Outer Banks Infographic: Vacation Rental Home vs. Hotel

Posted on January 24, 2012

Ready for an awesome new blog feature?!

I knew you would be.

Are you familiar with infographics?

What?! You’re not down with this super hip way to digest large quantities of information in an easy to understand, graphical manner?!

Let me offer a little assistance. First, you’re not alone. Most people don’t know what an infographic is. They are a relatively new trend in the online marketing world. But they are super cool!

Here’s how wikipedia defines an infographic:

Information graphics or infographics are graphic visual representations of information, data or knowledge. These graphics present complex information quickly and clearly.

Basically, it’s a lot of information boiled down into a pretty picture so knuckle-heads like me can understand it.

There are all sorts of infrographics out there these days. A quick Google search will turn up more than you care to look at. But since you’re here, let’s take a look at our pretty picture.

As a new blog series, I’m going to share some cool infographics that relate to the Outer Banks, vacations, the beach, the weather, vacation rentals, surfing, fishing, etc. Some will come from other sources, and I’ll be sure to credit those sources, but my goal is to create a whole bunch of original infrographics that you’ll dig.

So stay tuned; more awesomeness to come. But for now, let’s take a look at our first original Outer Banks Infrographic…drum roll please…

Here’s a pretty picture that breaks down the differences between renting a vacation rental home and staying in a hotel.

(As my 1 1/2 year old says) Ta da!

Outer Banks Infographic: Vacation Rental Home vs. Hotel

Staying Healthy on Your Outer Banks Vacation

Posted on January 16, 2012

Vacation Travel Tips: Staying Healthy on Your Outer Banks Vacation Is there anything worse than getting sick on your vacation? You patiently (or not so patiently) wait all year, you save your precious pennies, you travel for hours, you get unpacked and start to settle into the vacation way of life, and BANG the sickies get ya. Sooo disappointing! Getting sick is always a drag, but when you’re on vacation, it’s the worst. Last year, my parents came to visit the fam, and they decided to rent an oceanfront home rather than stay with us. It was a great chance enjoy the beach, and they planned to enjoy some alone time with the grand-kids. All was well when they arrived, and the kiddos had a great time with Grammie and Papa that first night. But by day two, the sickies were arriving. First Mom was down for the count; on vacation, but not getting out of bed. Dad pressed on and enjoyed the next day exploring the OBX. But by day three, it was clear he was wearing down. By day four, they were packed up and headed home. A planned week at the beach with the family turned into a day with the grand kids followed by lots of rest and recuperation. Not the best way to spend a vacation on the Outer Banks. At least we now get to joke Grammie and Papa that they get sick when they visit us. But definitely not what they hoped for. The moral of the story is that we all need to do what we can to make sure we are healthy…all the time – but especially on a long-awaited vacation. The good news is that with a little prep, there’s a lot you can do to protect you and your family. The stress and excitement of travel can make you more likely to get sick, but if you follow a few simple tips, you’re more likely to stay healthy throughout your trip. Here are some health and safety tips to keep in mind when planning your Outer Banks vacation.
Immune Support & Prevention Germs spread easily when people are in close contact. Plus, people often get run down and stressed out before they go away for vacation, trying to get work done and prepare for the trip. Boost your immune system. Having a sound immune system will always help fight bugs, but adding an extra boost will also help. Consider taking vitamin supplements such as vitamin C, ginger root, and green tea. In fact, it’s not a bad idea to begin taking these supplements the week before your vacation. Get a bottle of hand sanitizer and use it. Got a case of the ickies, but not soap and water in sight? – this is where hand sanitizers come in handy. Your hand sanitizer should be at least 60% alcohol. Get disinfectant wipes and wipe down places where germs are frequent. Doorknobs, remote controls, light switches, etc.

Motion Sickness Motion sickness can occur whether going by car, train, plane, or boat. Its effects include nausea – which could lead to vomiting. This is usually preceded by yawning, salivation, cold sweating and dizziness. People prone to motion sickness should have a light non-fatty meal before the journey and avoid alcohol. Reading and writing should also be avoided during travel. Tablets are available to help combat motion sickness.If you are traveling by car, it is advisable to take a rest from driving every two hours. A short walk will refresh you and help to maintain your concentration.

Sunburn Control Bright, sunny days seem like the perfect recipe for a great Outer Banks vacation. However, if you aren’t careful, the summer sun can be too much of a good thing. During the summer months, the sun’s rays are especially intense. The reflection of the sun off of the ocean and sand can increase your chance for sunburn.The tanning effect of the sun is largely caused by ultraviolet rays which reach the skin. Excessive exposure to these rays leads to burning with redness and swelling. Check out our Beach Safety page for more information.

Bites and Stings If you are bitten by mosquitoes, sandflies, or other insects while on vacation you should apply an antihistamine cream or, if none is available, prompt application of ice and a cooling lotion, such as calamine, will ease the pain considerably. Other more dangerous injuries can be caused by a number of creatures. If you are stung by a jellyfish, try to remove the tentacles and stingers. This is best done by gently rubbing the area with a handful of wet sand. Alcohol applied externally to the skin and cooling lotions will also help.

Hangover Help A few too many cocktails combined with lots of sun (dehydration) can bring on that undesirable hangover. How to avoid? Drink lots of water while you are having cocktails and before bed have a glass of water and banana. Take a supplement with guava leaf extract – the compounds in guava help your body process alcohol more efficiently. Go easy on the Tylenol, while it helps the headache, high amounts are hard on your liver and so is the alcohol. If you feel queasy the next day, avoid alcohol and have some ginger and lemon tea.

Overeating and Indulging Overeating can lead to bloating, gas, heartburn and weight gain. Avoid this unpleasant feeling by eating smaller meals (try to avoid the buffets), choosing your foods wisely, taking digestive enzymes before you eat and having a cup of green tea afterward to aid digestion and support your metabolism.

Other Helpful Hints Pack a first aid kit. It’s a good idea to bring a “travel” first aid kit with you on vacation containing the following items: aspirin, travel-sickness pills, insect repellant, sunscreen, and creams or sprays to relieve the effects of stings and bites. Trust your instincts and use common sense. We come into contact with germs every day, and that’s just life. Living in a bubble is silly and will rob you of great experiences, so you have to take risks sometimes. Consider buying vacation insurance. Trip insurance covers a variety of issues that could impact your vacation and save you a lot of heart ache, should unforeseen circumstances occur. Check out our Policies and Procedures for more information vacation insurance.

With a little advance preparation and common sense, you can ease any worries that your trip will be spoiled by unexpected health problems. Here’s to a happy and healthy vacation!

2012 Outer Banks Vacation Guide is Here!

Posted on November 10, 2011

2012 Outer Banks Vacation Guide

Hot off the presses! The 2012 Outer Banks Vacation Guide has arrived!

The 2012 Outer Banks Vacation Guide was exclusively designed by Seaside Vacations and features custom images from Whitney Norko Photography as well as Brooke Mayo. Amazing photos from some amazing ladies!

We are soooo excited to share this gorgeous piece of Outer Banks art with you to help you plan your 2012 OBX getaway.

You can get a Personalized Vacation Guide that is tailored to your specific vacation needs, and we are happy to include the full 2012 Outer Banks Vacation Guide as well.

Or, if you’d like to do some vacation hunting on your own, you can search Outer Banks vacation rental homes at: www.OuterBanksVacations.com. You can also reach us at (877) 255-2641, and one of our Vacation Specialists will be happy to help with your search.

As the old OBX fishing saying goes, “the early fisherman gets the fish.” I just made that up. But the idea holds true with great OBX vacation homes. The best houses go early and quick. If you have a good idea of your plans for 2012, it’s always a great idea to start the hunting and booking process early. It’s great to know your vacation is set and avoid that “where are we staying” pressure.

Happy hunting!

The Vacation Rental Market is Expected to Grow 4 Times Faster than the U.S. Economy!

Posted on March 4, 2011

Seaside Vacations - Sandy Oasis

Vacation Home Rentals recently named the Outer Banks one of the top growth markets for vacation rentals in the United States. Studies show that the vacation rental market is expected to grow 13.1% in 2011, more than twice the rate of the travel market and four times faster than the U.S economy. About 85% of vacation rental property owners expect 2011 to be as good as, or better than 2010. The OBX is projected to have a 20% increase from last year alone!

Vacation rental property owners believe this growth may be attributed to the fact that vacationers are looking for small, reasonable destinations they can drive to, rather than fly.

With this news coming from one of the most visited vacation rental sites in North America, there is a lot to look forward to this year. Whether interested in buying a potential vacation home or searching for a weekend getaway Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty and Seaside Vacations can help you find your own beach oasis.

USA Today Loves Vacation Rentals Too! – Tips for Finding the Perfect Vacation Rental Home

Posted on March 1, 2011

Outer Banks - Big Mama's

The vacation rental industry has historically played second-fiddle to the monstrous hotel industry, but times they are a changing. As the USA Today points out, vacation rentals “are finally on their way to going mainstream.” There is a growing awareness among consumers and the media, and big names are starting to take notice. HomeAway has run an ad promoting vacation rentals during the past two Super Bowls, and Google is even an investor in HomeAway. The vacation rental growth pattern is clearly on the upswing.

It’s easy to understand why vacation rentals are such a hot item. With a birds-eye view of the ocean from the comfort of your Nags Head Hammock, life is definitely good for renters. A water view – without having to request an upgrade. A full pot of fresh brewed coffee waiting in your private kitchen each morning. The flexibility to cook your own meals, or dine out. The entire group of family and friends under one roof, eating together, enjoying the private pool, and visiting in the family room. If these descriptions appeal to you, you might be one of a growing segment of travelers considering a vacation rental in 2011.

With all of the increased interest, USA Today & SmartTravel.com recently ran an article highlighting some tips for finding the perfect vacation rental home.

As vacation rentals become increasingly popular, rental companies like Seaside Vacations, are offering more ‘hotel-like’ services and amenities that were traditionally not offered by rentals. For instance, every guest who stays with Seaside Vacations enjoys guest access to Kilmarlic Health & Racquet Club, special guest rates at Kilmarlic Golf Club and the benefits of Club Seaside – an exclusive program designed just for Seaside guests. Club Seaside includes complimentary yoga classes, wine tastings, wild horse tours, fishing classes, and various other exclusive events.

As the industry becomes more sophisticated with its offerings, vacationers should take the time to understand the company and home they are considering renting. All homes and all vacation rental companies are unique, and may not be equal. It is crucial to do the research and set the right expectations for your vacation.

Here are some great tips from USA Today for new and seasoned vacation home renters:

“The benefits of renting from a company you can trust with your family, your credit card, and your invaluable vacation time can’t be understated. Book with a company that regularly manages and inspects its properties to ensure they meet a high standard of quality and safety, [as well as] one that offers online bookings and payments, can handle booking amendments and cancellations, and provides impeccable customer service and around-the-clock check-in assistance.”
Check TripAdvisor, and Flipkey for reviews from previous renters
“If you’re planning to visit a high-demand destination this year, the earlier you plan, the better.”

Once you’ve found a property that interests you, be sure to ask the following questions.

• Is the property professionally managed or rented by its owners?
• Is a rental contract required?
• If not, how will all transactions be handled?
• Will you need to make a security deposit? What are its return/refund policies?
• What are the renter’s cancellation policies?
• What pre-departure steps are required from renters (cleaning, laundering sheets and towels, etc.)?
• Are there fees for additional guests?

Good luck hunting for the perfect house. If you’re planning an OBX getaway, we’d love to help you find that home the meets all of your vacation needs: www.OuterBanksVacations.com

Y Partnership REALLY loves Vacation Rentals – 11 Reasons You May Too!

Posted on January 28, 2011

Outer Banks - Big Mama's

A couple weeks ago we mentioned an article by Y Partnership (global marketing communications agency specializing in the travel, leisure, and entertainment industries) that highlighted vacation rentals. And now they are back with a great list of reasons why 2011 will be a fantastic year for vacation rentals.

I usually like to comment on info I share and highlight the most interesting points, but this list is so good that I’m just going to leave it as is.

Here’s to a great 2011 for vacation rentals!

From Y Partnership’s FaceBook page…

As the world enters a new decade, new data shows that American travelers are readying to discover one of the fastest-growing trip topics for the New Year and beyond: vacation rental homes, condos and villas. Following are 11 reasons vacation rentals will be front-of-mind in the years to come:

1. BOOMING INTEREST: More than 25 million American households are interested in staying in a vacation home rental or condominium resort as an alternative to traditional lodging during the next two years, which represents nearly half of leisure traveler households across the U.S.

2. EXPONENTIAL GROWTH: According to recent research, 20 percent of leisure travelers have stayed in a vacation home rental as an alternative to a traditional lodging during the past two years, and 22 percent have stayed in a condominium resort.* This shows an increase compared to past years, according to similar studies with differing methodologies. For example, in 2009, 14 percent of leisure travelers had stayed in a vacation home or condominium that they owned or rented during the previous 12 months, which was up from 11 percent in 2008.

3. MORE OVERNIGHT TRIPS PLANNED IN 2011: Of those interested in vacation rental stays during the next two years, nearly two in 10 are planning to travel more in the year ahead compared to 2010. Almost seven in 10 plan to take the same amount of vacations, suggesting together that 83 percent of upcoming vacation rental travelers are optimistic about the number of trips they’ll be planning.

4. MORE BANG FOR THE TRAVEL BUCK: Americans will continue to seek out more value in exchange for what they pay through 2011, which is why vacation rentals are growing as an attractive option. Some three-bedroom rentals sleep up to eight people versus one or two, and include amenities like fully equipped kitchens, game rooms, private pools/hot tubs, in-home fireplaces, free Internet access and more.

5. MEETING DEMANDS FOR QUALITY TIME: As the Great Recession continues into its third year, 86 percent of travelers agree “these difficult times have helped me to focus on the things that matter most in my life,” which for many translates into a renewed focus on family and friends. Trips taken with friends, children, grandparents and extended family represent one of the only consistently rising types of travel. As this “togethering” trend continues, Americans are selecting vacation rentals for convenient multi-bedroom accommodations and a sense of comfort under one roof.

6. EASIER TO FIND, BOOK VACATION RENTALS ONLINE: For the millions of travelers who go online when planning travel, booking a vacation rental has evolved into a convenient and secure process, as many professional vacation rental companies and websites offer secure Internet reservations systems, as well as photos, video tours, amenities and guest reviews of individual homes. Guests can often save time with immediate online availability and confirmations. All of the companies listed at http://www.DiscoverVacationHomes.com/ subscribe to a Code of Ethics and Practices in the management and renting of vacation properties.

7. FAMILY REUNIONS TRENDING: Family reunions have seen huge growth in recent years, a trend that’s expected to continue in 2011. Approximately three in 10 travelers named it as a type of celebratory trip taken during the past year. As reunions grow in popularity, so go vacation rentals as a top choice for group lodging.

8. WORD OF MOUTH: The recommendations of friends and family top the list of Americans’ most trusted information sources,* and the word is out; nearly nine in 10 past vacation rental guests said they would recommend the lodging option to friends or relatives.

9. WEEKENDS MADE EASY: As the habits and preferences of travelers change, the vacation rental category has adapted, as well. With nearly three-quarters of travelers having taken weekend trips in the past year, guests seeking a two- or three-night getaway can often find rental companies with flexible, little to no minimum stay requirements – especially in the off-season, when booking last-minute or even in specific rental properties.

10. NEW GUEST SERVICES AND SPECIALS TO BE FOUND: From new wedding coordination offerings to new properties, exclusive attractions privileges, travel deals, added values and beyond, professional vacation rental managers across North America, the Caribbean and Central America are providing new ways for travelers to enjoy the vacation rental experience.

11. AVOIDING AIRLINE BAGGAGE FEES: With ever-changing restrictions and added airline costs for taking a vacation, travelers are considering ways to pack less and, ultimately, spend less. Professionally managed vacation rentals often come equipped with in-home washers and dryers, free laundry detergent and bath-and-body amenities. Having such perks under travelers’ own vacation rental roof can allow them to pack half as many items.

TripAdvisor Loves Vacation Rentals Too!

Posted on January 11, 2011

Outer Banks - Big Mama's

Survey Shows Increased Interest in Vacation Rentals, With 40 Percent of Travelers Planning a Rental Stay in 2011

TripAdvisor®, the world’s largest travel site, recently announced the results of its second annual vacation rentals survey of more than 1,400 U.S. travelers.

Thirty-three percent of travelers said they stayed in a vacation rental in 2010, and forty percent of respondents said they are planning a vacation rental stay in 2011, indicating that rental homes are poised for a busy 2011.

From Hank Hudepohl, director of vacation rentals at TripAdvisor: “With an increased interest in vacation rentals on TripAdvisor and a similar trend shown in our survey, it’s shaping up to be another strong year of growth for rentals. For travelers staying with larger groups in 2011, a vacation rental is a great option to consider for its home-like amenities and affordable pricing compared to hotels.”

Here are some of the results from the survey:

Summer is the busiest vacation rental season…
Summer projects to be the most popular season for vacation rental stays in 2011, with 52 percent of U.S. travelers planning a rental home stay during the warmer months. In addition, 47 percent of respondents are planning to stay in beachfront villas, making them the most popular vacation rental type for 2011. The most popular U.S. region for rental stays in 2011 is the Southeast (31 percent) according to the survey. This was followed by the Southwest and the Northwest, which came in second and third, respectively.

Best part of a vacation rental…
When asked what travelers liked the most about vacation rentals as a lodging option:

28 percent cited more space
23 percent of travelers enjoyed having access to a full kitchen
13 percent liked that rentals were often less expensive than hotels

In addition, 41 percent of respondents said vacation rentals were the best option for a trip when staying in a destination for a week or more, while 33 percent thought they were the best option when staying with a large group.

Booking early pays off…
Twenty-nine percent of travelers either always or often stay in the same rental year after year. Of the travelers who stayed in a vacation rental in the past:

22 percent booked their rental home more than six months prior to the trip
34 percent of travelers booked their rentals between three and six months out
22 percent booked between one and three months out
2 percent of travelers booked their vacation rental less than one month out

Vacation Rental vs. Hotel…
Eighty-seven percent of respondents said they would choose to stay in a vacation rental over a hotel if it were significantly less expensive. In addition, 80 percent of travelers would book a last minute vacation rental stay if they found a great deal.

Luxury vacation rental features…
If travelers had their pick of luxury vacation rental features:

51 percent would choose a rental home with a private beach
12 percent would choose a rental home with maid service
9 percent would choose a rental home with a hot tub
8 percent would choose a rental home with a personal chef

Vacation Rentals and life events…
According to the survey, 36 percent of travelers who have rented in the past have stayed in a vacation rental for a milestone life event, such as a wedding, birthday or reunion.

Know Before You Go…
When deciding between different rental properties, the key influences cited by respondents are:

Photos of the home (42 percent)
Traveler reviews (27 percent)
Cost of staying at the properties (13 percent)

Power of the internet and friends’ advice…
Most travelers find out about vacation rental properties on the Web, both on vacation rental property websites (70 percent) and online travel websites (55 percent). In addition, 25 percent of respondents find out about particular homes by word of mouth from friends and family.

The Outer Banks is the perfect beach vacation…a great combination of peaceful relaxation and fun local activities/attractions; gorgeous beaches, a wide variety of water sports, world-class fishing and surfing, great local art and shopping, delicious local food, history, nature, etc.

The OBX offers great vacation rental homes for all types of travelers; small beach bungalows to large beach front estates.

Please let us know if we can help you plan your next trip to the Outer Banks: www.OuterBanksVacations.com.

Fall in Love with the Outer Banks for Your Wedding Day

Posted on January 7, 2011

Outer Banks Weddings

The Outer Banks is a world-class wedding destination. Miles of empty beaches and gorgeous sound front lots offer the perfect backdrop for the big day. And since you’re at the beach, everyone can enjoy a vacation full of sun and sand.

The 13th annual Outer Banks Wedding Expo is this weekend, and we can’t wait to see all of the brides and grooms. It’s a whirlwind day with few hundred vendors and a few thousand attendees, but the Expo is a such a fun event filled with a lot of energy from the excited couples.

If you’ll be at the Expo, please stop by our booth to meet our great staff and get some help planning your big day. We will be giving away a complimentary three day stay as well, so please sign-up for the drawing.

Here’s a fun wedding video we’ll be showing at the booth.

Huffington Post Loves Vacation Rentals Too! – Live Like a Local

Posted on December 1, 2010

Outer Banks - Big Mama's

Given the fact that we rent vacation rentals along the Outer Banks, it’s a pretty safe bet that we are big fans of the value, convenience, and overall experience that vacation rentals offer guests that hotels cannot.

In fact, here’s a link to our Top 10 reasons vacation rentals surpass hotels.

But we’re not the only fans. We can count the Huffington Post among loyal supporters of vacation rentals as well.

The Huff Po recently ran an article titled “Live Like a Local with Vacation Rentals” that highlights one of the strongest advantages vacation rentals offer over hotels; local flavor. A vacation is so much more than the where you lay your head at night, but your choice of lodging can have a large impact on the overall experience.

A stale room in a high rise where you meet your friends in the lobby to head out to dinner, or a house that feels like home where you gather with your friends on the deck overlooking the ocean to enjoy a great meal prepared in your private kitchen?

Seems like an easy choice.

As the article states…

“[H]ow else can travelers, especially those on a budget, really get to know a place? Spend the night cooking in with friends, rather than dining out among strangers?

The vacation rental’s ability to put you in the heart of things reflects, I think, a more communal, democratized approach to travel. Concierge and crisp guest books are now replaced by Trip Advisor and countless rental websites, not to mention random queries for advice on Facebook and Twitter.”

We’d love to help you find that local flavor. www.OuterBanksVacations.com

Outer Banks Weddings Highlighted in USA Today

Posted on July 16, 2010

Outer Banks Wedding

The USA Today travel section recently highlighted the Outer Banks in an article titled, “How to Get Married at Corolla Beach in North Carolina.”

The article does a great job giving an overview of the Corolla area and reducing the “to do” list to five steps.

You can find the article here, but here’s a quick recap with some added commentary:

Overview: Corolla offers a beautiful backdrop for your wedding.

Step 1: Find a location. The OBX has a wide variety of locations to choose from, and the beaches are public and accessible to anyone. Seaside Vacations has an array of gorgeous vacation homes to host a wedding, rehearsal dinner, or guests coming to the wedding.

Step 2: Secure an officiant. There are a number of officiants in all denominations on the OBX, but book early; they are very busy during the wedding season.

Step 3: Arrange for food. There are an endless supply of amazing restaurants and caterers on the Outer Banks. Enjoy this process…eat as much as possible!

Step 4: Book musicians and photographers. A couple of our favorite photographers are Brooke Mayo and Matt Lusk.

Step 5: Get a marriage license.

I’m going to go off-script here and include a 6^th step not mentioned in the article.

Step 6: Go to the Outer Banks Wedding Expo in January. It is a good reason to make a trip to the OBX for “planning” and a great opportunity to see all of the local vendors in one location…and there are great prize giveaways.

Have fun planning!