid to ask for help and be appreciative of the help I get. Its humbling being in the presence of so many greats but we’ve got a loyal following and are growing. Everyone started somewhere.

teenager, I had a vision of creating a place for people to come, ground in and connect with nature. It’s in Byron Bay, a place I adore, there’s a lot of work to be done but we’ll eventually be offering farm to table food, retreats, yoga, music and of course glamping. I am also focussed at bringing Americans to the area, having been up there for 5 years now I have many great connections. Support from the likes of Global Yoga Teacher Shiva Rea and a vibrant community of inspired people all wanting to be a part of it, so watch this space. Instagram is @byronbayboomajarril we’d love you to come stay!

as an avid environmentalist, how do you think that glamping can grow responsibly as a sector?

It’s already doing a lot. If you look at the throw-away culture of buying a cheap nylon tent and leaving it on the field, well glamping is the opposite.

People are coming back to nature. It takes them out of their comfort zone (yes even when you glamp, you may get a spider in your tent) but the majority of people are thankful.

I had guests camp recently and it was torrential rain all weekend. I felt awful and even considered a discount but they just told me, “No, no we are happy. We have food, we are warm and dry and we are connecting and having a great time”. I was so happy I nearly cried because that’s what its all about.

what will the lotus belle company look like five years from now?

That’s the hardest question! We are constantly evolving, learning and growing from each other. We are bringing out new products, listening to our customers and trying to make the best tents we can. There are a few copycats on the market now, which is sad but flattering but we have such a great following and people can see our dedication so at the end of the day that’s what matters.

you are working on a project in australia – can you tell us more about it?

I’d like to see expansions into retail, though it’s a difficult product for that but our new Air Beam Bud is very portable and perfectly situated for retail so I hope it will do well.

I’ve fulfilled my lifelong dream of starting my own glamping retreat called Boomajarril. It means “home of the little people” in Aboriginal. Even before I knew what glamping was, way back as a young

I’d like to see more Lotus Belle glamp sites across the world and more wonderful collaborations with people. The sky is the limit!

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Site Review

US contributor rendy regtuit of supplier Woodytent interviews her customer nancy Sweeney of Woods of eden, due to open next year about the process of planning, building and marketing her new site, Woods of eden.

Getting Started In glampIng by rendy regtuit (Woodytent inc) In the middle of Bar Harbor island, Maine, is a beautiful spot where the ‘Woods of Eden’ glamping site can be found. On its grounds it has 4 Lodge tents with a bathroom and kitchen unit. It will offer the ultimate ‘glamping experience’, away from busy life, in the middle of nature and close to beautiful Acadia National Park. Ideal for hikers and bikers, or people who just want a peaceful retreat.

“I like to spoil my guests”, says Nancy Sweeney developer of this unique glamping site, set to open in Spring

2019. After studying Tripadvisor, she knew what her customers would like and created some starting points to consider: no visible road, no noise. Nancy decided that it must be a quiet setting, attractive and secluded. Together with a realtor they looked for the perfect spot.

Zoning proved to be a bit of an issue. “It would not be commercial, not residential, not a campground, so how would you call this; a glamping site?” Nancy spoke with several town managers to see how they would define it, but due to the lack

of glamping in the area, they didn’t know what to call this new way of enjoying the outside without giving up on comfort and luxury.

She found a perfect spot at Seabury Drive. Not being a developer herself, Nancy looked for help to put up a financial plan and found the Score Business Association. At Score, experienced mentors help with the financial side of the glamping business, leaving the owners free to focus on set up and management. Score is a national

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Site Review

association and is open to anybody who needs help to establish a new company.

Nancy brought the financial plan to the bank and they agreed on a loan as investment for a first round of 4 tents to be followed by another 4 tents next year.

Expecting the ROI (return of investment) to be paid back in 4 years, the glampground ‘Woods of Eden’ promises a much longer life.

The Bar Harbor season is from mid-May to mid-October. During the spring, the luxury tents will be rented for a minimum 3 night stay, during the high season they will be rented out on a weekly basis (Saturday to Saturday) and when autumn arrives, the accommodation will return to the 3 night stay system. The price will follow the market, with autumn pricing being slightly higher than spring due to the fall colours and increased demand. “The uniqueness of this new type of accommodation is so attractive that customers are willing to pay a good price for it. My target group is the younger families, 2 parents with kids, but I can see bachelorette parties, walking clubs, or extended Family outings too,” adds Nancy.

“I shall also provide glamping for a special group. Those who rely on a wheelchair. The special ‘ADA tent’ can be entered by a small ramp. Inside it offers a lot of space for the wheelchair. This tent sleeps a family of 4. The shower and toilet are spacious as is the master bedroom. There are many rental possibilities at the island but not a lot of them offer the possibility to enjoy being outside in nature with family in a comfortable setting while bound to the use of a wheelchair. I think this group is overlooked and I had a very strong feeling that it could work! Together with Woodytent I now can offer this special tent, I am very happy about it.”

essentials. In the bathroom I offer luxury toiletries for showering. For colder periods I think I might offer an electrical sheet/blanket.”

Nancy concludes, “Score advised me to make us of a professional marketing and publicity company. So I did this and I am

happy with my decision as I know this is a process that needs constant attention, which I could not take care of alongside my other job. My marketing company made the website, creates Facebook adverts and has contact with magazines and does so much more to market my business.”

“I will always meet and greet the glampers for a personal welcome at the site. I like to connect with them. I constantly update the instruction and tourist information book which gives basic information about the stay and also details about the great hiking trails. In the lodge tent I provide linen and paper products next to coffee, tea and kitchen

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Restoration Project

USA Special

MaryJane’s InCreDIble

Airstream Restoration First lady of Glamping - maryJane Butters takes us through a step by step guide to restoring the classic American Airstream

I knew exactly what I was getting into— my nose let me know I was in for a ride.

One of my farmhands owned a 1968 Safari 22-foot Airstream but said the sound and smell of mice in the walls was getting to him. I asked if he’d sell it to me and then help me renovate it. He was game. Once it was done, I towed it through several states, but since then, I’ve built a permanent shelter over it and have been offering it to my farmstay B&B guests.

The reason I’m keen on sharing what it takes to bring a travel trailer back to its former glory is to encourage you to take a second look at those “trailer relics” you might think are too far gone, because, unlike the six canvas wall tents I offered to farmstay guests for nine years, a trailer has staying power.

With the Airstream restoration crossed off my list, I’m almost done restoring a 1957 two-door 23-foot Yellowstone trailer that I’ll also offer to farmstay guests.

After so much use, my tents were fatigued, which is why I decided to upgrade my B&B (opened in 2004) to a mix of vintage trailers (with RV hookups), fire pits, and covered pavilions with all the amenities of home minus the walls. And gardens and an orchard to eat from, and milk and cheeses from my cows, and eggs from my chickens.

Obviously, water was getting in—the main sources in this instance were leaky window seals.

The first step was to remove the panels.

Taking out rivets is easier than you think.

Grab a drill bit the size of your rivets and put the tip into the hole in the center of the rivet. (It will look like a tiny donut.)

Drill until it disappears, freeing up what the rivet is attaching (in this case, the walls). Be careful not to drill past the

Apart from the evidence of mice in the Airstream I took on, there was floor mold, which is never a good sign.

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Restoration Project

USA Special a 12-volt battery) and household-type wiring. I didn’t want to bother with lowvoltage wiring, so I put in a call to a licensed electrician.

rivet head into the soft aluminum sheeting. After you’ve drilled all the rivets in a panel, use a pry bar to work the panel loose.

In both ends of the Airstream, there were fiberglass panels instead of aluminum panels. These also helped structurally to strengthen both ends, but I didn’t like them. The front panel had a shelf as part of the fiberglass unit that I knew I wouldn’t want. What did I do? I discarded them and put down new strips of wood.

Underneath the panels, there was a strange black goo (mouse droppings) along with some mold from the leaky window seals. No wonder it stank to high heaven. The mice had built a highway system in the fiberglass insulation.

Next, the floor came out, using a pry bar.

That’s when I knew why I’d decided to take up the recently installed faux wood floor; the plywood subfloor was rotten in places and needed to be replaced. It wasn’t as bad as some trailers I’ve seen; it was a matter of patching it in a couple of places using a skill saw to cut out the old wood, paying close attention to where the steel framing was below the subfloor.

Travel trailers usually have both lowvoltage wiring (lighting, etc., that runs off

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Make sure you have several cans of expanding-foam gap filler. You’re going to need it. Partially used cans don’t store well, so the foam needs to be used all at once with few delays. Find every conceivable air gap and fill it with foam.

When the foam bulges (it will), you’ll need to trim it flush to the finished surfaces. It cuts off easily using a razor blade.

I took out the existing toilet and blackwater holding tank for sewer waste and opted for just a gray-water discharge. (I’m not a stranger to a porta-potty. I lived without an indoor privy for some 39 years, raising my family with an outhouse instead.) I filled the hole with foam. But since then, for the convenience of my B&B guests, I’ve installed a flush toilet that’s hooked up to our farm’s septic system.

Next, I insulated the trailer. For curved panels, I settled on foil-faced, polybubble insulation, and in some cases, This wasn’t just a face-mask job, it was a respirator/monkey-suit/rubber-gloves job.

After all the unmentionables were removed, it was thoroughly washed down using a sponge and rubbing alcohol.

rigid insulation scored on the convex side to conform to a particular arc.

Once it was insulated, some of the painted aluminum panels were cleaned and riveted back in place where they belonged.

Now it’s time for your electrician to show up. I wanted lots of outlets plus wiring for an AC, cable TV, Internet, fridge, and phone. Make sure that when your wiring is going through the “studs” or frame of your trailer, it routes through plastic ports. It’s absolutely necessary to keep all electrical chases through metal protected from chafe, strain, and abrasion. There’s a whole lotta chafing goin’ on when you’re on the road.

Restoration Project

USA Special While the electrician was wiring my trailer, it was time to redo the windows. I visited my local hardware stores and searched the Internet. The entry door, windows, opening vents, and baggage or utility doors and hatches all required different seals. There are modern, lowprofile, two-sided adhesive seal tapes you can get online and at professional glaziers that can make glass installation easy.

Now, the floor. There are a million floor options, but I was feeling so guilty about all the mouse goo and poo I took to the landfill that I went to our local building recyclers and brought home enough maple planks from a former basketball court to cover the entire floor of the trailer for only $525. It took some sanding and extra work and love, but it’s gorgeous.

For the storage area beneath the bed, I didn’t need to use the decorative paneling, so this was a good place for more of the door skins, painted white to match the walls. I also painted the existing wheel-well covers.

Use only good butyl caulking for your fixed windows. This is also THE type to use for any metal-to-metal patches to the body, vent flashings, or other fixtures exposed to the weather.

I picked out an Enviro Ascot freestanding propane cast-iron fireplace at my local building-supply store. I also had them order a can of high-heat paint so I could change its color from black to ivory.

Remember to bolt your fireplace securely to the wall and/or floor and be sure that the venting and gas plumbing is done to meet all installation standards. The stove was bolted to the floor with a washer in between. When my trailer was in motion on the road, the ceramic logs and castiron top had to be removed and stowed.

Now, back to the walls. I added pizzazz to the walls and ceiling with decorative thermoplastic backsplash panels. To hold them in place while the glue dried and to apply pressure to the glue tape that adheres the panels, a bit of bracing was in order. After some head scratching, I used strips of scrap plywood cut slightly longer than the height of the ceiling, then “sprung” into place using the stiffness and flexibility of the wood to create a firm brace.

Now, the ends. This was tricky. I settled on some 1/8-inch maple panels sold as replacement “skins” for hollow doors.

They were free of knots and flexible and were easy to work with.

For a refrigerator, I purchased a Norcold N300 2.7-cubic-foot refrigerator. This dual-powered appliance came with very specific instructions about the size of the enclosure in which it’s installed. A frame was built to those specifications, and because a refrigerator generates heat, it needed to be vented to the outside. It also comes with a door that can be customized, so I used a piece of the thermoplastic panels from the walls to soften its look.

I opted for a cooktop instead of a full oven since I wanted the extra space for a cupboard. I ordered a stainless-steel, two-burner cooktop and cut a hole in the top of the countertop to accommodate it. And as luck would have it, I found a rare 4 1/2foot vintage clawfoot tub at my local building recyclers for only $250.

I made a cardboard template for where the tub was going to go to make sure it

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Restoration Project

USA Special lined up with the plumbing. I wanted the tub to serve as a work surface when it wasn’t in use, so I made a “lid” for it using 3/4-inch plywood. Blocks of wood were positioned on the underside to fit against the edges of the tub so the top wouldn’t slide around when on the road.

In transit, it doubles as a handy storage space.

I wanted a deep sink for crafting projects while on the road, so I settled on an extra deep stainless-steel sink.

pieces of 3/4-inch plywood in three different shapes to fit the contour of the trailer, effectively turning the entire back of the trailer into a bed.

Here’s the finished project, complete with a fully-functioning treadle sewing machine.

For lighting, I found beautiful wallmounted lights and chose a vintage copper and glass fixture for the exterior light.

I found a nifty on-demand propanepowered water heater that was capable of supplying all my on-the-road needs, including “glamporific” soaks in my vintage clawfoot tub (with only a 10minute fill time). Air conditioning? Now that’s glamping! I bought a Coleman Polar Cub low-profile roof air conditioner and installed it over the middle ceiling vent. When I spent three nights in a South Dakota campground with daytime temperatures above 100°F, I was mighty glad I’d installed it.

For door molding, I purchased “D”-shaped, 3/8-inch-wide rubber molding at my local hardware store.

For cabinets, I combined two pre-fab bathroom vanities I purchased at my local hardware store. Because the unit was going to fit over one of the wheel wells, two of the drawers needed to be nonfunctioning and merely decorative after gluing the door fronts back on.

IMAGE 61 (vertical photo) I wanted a bed frame with a cargo bay underneath, so for a base, I cut three

MaryJane Butters has worn many hats in her day, everything from carpenter to wilderness ranger to milkmaid. Her organic farm, located outside Moscow, Idaho, is where she runs her many businesses that include a micro dairy, a B&B, and MaryJanesFarm magazine, now in its 19th year. She is the author of eight books. Through example, she inspires young people to reach for their dreams when they find out that as a landowner and businesswoman, she is entirely self-made—nary a penny from family or marriage. “When I left home at age 18, my parents gave me a box of home-canned peaches, a dozen eggs, and a sewing machine.” Two of her grown children, their spouses, and four granddaughters live and work with her on her farm.

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Autocamp Interview

USA Special

Bringing Boutique Back An outdoor hotel comprising of Airstreams, tents and architectural cabins - Autocamp takes the boutique stay to new levels.

The new ADA units in Yosemite designed by M-RAD Architecture

Can you give us a brief history of how the company came about?

hospitality destination for Bay Area residents, as well as national and international travelers.

AutoCamp’s mission is to connect people to the outdoors and each other with beautiful design and welcoming hospitality.

Just outside of Guerneville, CA in the renowned Russian River Valley wine country, AutoCamp Russian River is a haven for Bay Area professionals and families alike who jaunt up the coast for wine tasting, hiking, canoeing, beachcombing and excellent food. Additionally, Bay Area companies have found AutoCamp Russian River to be an ideal location for full-buyout events and corporate retreats.

AutoCamp was founded in 2013, at the forefront of the Outdoor Hospitality industry. AutoCamp’s first property in Santa Barbara gained popularity due to the novelty of the concept of using Airstreams as hotel suites, and it’s unique blend of nostalgia and modern design.

AutoCamp opened its first property in Santa Barbara, California in 2013, to rave reviews. In 2016, AutoCamp opened its second location in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County. AutoCamp Russian River quickly became the go-to outdoor

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Yosemite National Park has always been an ideal destination for the AutoCamp, due to its outdoor attractions like Half Dome & Yosemite Valley, rich history with environmental pioneers like John Muir, and relative proximity to the Bay Area.

In February 2019, AutoCamp will open up its next location just outside of Yosemite National Park in the charming town of Mariposa, CA replete with its own rich history, strong local community, and many delicious restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. AutoCamp plans to open additional locations throughout California and the United States in the coming years.

how has the concept changed since the first site was established?

With each property we open, our team has been iterating on the concept to make each and every experience unique to the AutoCamp brand.

Our first property in Santa Barbara has six trailers and after opening the property, our team quickly realized that we had a new and unique

Autocamp Interview

USA Special concept on our hand. The luxury Airstream trailers were so well received that we began our search for a second property.

how is the perception of this kind of holiday changing in the Us?

Our goal was to expand the concept with more luxury trailers, offer well designed and comfortable glamping tents, build out a luxurious ADA unit, and create a mid-century modern lounge and reception area that would wow guests as they arrived on the property and also serve as a space for people to gather.

Sparked by personal and interpersonal needs for escape from urban areas, access to outdoor activities, and rejuvenating effects of being in nature, the sector has positioned itself as an alternative way for travelers to get away. Enter outdoor hospitality and luxury camping.

As we’ve evolved we’ve put more of a focus on outdoor destinations, which has helped us better deliver on our mission of making the outdoors more accessible for people.

how did you market yourselves in the early days?

Our team focused on earned media and garnered coverage in major publications including Sunset Magazine and the LA Times. Word of mouth about the concept helped to drive reservations via our online booking system. We also used the power of social media to spread the word by featuring great images of the Airstream trailers and surrounding area.

what kind of demographic are your guests and does this change from one site to another?

Our core audiences include young professionals (many who come from the Bay Area and Silicon Valley), young families, and baby boomers.

Our Russian River property is more adult focused, because of the proximity to wine country and we anticipate Yosemite having more of family focus, because of the overall surroundings, blend of activities, and iconic destination.

Research conducted by the ‘Family Break Finder’ website questioned 1400 of their members and revealed that 50% intended to stay in a local campsite or holiday park next year, while nearly a third specifically said they wanted to try luxury camping.

The survey also revealed that 1 in 3 families expected to see their holiday budget shrink. Since outdoor hospitality is considered to be a more affordable travel option amongst those questioned, this points to a boon for the glamping trend.

There is a growing trend around authentic, experience-based travel as evidenced by rise of Airbnb and other alternative lodging platforms.

Additionally, outdoor recreation is also gaining ground, because of increased urbanization. We also know that many people want to camp, but don’t know how to camp and luxury camping makes it easy for people to get outdoors.

what makes autocamp unique?

AutoCamp has reimagined the outdoor lodging experience for the modern adventurer. One of our core differentiators and what makes Autocamp

so unique is our design-first approach to each of the properties we build on.

For Yosemite, AutoCamp is thrilled to be working with the same design team that brought AutoCamp Russian River to life.

We are narrowing in on the successes from our past designs and amplifying them for their new surroundings in Mariposa. The design team consists of Anacapa Architecture (Architect) and Geremia Design (Interiors). We’ve also brought on M-RAD Architecture to assist with the unique design and building of the five ADA units that will be on the property.

The Clubhouse at AutoCamp Yosemite draws inspiration equally from the iconic national park lodges of the past as well as modernist greats such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Le Corbusier. Furnishings, decor, and art are also modernistinspired, with comfort and relaxation in mind to soothe guests whether they are lounging at the property or resting after a long day of exploration / hiking.

how important is social media to your brand?

Social media plays an important part in the way we market our business. With some many of our customer base online and interacting through social media, we believe that this medium plays an important role in building a lifestyle brand while also giving us the opportunity to interface with our existing and potential customers.

what does the future hold for autocamp?

National expansion and new properties stay tuned!!!

Meet Ryan Miller and Neil Dipaola from Autocamp at the Global Glamping Summit in California this month.

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Paws Up Interview

USA Special

Roughing it in Style: the resort at paws Up if you ever dreamed of a ranch holiday, chances are you never dreamed as big as the resort at paws Up – which encompasses a 37,000-acre site in montana. And if you hankered for authentic dude ranch activities like trail rides, cattle drives and chuck wagon dinners - then you may not have imagined the level of first-class service, luxurious accommodations and five-star amenities that are also available at paws Up. John Romfo

The team at Paws Up call it ‘roughing it in style’ - getting down and dirty; fly fishing on the Blackfoot River, rappelling down cliffs, clay shooting and white-water rafting and then heading back to private luxury homes and glamping tents featuring flatscreen TVs, Wi-Fi, in-home laundry, heated bathroom floors, rain showers, organic spa products and hot tubs and even your own glamping butler.

International Glamping Business catches up with Vice President, Marketing and Development John Romfo to find out what makes The Resort at Paws Up - The Last Best PlaceTM.

Igb: the ranch has an extensive history when and how did it first become a hospitality business?

JR: The beginning of the Ranch itself dates back to the homesteader days of the late 1800s. The history of the land goes back even farther to the time when the Blackfoot River served as a transportation corridor for Nez Perce, Flathead and Blackfeet Indians and later for fur trappers, miners and loggers. The Indians called the river ‘Cokalahishkit,’ which means ‘the river of the road to the buffalo’. The first ranch was built in about 1915 and in the

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ensuing seven decades, it would host eight diverse and fascinating owners, including the sons of the celebrated aviator Charles Lindbergh; Land and Jon, who created the current boundaries and owned the property from 1965 to 1986.

In 1997, the Lipson family arrived with a herd of superior horses and their beloved ranch name - ‘Paws Up’ was inspired by the family dogs, who greeted visitors by rolling on their backs with their paws in the air with their tails thumping the ground!

The owners were used to hosting friends and business colleagues at the ranch. They also built a restaurant to host an annual dinner with cattle buyers (which today is now the core fine dining restaurant for the resort. The ranch also had a 100 year-old barn, which was converted into a meeting facility in 2011 to host groups, for weddings and other large events.

Igb: when did glamping become part of the accommodation mix and why?

JR: Another key step into hospitality was an outfitting business that Paws Up owned called Paws Up Outfitters, which led 7-8 night hosted excursions into the nearby Bob Marshall Wilderness complex (fishing,

hunting, roving) where guests were housed in luxury tents. So, it was an easy transition into establishing a unique hospitality experience on the ranch in an elevated luxury camping experience.

Igb: what are your feelings about the word ‘glamping’ to describe what you offer?

JR: We are proud to stay that Paws Up defined glamping in North America, and we still set the standard. Glamorous is something that Paws Up takes seriously by offering a glamorous camping experience that is truly nature served on a silver platter.

We provide authentic safari-style tents featuring fine linens, The Last Best Bed®, chic rustic furnishings, art-adorned walls, electricity, air conditioning, heat and, most importantly, a camping butler at their beck and call. Guests experience a wide variety of adventures and activities on property by day, and by night they refresh in their private master bathroom with a Montana-sized rain shower, jetted tub, heated floors and indulgent organic spa products. A skilled chef will bring new meaning to haute grilling as he cooks before your eyes in the camp’s Dining Pavilion.

Paws Up Interview

USA Special Igb: with 37,000 acres what are the logistics of looking after guests in tents? what happens if something goes bump in the night?

Igb: what percentage of guests combine the tent stay with one of the houses you offer?

JR: It is very common for summer guests to partake in our One Resort, Two Vacations experience where they stay part of their stay in the homes, and some of the stay in a luxury camp. Also, 8 of our 28 luxury homes offer a private tent adjacent to the home.

Offering June 1 to September 1, this is a great option for families who have a desire for some of the family to have a glamping experience, and some to have a home experience.

JR: Paws Up offers 6 luxury camps, each with 6 tents – ranging from one-bedroom honeymoon tents all the way up to threebedroom tents ideal for families. Each camp has its own restaurant for meals staffed with chefs and a butler to cater to all guests’ needs. Paws Up also provides complimentary on-property transportation so guests can easily navigate the 37,000acre property. Paws Up also has an easy-to-use Mobile App, which is a great way to communicate all requests to Concierge Services team to ensure a very high level of guest services to each guest.

Igb: Could the paws Up brand translate into further locations or is it unique to montana?

JR: It very well could in the future if the destination was right, however at this time, Montana is home.

Igb: nostalgia for another time and for another lifestyle that is part of the american consciousness appear to underpin the offer. how difficulties it to stay true to the gritty past while offering incredible luxury to your guests?

JR: It’s not difficult at all as the resort is on a truly authentic work ranch… The expansive property is a haven for authentic Montana dude ranch activities, like trail

Igb: what is the difference, if any, in the cost of renting a tent or non-glamping accommodation? rides, cattle drives and chuck wagon dinners. What differentiates Paws Up from an average guest ranch is our commitment to luxury. We are authentic, genuine in nature and dedicated in offering first-class service, luxurious accommodations and five-star amenities.

Igb: what are the main reasons why guests choose paws Up? what percentage take part in the activities you offer?

JR: It’s the overall Montana experience; the setting, the service, the accommodations but mainly it is an operation that offers over 40 different adventures and activities right on property.

We also offer a wide range of special events throughout the year which enhances the list of “things to do” for our guests.

JR: The cost is fairly flat across both and mainly varies a bit on the accommodation size (regardless if it is tent or a home). So, a two-bedroom home or a two-bedroom tent could be $1500/person/night and a threebedroom home and a three-bedroom could be $1800/person/night. (Rates are inclusive accommodations as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner per person and are inclusive of soft drinks, house wine and beer with lunch and dinner. Spa services and guided excursions and activities are additional).

Igb: what percentage of your guests are repeat bookings?

JR: While I can’t give specifics, we do see a high amount of returning guests particularly over our special events or holidays and we see a good amount of guests returning to experience the resort in an opposite season so they can experience a different set of outdoor experiences.

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Mendocino Magic Interview

USA Special

Where the

mAGic

Happens

camping and Glamping sit side by side in this enchanting 600 acre site in northern california. A former logging camp - mendocino magic is now casting its spell on groups and events, as well as creating a trust to protect the land for future generations. what’s the history behind mendocino magic, how did the land become acquired and was there always camping there?

Mendocino Magic was founded in 2000 when it was purchased. The 600 acre space served as a logging camp through much of the 20th century and a commercial and recreational fishery with its many ponds. The campground had a soft start in the early 2000s but its true launch was in 2015 when owner and operator Mackenzie completed her graduate studies in San Francisco and officially moved to the land to maximize its potential.

there is a great conservation element to the website can you explain more about the work you do with the mendocino County land trust and with your guests?

The Land Trust serves as an integral part to the future of Mendocino County's rangelands and forests. Mackenzie serves as a board member on the land trust

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working with other land owners throughout the region. While there is not currently any easement on the property, Mendocino Magic is working with guests on enhancing cooperative living principles to consistently improve the campground and the experience our guests take away. Guests often take nature hikes with our management staff to learn more about our natural environment here, covering elements of our taxonomic index on site, our waterways and numerous bird species.

you reference hipcamp as a valued partner – how long have you worked together and what have you learned from the experience?

HipCamp’s founder Alyssa Ravasio visited Mendocino Magic in 2015 as their land share program was getting established.

The campground then became one of Hipcamp’s first landshares wherein private property became accessible to the public through HipCamp's revolutionary online platform. Over the last four seasons Mendocino Magic has grown online from two to twenty campsites!

how long have you offered glamping and how does this type of accommodation fit with the overall mix of experiences on site?

We have offered our glampsites since the campground came online in 2015.

Glamping fits our style here at the magic, simply because our variety of guests often love to have the option of sleeping in a bed during their stay, but a cabin doesn't do the trick. Miles of trails and kayaking on a private reservoir suit glamping well for couples or small groups. We also accommodate larger private glampouts, upscale events serving as uniquely catered campouts.

Does glamping bring in a different demographic to the regular camping and rvs?

Not really. Since the majority of our guests find us through HipCamp, the majority of guests have similar expectations so long as the profile descriptions and photos of the campsite or glampsite are accurate.

Mendocino Magic Interview

USA Special how much of your business is with large groups of people and events?

Approximately half of the camping season caters to private events.

how important is glamping for weddings and other family gatherings?

Family members arriving for the event from out of state who may not have their camping gear with them are very happy with the glampsites. Sometimes the wedding party needs an upscaled place to camp and prepare for the event, which also makes for fun in the glampsites.

how important is social media in promoting your business?

Social media is a very important tool we use in order to reach more customers and communicate with potential event organizers. Often after seeing photos and reading testimonials online, interested parties will reach out to us to inquire further. We offer discounts for guests pending their planned headcounts, activities, and level of interest in working with us on volunteer projects, therefore it is important to utilize social media to attract customers

before engaging live and connecting with our guests with a phone call and site visit. It is critical to maintain the human connection with our guests as much as possible, despite the benefits of completely automating the process of finding and booking a space for an outdoor event.

there are private residences on site, how do you manage the relationship between the owners and the guests?

The layout of the campground allows for guests to rent the three main houses and utilize the campground without being disturbed by the tenants or staff.

The staff housing is outside of the general campground boundaries, and we continue to make improvements with year round housing so our friends and extended family of guests can visit us throughout the year.

what future plans do you have for mendocino magic?

We plan to continue growing our community and the campground, including building more cabins and available housing for seasonal use, as well as adding more hot tubs and gathering spaces for a variety of uses for the space.

Mendocino Magic will look forward to a 2019 full of outdoor rustic weddings, more outstanding photo submissions online, unique opportunities for gatherings and live music, family reunions, and of course, more happy campers.

Folks who are interested in following us on our journey can sign up for our newsletter or follow our blogpost at https://mendocinomagic.com/blog/.

Mackenzie O’Donnell from Mendocino Magic will be speaking at The Global Glamping Summit in California.

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Week in the Life

Week in the Life of David leventhal remote owner and manager of Glamping hotel playa Viva

am never the bottleneck for anything to get done.

Meetings like this allow folks to get visibility in areas of the business and activities they might not be aware of and then go directly to their peers to collaborate. Also, we have a few new team members. We just added a new full-time Permaculture Manager. We also added team members to marketing, one in Group Marketing and another in FIT (Free Independent Traveler) marketing.

We also have a role of Social and Environmental Impact Manager and just transitioned someone new into this role.

oUr fIrst weDDIng Looking over my journal, much of my week was spent supporting our new sales person in responding to inquiries for groups. We do a lot of Yoga retreats but have our first big wedding coming up.

The wedding is of one of our regular yoga teachers who so loves Playa Viva that she is hosting her wedding at our hotel.

While our capacity is 36 people, she wants to extend the invite list to 50, so we are adding some tents and additional infrastructure. My work here is with our

Photo Courtesy of Playa Viva, by Misha Wilcockson

work lIfe balanCe I’ve been reading recently about different types of “journaling.” I never realized the art and science behind journaling and how it can help you be more productive, more organized and help live a more balanced “live/work” life. When International Glamping Business Magazine asked me about writing a story/column about “A Week in the Life…” I saw it as the perfect opportunity to start journaling in order to more effectively track and share what it takes to do what I do. Hopefully you will find this relevant to your work/life balance as well as to the operations or aspirations of operating your glamping business.

For context, I live in San Francisco Bay Area and own a 12-room sustainable boutique hotel on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, called Playa Viva. In addition, I’m spearheading an endeavor called

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Regenerative Resorts as a collective of independent properties dedicated to the highest levels of social and environmental impact. So bear with me as my week’s work/life is very varied!

QUarterly exeCUtIve team Call I’m generally not a big believer in huge all-hands-on-deck meetings as they can be a waste of time if held too often. Our team has asked for a quarterly exec team call; so we had our first of the new season (we close every Summer for a few months and reopened for the “season” in early October). This was meant to be a 1.5 hour call but it ran 2 hours long. All of the Executive Team members report up to me, so I have full visibility into what is happening with the team. Therefore this meeting is the opportunity for all to have the same level of visibility. As a management team, we encourage folks to work directly with each other so that I

Photo Courtesy of Playa Viva, by Anna Paola Covarrubias for We Are Young Souls

Week in the Life

USA Special on-site Manager in working out how this will all be accomplished for the bride, as well as making sure the team is prepared for all the extra work in support of her and her guests.

aDventUre bUCket lIst In addition to my regular role as owner of the hotel, I made an investment in a startup company called Adventure Bucket List (ABL). They provide a Booking Engine for Tours and Activities. As a hotel owner, I fully understood the need for this type of platform, especially in developing countries (the target market for ABL). The amount of time we spend calling tour operators, and then not succeeding in getting in touch since they are in the field doing their work, waiting to hear back about availability and confirming with the guests (who are used to having immediate confirmation), is time consuming and inefficient.

ABL has a great solution, small team with low burn rate and good base of existing clients and cash flow. Plus this is an area where I have a small amount of knowledge, enough to make me think its a good investment.

Like any “seed” stage investment, they need follow-on capital to grow and scale as they execute their strategy. As an angel investor, you need to be prepared for these follow-on capital needs. In this capacity, I spent time with the team at ABL perfecting their pitch, making introductions to folks who could assist in their go to market plan as well as in fundraising. This too is part of my week and a mentoring role which I relish now more and more as I get old.

personal health Getting old also makes eating right and regular exercise and important part of my work life balance. I was diagnosed with prediabetes about 2 years ago. My wife says I should say I have “diabetes” and calling it pre-diabetes is just a form of denial, but I believe that with the right changes to my life, diet and exercise, I can whip this disease and keep it from being full on diabetes. I take my blood sugar every morning. My diet has consisted of no sugar, which means eliminating all carbs, incredibly difficult

Photo Courtesy of Playa Viva,

by Victoria Gamlen

and getting one of the best messages of for a sushi and pasta lover. Plus, I have my life. This was my ‘disconnect to increased my exercise routine which now reconnect’ day, core to our values at Playa means indoor and, more and more Viva and part of maintaining my balance recently, outdoor biking. so I can be of greater value to the people I However, I’ve been suffering from some serve. Make sure to take a moment out of gastroinstestinal issues, and I finally let go your day to serve others and to treat of my ego that all problems could be yourself to something special that solved by medicine and my doctor, so I recharges your batteries (as that is the shared my GI issue with a friend who work we do in hospitality for others). promptly told me she was suffering the same and solved it with the Elimination David is one of the speakers at the Diet. So over the past few week I’ve California Glamping Summit in the eliminated all meat, all dairy, all gluten, Growth & Innovation stream etc. and have been slowly reintroducing items to see which of these foods is the culprit. Early signs are pointing to gluten as the culprit. The good news is my blood sugar is way down, which means gluten was a major contributor to my pre-diabetes.

To end my week of work life balance, I spent the yesterday in Big Sur, joining a group for meditation, hiking on the beach Photo Courtesy of Playa Viva

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