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Why Choose a Vacation Rental Instead of a Hotel?

We’ve been in this business so long, sometimes we lose sight of the main reasons people come to us instead staying at a hotel. We’re aware there are many good hotels out there, and many offer great amenities. So what’s the difference, and why choose a vacation rental instead of a hotel? There are quite a few good reasons, and here are our top ones.

Vacation Rentals Offer More Privacy

Empty Hotel corridor with row of doorsA common feature of every hotel is the fact that you’re sharing the space with other people. And sometimes you’re sharing the space with a lot of other people. Even the finest hotels have common hallways, and if you’re unfortunate enough to get a room adjacent to the elevator or stairwell, you can count on a steady flow of traffic past your room at all hours. This is especially bad if you have the misfortune to choose your stay at the same time as a group like the Duluth Yodeler’s Association. They’re a fun group, but a bit less fun when they’re yodeling in the hallway outside your room at 3am.

Vacation Rentals Offer More Convenience

Breakfast in KitchenSometimes a hotel is the best choice if you’re staying in a downtown area, but with the right planning, you can often find a good vacation rental even in those locations. Mornings in most hotel rooms start with formulating a plan for breakfast that typically involves going to a local restaurant. And during busy times, it involves waiting for a table at that restaurant. With your vacation rental, you greet each morning with all the conveniences of home. A quick stop by the market on your way in, and you’ll have a full kitchen stocked with all you need to make your own breakfast. While you’re still in your pajamas, and without waiting for a table.

Vacation Rentals Offer Better Value

Group of friends outside cabinThis is especially true when you plan a big family, work, or church event around your vacation rental. Finding rooms for a dozen people can be very expensive and involves lots of logistics to get everyone in the same place at the same time for meals, meetings, and activities. Many of our properties have room for a dozen guests or more, so even our most expensive properties suddenly become less expensive than a basic motel room when the cost is shared across a large group. And you’ll have the added benefit of spending more time together, which is probably the main reason you planned your event anyway, right?

Big Bear is our most popular destination, and you can book your stay online or view all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo Vallarta and La Quinta.

It’s Oktoberfest Time!

We’re beyond thrilled to see Oktoberfest just around the corner. This year marks the 49th anniversary of this family event, and it’s on track to be the best yet. The fun happens every weekend starting September 7th and running through November 2nd. You can save by purchasing your tickets in advance at this link. And this year when you purchase your September ticket in advance, you’ll get a free ticket to return for closing weekend.

Opening weekend on September 7th will offer free admission to all current and former military, fire fighters, law enforcement, and their immediate families.

This year’s festival will feature four bands directly from Germany. You’ll also enjoy beers ranging from the same ones enjoyed at the Munich Oktoberfest for more than 150 years, to more modern versions. The food will of course range from brats to knockwurst direct from the German butcher.

Big Bear OktoberfestThe Budenstrasse (Avenue of the Booths) is designed for the entire family with lots of special treats just for the kids. You’ll find arts, crafts, collectibles and trinkets for mom and dad. The kids will love the carnival games, taking a turn on Samson the Mechanical Bull, the bounce house, balloon artist, face painting and airbrushed tattoos.

Sundays are family day with half price adult admission and kids under 12 get in for free. There are contests for the kids every Sunday ranging from boot holding to a costume contest during the final weekend’s Halloween celebration. Every child will take home a prize with special awards going to the 3 best costumes. Start planning now!

You can book your Oktoberfest stay online or view all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo Vallarta and La Quinta.

May Events in Big Bear

There are enough May events in Big Bear to keep you busy all month long. It’s a perfect time to plan your Five Star Vacation Rental getaway and here are just a few of the fun things you can enjoy during your stay.

Cropped Biker in ForestSpring relaunches Big Bear’s cycling season, and there are a bunch of events planned all month long. The events start May 1st. with a twilight ride starting from Maggio’s Pizza at 5:30pm. Many consider Big Bear to the cycling capital of Southern California, and the Big Bear Cycling Association is one of the most active cycling groups anywhere in the country. Owing to Big Bear’s natural beauty and varied terrain the association offers a broad spectrum of rides for all skill levels and some planned specifically as family events. Visit their website for more details on upcoming rides: https://bigbearcycling.com

ruby slippersBig Bear’s night life is jam packed throughout May with some really great choices sure to delight everyone in the family. For a fun night of comedic relief, and family-friendly slapstick, head over to the Big Bear Performing Arts Center for the Big Bear High School Performing Arts Department’s presentation of a Panto version of “The Wizard of Oddz.” Inspired by the comedic style started in England, this loosely follows Dorothy and her friends trying to get back to Kansas with some very funny changes and audience participation along the way. You’ll want to order tickets in advance for the performances. Runs May 2-3-4 at 7pm and May 4-5 at 2pm.

Music lovers will have their choice of great events in May as well. The Cave continues with its lineup of great bands. May kicks off on Friday the 3rd with a performance by X, one of the most influential punk bands from the past 40 years. The following night will see Anuhea, the Hawaiian songstress bring her unique sound to The Cave. And here’s a list of other acts appearing throughout the month.
5/11: T.S.O.L.
5/18: Led Zepagain, a tribute band to Led Zeppelin
5/25: Desperado: An Eagles Tribute Band
Visit https://thecavebigbear.com for more details and to buy tickets in advance.

Each of these events will be enhanced when you finish the day by retreating to the luxury of your Five Star Vacation Rental in Big Bear. You can do your own custom search for the specific dates you’d like to stay on our Big Bear page. Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your perfect  getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo VallartaMammoth MountainPark CitySouthern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

 

 

Enjoy Spring in Big Bear

Ski season has wound down, and now we’re booking groups looking to enjoy spring in Big Bear.  It’s a perfect time to book your getaway with some great hiking, fishing, and outdoor time in mind.

Family On Walk Through Beautiful CountrysideHiking in Big Bear is a passion for many of our guests, and it’s easy to see why. There are hiking paths ranging from wheelchair and stroller accessible paved ones to expert-level paths up to 15 miles long calling for navigation skills and significant exertion. The paths navigate a variety of the terrain and views found throughout the Big Bear area. Hiking in the spring is especially rewarding and will usually bring some close up interactions with some of the local wildlife as well.

middle-aged man with three sons holding fishing rods smiling (portrait)Fishing in Big Bear Lake starts up again this month as well. And whether you’re looking for a lazy afternoon relaxing on the banks of the lake or a serious angler intent on bringing home something fresh for dinner, Big Bear Lake fishing is a perfect fit. Rainbow trout, bass, and catfish can find their way to the end of your hook on a typical day. And with the gourmet kitchens you’ll find in most Five Star Vacation Rentals in Big Bear, they can end up deliciously prepared for everyone in your group. As any fisherman will tell you, there’s really nothing quite as tasty as a fresh caught and prepared fish dinner. Add some sides from the local market, and you’ll be serving up smiles all around.

You can do your own  search for the specific dates you’d like to stay on our Big Bear page. Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your perfect spring getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo VallartaMammoth MountainPark CitySouthern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

Plan Your Spring Getaway

We know we’re still a ways away from Spring, but part of creating the perfect getaway often includes some wise advance planning. And we’ve got some great choices for your Spring getaway. Check out these properties:

F8675FFB-155D-0010-07A88063B26A15C6-4Z6A1807PGA101 is a 4000 square foot La Quinta mansion with room for 10 guests in its 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. Its private pool and spa with nearby fire pit certainly enhance your relaxation as do the stunning views of the mountains and adjacent golf course. It’s wide folding doors allow you to enjoy the amazing scenery and golf course views while relaxing inside. But you’re going to want to spend as much time as possible enjoying the view from the private pool and spa. View more details and book online at this link.

96A72E51-155D-0010-07C9858C8DBE5262-61PGA108 sits overlooking the 17th hole of the Nicklaus Private Course with views of the Santa Rosa Mountains beyond. You’ll find yourself enjoying the privacy and relaxing in the pool with its custom rock work and swaying palms overhead. There’s plenty of room for 8 guests to stretch out in its 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, and you’ll want to plan some great dinners to take advantage of the chef’s kitchen. Check out more photos and book online at this link.

Big Bear is a great destination year round. We have many luxury vacation rentals to choose from, and we can accommodate groups from a couple looking for a romantic getaway to over 25 for large company or church functions, or a family reunion. Here’s just one example:

9376750698Our Luxurious Castle Glen Estate is 5200 square feet of luxury with room for up to 16 guests to immerse themselves in one of the best examples of a custom estate you can find in the Big Bear area. With its soaring ceilings and custom finishes throughout, you’ll spend your first moments just soaking in the rich craftsmanship that surrounds you here. There’s room for 16 guests in its 6 bedrooms and 4.5 baths.The living room has plenty of seating along with huge floor to ceiling windows looking directly at Bear Mountain ski resort. The property features 2 huge master suites with Cal king beds and deck access. Incredible Lake and Mountain views are captured from the the master suites and adjoining bathrooms. Each master suite also has a fireplace. Check out more photos and book online at this link.

We have dozens of other examples in La Quinta and Big Bear to choose from, and you can be assured that we pride ourselves on creating a great experience for each of our guests. Browse all of our Big Bear cabins at this link, and our La Quinta estates here. Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you find the right property to meet your specific requests. We can accommodate both big and small groups, so feel free to call us for ideas on how to plan your perfect getaway. And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo VallartaMammoth MountainPark City, and Southern California Beaches.

Valentine’s Day in Big Bear

We know we’re a bit biased about this, but we’ve been pretty consistent about encouraging our friends and family the Valentine’s Day can be much better than a simple bouquet of flowers and box of candy.

Beautiful Soft Pink Roses with a Heart Shape Box of Chocolate CandyThere’s certainly nothing wrong with candy and flowers, but they can be a bit lacking in a full expression of exactly how much that special someone actually means to you. And while these may be an important part of your loving celebration, there’s so much more you can do to make sure Valentine’s Day is a memorable event that more fully expresses your feelings. This is where we come in, and how we can revolutionize your celebration.

Big Bear is For Lovers

Feet warming at fireplace with hands holding wineImagine a great day alone with your sweetheart. You started the day with a gourmet breakfast in one of the little cafes in Big Bear Village. You strolled among the great little shops afterward picking up a few little souvenirs to remember the day. You found a great bottle of wine in one of the shops, and you bought it to enjoy later while you relax in the hot tub at your Five Star Vacation Rental. It was a bit cold outside, so you returned to the cabin and started a nice fire going in the fireplace. Later, you cooked her favorite dish in the gourmet kitchen of your Five Star Vacation Rental. You smile that the flowers and candy you bought are sitting on the table nearby, and are glad you choose to much more this year.

Sound like a good plan? We certainly agree. Make this Valentine’s Day one you’ll both recall and want to repeat again next year.

View all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your perfect holiday getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo VallartaMammoth MountainPark CitySouthern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

February Events in Big Bear

February is a great month to visit Big Bear. The ski season is in full swing, and there’s lots of other great activities going on as well. Here’s a sample of the things you can enjoy while you’re staying in your Five Star Vacation Rental in Big Bear during February.

Super Bowl weekend is packed with some great events. On February 2nd, Bear Mountain ski resort is hosting Bear Bowl IV. Grab some friends and come compete for a chance to win a season pass, $1,000, and VIP service at the Super Sunday Viewing Party. Bear Bowl is a 3-part team competition measuring speed (relay race), agility (field goal kicking), and accuracy (tire toss contest). The team that scores the most overall points wins. Registration is free/open to the first 10, 4-person teams that sign up in the Bear Mountain base area on Feb. 2. A valid ski pass is needed to compete. More details at this link.

Come on down for live Music at Wyatt’s at the Big Bear Convention Center. Wyatt’s Cafe and Saloon is truly the simple place where the good folks of Big Bear gather. Come on over every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night for line dancing and relaxing with friends.

BaldEagleBig Bear’s annual bald eagle count continues during February. This event is a great chance to get out in the forest and catch a glimpse of these majestic birds. You’ll be volunteering for the Forest Service to count the number of bald eagles wintering in the San Bernardino Mountains. Dress warm, and bring your own binoculars.  Meet at the Big Bear Discovery Center between 8AM and 8:30AM. For more details, call 909-382-2790.

JoshuaRadinThe Cave has some amazing live bands appearing during February. The fun kicks off on February 2nd with an evening devoted to “Beatles versus Stones.” Also this month you can catch Joshua Radin, Yachtly Crew, Orleans, and more. Get more info on tickets and showtimes on their website: https://thecavebigbear.com/

You can easily book your stay at any time online or view all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your holiday vacation or getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo VallartaMammoth MountainPark CitySouthern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

Dreaming of a White Christmas in Big Bear

Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? Well, if you’re dreaming of a white Christmas in Big Bear, we’re ready to help you make that happen. We’ve still got a handful of cabins and estates available for Christmas, but we’re almost certainly going to be booked solid, so you’ll need to hurry if you want to make this happen for your family.

Cabin23view2We’re excited that snow is already falling in Big Bear, and the ski slopes are open. This means your Christmas visit to Big Bear can include some fun skiing, snow boarding, or just having some fun family snow play. And there’s really nothing quite like having the family wake up on Christmas morning to a snow-covered landscape outside. If conditions allow, you may even have get the chance to build your family’s first snow man. And that is a moment most kids will remember for the rest of their lives.

snowplayBig Bear Snow Play is one of Big Bear’s most popular winter attractions. It features one of Big Bear’s biggest slopes, and is the go-to destination for inner tube downhill fun.  They’ve also got a “Magic Carpet” ride to get you from the bottom of the long slope all the way to the top without losing your breath. They’re open daily from 10am – 4pm with evening hours on the weekends. They’re even open on Christmas day from 11am to 4pm. If you’ve never experienced the thrill of racing down a slope on a tube, it’s a thrill you’re definitely going to enjoy.

Time is running out to plan your white Christmas in Big Bear.  You can do your own custom search for the specific dates you’d like to stay on our Big Bear page. Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your perfect holiday getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo VallartaMammoth MountainPark CitySouthern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

 

 

 

Got Summer Plans Yet?

Have you made your summer plans yet? The time is slipping away, and we’ve got some great choices to help make your getaway truly special this year.  Here’s a small sample of some of the fun events and activities you can enjoy when you book your summer getaway in one of our Five Star Vacation Rentals in Big Bear:

Family On Walk Through Beautiful CountrysideHiking Big Bear is a great opportunity for your family to turn off your phones, pull on some good walking shoes, and enjoy some great family time. There are trails throughout the Big Bear area with a variety of distances and exertion levels designed to fit every hiker. They range from hikes lasting less than an hour to hikes designed to challenge even the most seasoned hiker. Some of the paths are wheelchair and stroller accessible and feature stops along the way to learn more about the botany, geology, and wildlife of the area. There’s more info on the available trails at this link.

The company of young people are sitting around the bonfire and singing songsHikers and outdoor enthusiasts will want to pay a visit to the Big Bear Discovery Center. They have fun programs scheduled throughout the summer including night hikes, campfire presentations, gold panning, and more. Many of their activities are scheduled with volunteer naturalists to answer questions and provide fascinating insight in to the beautiful plants and wildlife that surround us here in Big bear. Check out their calendar for more info on the many fun events they have available during your visit.

RennaisanceFairThere’s still time to catch this year’s Renaissance Faire running weekends through August 12th. This annual event offers a great collection of costumes, period entertainment and some of the best foods found anywhere on the planet for the past several hundred years. This is a family event where you can stroll among minstrels, royalty, and enjoy stage shows featuring magicians, period music, and some very funny acts.

We’re really proud of our lineup of luxury cabins and estates in in Big Bear. We learned long ago that vacation time is a rare and special time for most families, and we dedicate ourselves to making sure your time with us is the best possible. You can view them all our Big Bear vacation rentals at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for special Father’s Day with your family.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your getaway whatever the occasion may be.  Here are links to our properties in Nuevo VallartaMammoth MountainPark CitySouthern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

 

 

 

More Fun For Your July Big Bear Getaway

In our blog last week, we looked at some of the fun things you can plan for your July getaway to Big Bear. July is packed with fun stuff, so we’re taking a look at some more of the fun things you can include during your stay.

JoustingOur favorite event is the annual Renaissance Faire running weekends starting July 14th through August 12th. If you’ve never been, it’s a great time with amazing food and many interesting characters. Be sure to watch for the themed weekends, and feel free to join in the fun with your own costumes. This year you’ll have the chance to enjoy fairies, pirates, royalty, and more. And the food is simply amazing. You’ll be able to select from a variety of period foods. Just follow the amazing aromas to see which one you’ll take in.

Cycling raceBig Bear boasts one of the most beautiful venues for cyclists in all of California. The Big Bear Cycling Association is hosting cycling events all month long culminating in the Big Bear Cycling Festival from July 28 through August 5th. This is the only week-long cycle festival in the United States. Events are scheduled in the dirt and the road with offerings geared toward all skill levels. You’ll find altitude acclimation rides, kids events, and a cycling expo displaying the best in cycling gear and technology. There are a number of events scheduled including Crafts N Cranks, which combines your passion for mountain biking, and craft brews with a fun run at Snow Summit, the mountain biking Mecca of Southern California. Visit http://bigbearcyclingfestival.com for more info.

watching wildlifeYour family can learn more about ecotourism in Big Bear during Big Bear Valley Outdoor Adventure Days on July 29th and 30th. This event takes place at the Big Bear Discovery Center and features nature, history, discovery and more. Visitors will be able to visit a Big Bear wetland area, explore Big Bear Lake on paddle boats, and learn more about Big Bear’s rich Native American history. Nature walks and bird watching tours will also be offered. It’s a great way to enjoy Big Bear and learn about how we can preserve its beauty for future generations.

You can easily book your stay at any time online or view all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your summer vacation or getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo VallartaMammoth MountainPark CitySouthern California Beaches, and La Quinta.