Surf or Sound Realty - Horrible Experience

Be careful who you rent your vacation home from. We went for 2 weeks in July to Avon and rented through Surf or Sound Realty. Our home ';On Island Time #515'; was filthy. There were numerous safety issues, like live wires near the hot tub and smoke alarms off the walls. The couch in our main living room was torn and stained beyond belief. Even when they had the professional come in to clean it, he couldn%26#39;t remove all the stains. The couch should have been thrown away. It was disgusting. Bugs smeared all over the walls, screens missing and torn from the windows. Lack of furniture around pool and throughout home. Broken Chairs, Kitchen was not stocked properly with utensils and kitchen tools. After contacting Surf or Sound to remedy some of these situations, they stuck us with their Office Manager that was not customer friendly. She was very mean, yelling at my children and myself when her company dropped the ball on this house. The house should not have been rented. Very difficult office staff to deal with. I was told never to rent through them again. This is Discrimination. My family didn%26#39;t do all this to the home. We spent a lot of money on our ';Dream 2 week vacation'; and were highly disappointed. Whatever you do, don%26#39;t rent with Surf or Sound Realty. Unless, you want to be disappointed with your vacation home and the staff. Use the other well respected realtors in the area. They are much more customer oriented and try to make things right. Surf or Sound was horrible.

Surf or Sound Realty - Horrible Experience

(tried to send this earlier but didn%26#39;t go thru so sorry if it appears twice!)

I%26#39;m sorry you had such a bad vacation - too bad you didn%26#39;t enter Surf or Sound Realty in this forum before you booked with them. You would have seen dozens and dozens of complaints similar to yours. We have always had great luck with Hatteras Realty and Outer Beaches Realty.

If you are new to this forum check out the comments on the realty companies before making a reservation!

Surf or Sound Realty - Horrible Experience

Sorry you had such a horrible time due to your realty company. Please don%26#39;t think this is true of all rental companies on OBX. My family has rented houses through Stan White, Joe Lamb, and Carolina Designs, with little to no problems.

We also had a bad Surf or Sound experience. The refrigerator in the house we were renting wasn%26#39;t working when we arrived, and most of the week went by before it was fixed. No apology from Surf or Sound (and no discount because apparently a fridge isn%26#39;t ';essential';). This was in a rather expensive, 6 bedroom house with a private pool. That was several years ago. Since then we have been renting from Outer Beaches and have had a much better experience.

Drat! Not what I want to hear. We%26#39;re going with Surf or Sound for the first time this year. Usually we go with Hatteras Realty but we needed a larger house.

If I were you, depending on how much money you have put down already, I would try to get out of it. You need to read all of the posts on this website under Surf or Sound. I can%26#39;t believe they are still in business with the way they treat their customers! If you can%26#39;t get out of it, be sure to take pictures of anything that is wrong with the home as soon as you walk in. Be sure to let them know of anything that is wrong, even though they won%26#39;t do anything about it. What house did you end of renting? I think if you get a brand new home, you should be ok.

We%26#39;re getting #333 Bramasole. I%26#39;m not sure how old it is. We%26#39;ve already paid 50% and I don%26#39;t know that we could get another rental at this point...

Sorry you had such a bad experience. We have not rented from SurforSound, but were considering it for a trip this May. When I called to inquire about heated pools, etc, the reservationist was rude, and not interested in helping us find the best accomodations for our needs. I hung up the phone, and will never consider them now or in the future.

Hello. I saw your posts here about the ';on island time'; house and Surf or Sound realty. That really sounds horrible. If anyone is interested, I have a very nice family oriented home for weekly rental. It has no pool and is a bit smaller, but I keep it very clean and make sure the tenants are satisfied. The house is in Avon. Below is the link. Take a look and let me know what you think.

Thanks,

John

http://www.vrbo.com/129687

Surf or Sound when they first stated got all the new expensive places. I checked the pricing this year and noticed that their rates were cheaper than Midgett, Hatteras or Outer Beaches. I never did use Surf or Sound but almost did this year. I have uased the other three extensively and if I lived closer I probably would have bought a place years ago, But living 6 to 7 hours away is too far to check on a property.

Not much difference between the other three rental companies...I have had many more good experiences with them than bad ones. I do not like how Outer Beaches website is now.

A friend of mine rented from a friend of his who owns a place Hatteras or Buxton..I cannot remember. This guy told my friend that when they purchased they were looking at a lot of houses with different realty companies. One house they looked at...generation 1980s, Oceanfront...they were told not to buy because it was haunted. Anyone heard of a haunted house on Hatteras....I just thought about it because it probably is a Surf or Sound rental! Seriously about the story.

It is amazing that any business would allow their customers to be treated like that. Evidently they feel that there are so many people they will never run out of potential customers. It is evident that they have not heard of Internet Reviews, and they don%26#39;t realize that by mistreating one person can cost them many $$$$.

I did notice that another Poster added a link to their cottage, that could be the way to go. Rent from someone who values each customer. We also have a rental and since it is only 2 bedrooms will not take away from the first poster. Any one who just need tow bedrooms in a neat, clean, and very reasonable cottage give us a call. www.sandsoftimecampground.com Click on the link COTTAGE.

Thoughts om Memorial Day 09

Surf City Police need to get their act together and come up withg a traffic plan for Surf City.They need to have Officers directing traffic at the stoplight and near by intersections on weekends and Holidays.I have never seen so many Idiots without a clue as to what they are doing or where they are going.

Thoughts om Memorial Day 09

My thoughts on Mermorial Day are not about traffic, picnics, Nascar races, but for more important things, people... The brave men and women and their families, past and present, who have fought for our freedom.

Not to be a Debbie Downer, but this is what we have to remember, people have fought and died to give us our rights , yes to even our right to b**ch about traffic.

So fly your flags high, attend a Mermorial Day parade, visit a local Vet. center, buy a poppy from the vets. Show your pride in our country in your own way, but please remember the reason for this special day. Especially with Camp Lejeune being a close neighbor, a lot of military families enjoy the island also!

Happy Holidays.

Thoughts om Memorial Day 09

I%26#39;m Sorry, But I did attend The Memorial Day Service at the Veterans Cemetery Today on the FIFTH ANNIVERSITY of MY FATHER%26#39;S Death Today and felt a little Aggravated when I got back to this Place.

And He was a Veteran and the MAYOR of this Town for two terms.ButHow was Your Day ?

Eh, you have to expect crazy, backed up traffic on busy holiday weekends in popular vacation areas. It%26#39;s nothing new and it%26#39;s not unique to Surf City.

All the crowds were good to see. It was good for business and good for the local economy.

A good tip for locals and visitors alike is to avoid accessing the island via the Surf City swing bridge on summer Saturdays or holidays between about 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. if traffic bothers you.

The highrise bridge into North Topsail Beach might add 20 minutes or so to your time but if you%26#39;d rather add that time than sit in traffic, it would be worth it. Traffic flows steadily over that bridge with no stopping or slow downs.

Once you get to Surf City via NTB, if you are going south of the traffic light, get off Hwy 210 and go one road closer to the ocean (North Topsail Drive) to end up at the traffic signal and not stuck in traffic as you get closer to Roland Avenue.

scars

ie hosted control

1st visit to outer banks, driving from Charleston to Maine,

this will be our 1st visit to the Outer Banks. After leaving a child in Charleton for college we are heading back to Maine. We are planning on taking 3-4 days back. We love the beach and would like to relax for a couple of days. Would Corolla be a good place to relax for a couple of days? Is it a reasonable spot to stop enroute from Charleston? We are considering the Hampton Inn in Corolla, we want to stay on the beach and it will probably be the weekend of aug. 21st. Any suggestions for a great place to hang out at the beach for two days. Thanks in advance.

1st visit to outer banks, driving from Charleston to Maine,

Very nice hotel. Great location. Sounds like the perfect spot for 2 days of R%26amp;R. Have fun!

Franklin, NC - Gem Mining

We%26#39;re going to Franklin soon. We want to visit gem mines but not sure which ones since there are so many! No kids-- Just me and my husband! Which mines are the best for gem mining? Which places offer the best advice, tell you what to look for, etc.,? I%26#39;m a teacher and would like to take back ';something'; to show my students.

THANKS FOR ANY ADVICE!

Franklin, NC - Gem Mining

As to which is %26#39;best';, well that is one%26#39;s own interpitation. But there are several in the area. Do a search for ';gem mine franklin nc'; and click on the first one, which is the franklin CoC. On there you will see ';gem mines'; click there and then on MAP. You will see all in the area. If you notice the ';Rose creeck mine and Mason mine'; these are two that you will GET some gems in your buckets. Try one or both or even several. There are ';rock shops'; that will even evaluate and cut your stones that you find and will send them back to you after cutting. I have done this and was satisfied with the results. I have no preferance as to which is ';best'; but I would say try the rose creek first and then maybe mason mine. The one on cowee valley rd has ';natural (ruby) stones'; but a lot LESS of the other gems. Most all of the mines will have bags or buckets with ';enhanced'; gems from all over. If you buy buckets with only natural stones then you will find FAR less in then compared to enhanced buckets.

There are other places in NC that have gems like CANTON having natural rubys, Spruce pines which have emerals and other gems. Also Hiddenite which has quite a few differant gems, but you have to dig there for your riches.

I hope this helps and where ever you go, happy hunting. jim

ps Take along some OLD clothes that you don%26#39;t mind getting real dirty.

Franklin, NC - Gem Mining

My family and I mined the Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine several times while I was in college and enjoyed that experience. We also liked the gold and gem mine in Cherokee. At the Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine, you can actually buy bags of dirt to take back with you to show your students how to mine. You have to understand that most (if not all) of the mining companies ';enrich'; their bags. You%26#39;re not really getting the true mining experience because of this. I guess they want to guarantee success for each of their customers. If you go to Hiddenite near Statesville, you can get make the choice to get the ';real'; experience. It may be the same way at the emerald mines near Spruce Pine. Just remember that it%26#39;s all about the fun of the experience. I don%26#39;t believe you%26#39;ll be disappointed.

Have a great time!

If you%26#39;re looking for a non-commercial adventure in mining, try driving out Hwy 64 towards Murphy from Franklin to the Nantahala Forest. Turn left onto Deep Gap Rd (brown forestry sign) and drive down to the first campsite on the right. Armed with nothing more than a kitchen strainer %26amp; garden trowel, you can sift the garnets out of the sand in the creek %26amp; tell them all how you did it for free.

deltasunshine: Where exactly is Deep Gap Road? Is it in Hayesville or Murphy? I have a couple places in Murphy and am headed up there at the end of the week and want to check out the creek area you described, but can%26#39;t picture where Deep Gap is? Can you give me a landmark besides the forestry sign? Hopefully you will read this and let me know before I leave. micb63: We have gone gem mining at the Sapphire mine in Franklin (gave advice, showed us what to look for, etc.), they had regular buckets and fortified buckets. It is a blast, I also brought rubber gloves, flip flops, brought towels, bottled water to rinse off feet and wet ones to clean off before getting back in the car, it is very dirty, and fun for all ages, have a great time wherever you go!

We had our best experience at Gold City, a few miles above Franklin. I found a beautiful, native emerald and had it cut into a 2 carat gem. One of my kids found a native sapphire that was cut into 5 carats. We also found native rubies. They were slightly expensive ($25 a bucket and up) but as for the experience it was the most fun for our kids. Everyone found something of value and we learned how to identify rough gems. It wasn%26#39;t crowded, weather was nice and cool, trough was covered and plenty of room to spread out, people working there were extremely helpful and nice. I want to visit other mines when I return but I will definitely go back to Gold City. We visited one featured on the Travel Channel and were less than impressed and wouldn%26#39;t go back there ever again. I found the Franklin Chamber of Commerce website to have wonderful information on the mines. There is printable map on the website that shows the location of the mines.

It%26#39;s a late response but better late than never. My girlfriend and I go to the Franklin area at least 3 times a year to gem mine. We like Cherokee Ruby Mine because they don%26#39;t ';salt'; (enrich) their buckets. The staff is SO helpful and never seem to tire of your questions....no matter how many you ask. If you are members of M.A.G.M.A. (Mountain Area Gem %26amp; Mineral Association) you get discounts on the entry fee and bucket cost. Visit them. You won%26#39;t be disappointed. FYI: Bring a picnic basket and lots of water. There are no vending machines.

I went last year to Rose%26#39;s and had a ball! I found some nice stones and it wasn%26#39;t too expensive. I think you%26#39;d probably be fine anywhere.

Another mine that does not ';enrich'; is Mason%26#39;s Ruby %26amp; Saphire Mine www.masonsrubyandsapphiremine.com/index.htm they have shaded flumes and concessions but charge $30 for as long as you want to stay.

Cherokee is the only other that does not enrich. Not shaded and no snacks, but there is a $7 entry fee and $2.50 per bucket.

Sorry, that%26#39;s Cherokee Ruby Mine @

http://www.cherokeerubymine.com/index.php

Cherokee Ruby Mine and Mason Ruby %26amp; Sapphire Mine (Not Mason Mountain), are definately the way to go for the ';real'; mining experience. Ray, Tony, and Maria over at Cherokee are terrific very helpful people. They really give you an education on how to sluice and what to look for. As other posters have said, you should bring your own lunch, snacks and drinks, also rubber gloves are helpful and bring either ziploc bags or a cup for your finds. Maria provided us with empty pill bottles which was great. Only negative thing I have to say is the benches are too close to the flume and it is back breaking after a few hours. Mason Mine had a shaded waist high flume area, and you can actually go to the mine cave to dig. Expect to get wet and dirty at either location(wear boots!) but it%26#39;s a blast!

Clam Bakes on the beach?

Our family will be visiting the Outer Banks this year for the first time. We are having a family reunion celebrating my parents 50th wedding anniversary. We will be renting a house in the Village of Corolla.

Does anyone know if we can hire someone to cook us a clambake on the beach? Is this even allowed and if so, any suggestions as to whom we should use?

Thanks so much!

Clam Bakes on the beach?

Check out obxconnection.com. The people on there know everything there is to know and should be able to answer your questions. TA (this forum) is great. However obxconnection is all about the Outer Banks and they are quite specific in their answers there. Many homeowners, return vacationers, and natives will help you.

Clam Bakes on the beach?

There are places that will provide you with a custom made clam bake (see Steamers Shellfish to Go) right in Corolla (Tim Buck II) - awesome stuff, very fresh. As for setting up a party on the beach itself, that%26#39;s something I haven%26#39;t heard of or seen in 20 years of visiting there. There are no bonfires allowed in Corolla, which would be a nice beach party element - sorry. I guess you could set up your bech chairs in a circle and bring coolers with your drinks and extras and then just haul the clam bake down to the beach with you. Personally, with the volume of people who are on the beach in the evening along with their pets (dogs), it%26#39;s nice, but not necessarily romantic in a private party sense. If you are in a large beach house, that might be nicer. If it has a pool, you could always set up the party around the pool. Just suggestion.

Here%26#39;s the link to steamers - http://www.steamersshellfishtogo.com/

Thank you for this great information. We do have a large house with a pool, that sounds like a better idea!

Local Seafood Prices

How much would one expect to pay for ';local'; seafood at places in the Northern Banks? Mahi costs upwards of $14 per pound here in Middle Tennessee and I am really, really hoping to catch a real deal on mahi and tuna for dinners at the rental in Duck.

Please if you have recommendations of seafood stores or groceries with the best prices in the Corolla to Kill Devil Hills vicinity I would greatly appreciate it.

I am only asking because trips to the Gulf beaches were met with even higher seafood prices than I get here.

Thanks Y%26#39;all.

Local Seafood Prices

You can find fresh seafood at the local Food Lion and Harris Teeter, you should be able to pull up thier websites and search thier specials to see prices or call them directly. I know that there is also a speciality seafood store in the Food Lion plaza; I cannot remember the name - but, a simple search should help you find it - they may even have a website.

I have found most prices to be comparable to where we live - NW PA.

Biltmore Estate: how to make the best of our time there?

Hello,

We will be in Gatlinburg the first week of June and we want to include a 1 day trip to Biltmore Estate in our vacation plan. We want to make the best of our time there and we plan on arriving no later than 10:30am in the morning. We will also buy admission tickets online, to save time and few bucks. I am thinking to add the audio tour, but are there any other extras we should consider adding (specialty tours?).

We want to see the interior of the house, but also have a chance to visit the gardens and the winery (we are not wine drinkers, but I still think it%26#39;s worth stopping by). I know the estate is huge and it is impossible to see it all in 1 day (or 5-6 hours), but do you have any tips that you can share to make the best of our time while visiting there?

Thank you,

Monica

Biltmore Estate: how to make the best of our time there?

Hi Monica-

Buying your tickets online is a great way to go. Definitely get the audio tour - self guided really leaves you wanting explanations of everything. As much as you want to see the winery, I don%26#39;t suggest you try to fit it in. It%26#39;s great, but the house is unbelievable and huge - the real reason to visit.

I would focus on the house first (make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes - there are lots of stairs and it%26#39;s a lot of walking in general). Once you%26#39;ve finished touring the house, focus the rest of your time walking around the gardens- they%26#39;re wonderful. If you ever have time to return, take time then to visit the winery and the farm village. If you%26#39;re planning a repeat visit down the road, make it in the spring (when the grounds are spectacular during the spring flower festival) or the fall (when the leaves turn) - both are fantastic times to visit.

Enjoy!

Tara

Biltmore Estate: how to make the best of our time there?

Great advice, Tara! We will tour the house with the audio tour, check out the gardens and save the rest for a future visit.

Personally I think you can do it all in 5-6 hours without being rushed. Definitely tour the house and get the audio. They have just updated the audio tour to not only tell you about the rooms, but to include stories of the people that lived there and their lives. (makes it a bit more personal so you can relate with the people of that time). The gardens are a must and then head over to the winery. You can grab some lunch at the Bistro and browse in the gift shop. You will have a great time.

We will definitely tour the house (with the audio tour) and the gardens, have lunch at the Bistro and if we still have time we will check out the winery too. It will be a long day considering that we also have to drive from Gatlinburg and back, but we will take it easy the next day :)

I just hope for good weather while we are there!

database

Anyone stayed at Sand Dunes in Myrtle Beach? Need to know.

Seen several bad reviews about this resort in myrtle beach and want to know if anyone has been recently and can give an update on the property and rooms.

Anyone stayed at Sand Dunes in Myrtle Beach? Need to know.

I think you should post this on the South Carolina Forum.

Anyone stayed at Sand Dunes in Myrtle Beach? Need to know.

I posted it there as well. Know lots of people from this area that go to Myrtle Beach.

scars

Looking for hotel in Asheville, NC with a kiddie pool

Anyone know of any hotels in the Asheville area with a kiddie pool, baby pool, children%26#39;s pool? We are looking one for a late summer trip.

Thanks!

Looking for hotel in Asheville, NC with a kiddie pool

I do not know of any kiddie pools at any of the area hotels, but there are several family friendly hotels that have pools. Let me know if you are interested in those.

Looking for hotel in Asheville, NC with a kiddie pool

Hello 88keees!

Unfortunately, I%26#39;m not sure either, but the Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville and the Holiday Inn Biltmore East are both advertising a ';Children%26#39;s Pool'; so I would check with them.

Enjoy your stay!

Fishing

Does anybody know of any small private/public lakes, ponds nearby (Winston-Salem, Kernersville, Rural Hall, King) that would be a good place to take toddlers fishing? We loved Tommy%26#39;s Lake when they were around (Stanleyville).

Thanks.

Fishing

Try Salem Lake or the ponds in Tanglewood.

Oak Island Accommodations

Has anyone else had negative experience with this rental company

Oak Island Accommodations

I have always had great experience with them. I have rented small condos to large homes and even a motel room from them and have always had great service.

Oak Island Accommodations

Oh good that makes me fell better. After reading the negative postings I was a little worried. I am flying to NC from Oregon and then driving from Greensboro to Oak Island for week of MUCH needed vacation. As an Oak Island regular...any suggestions for activites, dining etc.

We have been going on vacation to Oak Island for 15 years and have rented from Oak Island Accommodations many times. I have to say I am astonished by the comments here, as our experiences all have been positive. I can%26#39;t say the same for another company on the island that has now gone out of business. Every house we have rented from OIA has been clean and maintained and I got an immediate response whenever there were problems with anything, such as burned out light bulbs.

As for things to do - understand this is a quiet place. People go here who really like to hang out on the beach, ride bikes, swim, boat, fish, etc. Don%26#39;t expect the carnival-like atmosphere of Myrtle Beach. What we%26#39;ve done in the past - kids love the mini golf course and arcade on the island. Off island we%26#39;ve gone to Wilmington and toured the Battleship North Carolina, and visited the really nice state aquarium, and toured Fort Fisher. There%26#39;s also a big wave-pool type place in Wilmington. A boat ride around Cape Fear is nice, especially in the evening.

Daisy - Thank you so much for your reply. The quiet is the main reason we are going to Oak Island area....at our ages 43 and 46 we have ';been there/done that'; with the busy scene. Thanks for the suggestions. REALLY looking forward to vacation...first one in almost 18 mos !!!!!

I just used them last week for the first time. I was initially apprehensive, because we arrived at 3pm for check-in and the house was not ready. Housekeeping finished at 3:45 and the house was in good condition. The pictures on the website accurately represented the house....thank goodness, no surprises. I think the prices were quite reasonable. I loved the fact that were no extra surchages, just the taxes.

Which rental property did you stay at? Were you ultimately satisfied with your rental? I have already paid for the week..I fly out next Wed (6/18) and will be staying week of 6/21st. I too was apprehensive after reading the negative posts.....Did you enjoy Oak Island? Any suggestions for things to do, places to eat etc.

We stayed at Red Wing Retreat. It is located way down on West Beach. The weather was absolutely beautiful. I planned all these side trips and then no one wanted to leave the beach. The water was quite warm for this time of year. It is amazing the water temperature difference between Nags Head, NC and Oak Island, NC. Every afternoon, the water becomes very calm. It is almost like swimming in a large pool. Perfect for kids. Oak Island is very low-key. There is not a lot to do. I saw one putt-putt course and a few restaurants. We went to a restaurant located at the Marina Point (I believe it is called Fish House) at the end of the island. My sister and I went to the movies one evening...left the husbands to watch the kids. Movie tickets were $6.50 each. I can%26#39;t remember the last time I saw those prices. We went into Southport one evening for dinner. It is very quaint. They have a park that overlooks the water. We ate at Cape Fear restaurant overlooking the water. I wasn%26#39;t overly impressed, but I was recommended Provisions. You may have better luck there. Have fun!

We have a terrible rental- and we are in it right now!! See my post on ';uncle ed%26#39;s';, 123 east beach drive. posted 6-10-08. OIA should be ashamed to represent this property as ';rentable';. This is a disgusting place that we rented from Oak Island Accomodations and I would not rent anything from them again. It is filthy, unkempt and dangerous; broken dishes, broken glassware, faucet knobs broken and rusty. See my posting for more negative details. Too bad for us. Don%26#39;t let it happen to you.

M - Tried to find your complete post under ';uncle ed%26#39;s'; but was unsuccessful. Can you help

I have stayed with Oak Island Accommodations many times and reccomended family members to stay here. They have always come through with excellent service and dependability. For those that have had problems, did you report them to the office at check-in? OIA will take care of any houskeeping or maintenance issues as soon as possible. The only thing they can not control as their homes are privated owned are the furnishings (decor).

Rental House opinion wanted

I am looking at renting Carolina Calypso from ResortQuest in Monteray Shores resortquestouterbanks.com/rental/house.html…

Does anyone have any insight into this it seems cheaper than most similar properties.

Thanks

Rental House opinion wanted

Hi sourw! For a soundside house that appears as it does in the photos, and with those ammenities, I think the rates seem about right. I have stayed in Monteray Shores, but not in that home. Let me know if you have any other questions.

MB

Rental House opinion wanted

If you are still looking for a rental, I highly suggest the Currituck Club. It is a beautiful soundside community with amazing views as well as amenities. This community boasts 3 pools for everyone%26#39;s use. Also most rental homes have private pools and spas. There is a fitness center, tennis courts and a golf course. A free trolley runs through the entire neighborhood to take you to the beach. Try Outer Banks Blue Realty(outerbanksblue.com) for homes that are available, particularly CC005 and CC008.

Good luck and enjoy your vacation!

You can go to www.maps.live.com and get a bird%26#39;s eye view of the house. It looks like a very nice house. We paid $3400 for a soundside house with Corolla Light amenenties last summer and we really liked it. Keep in mind, the sound sunsets are absolutely breathtaking, but you really don%26#39;t want to get into the water there. It%26#39;s mucky and lots of creatures in it. You will have to cross Rt 12 to get to the ocean. It wasn%26#39;t a problem where we were and we only had to go about three streets to the beach, so it all depends on what you want. I don%26#39;t know how busy hwy 12 is there. It wasn%26#39;t bad where we were.

I want to make a quilt

Anniversary Dinner?

Where%26#39;s the best place for a nice anniversary dinner? Doesn%26#39;t have to be fancy but nice with good food. My husband is more of a meat %26amp; potatoes kind of guy but I love just about anything so a place with a good variety would work. We have tickets for the final dress rehearsal of ';The Lost Colony'; for the same night so something not too far away from Manteo would be best. Got any feedback on The Colington Cafe or Tale of the Whale? These two look to be possibilities. Any suggestions on those or any other place that might be better? Thanks.

Anniversary Dinner?

Colington Cafe is great, and would be a perfect anniversary dinner spot. I would substitute JK%26#39;s in Kill Devil Hills for Tale of the Whale. Much better food, and good atmosphere, too. In Manteo, there is also 1587..pricey, but really good.

Anniversary Dinner?

I agree with Kill, Colington Cafe is perfect. Ask for a private room or a small one rather than the big one upstair, but any are good. The food is wonderful and they take reservations.

Tale is good, I go there a lot but JK%26#39;s would be better if you like steak. Owens would be a better choice in my opinion, it%26#39;s always great. 1587 is over on the waterfront in Manteo but I have never been a big fan of it or any restaurant Donny runs.

Avoid Basnight%26#39;s Lone Cedar at all cost unless not being able to talk across the table because of the noise is desired, which I doubt it is.

i absolutely agree w/ Colington Cafe. It would be my 1st choice. Tale of the Whale would be good too (i%26#39;ve never had a bad meal there).

Colington Cafe would be my first choice, Owens%26#39; Restaurant would be second and Tale of the Whale would be third.

Colington Cafe - most definitely.

Colington Cafe, Flying Fish, or Owens. I would say Blue Point, but its too far away. You get a beautiful sunset at the Blue Point, and the food is outstanding.

Sound side beach suggestions...

We discovered today that the sound water is MUCH warmer than the ocean. Do you have any suggestions on beach areas along the sound? We are staying in Duck. Thanks.

Sound side beach suggestions...

It is warmer because it is very shallow, maybe 2-5 feet. There is very very little beach there and the mud and weeds and marsh will not be to your liking, that is why not many go over to the sound. You can find an area here and there where there is a little beach but much of those areas are privately owned and not open to the public. Duck has a new city dock on the sound but I have been out there in my jet ski and there is no beach, just grass and weeds.

Sound side beach suggestions...

We stayed soundfront in Corolla a few years back and while it was great for kayaking and sunsets - I wouldn%26#39;t suggest it for swimming. I don%26#39;t know of any beach areas on the soundfront in the northern areas...

If you are looking for a nice sound-side with actual beach and nice water, the sound on Topsail Island is nice. There is a public beach access at the very southern end of the island on the sound side and a lot of people go there with small children for swimming.

I agree though, if you are looking to stay up north at areas round the OBX, the sound up there is mucky and not nice for swimming.

I grew up going to the sound when I was a kid, and took our kids there. Its fine, but we had a house in Southern Shores, where there is a beach for residents and guests. I%26#39;ll bet there is one somewhere on the north beaches.

scars

Best/most scenic Mountainous area in NC?

Hi. I am thinking about taking a weekend trip to NC, but I%26#39;m unsure of where the best mountain area for scenic beauty and stuff to do like eating BBQ, etc. Can anyone please tell me which part of NC is best for this? If you can recommend lodging I%26#39;d greatly appreciate that too. Thanks

K

Best/most scenic Mountainous area in NC?

Just about anywhere in the mountains offers scenic beauty. A few standouts are the Linville Gorge area, the Black Mountains (includes Mt. Mitchell), the Great Smokies National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway (a must, IMO), Nantahala Gorge, and the Pisgah National Forest, along with many others (just google any of the above for more info).

You can pretty much forget about good barbecue in the mountains. I love the mountains, but for some reason those people just never figured out how to cook a pig properly. Sorry, but you%26#39;ll have to travel to eastern NC to get the real thing. :)

Best/most scenic Mountainous area in NC?

Give us a little more info - are you driving here? From where? Flying in? To which airport? How much time will you have? Thanks.

Where will you be coming from? My two favorite areas are the Blue Ridge Parkway from Blowing Rock south and US #64 from Brevard to Highlands. There are plenty of attractions in either area and the towns of Blowing Rock, brevard and Cashiers/Highlands can serve as a good base with all kinds of accomodations and plenty of good restaurants-but, as ARBYUNC so correctly stated-none serving good barbeque.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful drive, especially around the Blowing Rock and Asheville areas. Some of it is closed, due to repair, but not much.

North Carolina Bar B Que is different, so this answer would depend on what you like and what kind you are looking for. It is a personal preference. If you are in Blowing Rock, the best is Woodlands.

A little more information, would help us---- help you!

Whaleshead Beach

Just booked a house for August in Whaleshead Beach.

Located at 1006 Corolla Drive.

Is anyone familiar with the area?

Anything you can tell me about it would be much appreciated.

Whaleshead Beach

Here%26#39;s a link to a bird%26#39;s eye view of this place.

…live.com/…

If that doesn%26#39;t work, go to www.maps.live.com and then type in the address. It looks like it%26#39;s about three streets from the ocean. Whalehead is a little south of the actual town of Corolla. You will be near Timbuk II shopping and close to the Food Lion and Harris Teeter grocery stores. If you go to obxconnection.com, you can get lots of help from locals and frequent visitors. We went to Corolla for the first time last summer and loved it.

Whaleshead Beach

Wow- thanks for the great info. I will definitely check out that website. The map was great to see how close we%26#39;ll really be to the beach!

Thanks.

Fresh Seafood to Cook at Home

Where is the best place to buy fresh seafood that we can cook at home?

Fresh Seafood to Cook at Home

When are you visiting and what seafood will you be looking for? Try Holden Beach Seafood on highway 130. Also, sometimes shrimp / fish can be purchased from roadside vendors at reduced prices depending on timing. Local oysters only in Fall / Winter months. Making me hungry...enjoy!

Fresh Seafood to Cook at Home

Captain Pete%26#39;s is on Holden Beach and they have the best. They are kind of under the bridge underneath the causeway.

Yeah...forgot to mention Captain Pete%26#39;s...excellent choice.

server

Betty's Waterfront Restaurant

Is this place still open? I tried calling to see what time they opened and no one answered.

Betty's Waterfront Restaurant

Yes, they are still open. They may be closed right now for the season, but most of the restaurants opened up around March 1 for the season. Hope this helps!

Lisa

Betty's Waterfront Restaurant

Thanks! I%26#39;m asking this cause I am going down to visit Holden Beach and this is my favorite restaurant. I noticed that there is a listing online saying that they are for sale. Thanks again!

yes they are still open. the thirsty turtle, the bar, opens at 4pm, as does te restaurant i think. great crab here, most other selections are fried, but it%26#39;s all good!

That is great news! I am going down to Holden Beach this week and I really wanted to eat there. Thanks!

have you alos tried the crab cakes at the provision company or the bucket of oysters at blackbeards?

I%26#39;m actually gonna try the crab cakes at Provisions. The weather doesn%26#39;t look to promising this week. I haven%26#39;t been down there in 4 years. It looks like nothing has changed. I ask about Betty%26#39;s cause there is a website that has Betty%26#39;s for sale and when I tried to called them, no one answered. Thanks.

Run, don%26#39;t walk away from Betty%26#39;s!! We%26#39;ve been coming to Holden beach for 15+ years, Betty%26#39;s used to be the place to go but the last two visits were awful.

Last visit could not get a glass of wine, something about permits, but could get a beer??? Crablegs had to be sent back - inedible, too long in the freezer I think.

What a shame it used to be the place to eat at Holden Beach, but I will never go again.

I would not write off ANY restaurant based on one bad trip. Lived @ HB for 20 + years and I have had good and bad at all of them.

I walked out of one of my favorite lunch spots a week ago because no one would wait on me. Went back a few days later and service and food was great. WE ALL have our bad days.

We%26#39;ve eaten at Betty%26#39;s since 1993, many, many times. The time before last, they had no tequila and food had to be sent back. Our fault for trying it again two weeks ago.

Sooo.....just to let folks know it%26#39;s not as good as it used to be

We have been going down there for 20+ years and Betty%26#39;s has been terrible for at least 20 years. Maybe if you like greasy calabash seafood, but you can%26#39;t beat Provision - awesome fresh seafood.

Birthday Celebration in Asheville area for 5 year old boy

We will be on the road traveling towards a reunion on the Outerbanks this weekend. We will be traveling from the southern part of Great Smokey Monutain Park to Asheville. On Monday 6/1 is my son%26#39;s 5th birthday. We would like to celebrate in a special way. Do you know of any resturants along that route or in Asheville that might be good? Or offer any freebies -- like a free ice cream sundae or dessert?

Thanks much!

Birthday Celebration in Asheville area for 5 year old boy

hmmm I think Asiana Buffet (HUGE) buffet spots does free dinner for kids on b-days.

Restaurants in Boone or West Jefferson

We are staying in a cabin near Boone in June. Where would you suggest we eat besides the typical chains? Thank you in advance for your help!

Restaurants in Boone or West Jefferson

I can recommend and couple of places:

Daniel Boone Inn, one of the best ';home cooking'; restaurants in the state IMO: http://www.danlbooneinn.com/

Mellow Mushroom is a very good pizza joint. I guess it%26#39;s technically a chain, but their pizza is very good and the beer selection rocks (although unfortunately Boone is a dry town). There%26#39;s one in Boone and in Blowing Rock.

Restaurants in Boone or West Jefferson

You did mention exactly what you were looking for, so I will make mention several in the Boone//Blowing Rock area. They are close and Blowing Rock is well worth visiting.

1) The Best Cellar Blowing Rock $$$

2) Bistro Roca Blowing Rock $$

3) Knights on Main Blowing Rock $

4) Twigs Blowing Rock $$

5) Pssghetti%26#39;s $$ Blowing Rock HWY 321

6) Moonshine $$ Boone

7) Char $$ Boone

I appreciate the suggestions. :)

scars

Kure Beach

We are thinking of vacationing there this year- anyone with experience they%26#39;d like to share? The place we%26#39;re thinking of renting is on Dolphin Court in Kure Beach. Thanks for any insight!

Kure Beach

We love Kure Beach and Carolina Beach area.

Very laid back, not commercial yet plenty to do.

The NC Aquarium and Ft. Fisher is just down the road as is the Ferry to Southport. (fun for kids!!)

My only advice is to go thru all the other threads on here regarding Kure and Carolina Beach. Should answer most of your questions. Have Fun!!

Wish I were going there this summer.

Kure Beach

Do one of the threads answer the question of how it%26#39;s pronounced? Cure or Currie?

ciao...

Its Currie....or like the spice: Curry.

Grandpa's Shrimp and Crab Charter

Has anyone been on Grandpa%26#39;s Shrimp and Crab Charter with Capt. Russell out of wanchese?

what is the meaning of the name

bridge backup

At what time does the bridge usually start to get backed up on Saturdays during the summer? My husband and I are driving to Nag Head on Saturday the 13th from a motel in Fredericksburg. I%26#39;m trying to figure out what time we need to leave our motel by in order to not get stuck. Last year we had a Sunday check in so it wasn%26#39;t a problem but when we left on the following Saturday afternoon the backup of cars going towards the island was unbelievable. Thanks!

bridge backup

I would say the earlier the better-meaning before 10 am. Find a place to have a nice lunch, shop, and then check in.

You also may want to consider taking the Monitor Merrimac bridge instead of the Hampton Roads Bridge tunnel to Norfolk area. The tunnel is a real headache in the summer-that may hold you up more so than the Wright memorial.

Day or two in Charlotte - part of backpacking trip

Hopefully someone can help me on this one,

basically i am starting to piece together a trip from philadelphia to LA of about 6-8 weeks and am considering a stop in Charlotte.

I dont know much about the place but from what i have seen it looks like an interesting place for two 22yo female students to visit.

Is there cheap accommodation (hostels or reasonably priced motels) available in a good location, or do you think it would be best us staying in a different city on route? if it is a good place to stay how long is long enough to spend there?

Thanks for any help, still piecing things together and dont really know much when it comes to the East coast side of the US!

thanks again :)

Day or two in Charlotte - part of backpacking trip

Depending on what you consider cheap/reasonably priced there are def options to be found in Charlotte. Will you have a car? That will play a big factor in what part of town is best for you to stay in as Charlotte is not a walking city.

Also, how much time you%26#39;d need in Charlotte depends on what your interests are. I personally enjoy the restaurants, bars/nightlife and shopping so if I was a visitor I could probably accomplish a lot of it in 2 nights.

I%26#39;m not sure if my response was helpful or confused you more!! Let me know if you have more specific questions and I would be glad to try and help you out!!

Day or two in Charlotte - part of backpacking trip

Are you walking the entire way?I can%26#39;t imagine you could do the whole continent! What other forms of transportation will you have? Most major cities would not be safe places for two young females to walk around- at least in some areas.

The best place to backpack is the Blue Ridge Mountains in NC.

Charlotte is not a place to backpack. Most of the inexpensive motels are drug-ridden or places of prostitution or have undesirable people staying in them. There are no hostels like you are used to in Europe.Charlotte is really a business/working town.The better hotels cater to business people and sports enthusiasts, primarily.

If you can give us a little more detail- what is your planned route? Charlotte is not really on the way from Philly to LA.

What types of things do you want to see?

I%26#39;m not sure about the inexpensive accomodations, but I absolutely LOVE downtown Charlotte - especially along the main roads Trade St. %26amp; Tryon St. It%26#39;s a very small area, but very pedestrian friendly. The city is great, because the median age is only 33. If you two are looking for some night life, I suggest you try to stay downtown if you can somehow afford it!

Definitely check out hotels near the light rail line, if you don%26#39;t have a car and don%26#39;t want to stay in Uptown (what we call downtown), it%26#39;s light rail or the bus. There are a lot of good rates to be had this summer, especially if you have AAA. I know Marriott is running some crazy specials, you might be able to find a reasonable rate at a major chain.

Hang Gliding School

Have some family members interested in hang gliding school. We will be in Rodanthe July 25-aug 1. Anyone have any experience, stories, recommendations? Thanks!

Hang Gliding School

About 6 years ago, my husband and I took the beginner dune hang gliding lessons from Kitty Hawk Kites. We both enjoyed it very much. I thought the training they provided beforehand was very thorough - it helped alleviate my anxiety (I%26#39;m mildly afraid of heights).

It was a great experience - I thought it was far more enjoyable than parasailing. Hope you have fun!

moving

me and my family are moving to north carolina in raleigh i want to know what tjhere is to do for teenagers to have fun like teen dance clubs rollerskating movie thearters and so on thank you

scars

Camping near Asheville area

Hello

A friend and i will be in the Asheville area from Sun June 7th through Wednesday June 10th. Basically we are looking for some interesting places to camp (we will be staying in Asheville the Tuesday night for a concert). I%26#39;ve heard such amazing things from that part of the state and i would really love to camp (or just stop off) somewhere where we could hike and or swim. Anywhere within an hour of Asheville would be fine. Thank you in advance for any help...

Tim

Camping near Asheville area

Hi Tim,

Mt Pisgah Campground has a fabulous location right off Blue Ridge Parkway with many hiking trails near by. The Pisgah Inn is just on the other side of the road where you find a store, restaurant, shower, park ranger station. It is only 20 miles from Asheville. You can book a space at recreation.gov. A few miles down on route 276 towards Breavrd you can go to Sliding Rock.

www.recreation.gov/campgroundDetails.do…

meet people in

Yonahlossee area rental home

I am considering renting a home in the above area for a family re-union. There are a number of children, and I am concerned that the road up to the resort is quite long and winding. Could anyone give me information on this area, or would you reccommend some other area?

Thank you,

OR

Yonahlossee area rental home

Do you mean Shull%26#39;s Mill Rd? That%26#39;s a fine two lane road - easy drive in from Blowing Rock. No problems. I know people from ';flatlands'; are sometimes afraid of mountain roads. They most all have a few twists and turns but Shull%26#39;s Mill is not bad. Don%26#39;t worry one second - it%26#39;s only a few minutes from town. Best wishes.

Yonahlossee area rental home

P.S. I%26#39;ve stayed at Yonahalosse and Inn at Crestwood in the same area - LOVE IT! Quiet, beautiful, not built up...and a good restaurant ( the Gamekeeper) is out there.

Thank you for your response. It will help us in our decision.

OR

Shull%26#39;s Mill Road can be a driving challenge. Narrow, twisting and can be busy at times with visitors not comfortable with where they are.

Yonalahossee and The Inn at Crestwood are lovely and these 2 developments are about 1/2 between #105 and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

A much better selection and location is Chetola Resort. www.chetola.com

It offers rooms and condo%26#39;s. Beautiful setting right at the edge of Blowing Rock. It has a children%26#39;s play room, pool and large areas for play. A 3 minute drive into town or a 1/2 mile walk into town.

Check it out before confirming something else. We have used it for family and it was great!!!!!

I forgot to mention, The Game Keeper, is an excellent Restaurant, but not for children. An adult experience. If your families has young members, there is a much wider range of selections in Blowing Rock and Boone.

Fairfield Inn or Quality Inn

Planning a trip to Biltmore and these hotels partner with Biltmore. Has anyone stayed in either of these recently? Would appreciate any comments

Fairfield Inn or Quality Inn

Stayed at Fairfield~not good. Rooms very small for two people. Could not bring all my luggage in. Breakfast, just cold stuff, if this matters. Saw in paper where someone had broken into some one%26#39;s car. I assumed it was a safe place, because the location is excellent. Guess that could happen anywhere. The room was fairly clean, not as clean as I would have liked, and the light in the bathroom kept going out when I was in the shower, leaving me in total darkness. Hope this helps.

Fairfield Inn or Quality Inn

Don%26#39;t know much about either of these two, but like I say in some of my other posts - you may consider the Brookstone Lodge. Brand new independant hotel about a mile or two from the front gate of the estate.

NCBULLDOG, Thanks for the mention of Brookstone Lodge in Asheville. I looked it up and it is beautiful, new and a great location. I made reserverations at a good rate for summer trip to NC. Will write a review after my stay in July.

You%26#39;ll be happy with Brookstone. Stayed there last week and was very pleased. Would definitely stay there again. The place is clean and the staff was friendly and helpful. Breakfast was great too.

We had a street facing room and the traffic was a bit noisy at night. The fan covered some of the noise. By the second night I didn%26#39;t notice it as much.

So if you are a light sleeper you might want to request a room not facing the street.

Hey! thanks for the tip on the noise, as I am very lite sleeper. What floor where you on? I have re quested a ground floor as my hushand has health issues. What side should I request? I do not want to be near the elevator or the ice machine. What was the breakfast menu, anything differesnt from all the rest? Thanks again.

We were on the forth floor and it was very quiet in the hall. We weren%26#39;t near the elevator but it didn%26#39;t seem noisy. The elevator was in the middle of the building so you can just ask for a room on the end of the hotel if you like.

For breakfast they had cereal, muffins (not very good though) yogurt, fruit, english muffins, eggs, sausages, waffles, toast, bagels, juice and coffee/tea. I think that was all there was :-)

The coffee/tea was out all day/night which was nice.

Forgot to add that you can use a 10% off coupon upon check in.

I got it from exploreasheville.com.

Just click on ';Packages and Coupons';, scroll to the bottom and click on ';Asheville Coupons';. It%26#39;s a PDF file and there are several coupons, including the one for Brookstone

Travqak, thanks for the tip on the coupon. That is great. Will post my review after my stay. I love Asheville. The only down side there does not seemed to be a lot of good resturants or I have not found them. I am not looking for gourmet high end. Just good southern cooking. Seems to be mostly chains. We were staying at Willow Winds for years and eating in, but could not go up and down the steep stairs with heavy luggage. That is a very nice place if you ever want to rent a house/cottage. Also on Sweeten Creek Road.

Holliday Vacations?

We are in the process of picking something for our vacation in July. Last year we stayed at Surf Suites and loved it! The only problem was the furniture was not comfortable. Has anyone used Holliday Vacations for rentals? They seem to be considerably less than Intracostal and Bryant. Any comments would be greatly appreciated!

Asheville Recommendations

Hi fellow travelers,

I%26#39;ll be in Asheville from June 7-12 with my wife and 5-month-old, and I%26#39;m looking for some ideas on things to do.

We%26#39;re staying at a cottage in Alexander (about 30 minutes from Asheville), and we%26#39;ve already planned to spend the first day (Monday) at the Biltmore Estates.

We%26#39;d like to do some light hiking, maybe drive the BRP, and of course explore downtown Asheville.

Any specific recommendations on places to go, eat, and explore? I%26#39;m a little overwhelmed trying to research all the options online, and I%26#39;d really just prefer to hear from people who%26#39;ve been there before.

Thanks!

Bruno

Asheville Recommendations

Alexander is very close to the French Broad River and not far (15min) from a nice flat but pretty trail (Laurel River Trail) that winds along the Laurel River Trail(www.localhikes.com). It would be great to do w/ a child in a backpack. To get to the BRP you%26#39;ll need to drive into Asheville or you could go north up to Craggy Gardens via Spruce Pine/Mount Mitchell and pick it up there.

There are all sorts of great spots to eat in Asheville - nothing in Alexander. You will also be close to WEaverville that has Stoney Knob which is quite good and kid friendly. There are some other restaurants in Mars Hill but I can%26#39;t vouch for them. Hot Springs has Mountain Magnolia Inn - very nice and your infant would probably be fine as at that age they mostly sleep. For other restaurant ideas go to chowhound.com and search on the South section and Asheville.

For other ideas go to exploreasheville.com

ANYBODY know ANYTHING 'bout Lake Royale/Bunn?

Just curious, Id be greatfull for any and all observations.

BTW it is presently 27 degrees at midnight here in Denver, and will be high of 34 on Thur., hope you are enjoying your more %26#39;do-able%26#39; temps!!!

ANYBODY know ANYTHING 'bout Lake Royale/Bunn?

Must be a tiny lake. I%26#39;ve been through Bunn going to the coast and never have seen it nor heard of it. That%26#39;s a rural and somewhat poor area. The Denver weather sounds good to me! I%26#39;d like to see some snow - though I%26#39;d rather be in the Springs than Denver! Best wishes.

ANYBODY know ANYTHING 'bout Lake Royale/Bunn?

Wow, that%26#39;s pretty scarey R-Rob! Kind of reminds me of my impression of Lake Powel, Utah the 2x I went 20 years ago. Thank you both, Bud and R-Rob fot the heads-up!!!! Oh, and Bud, I forgot to mention, when leaving the office late last night, had to use a plastic dish to scrape snow and ice off rental car? In a woman%26#39;s world... not our idea of fun!! (BTW mine is in the shop w/ my scraper). LOL

Thank you again, Nadine

was sold on the 70%26#39;s as a wonderful resort to buy into. They required certain minimums if you built a house on the property that you purchased but you could leave a camper on the property indefinately. I have not been there since the time they tried to sell my parents property. Bunn was an intersection of 2 2lane roads when I was there. I have heard that lake royale turned out to be a bad deal for most investors but I can not confirm nor deny.

Wow, that paints a pretty grim picture! Thank you for writing R-Guy!

That saves me time, money and an opportunity for a big let down, just even driving out there. The ad sounds pretty chipper.... so who would know! I%26#39;ve read a lot about other lakes, and so will continue my quest for.... the perfect (and affordable) swimming hole!

Nadine

Wow...can%26#39;t believe everything you read from posts.... If you go to the website www.lrpoa.com you%26#39;ll get a better idea of what it is like. One end of the community is set up for campers (and some really nice set ups if you ask me) the other is for home owners. They are completley seperate. The golf course is well maintained also. It%26#39;s not trashy or redneck or any of the other implied comments. I think if you took the time (and like trees) you would be pleasantly superised by what you would find. By the way, I have family in Littleton and visit once a year. Know what you mean about the weather...but hey, just wait 15 minutes :)

We have a camper lot there and we love it. The folks are friendly enough and the lake is 350 acres. You can swim, jet ski, boat and fish. There are several bath houses in good condition and dump stations (in case your RV is not self contained). There is also 2 pools, a golf course, horseshoe pits, mini golf, tennis court and a small workout room. They have a club house with activities going on all the time, a big screen TV, pool table, library and computers. The lots range from unimproved to move in ready (electric hook up, water, sewer). Ther are some very nice RVs and trailers and some not so nice as well. You can purchase lots from 2000 - 11000 average. On the down side, the property is large so you may have to drive to some of the amenities (no more than 10 minutes to anywhere - pools, lake, etc). A lot people have golf carts to get around, we just use our car. Property owner dues are about 375.00/year (they take good care of the property) and taxes run about 25.00/year. Bunn and Louisburg are the nearest towns - about 15 - 20 minute drive. It is rural. Overall, a nice place for not a lot of money. There are also some beautiful house lots.

I also own property at Lake Royale and have live there as a full time RVer for a year and a half now. In fact I just bought another two lots that are deeded as one. My first lot has doubled in value and I got a good deal on the other lots which are a short walk down the road. Having lived in other communities I can attest that Lake Royale is the best value.

For those that posted all the negative comments, you really need to stick with subjects that you have some knowledge about. You know nothing about the Lake Royale where I live. Certainly not a poor place, the average home here is in the half million dollar range.

There are two camping sections, north and south with the residential section between. A lot of the old run down campers have been condemed and removed by the POA and still more are due to be removed in the next few months. All of the water front lots are sold and if one comes in the market it usually cost $90k or more for a small lot. Lots in the north camping section average six thousand square feet and the south end four thousand sq feet. All roads are paved except for some in the south end but those are due to be paved beginning in April 2007. The six comfort centers are nice a well maintained, several have washer and dryers and all have showers. There is also a small store gas station on site.

One last thing, you can not beat the friendly people here...When hurricane Alberto dumped 7'; of rain here in one afternoon it washed away the driveway of some friends from NJ. When they came down a couple of days later a guy with a backhoe went up there with a couple of buckets of gravel and rebuilt their driveway and wouldn%26#39;t take any payment in return. In the words of my Jersey friends ';We have never in our lives met so many nice and helpful people';.

im really glad to see someone enjoying it there....but you have not lived there!!!

What in the world are you talking about?!

We have lived here since 9/2005 and can%26#39;t complain about anything. We live in the residential section--no crime, no drugs, no disturbing sounds at night. Are you talking about the camper/RV section? Even if you are, I haven%26#39;t heard anything about what you wrote about. The lake%26#39;s monthly newspaper posts all police activity during the month and usually the largest calls are for barking dogs. And I am in touch with a lot of people here. You have to be confusing Lake Royale with another place, I think.

Lake Royale is absolutely beautiful! It%26#39;s the best getaway from Raleigh--and we get to live it every day! It%26#39;s 25 minutes to Raleigh and 20 minutes to Wake Forest.

There%26#39;s boating, skiing, jet-skiing, fishing, two beaches for swimming, a mini golf course (as well as the full scale golf course across the street), pool, tennis courst, clubhouse with a small restaurant, social activities all year long for kids and adults.

We did hear that a few years ago Lake Royale had a different reputation than it does now. The new president of the POA has repaved the roads, increased Lake Royale%26#39;s police force to I think five personnel (yes, the lake has its very own on-site police force--NOT unarmed security, but the real thing). They aren%26#39;t that busy though. I was told the new president has completely turned the lake around. When I came in the summer of 2005 I fell in love with it, and have loved it since. The waterfront homes are just so gorgeous to look at and driving around the lake is so relaxing!

You can buy a nice home anywhere from 125k all the way up to the waterfront homes for about #300-500k.

There is no crime to speak of, not where I live.

Anyone interested in the real Lake Royale, the POA website has tons of info plus the monthly newspaper which does post the police activity. What you will read is fact--it really is beautiful, and safe, and relaxing, and quiet, and wooded, and.....I could go on and on.

www.lrpoa.com

scars

install spare clear card

Trader Joes

What%26#39;s the closest Trader Joes to charlotte international airport? thanks.

Doreen

Trader Joes

There is only one in Charlotte. The website below is a map showing its location.

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?f=l%26amp;hl=en%26amp;q=1820+E+Arbor+Dr%26amp;ie=UTF8%26amp;ll=35.227672,-80.81543%26amp;om=1%26amp;msa=0%26amp;msid=113004048650495608919.00000112105492dc68ab2%26amp;z=8

Trader Joes

Sorry.......the heat must be getting to me......there are three!

The closest to the Airport would be at the Metropolitan. Hwy 74/Wilkinson Blvd to John Belk Freeway. Exit 2A. Trader Joes is acroos the intersection.

Just left the Uptown Trader Jo%26#39;s and so easy to get to the airport via the Interstate or Billy Graham parkway. I called them and they gave me instructions, depending where I am coming from. We usually are heading to the mountains. A local or the store itself, can give you your best information.

You could also check out Earth Fare, which is a similar chain, must less hectic, with a very good selection: http://www.earthfare.com/storeinfo/1200/ There is one in South Park which isn%26#39;t too far from the airport and might even find one on your way to the mountains.

In my opinion, you cannot compare Trader Joe%26#39;s and Earthfare.

The organic can be similar, but prices, unique goods, wine and selection of fabulous products at LOW prices---- Trader Joe%26#39;s has them all beat.It is an amazing company that features great quality at unbeatable prices.

Trader Joe%26#39;s is a national chain, Earth Fare is more regional. Although I love Trader Joe%26#39;s, Earth Fare has a much wider selection. Yes, the prices are higher, but you are also supporting their philosophy, not just their products.

Airport Parking

Hi all! Don%26#39;t know too much about parking at the airport, but my husband and I are flying out on a Thursday and coming home on a Monday. Can I leave the car that long? How much is it? I have noticed parking lots at the airport that are a ways away from the gates. A ways away from everything really, is their a ahuttle? How often does it run? Sorry for the silly questions, I usually just get dropped off! =)

Airport Parking

Shuttles run regularly from the remote lots - used them many times. The easiest access are the lots on Old Dowd Rd off Wilkinson Blvd. Haven%26#39;t flown out in a while, don%26#39;t know the current rate but I%26#39;m sure it%26#39;s on the airport website. The last time I used them they were 3.00 a day but I know they%26#39;ve gone up substantially.

The lots fill up quickly at peak times - come early.

Best wishes.

Airport Parking

Go ahead %26amp; have your husband drop you off with all the luggage at the curb. Then he just needs to park the car, hop a shuttle to the airport and meet you at the curb. This way you don%26#39;t have to lug the bags on %26amp; off the shuttle. Just be sure he writes down where he parked! It works great for us!

The (relatively) new decks are $6 per day, but they are pretty close, and the shuttles run frequently. You - or your husband - could even walk in a pinch. This is where we typically park.

The remote lot is just across the loop road from the decks, but since it%26#39;s so small, there is usually only one shuttle that serves it, so be prepared to wait (in either direction), and it%26#39;s almost always full. It%26#39;s also $6 per day, so there is little benefit to it.

The long-term (formerly satellite) lots are further away, and thus a bit harder to get to by driving, and I%26#39;ve found that the shuttles to the terminal run frequently, but you typically end up waiting on a return shuttle when you arrive home. They cost less though - just $4 per day.

You can also park in the hourly lot if you like, for $16 per day. You won%26#39;t need a shuttle for the hourly lot. Even this isn%26#39;t high for many other airports, and the other lots are way cheaper than other cities.

charmeck.org/Departments/鈥ome.htm

Thanks! Great advice from everyone. =)

Not sure if you%26#39;ve left yet... I usually park in the Daily Garages, never on the top (what%26#39;s the point?), you can usually find parking in the East Deck if the West is pretty full. That%26#39;ll cost you $6 a day, but if you are within an hour or two they do pro-rate a bit. The remote lots have been closed a lot lately when I go, but I think they are running $4-5 a pop. Shuttles are definitely frequent. I travel 1-2 times a month for work, always park in good ole%26#39; East Garage 4E (is easy to remember). Good luck!

We leave Thursday. I think we are definitely going to do the daily parking - sounds the like our best bet, and easy too. =) thanks!

Bike rentals in Ocracoke

We have found so many nice cottages on Oyster Creek, but now I%26#39;m worried that it%26#39;s not walkable. We were thinking of bikes- but we have a 3 year old and a 13 month old. Do they have any kid-friendly bikes?

Thanks!

Dena

Bike rentals in Ocracoke

You are correct-Oyster Creek is the farthest area from the village, I would say depending where on Oyster Creek, a good mile or more, so biking is a great option. There are several places to rent bikes on the island. You can start with your rental agency or if possible, bring your bikes from home.

Bike rentals in Ocracoke

The Slushie stand rents bike that are kid friendly they have the tag along that is hooked on the back of a bigger bike not sure if you 3 year old is experienced enough for that or trailer that I think will hold 2 children I think it is netted so they are not hit by rocks or sand that might fly up I%26#39;m sure you can find something there

The Slushie stand is right on Rt 12 you can%26#39;t miss all the bikes

Oyster Creek is one of the more isolated parts of the village. It%26#39;s advantages are canal access for boats and in many cases nice views of the sound. The down side is that you are not close to the restaurants, shops or anything else. It would seem somewhat of an inconvenience to me especially with two young children but it really depends on your priorities for your stay.

As others have said, you can get bikes that accommodate children.

Enjoy your stay!

Kirk

Thank you for your replies guys!

It%26#39;s great to know they have bikes with kid attachments at the slushie stand, only thing is- we will be going the first week in November, is the Slushie stand still open?

We have chosen not to stay in Oyster Creek, instead we are staying at the ';Lucky Duck cottage'; owned by Edwards of Ocracoke- anyone know if that%26#39;s convenient for biking into town?

That is much closer to town. Not sure about the slushy stand being open. I will try to find out in a few weeks when we are on the island. Many places continue to be open but on limited hours. Hotels tend to continue until the Thanksgiving holiday.

Restaurants

Any restaurant in or not too far from Emerald Isle to get some steamed crabs?

Restaurants

Mrs. Culpepper%26#39;s in Morehead City - on Hwy 70 just north of the Hwy 24 intersection - is fabulous! A combination of Thai food (Mrs. Culpepper is Thai) and great local crabs. (Mr. Culpepper is a local waterman)

Restaurants

Thanks for the info....your playin my song!

I like Sanitary Fish Market in Morehead City.

Hey Keeners1,

There are several fish markets that offer live crabs to steam at home...Phillips in Swansboro 910 326 4468, Cap%26#39;n Willis Seafood Market in Emerald Isle 252 354 2500, Willis%26#39; in Salter Path 252 247 2752. Restuarants: T and W%26#39;s Oyster Bar Swansboro 252 393 8838 and The Crab%26#39;s Claw in Atlantic Beach 252 726 8222. During soft shell season Riverside in Swansboro 910 326 8847 and Kathryn%26#39;s 252 354 6200 in Emerald Isle offer wonderful dinners.

You can always catch your own, depending on where you are staying..if you have access to the sound.

Have fun.

Hey wishiwasthere8 - any chance the phillips that you speak of is related to the phillips chain in Maryland? We%26#39;re regular EIers from Baltimore and enjoy the Phillips franchise.

The Phillips in Swansboro is not related to the Baltimore Phillips. I grew up outside D.C. so I am familiar with the Md. house. This is a locally owned fish house that sells straight off the water, boats docked right there.

Sounds better than Phillips in MD. We like them b/c they are an institution and have good crabcakes. However we prefer non-chains, fresh fish, independent owners, etc. Thanks for clarifying; we%26#39;ll be sure to check them out when we%26#39;re down this summer.

Hey,

Absolutely the best crabcakes and lobster cakes here in this area are at Carltons in Indian Beach..on hwy 58 between Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach.

Very good fresh crabcakes to cook at home available at Capn WIllis Seafood in Emerald Isle. They also have deviled crab and frozen crab claws.

We%26#39;ve seen the ads for Carltons and driven by it each summer. Would you say they are ';fine dining?'; Our potential problem with that is we have our 4 year old with us....

We%26#39;ll be down for TWO weeks this summer, so we will have time to travel around a bit more...Beaufort and beyond. Do you have any other great seafood suggestions (that would be toddler tolerant)?

Where in D.C. are you from? What brought you down to EI? Ah....we would if we could......

I agree that Carlton%26#39;s crab cakes are fabulous. A great place for brunch.

You need to know, however, that they have moved. They are about a half mile closer to EI and on the other side of the road. They are located in a pretty spiffy complex now. We were in the area a few weeks ago and they were not open yet. I think they re-opened on Mother%26#39;s Day.

I%26#39;m not sure it%26#39;s the best place to take a small child.

scars

Ocracoke in early November

We will be going to Ocracoke the very first week in November...

is this a good idea? Are things still open? Is it too cold?

Any input would be helpful!

Thanks,

Dena

Ocracoke in early November

According to weather tables the average temp in Nov is 52 to 64 degrees. Water temps are listed as 58. If you are interested in swimming, I would go in Sept early October. One bonus is that the island is not as crowded at that time.

Some shops are still open, but with limited hours. Most if not all of the indoor restaurants will be open.

Ocracoke in early November

You will find most things open (restuarants and shops), most start to close in mid to late November. The biggest variable will be the weather, it might be nice or it might not be nice. That time of year the weather can be ALL over the place. The swimming will be out but beach fishing and shell collecting can be very good at that time. The crowds will be zero.

Kirk

Thanksgiving is unusually the end of the season Many places close before then I have been there in November and it can be nice enough to swim during mid day but as Kirk said the weather can be anywhere so it all depend on that. But it is a good time to fish and enjoy the island with little or no crowds . My favorite time of the year down there.

Food Lion in S. Nags Head or Avon - staying in Rodanthe

Hi, we usually stay up north in Corolla and this year for the first time we are staying in the southern part of OXB - Rodanthe. I am wondering which will be the better place to get our groceries. There is a Food Lion in S. Nags head and one in Avon. They seem to be about the same distance. Is one newer or better than the other. I have a small child so I need a fairly large selection. I wish a Harris Teeter would open up down there! I loved the one in Corolla!

Food Lion in S. Nags Head or Avon - staying in Rodanthe

I believe the one in Avon would be closer to Rodanthe. I also stay on Hatteras Island, and last year ordered from Farm Fresh in Elizabeth City and had it delivered. It was the best thing I ever did. There is nothing I dread more than Food Lion on check in day.

Cheryl

Food Lion in S. Nags Head or Avon - staying in Rodanthe

We have started bringing most of what we need with us. The first year we went we shopped at the Food Lion in Avon. It is extremely overpriced. We take as much as we can from home and only buy perishables in the Outer Banks.

In past years, we smushed everything into our one truck so there wasn%26#39;t much room for groceries. This year we%26#39;re bringing 2, so I%26#39;ll bring more from home(plus we%26#39;re going for 2 weeks for the first time....which means way more groceries). I%26#39;ll order the rest from Farm Fresh and have it delivered.

Cheryl

Norfolk, VA to Wilmington, NC - which route?

I will be driving from Norfolk, VA to Wilmington, NC next Sunday. Should I take US Route 58 to I-95 and then I-40, or should I go via the US Routes 13 %26amp; 17 through Eastern NC? Google Maps says taking Rte 58 to 95 to 40 will be quicker, but will I really save much time by taking such a round-about route? What do you think? Thanks, Johnny

Norfolk, VA to Wilmington, NC - which route?

If you want to get there quickly and mindlessly, then go the 58/95/40 route.

I did the opposite once-Jacksonville NC to VA Beach using 17. It took FOR..EV..ER.... Yes, I think you really will save a lot of time.

I-40 is a very nice, newer highway.

Norfolk, VA to Wilmington, NC - which route?

Thank you for your input. Actually, I live in Richmond, but will be in Tidewater this weekend and will head to Wilmington from there. Richmond to Wilmington, we have always gone 95 to 40. While I would love to see Eastern NC, I admit I am not thrilled by your ';For-ev-er'; reference. Havning no other feedback at the moment, I may have to look towards the ';straight shot'; of 58 to 95 to 40. Thanks again.

- Johnny (native of DC area)

I have done it too. Seemed like it would be a nice drive to cut down the coast, but it does take forever. Don%26#39;t do it...unless you have a day to kill.a

58 to 95 to 40 is the way to go.

Yeah, we did it on a whim, ';Oh, won%26#39;t this be scenic!'; I always like to see new things.

We had been vacationing on Topsail and were going to visit friends in VA Beach before heading back to NOVA. We left fairly early morning and I don%26#39;t think we arrived in VA Beach until 6:00. It had been raining too, which made it worse. It was one of those drives where you come upon a mileage sign...';X miles to ABC'; and you would GROAN because it was still SO FARRRRRR.

I remember my husband was sunburned too-so was terribly uncomfortable and whining-worse than the two boys in the back!

There are some nice areas to visit through that general area. Tryon Palace in New Bern is one of my favorites. But yeah, save it for a time when you can do it at a casual pace and it is the purpose of your trip.

I had the time to kill and wound up doing the ';scenic'; route. US Rte 13 to US Rte 17. Yes, it took longer...about 6.5 but the traffic DID move. I don%26#39;t know that I would do it again, but am glad I did the scenic, as I will be doing Interstate on the way back.

Thanks for all of your time and responses.

brunch in Cary

My daughter and son-in-law are new to Cary. they love going out for sunday brunch. can you recommend a good place for them to go ?

brunch in Cary

Herons Restaurant at The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary has perhaps one of the best brunches in the entire country. They should check it out!

brunch in Cary

Hi LadyMary,

The one place I always take company or clients that are looking for brunch is: Courtney%26#39;s Restaurant in Cary. They do not have to dress up and have a large variety of food items. I have never had anyone say they were not full or were unhappy when they left the restaurant.

Hope this helps!

Brig%26#39;s. It is very similar to Courtney%26#39;s but the food and service is better.

Courteneys is now closed.

Brigg%26#39;s in Cary - highly recommended

I had brunch at Lucky32 (on Tryon/Hwy 64) in Cary and it was fantastic.

I LOVED Brigs! YUMMM its usually a wait but worth it! Try the belgian waffles or the french toast!

We LOVE La Farms Sunday brunch - its a little French Cafe. Its very well-known among the locals and the food is excellent. Celebrity chefs have visited and raved! If you want something away from the %26#39;masses%26#39;, try La Farm - check it on their website.

ENJOY!

horses

Pinehurst Golf

I%26#39;d like to plan a 3 or 4 day golf getaway for my husband at Pinehurst but know nothing about golf! Where do I start? How much golf do you schedule in one day? what courses and in what sequence? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Pinehurst Golf

Say, if you ever tire of hubby, let me know. I could use a wife like you.

So, where to start... First, go to Pinehurst%26#39;s web site to see what they have. They have all kinds of specials.http://www.pinehurst.com/

Course #2 is the one that all the pro%26#39;s play and if you Really love him, try to get him on there.

Are you going with him or are his buddies going? makes a difference as far as where to stay. My wife would want me to stay at Pinehurst. However, it can get spendy.

Other options are in the area and you might try here: http://www.tobaccoroadgolf.com/

The Tobacco Road course is supposed to be outstanding. If you do Pinhurst #2 and Tobacco Road, you might be broke but in case you still have some $$ left, there are planty of courses in the area. http://www.ncgolf.com/

How much golf in a day? If he is a rabid golfer, he could get in 36 holes but I wouldn%26#39;t do 36 holes on the same course. 18 would likely be enough.

Have fun!

Pinehurst Golf

Pinehurst is a dream golf vacation for most golfers, and like Baked said above me, Pinehurst Number 2 is the cream of the crop. However, my understanding is that access to play Number 2 is limited to the Pinehurst properties and a very small number of other hotels. The Pinehurst resort has 3 hotels, (the Carolinian, the Holly Inn, and the Manor Inn) and a number of other lodging options. If he stays at the resort, it might make sense to play several of the other Pinehurst Resort courses. My personal favorites, beyond Number 2, are 4 and 8. Two other options in Pinehurst Village are the Magnolia Inn and the Pinecrest Inn, both of which can set up complete golf arrangements. I%26#39;d recommend staying in Pinehurst Village, the atmosphere is great, there are lots of dining choices without having to drive.

For lower cost options, stay at one of the many condo rentals in and around Pinehurst. I%26#39;ve loved my time in Pinehurst so much, I bought on of those condos, but I won%26#39;t tell which one, I know this forum isn%26#39;t for advertising. My wife and I get to visit 3 or 4 times a year. If you search the Pinehurst forum, you can find lots of recommendations for other great courses. Some of my favourites non-Pinehurst courses are Tobacco Road, MidSouth, Mid Pines, Pine Needles, and the Pit.

Good luck, he%26#39;s a lucky man to have a wife who%26#39;ll plan something like this for him.

Thank you!! I will definitely schedule #2 and maybe another. I%26#39;ve heard nice things about #4, #7 and #8. If you had to pick another course along with #2, what number would you suggest? Your input has been VERY helpful!

I haven%26#39;t played 7, so I can%26#39;t advise you there. Between 4 and 8, I think 4 is the more interesting, visually, with little clusters of teeny sand traps, while 8 is a more traditional look. Both 7 and 8 are located a couple of miles away from the main clubhouse. If you stay with the Pinehurst resort, I%26#39;m pretty sure that they%26#39;ll provide transportation, and will make sure his clubs end up at the correct golf course at the corract time. Even if he%26#39;s driving himself, its just a short trip.

If he%26#39;s definitely playing number 2, I%26#39;d recommend he treat himself to a caddy. Its one of the few places in the US where you can have a truly professional caddy help you around the golf course.

Keep posting, I%26#39;m sure more questions will come up as you move through the planning process.

The yur choice of golf will be directly linked to where you stay. For the most part, unless you stay at the Pinehurst resort you will have a difficult time getting a tee time on any of the Pinehurst Resort courses. I didn%26#39;t say impossible, but difficult.

I strongly recommend the Pinehurst Resort. I has been consistantly named as the #1 US Golf Resort. A distinction it deserves.

If you stay at the Resort think about the following routine;

Play #1 first. This is the easiest of the courses at the resort, but yet a wonderful golf course. Recently renovated, it tends to be in fabulous shape. It makes for a great warm up for the more difficult courses.

Do play #2 and consider a caddy.

The others you should play are #4, #7 and #8. I would also recommend #6, many consider it one of the best.

If you do not stay at the resort, there are over 40 championship courses in the area to choose from. Your hotel will likely be able to schedule your golf from soup to nuts. A couple of local gems to seek out are Southern Pines Country Club (aka Elks Club), Little River, Legacy Lakes, Pinewild (Magnolia Course), MidSouth and National. If you like bizarre golf try Tobacco Road, you will either love it or hate it. The Pit is a similiar design.

Cherokee riverside accommodations and Indian Village

I%26#39;m going to be in Cherokee in June with 8 other family members. I%26#39;ve been looking for a place to stay that is on the river where my 2 girls, ages 9 %26amp; 12, could play in the water. None of us are fussy...clean, good management %26amp; inexpensive is all we need. I%26#39;ve looked into the Pink Motel, Pioneer Motel %26amp; Cabins and the Newfound Lodge. I like what I have seen on the internet for Newfound Lodge, but it was the only one that said the river was too rough near their property for the girls to play in and suggested going down to the Island%26#39;s Park if they wanted to get wet. Do you have any opinions as to these accommodations or can suggest any others that I haven%26#39;t mentioned? Also, when we are in town, we are going to visit the Indian Village and see Unto These Hills. Do you know how much time needs to be allotted to the village and whether the guided tour is worth the extra $5-$6?

Thanks!

Cherokee riverside accommodations and Indian Village

The Pink Motel and Newfound lodge are next to each other. There is water access there. I would not really call it rough but it is not the best place. The tubers do float this section of the river. However for the most part the tubing is fairly calm.

i have stayed at Newfound lodge but it has been several years ago. The room are okay, it is an older place but keeped up. Right now I can not think of a motel on the river that has good river access. Maybe Riverside Motel, but I do not know any thing about it. The reviews on it are hit and miss.

When you get to Cherokee you will find that the river park in the middle of town is the prefect spot for the girls to enjoy the river. It is one of my favorite places and it is free. They can swim, tube, throw rocks or chase the ducks. There is always people there enjoying it.

The indain village wil take 2 or 3 hours to tour. It all depends on you pace and how much you stop and watch. The best I recall they where all quided tours the last time I went there. Maybe they have changed the format some. The drama unto these hills is great. I say it last year and it was very good. I have seen it several times in the past.

Check out the web site www.cherokee-nc.com. It is cherokee%26#39;s official site and has some good information. If you have not already got your tickets to Unto these Hills you can order them online at that site. If not get them as soon as you get into town so you can get good seats.

John

Cherokee riverside accommodations and Indian Village

I plan to bring my grand children (girls 10 %26amp;11)

on a Wed and stay all night in Cherokee and see Unto These Hills. I want a safe, clean place for the 3 of us. I will take them to the park for creek wading. Then I plan to drive on to Pigeon Forge for a night at Wilderness Resort. How is the drive across Newfoundland Gap? It has been 20 years since I%26#39;ve traveled this road. And advise or tips will be appreciated.

The drive across Newfound Gap is okay. It is the same 2 lane road that is always been. It is narrow road but worth the drive. The sites are beautiful. They have been doing work on the road and are suppose to repave it.

Cherokkee has all kinds of hotels. Check out the website and they have listing of them. The area is really safe. I have left hundreds of dollars worth of fishing tackle, etc and never lost anything.

John

John, Thank you for your input. I think your suggestion of the park for water play is probably what I%26#39;ll do with my girls. The Indian Village this year started offering self guided tours, so I%26#39;ll probably let the other members of my group decide which tour we%26#39;ll do. Shelley

Another question regarding Unto These Hills. If seats are reserved at the time of ticket purchase, is there any area of the theater that is best for viewing? And, does anyone know what type of seats they are...bench or seats with backs? My mother is in her eighties and I am concerned about her comfort.

Thanks again, Shelley

Last year the seats where a combination of beach and seats with backs. They where old but okay. From what I have read they renovated the place over the winter. They where suppose to make all kind of improvements. These where to the seating, better accomadations for handicapp/elderly, shuttle service etc. So to answer your question I am not really sure.

Last year I order my tickets online and got seats on the third row. They where very good. With the way the place is designed I would not wanted to be any closer. Since the place is build on the side of a mountain all of the seats appear to have a good veiw. Get there early for the pre - show.

John