4 Global "Glamping" Destinations to Curb your Wanderlust for Wilderness Travel

Experience the Great Outdoors in Style

Escaping the stress and strife of daily life is often easily remedied by retreating to nature and switching into airplane mode, so to speak. While some individuals may be rugged adventurers, perfectly content to pitch a tent or throw down a sleeping bag in the dirt, some of us prefer to enjoy mother nature’s healing power without sacrificing comfort, cleanliness or luxury.

This desire sparked the global wilderness travel trend familiarly known as glamping or glamorous camping. Accommodations vary from yurts, safari tents, Airstream trailers, and huts to villas, caves, tree-houses and more, allowing travelers to build their own level of adventure. Glamping establishments strive to strike a balance between outdoor adventure and five-star service, with upgraded amenities. While service offerings vary by destination, most glampers can assume they won’t need to pack a sleeping bag, start a fire, or pitch a tent.

No matter the time of the year or the budget, there is a glamping destination for everyone. We’ve chosen just a few locations to explore. The many options are offered at a wide range of prices for first class travelers to the budget student traveler, to review and explore.

1. South America: Finca Bellavista - Costa Rica

A true nature-lover’s haven, Finca Bellavista takes the term “green” to a whole new level. High in the canopies of Costa Rica’s southern Pacific Coastal region, the tree-house community offers its visitors lush green backdrops, fresh air, and completely carbon-neutral electricity derived from solar power. To say this resort is off the beaten path would be an understatement. In fact, you’ll need 4-wheel drive transportation on the final three kilometers before the resort, just to reach it.

Needless to say, you’ll want to trade in your rolling suitcase for a camping backpack, as you may need to climb to your accommodations.Finca is a destination destined for adventurers and rarely lacks for things to do. Most popular among travelers is zip-lining through the rain-forest upon a network of SkyTrails. Other activities include:

• Bird watching over 850 different species
• Hiking day and night
• Exploring the beautiful waterfalls
• Snorkeling in Rio Bellavista’s ponds
• garden tours with cooking classes
• Enjoying soothing sounds of nature with your favorite book in hand

While temperatures linger around the mid 80s all year round, the drier season lasts from December until April and is considered the best time to visit. From May through November, visitors should expect warm, sporadic showers. You will get wet... it is the rain-forest after all. Starting at $100/night, this rustic resort lets travelers release their inner-Tarzan at a reasonable price, for a rugged adventure and relaxing retreat all in one.

2. Africa: Camp Akuti - Botswana

Some of the world’s most wondrous creatures reside in Africa - giraffes in Tanzania, elephants in the sub-Sahara, lion prides on the Serengeti, and an array of birds on the Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana.... where you can glamp out with style in Camp Okuti’s mosasas. The rounded safari tents are perched upon teak decks with breathtaking views and are furnished with either two twin beds or one double (one two-bedroom family unit also available), hot and cold running water, indoor and outdoor showers, and ensuite bathrooms with toilets. Bird-lovers will find Okuti a paradise with all of the viewing opportunities. You can also rent motor boats to travel up and down the Maunachira River, through the Xakanaxa Lagoon where you may spot storks and herons during breeding season.

While the wildlife populates the camp year-round, the rain falls sporadically but heavily in January and February, making the best time to visit anytime between March and December. Travelers should consult a physician before traveling to Africa, as each country has its own immunization and inoculation requirements; however all Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for all travelers.

Once visitors have enjoyed photographing all of the feathered fauna at Okuti, Ker & Downey, Botswana invites guests to travel to one of several other camps throughout Botswana, to explore the many other species and regions. While the average nightly rate begins at $500/night, the memorable experience is unmatched and won’t leave you feeling disappointed.

3. North America: Ridgeback Lodge - Canada

Perched upon the Kingston Peninsula, overlooking 185 acres of wild forest vistas, lies Ridgeback Lodge. The sun-drenched Dream Domes feature king size beds, a kitchenette equipped with cooking utensils, a luxurious bathroom with a full-size shower, a romantic wood-burning Japanese tub under the stars, and large bay windows that will bring nature’s beauty to the foot of your bed.

Weather you’re a couple looking for romance, a family looking for adventure, or a nature-lover looking for relaxation, at only $145/night, these serene accommodations offer an affordable eco-experience for all.

On-site activities include:

• Hiking
• Swimming in the two acre pond
• Nightly bonfires
• Canoe rentals for exploring Kingston Creek

With a short 10 minute drive, visitors can also enjoy activities such as horseback riding, paint-balling, shopping at the local farmer’s market, and wine tasting at the winery. Tucked away in the trees, Ridgeback Lodge also features more traditional cedar cabins. With two or three bedrooms, the cabins sleep up to six adults (seven if you include the pull-out couch bed furnished in each).

For the best of both worlds, large parties can book the Stargazer Domes - three sky-lighted domes that share a communal log cabin.Each dome features a queen size bed, seating and a wood stove, while the communal cabin boasts all the amenities. The four units must be booked together and are only available from May - October, though the cabin can be rented alone throughout the winter season. Look for booking specials throughout the year for extra savings.

4. Europe: Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita - Italy

Nestled within a small canyon in Sassi di Matera, lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site where art lovers and history buffs alike can travel to another time and place.To fully immerse yourself in the experience, visitors can take shelter at Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita. While the rustic hotel’s rooms are all original restored caves, don’t be fooled - the luxurious accommodations feature state-of-the-art bathrooms and finishes.

Take in the fresh air and picturesque views or retreat into the romantic serenity of a private cave. At only $173/night, the one-of-a-kind stay is affordable and memorable. The Sassi (ancient town) is thought to be one of the first human settlements in Italy, and most of the dwellings were built into the volcanic rock of the region. As part of roaming the city, travelers can visit a number of preserved cathedrals and churches, monasteries, museums and even palaces. After a long day of sight-seeing and tour-trekking, visitors can indulge in relaxation and pampering at one of the city’s two spas. Time stands still in the city making it a great escape anytime of the year.

The rainy season lasts from October through March while the drier season runs from April through September. The summer draws the largest crowd despite the warmest months being July and August with temperatures up to 90⁰F. A candlelit, deconstructed church filled with classical music and warmed by a fireplace sets the romantic backdrop for dining on classic Italian snacks and cuisine, while sipping fine local wines. Guests should be sure to look for special packages.

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Take Seven Corners with You on Your Glamping Adventure

When planning (any) vacation, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of escaping reality. Insuring your trip is protected is probably the last thing on your mind! When you're in the wild outdoors on a wanderlust glamping adventure, trip protection insurance is a must have! Here are a few of the benefits:

• Trip Cancellation Coverage
• Trip Interruption Coverage
• Trip Delay and Missed Connection Coverage
• Medical Expenses and Medical Evacuation Coverage
• Lost Baggage and Baggage Delay Coverage

Important information from the United States Fire Insurance Company.
AH-1815