#and the moose wants to take you to a secluded location

[fahbev]

Unstoppable Force meets Immovable Object

(That title kinda sucks and is subject to change) If you saw my last post, you can skip ahead. It’ll be pretty obvious where the new stuff starts.

If you aren’t familiar with the “humans are space orcs” genre, I highly recommend searching up #humans are space orcs. I wanted to focus on the implications of being a “space orc”, and the kind of complex it would give someone long term. I also wanted to explore how it would affect different characters differently; so here I present two case studies;

A hippo and a moose walk into a bar. Metaphorically.

The human Sofia sits at the bar. The seats within six feet of her are all empty. She guzzles her fifth citrus drink - apparently most species are affected by it similarly to alcohol, and some weaker species would be dead by the fifth drink. Sofia remains unaffected. She could drink 30 and be unaffected. All her drinks combined are about half as potent as an orange slice. It doesn’t even taste good. She slams her empty goblet on the table, all for show. The conversations nearby hush even further, and the fearful whispers start up again. Good. She should be feared.

The door opens. In comes a gust of wind, and a hulking figure. No one in the bar is talking now.

Sofia slowly turns to face the door. She sizes up the newcomer. They’re big, not twice Sofia’s height, but a few feet shy. Not that it matters, when she’s wrestled creatures the size of bears before. The armor plating though, it sported a recognizable pattern. The forelimbs too, that were an odd combination of insectoid legs and tentacles, were a dead giveaway. This was a rragletatch. One of the most feared species in the multiverse, from one of the deadliest worlds known to the galactic community. They’re as rare as humans too. She smirks. Finally, a worthy opponent.

Some chatter starts up again as the rragletatch begins to walk up to the bar, pretending to ignore Sofia. It was still eerily quite, considering this was a bar, and people were drunk. A few gasps and screams echo when Sofia abruptly stands up, knocking over her stool. Her smirk widens into a grin. She stalks confidently up to the rragletatch stranger, and stands close enough that they can’t ignore her. Several people began filing out of the building, while others chose to stay. “So.” The alien greets her.

“You’re one of those infamous rragletatchen I hear of, no? The ones who are supposedly suuuuper scary?”

“Yes, I am rragletatchen. You’re human, right?”

“Damn right.”

“well then.”

A long pause. Practically the whole bar was listening in anticipation.

“Fight me.” Sofia’s expression didn’t waver. On Earth, she never could have looked so intimidating while staring so far up at someone.

“No.” what? “Oh? You scared? I thought you were supposed to be tough or something.” The stranger didn’t look scared, but they must be. Why else would they not want to fight?

“I’m not scared.”

“Then square up bitch. See who’s stronger. Finally put it to the test.”

“No.”

The whispers now were not of fear, but of confusion.

“I will not engage in needless violence,” the rragletatch continued, “contrary to the stereotype of my kind, I will not harm others if at all avoidable. Attack me if you will, I refuse to fight you.” The rragletatch stood still in a wide, but open stance, as if preparing to be hit. Sofia felt a flash of guilt. Something about attacking an opponent who refused to fight back felt wrong.

“You don’t want to see? Find out who the real champion is?” Sofia pushed aside her feelings and stared up. Unafraid, taunting as ever.

“No. My parents, grand parents and great grandparents before me have embraced a sacred philosophy of pacifism. It saddens me that my kind is known only for cuttthroat violence, only because of our home and biology. I refuse to hurt you. Do you truly wish to hurt me?”

Sofia was a bit shocked to say the least. When she realized her jaw was open and her head cocked, she quickly schooled her expression. That question though... she thought she did. But usually she just liked to brawl. Scare people. Assert dominance. When faced with an unwilling opponent who would not be scared of her... she realized she did not wish to cause harm. She never liked hurting people, that was never the fun of it.

“No.” Sofia sighed. She slouched from her offensive stance and backed over to her seat. “Come, sit with me.” It was phrased like a command, but really it was an offer. Everyone knew Sofia would have a hard time forcing this stranger to do anything. The rragletatch followed reluctantly. Sofia picked up her stool and plopped herself haphazardly on it. The stranger sat more eloquently on one of the many seats next to her.

“I’m Sofia.”

“Yal-sre.”

People moved their seats even farther from the Death-Worlders, or as some call them, orcs. Suddenly, Yal-sre relaxed their whole body.

“Wow.” Yal-sre almost whispered

“What?” Yal-sre made a sound that, in aliens with exoskeletons, tended to equate to a soft laugh.

“To be completely honest, I thought you were going to kill me.”

Sofia barked a laugh.

“hey! I’ve never met a human before! I didn’t want to judge based on reputation due to my own, but you came on pretty aggressively!”

“Yeah, I’m the apex predator ‘round these parts, and I plan to keep it that way. Still though, I ain’t gonna fight you if you don’t wanna.”

“That’s a relief.”

Neither knew what to say next, and suddenly the nearby silence was so loud. Fortunately, a few conversations began to pick back up now that they were talking peacefully.

“What’s your planet like?” Sofia asked.

“My planet, Challrk, is beautiful. It has vast plains of purple vshink, glowing with bioluminescent insects. Sure, they bite. Sure, I’ve been stung, bitten, chased and harassed by many a critter, but Challrk is a truly incredible place. It has high mountains that stretch beyond the atmosphere, and colors some planets can’t imagine. Our sky is orange and pink, if you can believe that. What’s Earth like?”

“Earth. It’s a rough and tumble place, you can’t survive there without being Hardy. I’ve been chased by swarms of wasps and stung repeatedly more than once. I stepped on a bee and couldn’t walk properly for days. I’ve been stung by jellyfish, and went back into the bay knowing they were there with no protection. Unafraid. Earth is rough, our fauna is often hostile and transmits thousands of deadly ailments, much of our flora is poison. Our weather conditions alone could wipe out an entire species instantly. Earth is extreme.”

“i’m sure that’s true, but that’s what you’ve been told. By people who have never been there. People who are scared because they couldn’t survive there. But what is it actually like? What do you remember?”

“I- I remember the heavy storms. I remember punching a goose and having to go to the hospital. I remember- I remember the blue skies. Fluffy white clouds, flocks of songbirds. I remember walking barefoot because I loved the green grass under my feet, not because I was trying to face danger. I remember a loving family, playing with friends. Warmth and love. I remember going in the bay because I loved the feeling of swimming and playing in the water, not because I wanted to be tougher than the jellyfish. Earth is- Earth is a BEAUTIFUL place and it makes me ANGRY” Sofia slammed both her fists on the table, “that all it’s known for is being dangerous.” A few satisfying screams and gasps rang off in response. Sofia looked over at Yal-sre. When they didn’t say anything, “I can’t read your face or body language. Can you give me a description?” This was actually a normal question to ask, in places where species were mixed.

“Uh, understanding, I’ve been there. Pleased that we’re getting somewhere. Uhhhhh, still kinda scared of you though. Sorry,” Yal-sre answered. Sofia gaped for a second, before she gave another rough laugh, knowing she probably sounded unhinged to the alien. “Ah!” Yal-sre yelped, “What- what are yours?” Sofia laughed harder. “laugher can mean many things, in most cases it means ‘amused’. Right now, I am laughing at you, meaning I’m being rude because I find your fear amusing. If there was any non-human who wouldn’t be scared of me, I thought it would be the damn rragletatch. You guys are supposed to be tough shit, but you’re pathetic.”

Yal-sre paused. “Well, yeah. Some of us are tougher than others.”

“Hm, yeah I guess it’s kinda the same with humans. That makes sense. Obviously if you put a fearless human who’s tougher shit than most together with the most timid rragletatch, of course you’d be scared.”

“I’m not the most timid! I’m normal! I’ll bet most humans would be scared of me too, after hearing how “dangerous” we are for so long.”

“Maybe. Humans are tough, but I’ll admit they’re not all like me.” Yal-sre did an odd motion with their... shoulder?

“Translation? I don’t speak shoulder,” Sofia attempted to mimic the motion.

“Understanding, but now amused. Anyway, does it bother you?”

“Does what?” “The fact that everyone is afraid of you? ... even me?”

“I like being feared.”

“Do you?” Sofia took a long sip of her drink - which probably made it look like she was drowning her sorrows - to avoid answering the question. When she was done, she placed the goblet face down on the bar to signal to the bartender that she was ready for a refill. The metal was dented... she had put it down too forcefully.

“Oops.” Though it had been an accident, her voice held no remorse.

NEW STUFF STARTS HERE!

“And yes. I do like being feared.”

“If you say so. I can’t speak to human psychology. Say, did you drink that entire thing?”

“Yup. I had four others too.” “Really? You don’t seem drunk at all.”

“It’s just citrus. Doesn’t affect me. Back home we give much more concentrated juice to our young children, it tastes way better too.”

“Oh, I get it. On Challrk we give concentrated fentanyl to our kids.” Sofia gave Yal-sre a look, even knowing it might not translate across body languages. Yal-sre seemed to get it though; “Yeah, yeah, I know. But it doesn’t affect us! It’s the same as your citrus drinks, fentanyl occurs naturally in the blood of prey animals, and their blood is very nutritious and tasty to young rragletatchen.”

“yeah, that makes enough sense.” Sofia drummed her fingers on the table, “Isn’t it weird? All aliens have biology differences, nothing seems crazy anymore because everyone is so crazy to each other. But when it’s us, suddenly it’s just more proof of how hardened and tough we are. Being immune to citrus or fentanyl doesn’t make us any scarier. Not really.”

“It’s because our planets are no-fly zones. And- I guess there’s a bunch of reasons. Just because we can be dangerous doesn’t mean we’re aggressive though.”

“Speak for yourself.”

“Okay- actually, in a minute I will, but first- I can tell that you want to seem tough. I’m sure you’re plenty tough to back it up, but I just want to assure you that you don’t have to pretend. People will think you’re tough and scary no matter what you do. For better or worse.”  “Body language: unimpressed.”

“Okay I’ll- I’ll stop now. ‘Speak for myself’, as you said.”

“You’d better.”

A small, shy noise from behind the counter. Both “space orcs” turned to look. The bartender’s ears were flattened.

“Excuse me, Mx. is that another refill?” The bartender cautiously reached out to flip Sofia’s goblet back over.

 “... get me a kids’ drink this time, surprise me. This shit tastes like garbage anyway.”

The bartender looked surprised. Sophia was surprised herself, that she was able to read them.

“Right away Mx. And for you... oh- I-” the bartender took two steps back upon recognizing Yal-sre.  “Right, I forgot why I was here. It definitely wasn’t for a drink.” Yal-sre stood up, seeming much more intimidating than when Sophia had approached them.

“Oh.” The bartender backed away farther, making themself smaller as well, “Is there anything else I can get you?”

“Actually, Aolli, I think there is. If you come with me out back, there are some answers I’d like to order.”

The bartender - scratch that - Aolli gulped, and dipped their head. Sophia was again impressed by the very Earthly body language. “Coming right up, Sir.”

Pt 2: https://www.tumblr.com/bahfev/715216491195269120/unstoppable-force-meets-immovable-object-pt2?source=share

#humans are space orcs #OC: Sophia #OC: Yal-Sre #alien bar #the poor bartender #OC: Aolli #UFMIO #Unstoppable Force Meets Immovable Object #this is unedited #Okay its slightly edited #humans are terrifying #I don’t envy Aolli #Imagine trying to serve alcohol to a hippo who’s sitting next to a moose #and the moose wants to take you to a secluded location #to get “answers” #Sophia: now THIS i’ve gotta see #poor Aolli is gonna be followed by the hippo too #and the hippo’s a lot meaner

[travelluxegroup]

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It requires a good level of physical fitness as well as the right equipment to handle the harsh environment. Photographing glaciers can be dangerous, so it's vital to secure a guide or tour operator that is familiar with the area and safety procedures. Taking pictures of glaciers can also be tricky because of the lighting conditions. The best time to photograph glaciers is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is softer and warmer. It's also important to have the right lenses, filters and equipment for outdoors, in order to capture the textures and colors of the ice. Exploring Glaciers: A Unique Adventure Exploring glaciers is a unique and unforgettable adventure. Hiking to a glacier offers the opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of frozen lakes, cascading waterfalls, pristine forests, and magnificent mountains. The chance to experience the power and serenity of a glacier is an opportunity not to be missed. 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Photograph the colorful vineyards during the fall harvest season and capture the breathtaking views from the top of Giant's Head Mountain. Visit the Myra Canyon Trestles and take stunning shots of the old railway bridges. Day 7-8: Northern British Columbia Travel to Northern British Columbia, where you'll find yourself surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges, glaciers, and wildlife. Explore the stunning wilderness of the Northern Rockies and capture the stunning beauty of Muncho Lake. Visit the Liard Hot Springs and capture the beautiful steam rising from the water. Day 9-10: Whistler End your photography adventure in Whistler, where you'll find yourself surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and valleys. Take a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway and capture the breathtaking views of the Howe Sound. Visit the Whistler Olympic Park and capture the stunning architecture of the Olympic venues. In conclusion, British Columbia offers some of the most stunning natural wonders that are perfect for photography enthusiasts. From the rugged coastline and pristine beaches to the lush rainforests and majestic mountains, there's plenty to capture. Follow this ultimate photography itinerary to capture the beauty of British Columbia's nature and wildlife. Read the full article

[theskyeandsea]

When the Levee Breaks || Remmy & Skylar

Location: Remmy, Blanche, and Nora’s home, specifically Remmy’s room.

Notes: Just friends hanging out, having a chat, coming to terms with the incomprehensibly painful and overwhelming reality of their lives.

Trigger Warning: Depression cw, suicide/suicidal thoughts tw, chronic illness mentions, abuse mentions

Skylar’s bag thumped against her back as she walked up the steps to Remmy’s place, her skin inside it weighing heavily on her shoulders. Her hands shook as she made her way to the door, trembling as she stared at the door knocker. All of this, it was too much. She couldn’t-- this was a mistake. She shouldn’t be burdening Remmy with this. They were just… too nice, too kind, too giving for their own good. But, she couldn’t be alone right now. Not after everything she’d realized. Knocking on the door, she quickly stepped back and shoved her hands into the pockets of her jeans. Skylar hoped that Blanche didn’t open the door-- the last thing she wanted to do was bother another person with her problems. Hoping that her eyes didn’t look to puffy from all the crying she’d done, Skylar steadied her nerves as best she could when the door swung open. “Hi… I’m really sorry for bothering you so late.” She mumbled.

Even over the internet, Remmy could tell something big was wrong. Skylar had messaged them and the words alone had worried Remmy. And even though it would take Skylar a bit to get there, they had been waiting down by the front door the minute she’d said she was on the way. Remmy had already been through something like this with Morgan, and this time, they weren’t going to let their own feelings get in the way. Besides, they’d taken that reprieve once, and that was enough. Cry and leave it, as Lancer had always said. The second there was a knock on the door, Remmy was leaping across the foyer to pull the door open. “What? No! No, it’s totally fine! You’re not bothering me at all, I promise!” They ushered Skylar inside, the entryway already clear of loose snakes. Moose was laying by the stairs and lifted his head when he saw Skylar coming in. “I told you, anytime, I’m here for you. I don’t sleep so,” they shrugged, shut the door behind her. “Do you um, want anything? Tea? Water? Apple juice? I think we have apple juice, I bought some for Blanche when she was sick.”

When Remmy opened the door, Skylar could feel the tears start to well up in the corners of her eyes. Just looking at them-- she hadn’t seen them since that awful night at the beach, when she’d seen them get… stabbed by a lobster claw. And, even though they had reassured her that they were okay, that it was fine, she hadn’t been able to shake her worries. What if something happened? What if they weren’t as indestructible as they thought? But, here they were. Safe. And whole and fine. Everything was fine. Except that it wasn’t. Blinking away the tears, Skylar’s hands fidgeted at her side and she shook her head. She couldn’t… She didn’t want to speak right now. There was just too much going on in her mind. Too many emotions. Holding her hand up, Skylar got Remmy’s attention and signed, “I don’t need anything to drink right now. Is there somewhere we can be alone?” She asked, not meeting Remmy’s gaze as she signed. It was too much. All of this was too much. She couldn’t do this.

Oh, shit. Remmy should’ve thought of that. “Right, sorry,” they signed back. “We can go to my room.” They’d chosen more secluded rooms from each other, mostly for privacy, but also because the house had twelve of them. Remmy took Skylar’s hand gently and led her up the stairs to their room, giving Moose a pat and pointing him off to his own room. He slumped a little as he walked away, but Remmy wasn’t sure he was the most comforting to Skylar. They shut the door behind them and turned back to face Skylar. “Uh, sorry it’s pretty empty,” they signed again, “we can sit on the bed or the chairs.” The two plastic chairs from Remmy’s old dining table were in the corner of the room, but they weren’t exactly...the most inviting. “Beds more comfortable.” 

Skylar trailed behind Remmy, letting them guide her through the house without a word. Most times, she would be incredibly uncomfortable letting someone else take her hand. They were how she communicated with the world for most of her life. But, she just… she couldn’t deal right now. There was too much pain, too much sadness, too much of the harsh reality bearing down on her shoulders, weighing her down. When Remmy led her to their room, she sank down onto the bed, too drained to think of anything else. She slipped the backpack from her shoulders and gently removed the skin, unfolding it so it draped over her legs like a blanket. Staring at the pelt for a moment, she looked up at Remmy before clearing her throat, “Ricky was right.”

Remmy felt immediately bad for the thought, but they were so glad to see Skylar had her pelt and that she was holding it so delicately. Had she changed on her own? Remmy came over, cautiously, kneeling on the floor in front of her, before sitting. Ricky was right. Remmy’s eyes fell. Of course he was, because denying who you were wasn’t going to help anything. But they couldn’t say that. They knew Skylar was hurting, because not accepting she was a selkie was about more than just not understanding the world of magic and monsters. Remmy shifted slightly. “I’m sorry,” they murmured, held out their hand as an offer. If Skylar wanted to take it, she would. If not, that was okay, too. “I...I know that’s hard for you to admit. I know it’s because of…” they looked down at the pelt. “We can talk, or we can just sit here. Whatever...whatever you need, I’m here.”

Shifting her gaze to the pelt on her lap, Skylar trailed her fingers across the fur. It was comforting, it was so… comforting, to have it here. Just touching it made her feel better, made the sadness wane, just a little. But, now she knew why it felt so familiar and right. Because it had always been with her. It had always been a part of who she was. “It’s not that he was right about me being a selkie. He’s always been right about that. He was right about,” Skylar swallowed thickly through the lump that had formed in her throat. Seeing Remmy’s offered hand, she clung to it, grasping them tightly, so tightly. Like they were a lifeboat and she was adrift, drowning in an ocean of deep and cutting truth. “My parents… aren’t good people. They were never good people. And I was too stupid to see that.” As she spoke, a droplet of water fell from her eyes, splattering against the fur of her pelt and rolling off the side. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry for being mad at you, Rem. This was all my fault.”

Remmy just held onto Skylar when she grasped them, wrapping their arms around her. That familiar embrace, just like how they gathered Morgan up into their arms. Skylar was bigger than Morgan, but she still fit fine in their arms. “I’m sorry,” they muttered, “I...you’re not stupid, Skylar, and none of this is your fault. They were...your parents. You were supposed to be able to trust them. That’s not on you,” they said, shaking their head, “that’s never on you. And I know-- I know that doesn’t help the pain, but it’s the truth.” They sat back again, holding Skylar at arm’s length. “Hey, don’t-- don’t apologize. It’s okay. You-- you were allowed to be mad. What I did was...I know it hurt you, and we shouldn’t have forced you, I just…” they reached up to wipe a tear from her cheek. “I hate seeing you in pain.”

Leaning into the embrace, Skylar began to sob, the tears streaming down her face in full force. She burrowed her head into their shoulder and wrapped her arms around Remmy, hugging them tightly. Her body shook as she continued to cry, unable to form words as she sat there, absolutely emotionally drained. Her parents had done nothing for her. They’d hurt her, actively withheld the one thing that could make her better, and then forced her to turn when she’d been too weak and too delirious to even remember, let alone ask why. Eventually, her sobbing subsided and she was able to form words again. Mumbling quietly into Remmy’s shoulder, Skylar took in a shuddering breath. “Th-they let me suffer. They, they knew how to really help me and they never told me. They waited until I was too tired and in too much pain to do anything, and forced me to turn.” Sucking in a deep breath, she shook her head, “They did this my whole life. When I left home, they didn’t say anything. They would have been just fine if I had died.”

Remmy just held Skylar. They knew no words were going to make something like this right. Her words struck something deep inside of Remmy’s chest, inside of their memories. Hands tightening ever so slightly around her, as if the stronger the grip, the more they could protect her from all the horrible things her parents had done. Remmy’s head dipped and they placed their cheek on the top of Skylar’s head. “I’m so sorry, Skye,” they said, holding back the bite in their voice, “I’m so sorry they did that to you. But you...you know you have people here who wouldn’t be fine if you died. You have people here who...who love you. Who care about you so much.” That’s what had gotten Remmy through the pain of a lost mother and an abusive father. Knowing that other people cared. They slumped a little. “I’m so sorry. I wish they’d told you. You don’t deserve this.”

Resting her head against Remmy, Skylar just sat there for a long moment, letting the silence stretch on. The pelt was still draped against her legs but, even though she’d turned and even though it was here, a deep and profound weight had settled in the pit of her stomach. Dimly she was aware that, for one of the first times in her life, it wasn’t because of her biology. This was just true sadness and grief. Grief over the life and the family she’d lost. “I called my mom.” Skylar said. “She didn’t say anything. She just… told me to never call again. And that was it.” Swallowing, she pulled back slightly, eyes puffy and red as she looked at Remmy. “I know you care about me. And Winston. And Shiloh. I just,” Fresh tears began to spring to her eyes and she did her best to hold them in. “I pushed Ricky away so many times. I was so angry at him, Remmy. And now I don’t think he’s going to want anything to do with me any more.”

Remmy’s chest felt tight again, as they looked at Skylar and felt as if they could feel the weight of her pain, just from the way she held herself, and how small her voice had become. “I…” Remmy didn’t know what Skylar and Ricky had talked about or what had been said, but Remmy knew Ricky. “I think he might need time, but he’s-- Ricky doesn’t hate you, Skye. He might be hurt, but you were hurt, too. He...understands that. He was just as worried about you as I was.” They paused. The parents subject was...harder to breech. Remmy didn’t know how to handle that, entirely. They only had their own experience to pull from. “When, um-- when I first left for the military, my dad looked me straight in the eyes and said he was glad I was leaving. That I shouldn’t come back unless it was in a body bag. With a check.” Their brow furrowed. “What uh-- what I’m trying to say is, sometimes people...they’re supposed to mean something to you, but they don’t. And it hurts, I know it hurts, but it’s...it gets better eventually. I promise.”

Skylar blinked back the tears, forcing herself to compose herself, just a little. She’d been crying for what felt like hours and even though all of this hurt, she didn’t want Remmy to see her cry any more. They had gone through far worse than she had-- they’d… died. They had died. Her own experiences paled in comparison. But, here they were, still trying to help her. Humming at their words, she rubbed at her eyes with the heel of her hand. She would have to figure out how to talk to Ricky on her own, that wasn’t Remmy’s burden to bear. They’d already done so much. She would figure it out on her own. When she heard Remmy’s open up about their own parents, her heart broke a little for them. “He… he really said that to you? Remmy. I-- I’m so sorry, I’m so so sorry.” She said, shaking her head. Her parents might have intended the same thing, but they’d never said it.

Remmy’s face contorted for a moment. “What? No, I-- I didn’t-- I didn’t tell you cause I wanted-- I just meant like…” They shook their head. “It’s fine. I just wanted you to know that it...it gets better. I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said anything. This is about-- I just want to help you. I know it’s gonna take more than just...you know, one talk, but I-- I’m glad you called me. That you came.” Because the truth was, Remmy hadn’t wanted to be alone tonight, either. Something was digging at their insides and they couldn’t outrun it anymore. They dropped their arms, still keeping their hands on Skylar’s arms, looking down. “What, what do you need? From me? I’m here for anything. Even if you just wanna cry more, that’s totally okay. I’m good for that. I don’t get tired so I can just...sit here with you.”

Shaking her head, Skylar wiped her eyes again, brushing away the tears. “No. It’s okay, I want-- I want to hear about it. Because, you’re helping me get through this and listening to me and supporting me and I, I wanna be there for you too. I’m sorry your dad was… an awful human being.” She said. How could anyone say something… so hateful and just cruel to someone as kind and sweet and good as Remmy? And their own father? Mulling over Remmy’s words, Skylar nodded slowly. She didn’t want to cry over herself anymore. Right now, she just wanted to do something to ease the sadness that threatened to push her over the edge. And the one way she’d always fixed that was simple enough. “Can we just… talk? Maybe not about me, or at least, not just about my stuff,” She let out a shaky sigh, “Are you… are you okay?”

“It-- it’s fine, he doesn’t matter anymore. He hasn’t for a long time,” Remmy said hurriedly, as if trying to sweep the subject away. “So it’s fine.” They scooted onto the mattress and ushered Skylar to follow them so that they could lean up against the walls, still facing each other, caddy corner. “Talk? Yeah, we can talk. I can do that. About what? Um-- I saw this really bad movie the other night. I forget it was called um...Killer Klowns From Outer Space?” They pressed their lips together, hoping Skylar didn’t notice them glaze over her question. They didn’t feel like doing this again. They didn’t need to break down on another person who didn’t need their sob story right now. Remmy was fine. Perfectly fine.

Shifting to follow Remmy so they sat facing each other, Skylar pulled the seal skin tight around her, fingers playing with the soft pelt. As Remmy tried to change the subject, she could see the pull in their lips, the change in their posture-- there was more to it. And, when they didn’t outright answer her question, it made her concern grow. She swallowed thickly, before reaching out to hold their hand. Like most people’s, their hand was cold to the touch, but unlike everyone else, Skylar knew why. They weren’t… fully alive. They were a zombie. And, as hard as learning that she was a seal was for her, she couldn’t even begin to imagine what Remmy was going through. “Remmy. Do you remember what I said? You said I can talk to you about anything, and it’s a two way street. How are you feeling?”

Remmy looked down when Skylar took their hand, their fingers loose in her grip. They didn’t move away, but they didn’t move to hold hers, either. “I remember,” they said, looking away. Knees curled up to their chest and they wrapped their free arm around their legs. “But I don’t need to talk. I’m fine,” they said, trying their best to look over at Skylar, but something in them made that almost impossible right now. Like a quiet shame, or a deep hurt that wasn’t ready to come out yet. “I talked to Morgan the other night, anyway. About...some stuff. Sort of. I mean, we talked. So it’s fine now. I just have to...wait and it’ll go away.”

Watching the way they kind of curled in on themselves, Skylar chewed the inside of her cheek, her fingers toying with the edge of the pelt. As much as they protested, she could tell that there was more under the surface. There was so much more that they weren’t saying with their words, but they screamed with their body language. Everything about Remmy, the pose, the way they weren’t looking at her… All Skylar wanted to do was help them. “Okay. Do you remember when I said that I’d just have to wait through something and it would go away?” Skylar asked. Without waiting for Remmy’s response, she continued,  “And do you remember what happened?” Squeezing their hand tightly in hers, she looked at them directly, wishing they would look her in the eyes. “Please, Remmy. Talk to me.”

Skylar’s hands squeezed Remmy’s and it was just a reminder of how little they could feel. A dead hand, like a glove in warm water, longing to feel it, but never able to. Remmy’s hand jerked slightly. They looked over at Skylar, saw the worry on her face, the pain they were causing her and felt something lurch into their throat, like a stone sticking there. Blinked and looked away again. Something burning in their eyes. “That’s not-- that was different. You were sick and hurt and dying. I’m not--” they bit their tongue as something like a sob tried to pry its way out of their mouth, “-- I’m not sick. I can’t even get sick anymore. I’m just...this. Dead. Forever. Did you know I’m going to live forever if something doesn’t kill me? I don’t wanna live forever. Not like this. Not with these memories.” Suddenly, they couldn’t stop the words. Or the tears. “I should’ve died with them, Skylar. Why didn’t I just stay dead with them?”

When Remmy looked up at her, Skylar almost wished they hadn’t. The pain, the pain was so clear on their face. Even if they tried to pretend it didn’t exist, that they would be fine, she could see it as plain as day. There was just… so much hurt. And as they struggled to verbalize their feelings, Skylar wished there was something she could do. Anything she could do to help them. But, how could she possibly help someone who had to… live with the knowledge that they were dead, that they should be dead, that they shouldn’t even exist? As tears rolled down Remmy’s face, Skylar scooted closer to hug Remmy the way they’d held her, resting her chin on their shoulder and holding them close. “I don’t know. I don’t know the answers to your questions and I wish-- I wish that I did. I wish that I could tell you why this happened to you.” Skylar swallowed. She didn’t know who Remmy meant by “them” but she couldn’t imagine it was good. “But, you’re alive now. And I can’t lose you, Rem. There are people here who love you, so so much. We would have never known you and now that we do… We can’t lose you.”

Remmy’s whole body shook, screaming at them to keep it inside, to not let anymore out. But their heart ached and felt heavy like lead. And their head swirled, and felt like they were falling. Skylar’s body was warm pressed against them and the action made them crumple, completely, arms wrapping around Skylar, as they sobbed. So suddenly, so painfully. “I don’t wanna be here,” they sobbed, fingers curling into her shirt. “I don’t wanna be this. Everyone keeps telling me I’m not a monster, but I still feel like one. I want to go back, I want to go back and not wake up and not come here. I never got to say good-bye. Why me? Why did I have to wake up? I didn’t want to wake up. I don’t want to be alive.” 

As Remmy collapsed into her, their hands gripping tightly onto her, Skylar did her best to bite back the tears that were welling up again. She couldn’t cry, she wouldn’t cry, she had to be strong. She had to be strong, even though it hurt so much to see how badly they were hurting. And it hurt even more to realize that they’d been hurting for so long. She’d been so wrapped up in her own… issues, that she hadn’t even seen how badly this hurt Remmy. And how could it not? They’d died. They’d been a normal human their whole life and now, they weren’t. And they never would be. “I’ve got you. Shhhh, I’ve got you.” Skylar mumbled into their shoulder, holding them tightly. “Maybe… maybe you’re a monster. Maybe we’re all monsters. But that doesn’t make us bad people. It doesn’t make you a bad person.” The way they said they didn’t want to be alive, Skylar couldn’t help the tears that overwhelmed her. “You can’t go, Remmy. You can’t, please. Please, I know. I know how much it hurts to be alive sometimes. I know. But we need you. We love you, so, so much.”

Remmy couldn’t form words anymore, but they could understand what Skylar was saying. She knew how it felt, to not want to be alive. To be around. Remmy buried their face in Skylar’s shoulder, tears staining her shirt. It wasn’t fair. To either of them. Why did they have to suffer like this? What greater power had decided they deserved this? Remmy wished they could take all of Skylar’s pain away. She didn’t deserve any of it. Maybe they did, maybe this was penance for everything they’d done before, for choosing to pick up the gun and fall in line. For not being better. But not Skylar, she didn’t deserve this pain. Remmy didn’t know how long they stayed in silence, only small hiccups of sobs to break it before they found the will to say words again. “I’m trying...I’m trying so hard--” a shuddering breath, “--to be okay with this. With myself. But I don’t...I don’t know how. Tell me how, Skylar. Tell me what to do.”

The silence between them lingered and Skylar did her best to hold herself together, to be the support that Remmy so desperately needed. But, this wasn’t something she’d ever prepared herself for, helping people like this. She barely knew how to keep herself together and… even then, she still didn’t have it all figured out. She could only be there for Remmy in the way she had always wanted someone to be there for her when she’d been going through one of her episodes. Rubbing her thumb against their back in soothing circles, Skylar swallowed, trying to come up with words. “I know, I know you’re trying so hard. Just… take it one day at a time. And please, be kind to yourself.” She said, doing her best to keep her voice calm and steady. “You’ve gone through so much, but you’re not alone any more. Talk to someone when you need to.” She hoped that this was what Remmy wanted, that this is what would help them. Because if it didn’t work, she had no idea what else to say. 

Remmy drew in a shuddering breath, still holding desperately to Skylar, as if she were the only thing keeping them from falling into that darkness right now. And it wasn’t fair. This shouldn’t fall on her. Skylar had her own problems, real problems, problems that mattered in the here and now. But they couldn’t stop the sinking pain in their chest, even as they leaned back to and scrubbed desperately at their face, as if trying to rub the sadness out. “I’m sorry,” they said through a sniffle, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to. I’m not going to-- I just wish--” a stifled sob, swallowing it whole in their chest, “--I wanted it to be my choice. I thought it was the right thing to do. I didn’t get to decide. Either time. I don’t know how to-- I don’t how to make it stop.” They looked over at Skylar, tears still leaking down their face. “I can’t stop crying. I’m sorry. This is stupid. You came over here because you’re going through something, and I-- I’m sorry.”

As Remmy began to apologize, Skylar shook her head. No. No, there was no way that they should be apologizing right now. “It’s okay, it’s okay. I wish it’d been your choice too.” She mumbled, leaning her head into theirs, their soft shorn hair rubbing against the side of her cheek. When they pulled back and stared at her, their eyes shining with tears, Skylar couldn’t hold back the tears that fell from her own. Shaking her head more vigorously this time, Skylar wiped at her face. “Don’t apologize, it’s not stupid at all. We’re both--” She let out an exhausted watery laugh, “We’re both… just trying our hardest to get through this.” She said, with a tired, drained grin. “But we’re not alone.”

Remmy tried their best to smile through their tears. Everything inside still felt heavy and tired, but something felt lighter on their shoulders at Skylar’s words. Remmy just nodded, sniffling some more. “Yeah,” they murmured, “we’re not alone.” They felt wearied, suddenly, and shifted slightly. “Can we just...lay down for a little bit?” they asked, looking over at Skylar, feeling that ache in their arms to want to hold someone, something, and feel their physical weight like an anchor to the world that felt so distant now. “If that’s-- if that’s okay?”

When they repeated it back to her, relief washed over Skylar. At least for now, they knew. And, even if it took her telling them day after day that they mattered, that they weren’t alone... she would do it. Because they’d already done so much for her. At their question, Skylar nodded. Thoroughly cried out, all she wanted to do was curl up in a ball and just… rest. She wanted to be held, to be comforted, to be reminded that she wasn’t just alone. “I’m okay with that.” She said, before lying down on the bed, arms curling into herself slightly. Even though her body felt better than it had in weeks, she was just so tired, so emotionally spent.

Remmy scooted around silently and laid on the bed next to Skylar, before coming in closer and nudging her softly. Held their arms open, closing them around her when she moved, and pulled her in close. She was warm and soft and Remmy felt a washing sense of relief, laying here with her. It was just two friends, worn and spent, and tired of the pain the world kept giving them, hoping that, for at least one night, they could be okay together. And if they weren’t, well, they still had each other. After a long moment, Remmy’s whole body relaxed, even though they still held tightly to Skylar.

When Remmy wrapped their arms around her, Skylar felt the tension ease from her body as she snuggled back into them. Her pelt, still draped over her legs, was warm and comforting against her legs. Wriggling slightly, she drew the skin up so it covered the two of them, hoping that it would provide some amount of relief to Remmy in the same way it did for her. Closing her eyes, Skylar let out a long sigh. She wasn’t alone, and neither was Remmy. They had each other. 

#p: remmy mccallister #p: wtlb #depression cw #suicide tw #chronic illness cw #abuse cw

[nate-santos]

Vegan Zombie Diet 101 || Nate & Remmy

Location: Thai Tanic Involved: @whatsin-yourhead, @deadicated-nate

Remmy felt like they were vibrating. They’d gotten to the restaurant early. This was important. They’d made sure to feed before coming so nothing would go wrong. They made sure to write down everything they’d found so far on what was accurate about zombies and draugr and what to avoid. They made sure to dress nice, because no one wanted news like this from someone wearing a sweatshirt and jeans. They’d made sure to go over what they were going to say in their head about a hundred times so that they wouldn’t stutter and trip over their words. They made sure to bring tissues just in case. The only thing they hadn’t made sure was if they were ready for this. They weren’t. But Nate deserved to know. He deserved to know that they weren’t monsters, that he didn’t have to live his life in fear. That it would be hard and unfair and suck a lot, but they weren’t monsters. They couldn’t be. The...information about hunters could come later. One big thing at a time. They were just pacing outside-- Moose close by-- when they saw Nate heading up. Waved, meeting him in front of the doors. “Hey! Hi. Sorry-- oh, I should’ve gotten a table. Is it usually busy?”

Nate was always nervous. There was always an unhealthy amount of anxiety flowing through him, keeping him on the edge of a panic attack almost every second of every day, especially lately. With everything that was going on, it felt like it was impossible to catch a breath. His last conversation with Remmy had been that, though. They talked about art and had coffee and it was normal. Now, he was walking up to his favorite restaurant in a daze, his brain on the verge of blacking out from anxiety and apprehension. What was it that they couldn’t talk about online? What had they found out? His mind went to the worst case scenario and in the back of his mind, Nate wondered if this was Remmy giving him the ok. Telling him that it was indeed, hopeless. There was no cure. There was no way out. Remmy came into view and Nate felt like his stomach was gonna launch itself out of his mouth. “Hey! Hi! What’s up! Oh- no it’s fine! It’s not too crowded usually!” He laughed nervously and nearly clapped a hand over his mouth to stop himself from rambling.

“Oh, okay! Good, um--” Remmy looked between Nate and the door before scuttling up to it and opening it, “shall we?” He looked just about as nervous as Remmy felt, and knowing Nate, he was probably more nervous than that. They felt kinda bad. But Nate deserved to know, and they had to be the one to tell him. Swallowing, they followed Nate inside, remembering distinctly how they’d met Lydia almost just like this. How soft her features had been, how kind her words. They just needed to be like that. Understanding and kind. Try not to be too overwhelming. When they reached the hostess stand, Remmy stepped up. “Can we, um-- get one more towards the back? Away from the other tables?” And gave Nate a sideways glance, before adding on, “I get a little uh..nervous in crowds.” The hostess nodded and picked up two menus, leading them back to a booth in the corner, a little more secluded. Remmy slid in and sat down, setting their little packet of notes next to them. “So, um-- how are you? Doing okay?”

Nate awkwardly shifted from foot to foot before leading Remmy into the restaurant. He shoved his hands into his pockets and his fingers fumbled with a few pieces of lint. Before he could request a secluded table, Remmy beat him to it, though he had a feeling it had more to do with the conversation they needed to have rather than being closer to the emergency exit. They settled into the table and Nate eyed the small stack of notes as if they were a poisonous snake just preparing to launch out and end him right then and there. “Great! Yeah! Uh...could we- do you mind just getting down to it? I’m so sorry I’m just- I can’t-” Nate clenched his hands together under the table, already on his way to a panic attack and he didn’t even know what they were going to tell him. “Please?” He begged, hoping Remmy didn’t take him as being rude.

Remmy saw the way Nate was eyeing the notes, and felt their chest clench. It was just the way they’d felt sitting in that booth across from Lydia. The begging didn’t help, the pain in his voice. Remmy flinched a little, reaching out for them, drawing them in, tapping their fingers on the table. “I um-- it’s-- okay, yeah, okay.” They looked around, made sure no one was nearby. “It’s not bad! Well, not like, all bad! We’re not bad-- not m-monsters.” They pushed the papers towards Nate. “I’m sorry, I...I’m bad at this kind of stuff. But Nate, it’s not like-- what you’re going to become, isn’t anything like any of the movies o-or books, or anything. It’s different. We’re….” they paused, realized what they were saying, cheeks burning, “I’m one. I’m a--” “Hello! Can I get you two some drinks?” Remmy nearly jumped out of their skin as the waitress appeared out of seemingly nowhere. “Oh, um, ginger ale is fine for me!” they squeaked, sinking into the seat.

Nate had searched for answers for the better part of a decade. He had gone through endless internet searches, sifted through all the useless, pop culture nonsense, and he had tried to talk to real people about the condition, all without any real luck. The hopelessness that had begun to set in was devastating, almost as bad as the event that put him in this situation to begin with. His knee tapped uncontrollably as Remmy began, stammering through. He tried to focus on the words, absently sliding the packet closer. “W-what?” His brow furrowed, his mind unable to comprehend what they were saying. He wouldn’t be a monster? They weren’t- wait....so Remmy was- oh god...Nate circled back to everything he’d ever told them about how badly he didn’t want to be a monster- how he had thought about just ending it to make sure he wouldn’t hurt anyone- the things he said to someone who actually was what he was trying so hard not to become...He began to hyperventillate and jumped about five feet out of his chair when the waitress arrived. “WATER THANKS,” he blurted, hoping she would disappear as quickly as she appeared. “I- you- are you sure??”

The waitress gave them both an odd look before nodding and heading off. Remmy focused back on Nate, on his stuttering words, the bewilderment in his eyes. “Yes, I’m sure,” they said quietly. It still pained them to think about, but it wasn’t about being a zombie anymore. It was about how they’d become one, and how they still longed to just be...alive again. Alive or gone. But Nate didn’t need to know those things. “I, um-- someone who knows a lot m-more about all this stuff...was able to tell me.” They nodded at the packet. “I um...i made that for you. I-it goes over everything you need to know for when…” it happens. “But zombies aren’t-- we’re not-- we can live just like anyone else. Well, not live in the sense of being alive, but like! We’re really fast healing and strong and like...don’t have to worry about regular human things!” Were those really the only plus sides? “I don’t have to sleep, either, so I can get like...so much done. And a-as long as we keep fed, we won’t turn into, um-- you know...the kind of ones you see on TV. We’re just...normal people trying to get on with our lives…” Usually.

Nate couldn’t breathe. He wasn’t sure if he could actually believe what Remmy was saying, and even if he could...did that change anything? Maybe he wouldn’t be a monster, not the kind of mindless thing that attacked him, but what if he didn’t keep himself fed? Plus, fed on what exactly?? How was that a normal life? Never sleeping...his dreams were the only place he and Mari were together again. Tears welled up in his eyes. But it wasn’t a death sentence. “I’m- I’m so sorry, R-Remmy,” he stuttered, apologizing for every cruel thing he said about himself and therefore about them. “I didn’t- I wouldn’t have said- if I knew…” He rubbed his eyes and dried his hands on his jeans. “H-how do you...eat? Is it- we have to- brains?”

Remmy suddenly felt bad. “No! No, it’s okay Nate! You didn’t-- I didn’t know! I like...sort of just found out. It’s...complicated.” They reached out but brought their hand back. They didn’t know what to do with them anymore, so they played with the silverware on the table. “We--” they started, but the waitress came by and dropped their drinks off, asking if they were ready. “Um...give us a few minutes?” Remmy asked, and she nodded, trotting away again. “We do. But we can eat like, animal ones! Like...I get cow, mostly. Th-the butcher gives me a discount since I buy all of Moose’s food through him, too. It’s um...it’s not as weird as it sounds. We can’t really...taste anything.”

Nate felt his body freeze up, like there were too many emotions, too many conflicting ideas for him to process anything at all. Remmy was doing all they could to give him this information as gently as possible, but it didn’t change what they were saying. He was so wrapped up in his own thoughts that he didn’t even notice the waitress come back. It was like he had just swallowed a mouthful of sand. Or cinnamon. He’d done that once, nearly choking himself to death in college for a joke. But now it wasn’t a joke. He may be able to keep himself from becoming a real monster, but at what cost? Was that the kind of life he wanted to live? But he’d come this far...would he really be able to give up a second chance at a normal life when there might be an actual option? “A-animal brain works? I wouldn’t- you don’t have to- we can keep our minds and not kill people to survive?” A sharp pain in his chest had him grasping at his collar, suddenly feeling like he could finally breathe again. He almost laughed. “So...you’re- are you ok with this?” He didn’t know Remmy well, but from the short time he’d known them, Nate got the sense that the two were actually very similar. If Remmy could deal with this, then...maybe he could too. Maybe he wouldn’t have to be alone anymore.

Remmy was quiet, waiting patiently for Nate to process everything, trying to remember what Lydia had said to calm Remmy down. “Oh, uh, yes! Animal brains work. We um...have to feed more often, but they work. You don’t have to hurt anyone or anything like that to um..feed.” They tried to give a reassuring smile. “We’re still-- ourselves. As long as we stay fed. But like, who doesn’t get a little weird when they’re hungry, right?” An attempted joke, a tooth, nervous grin to follow. And then the hard hitting question. Was Remmy okay with everything? No. Did Nate need to hear about the anger and the pain and shame that was preventing Remmy from moving on? No. He needed to hear reassurance. Just like Lydia had given to Remmy. “I am. I mean...it’s an adjustment, of course! And it’s not easy at times, but-- I’ve got a second lease on life now. And I can do things that I never could before. And we’re not like, infectious! Unless you bite someone and break the skin. But we can have normal relationships and normal jobs and normal lives.” They looked over at Nate, trying to hold his gaze. “It’s not a curse, Nate. You’ll still get to be you.”

A long silence fell over Nate and he tried to come to terms with what Remmy was saying. They seemed to be doing alright, after all. They hadn’t killed anyone, and even though Nate hadn’t known Remmy before, he felt like they would know if they were still them. He wondered why the zombie that had attacked him hadn’t kept fed. Why had they destroyed his life if it was this easy to keep going on. Nate didn’t know how to feel. On one hand, he was terrified. After he died, he would never die. He would never sleep. He would never get to taste real Pad Thai. But on the other hand...he could study every type of architecture in the world. He would have all the time in the world to study the things he loved. He could go to the local butcher and make weird brain recipes and keep on with his life. He could play sports again. He could fall in love. He could promise never to hurt another person for the eternity that he would live. He took a long sip of water, draining the glass in one go before he looked up at Remmy, tears in his eyes, but a small smile on his lips. “So animal brains are our Snickers?” He laughed at the lame joke, reaching his hand out for theirs. “This...we can...do this?” His eyes begged for the impossible: that they could be okay, truly okay. They didn’t have to worry about contingency plans. They could live.

It wasn’t an easy thing to accept, life after death. It felt kinda like some bad fantasy movie, cursed or doomed to live out eternity. But it wasn’t all bad. It couldn’t be. If Deirdre was right, and there were other zombies and undead walking around, leading normal lives, then Remmy and Nate could do that, too. Still, it wasn’t easy. It would never be truly easy. But it was with a sharp realization, and spotting the tears welling in Nate’s eyes, and the small smile playing on his lips, that Remmy realized they didn’t have to be alone in this anymore. Sure, Nate wasn’t like them yet, but he was going to be. And Remmy wanted to be there for him, when it happened. No matter how old he was or how long they’d have to survive-- they owed him that much. Slowly, Remmy reached out and took his hand, too, letting their cold one rest inside of his calloused, slightly larger hand. “We can do this,” they said quietly, giving a more encouraging smile this time. If Remmy hadn’t had a true reason to accept themself before, than this was enough.

#remmy2 #chatzy #tw brains

[shirtlesssammy]

8x08: Hunteri Heroici

Then: 

Cas is back from Purgatory, but it’s at a price he has no idea he’s paying.

Now:

Gary, a man with a wedding ring, meets Olivia, a woman without a wedding ring, at a secluded park. They’re happy to see each other --until Gary’s heart beats so hard it pops out of his chest!

At a Gas ‘n Sip, the boys load up on fuel for Baby and soda pops for themselves? (I mean, unless Cas is driving, I can’t believe they’re drinking beer. Additionally, notice how Dean doesn’t get Cas one but these days Dean gets Cas a drink even when he declines one. Sigh.) Sam breaks down the latest on Kevin and the tablet. They’re safely hidden away on a houseboat of Garth’s, but no new breakthroughs on the tablet. Dean then asks Cas if he’s heard anything on angel radio.

Cas turned that off. He doesn’t want anything to do with Heaven anymore (Sad Trombone Noise.) Cas is going to be a hunter! Hurrah.

Look at this radiant angel! Petition for Cas to smile more 2K19.

He’s going to be Team Free Will’s third wheel, adding extra grip and greater stability. Cheers all around! He even has a case! They decide to check it out. Cas asks to sit in the front seat, and is thoroughly denied.

Look at this sad bean. Petition for Cas to sit in the front seat 2K19.

Once at the coroner's office, they take a look at the victim. His chest has a huge comic heart-shaped hole in it. Once the detective leaves, Cas jumps right into hunter mode: no EMF, no sulfur. He sniffs the corpse and notices he did recently suffered from a bladder infection. “Cas, stop smelling the dead guy,” Dean chastises. “Why?” He knows everything now. Sam disagrees and mentions the affair the man was having. Dean surmises the guy was living a lie and it caught up with him.

*Sam suffered a fugue state for a year Flashback*

Sam and Amelia are settling into their new home together and Amelia’s dad pays a visit. He has no time for the shiftless drifter in his daughter’s life.

In present day, the trio head to interview the widow. Cas knows exactly what to do. He leans over the woman, and with a slightly funny New York accent, he screams, “Why did you kill your husband?!” The woman bursts into tears and Dean pulls Cas aside. “I was being bad cop.” “You were being bad everything.”

Turns out the wife knew about Gary’s affair. Cas is confounded by the turn of events, and Dean is elated.

Cut to a suicidal businessman on the edge of a building. He takes a step, but keeps walking on air several feet off the building. He exclaims, “God wants me to live!” before plummeting to his death. Splat.

TFW investigate again. Dean realizes it all sounds a bit like Bugs Bunny. Cas is on the case again! “So we're looking for some sort of insect-rabbit hybrid? How do we kill it?” Bless.

I just want to pause here and squee about how hard Cas is trying to be a hunter in this episode. He’s flipping adorable. And this whole episode is so beautifully bright and colorful (like a Looney Tunes cartoon!)

At the motel, Cas has an epiphany about cartoons and humanity (and I feel a bit called out as a fan constantly looking for more meaning in a silly little show with violence and humor.)

Motel Room Bullet Points of Goodness:

*Dean drops a Tom Petty reference

*Cas pokes around Dean’s toiletry bag

*The slumber party that was cut for time

*”I’ll watch over you”

*The set design

Cas hears about a bank robbery over the police band. Cut to a splattered body with a 1 ton anvil over it. Looney. The bank robber, dubbed The Black Hole, struck again. He’s called The Black Hole because he always leaves a signature black hole on the wall. Sam goes with the detective to look at paperwork on the other robberies, while Cas shows off his angel strength to Dean.

Later at the motel, Cas reads John’s journal. Dean asks how Cas is feeling. (o_O) Cas deflects and gets testy when Dean pushes for him to contact Heaven. (O_0)

Cas then confesses to Dean his fears about Heaven and how he destroyed thousands of his own kind. “I can’t go back.” He fears that if he sees how he destroyed Heaven, he might kill himself (O_O) (Like, this is legitamily heavy stuff. I think Cas is only now forgiving himself for this.)

*Interrupting Moose Alert*

Sam has enough looney information for them to map locations that correspond to a retirement home.

At the retirement home, Sam and Dean flash their badges (and poor Cas appears to reach into his trench but looks sideways glumly.) They ask to interview the residents. Cas’s first interrogation is a doozy. “You are so pretty, Charles.”

During the interview about her missing jewelry, the woman mentions that the cat talks sometimes. Cas is on to interrogation number 2!

While Cas starts to crack his catty canny interrogation subject, Sam's got eyes on another resident of the retirement home. Waggle those fingers Wayne's World style, kids, because it's time for a flashback! 

In Sam's flashback, Amelia serves a godawful dish of pasta and noodle-fied hot dogs in keeping with her family's tradition of that as a first meal every time the military moved them to a new town. Sam tries to bond with Amelia's dad by throwing out that his dad was a Marine (a fact that I constantly forget). Amelia's dad continues to be a giant dick, mocks the Marines, and tells Sam that he thinks Sam is something akin to ex-military. Sam looks like a traumatized ex soldier to him, and he's just holding on to Amelia for a chance at a normal life. It's an insightful comment, but delivered in such a dickish manner that I want to punch the guy every time.

Dean snaps Sam out of his fuzzy flashback and Sam recognizes Fred Jones, a resident of the facility, as a psychokinetic ex-hunter. Dean and Sam rally the troops to interrogate Fred, tragically cutting off Castiel's masterful interrogation of the cat.

In Fred Jones' room, he's fixated on the TV which is showing old cartoons. He's utterly unresponsive to any of their attempts to reach him (which, to be fair, is mostly just shouting and being loud). DEAN. DUDE. Dean tests their hypothesis that Fred's their guy and bashes himself in the forehead with a book. From the sound effects and comedic expression, we understand that they're in the cartoon zone. “Do we...kill him?” Castiel asks, running through the hunter playbook. The facility director overhears this concept and our team is sent away.

Cut to a birthday celebration in the day room. There's a huge sparkler candle jammed into a massive pink cake and Fred's sitting in the corner. He lights upon an old cartoon with a stick of dynamite and in no time at all...WHAMMO! The candle explodes. Cake everywhere. (Fortunately, nobody died.)

Sam rushes up to announce that Fred's gone. Though things are looking bad for detective Cas, he does notice the diamonds on one of the nurse’s wrists. The diamonds belonged to one of the other nursing home residents, and were recently stolen. The nurse claims that her boyfriend gave her the diamonds and TFW speeds off in the mystery machine to interview their next suspect! 

They find the thief's apartment. There's one dead guy and one gravely injured. Cas heals the injured man. <3 CAS <3 Then it's interrogation time. The guy Cas heals reveals that the doctor in charge of the facility is in charge of the thefts. He's taken Fred to the bank for one more score.

As TFW loads up in the car, Sam experiences another fuzzy flashback. This time, Sam's washing dishes while Amelia's dick father tells her - audibly in the other room - that he knows what's best for her and she should move home. FUCK OFF, AMELIA'S DAD.

TFW find the bank and sure enough, there's a black hole painted onto the wall. Dean reaches inside and when his hand passes through, he happily mutters “Awesome,” and gets ready to head inside. 

Cas sniffs out the power near the bank and finds Fred inside of a van. Cas does a quick and super chill mind meld with Fred and Sam, propelling both of them into Fred's mind. It's a cartoon world.

In Fred's head, he's lucid. Sam and Cas tell him about all the weird stuff that's going down in the real world. “You want to know what's the worst thing that can happen to a guy that's got a mind like I got? Losing it,” Fred tells them. While Sam, Cas, and Fred are having existential crises, Dean fights the robber.

Dean’s gun doesn't work; cartoon rules are in full force. There are frying pans, anvils, and more. It’s a wacky, inventive fight and at the end, we all learn a very important lesson. Never bring a gun to a gag fight.

For Comedic Science: 

Sam finally processes his soft focus flashbacks and tells Fred that he's gotta to wake up and face reality. Cas takes these words to heart, likely having his own soft focus flashback as we watch him standing thoughtfully in the background.

Fred wakes up. The thief tries to escape through the black circle on the wall but it's now just paint again. He threatens Dean with a gun but Fred comes in and forces the doctor to shoot himself. Fred's lucid for now, but tells them that it's only a matter of time before he slips away. He asks them to make it stop.

Cas tells Fred that he can help him, but it will be very painful and there may not be much of him left after that. Later, the procedure done, Fred listens to Ode to Joy in his head as they wind up the case. Dean offers Cas shotgun but Cas refuses. He has to--

And then Cas is zapped back upstairs to Naomi's office. She knows Cas wanted to return to Heaven and she forbids it. Cas is desperate to go back to Heaven and help, but Naomi tells him he must stay away. Back on Earth, Cas zaps back to the conversation. Instead of what he was going to say, Cas amends himself to say he's going to stay and watch over Fred for a few days and then figure out what he's going to do next.

And we've got one more flashback... Sam, Amelia, and Amelia's dad are finally bonding over stories of Amelia's embarrassing youth. FUCK OFF, AMELIA’S DAD. The phone rings and Amelia gets up to answer it. Sam opens up to her dad, telling him that he lost his brother and ran because of that. Maybe they'll be friends after all! Yay? And then Amelia gets off the phone. It's the military. Her husband's been found alive! Yaaaay?

Back at the retirement home, Dean and Sam take off, leaving Castiel to settle next to Fred and listen, for a little while, to Ode to Joy.

Wascally Wabbit Quotes:

Garth has a safe house boat?

So, what now? Move to Vermont? Open up a charming B&B?

A third wheel adds extra grip, greater stability.

So we're looking for some sort of insect-rabbit hybrid?

X marks the spot.

That's Looney, alright.

I understand. The bird represents God. And coyote is man, endlessly chasing the divine, yet never able to catch him. It's hilarious.

There was a pastry mishap.

“It’s wabbit season.” “I don’t think you pronounced that correctly.”

What's up, doc?

Want to read more? Check out our Recap Archive! 

#spn recap spn rewatch #spn 8x08 #hunteri heroici #dean winchester #sam winchester #castiel #cas #supernatural season 8

[mariaclaragomez276]

The Wilderness Edition: 10 remote destinations to get away from it all

Escaping everything and everyone might be high on your post-lockdown list after spending many months indoors this year. Breaths of fresh air have been limited, and the freedom of travel restricted. If it’s all beginning to feel too close to home, here are ten far-flung corners of the world to go off-grid and off-the-beaten-track once this is all over – social distancing guaranteed.

Iceland

A dramatic landscape of black volcanic beaches, ethereal blue lagoons, lunar-like glaciers, spellbinding waterfalls, bubbling springs and lava fields, Iceland is an other-worldly escape for back-to-nature seeking travellers. While the natural beauty of this Nordic island can be experienced all year round, it feels that bit more magical during the winter – when the fjords are frozen, the rustic cabins dusted with snow, and the Northern Lights come out to play.

Hotel Rangá, Hella…This hunting lodge meets palatial log cabin is perfectly positioned for the Golden Circle and glacier expeditions. From snowmobiling to jeep safaris, dog-sledding to horse riding, caving to fishing, a world of Icelandic adventures awaits.

Scotland

From heater-dotted coastlines, hilltop castles and stone-clad villages to craggy peaks and mystical lochs, Scotland is home to some of the most ruggedly beautiful scenery in the world. There is no place quite like the Highlands for completely disconnecting from daily life, where red deer roam the valleys of Glencoe and dolphins swim in the Moray Firth – all with the spectacular backdrop of the UK‘s highest peak, Ben Nevis.

Inverlochy Castle, Fort William…From the dove-grey stone walls and romantic turrets, through to the sumptuously furnished rooms, this Scottish masterpiece of 19th-century baronial splendour is located in a postcard-worthy setting three miles from Fort William. Make the most of the Nevis Range during winter with the snow sports at nearby Aonach Mor.

Mongolia

There’s going off-the-beaten-track, and then there’s Mongolia. Sweeping grassy steppes are home to herds of native horses, which outnumber the country’s human population of largely nomadic caravans. With the Gobi Desert to the south, and the Altai Mountains to the north-west, Ulaanbaatar sits between some of the world’s most extreme terrains – and ranks as one of the coldest capital cities.

Terelj Hotel, Ulaanbaatar…Set on the banks of Terelj River in a remote spot surrounded by wild, tree-covered mountains in the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, this elegant outpost is huddled amongst some of the most carefully protected parkland in the country. The great outdoors is right on your doorstep, from bird watching to horseback riding through meadows of edelweiss.

Sweden

Nestled in the middle of Swedish Lapland, Harads takes you to the Arctic heart of the wilderness. Here, trees heavy with snow are silhouetted against the Northern Lights and traditional red lodges line the Lule River. Home to snow-topped mountains, seemingly endless forests and fast flowing rivers, National Parks cover much of Swedish Lapland. Canoe through birch lined rivers to spot beavers, moose and even wild reindeer in their natural habitats.

Arctic Bath, Harads…Glass walls, floating walkways and sky-gazing decks connect the inside with the great outdoors at this one-of-a-kind resort, where cosy cabins seem to hover above both land and water. Wildlife enthusiasts can join a Sámi reindeer herder at an Arctic circle camp, canoe alongside beavers, embark on a moose safari, photograph golden eagles or go bear spotting.

New Zealand

With panoramic scenery stretching as far as the eye can see, it’s no wonder New Zealand has become the dream destination of many a film director. You’ll find the south island a little cooler than the north, and it tends to have more defined seasons, all equally picture-perfect. There is no shortage of ways to explore the unspoiled landscape of snow-capped mountains, fern covered forests and rolling valleys – from whale watching, bungee jumping, and helicopter rides over glaciers, to skiing and snowboarding some of the world’s best powder snow in the winter.

Bay of Many Coves, Queen Charlotte Sound…Set in a tranquil cove with beautiful views of the Marlborough Sounds, this exclusive retreat is surrounded by an eco-marine haven, way off the beaten track. You will soon understand why Captain Cook chose this area as his favoured anchorage while visiting New Zealand.

Canada

Boasting the world’s longest coastline, with the Atlantic to the East, the Pacific to the West, and the Arctic Ocean stretching along the North, Canada‘s geography is as varied as its spectacular seasons. Everything about this vast country is big: the Niagara Falls, the surf swells, the famous moose and infamous grizzly bears. Get lost in the wilderness of backcountry skiing in British Columbia, polar bear spotting on the northern tundra, whale watching on the picturesque waterfront of Vancouver Island, and canoeing along auburn tree-lined waterways in Nova Scotia.

Trout Point Lodge, Nova Scotia…A secluded nature sanctuary on the banks of the Tusket River and next to the Tobeatic Wilderness Area, this luxury lodge is surrounded by swathes of forestland. Giving guests the perfect base to discover the backwoods, you are guaranteed to get up close with the local wildlife.

Bhutan

If you’re after luxury in one of its most remote, authentic settings, the last remaining Himalayan Kingdom won’t disappoint. A year-round destination for experiencing nature in its purest form, Bhutan is one of those special places which has to be seen to be believed – hilltop fortresses with fluttering prayer flags, ancient Buddhist monasteries, rhododendrons springing into full bloom, and sedges of endangered Black-Necked Cranes circling the Phobjikha Valley each winter.

Gangtey Lodge, Phobjikha Valley…A world away from the everyday, this all-suite Himalayan hideaway immerses guests in traditional Bhutanese culture, offering an array of authentic experiences including Buddhist meditation classes, archery, and hot stone baths back at the farmhouse.

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, Paro…Inspired by traditional dzong architecture, this high-altitude retreat is perched amongst the clouds in Neyphu Valley, against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and pine trees. As the first and only traditional spa-inclusive resort in Bhutan, guests of the Sanctuary can enjoy a bespoke programme of treatments in the hands of the in-house medicine doctors.

Colorado, USA

Arriving in Colorado feels a little like setting foot in the Wild West – with copper-red canyons and characterful ranches. Home to the Rocky Mountains, high plains, and desert lands, this scenic state enjoys 300 days of sunshine each year whilst also welcoming snow-seekers to world-renowned ski resorts almost all year round. Its great outdoors are made to be explored, whether on foot, skis, or horseback.

Rawah Ranch, Glendevey…This self-styled ‘dude’ ranch and fly-fishing lodge is straight out of a Western movie – historic Colorado-style cabins in the wild Laramie River Valley. Channel your inner cowboy and ride through thousands of acres of pristine and protected high-country Colorado wilderness.

Lithuania

One of Europe’s best-kept secrets, Lithuania has something of a fairytale feel about it – with tranquil lakes, soaring mountains, and enchanting castles. The countryside is at its most colourful in spring and autumn, but once the snow sets in, the landscape is transformed into a winter wonderland. The five lakes around the small city of Trakai are home to a vast array of wildlife, while its woodlands are designated as a Historical National Park – the only one of its kind in Europe.

Esperanza Resort & SPA, Vilnius…Surrounded by 14 hectares of expansive forests and set beside a beautiful lake, this eco-friendly resort allows guests to make the most of its pristine setting. Spend summer days on forest walks or messing about on the lake. In the winter, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and ice fishing are just a few of the available activities.

Argentina

Discover ends-of-the-earth luxury in the wilds of Patagonian Argentina, with its wide steppes, grasslands, and dramatic desert scenery where cougars, guanacos, and flamingos roam free. Nature lovers won’t be left wanting in Villa La Angostura, a secluded spot in the beautiful Argentinian Lake District with the snow-dusted Andes in the background. Home to the Los Arrayanes National Park and its extraordinary rare rust-brown coihues and ñires – rumour has it that these trees inspired the imaginary forest in Walt Disney’s Bambi.

Correntoso Lake & River Hotel, Villa La Angostura…Nestled in the shadows of the Andes, this lakeside beauty has a spectacular setting on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Here, nature meets nurture with rooms that have the most exhilarating lake and mountain views, and guests are perfectly placed for snow, forest and water escapades.

The post The Wilderness Edition: 10 remote destinations to get away from it all appeared first on Small Luxury Hotels.

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[barakatalancoupons]

Emirates Airlines-Wallet-Friendly Wanderlust

Traveling and sight-seeing is a big life goal for many. Traveling can be seen as a form of therapy, as a stress reducing measure and just a way to chill out and have fun. Touring the world can be an activity that you undertake with a bunch of people, or something you prefer to do alone. However you prefer to do it, traveling and sightseeing will give you some of the best experiences in the world.  

 There are some locations that are particularly successful in taking you away from the busy, hectic schedule of your life. Seek these out the next time you travel, for a stress-reducing, serene environment. Just the amount of productive time you get to spend with other people during your travels could be a stress-reducing factor. Traveling has been known to improve your health and increase mental-health. It can help strengthen bonds with your loved ones, or even improve your job performance, when done in the proper manner. 

 Here are some popular places you can visit if you’re looking to simply kick-back and relax: 

Little Corn Islands - Nicaragua

Corn Islands are a group of islands off the coast of the Carribean, containing breathtaking hidden coves, which can be reached via hike. On your hike, you can also experience the vast flora and fauna that the Carribean has to offer. Accustom yourself to fish better by Scuba Diving, snorkeling or fishing, all activities which are offered here. If you don’t want to do any of this, and just want to spend your time relaxing, you can do that as well! Little Corn Islands has some of the most secluded beaches, where you can just soak up the sun and experience nature for what it is.

 Mallorca - Spain 

Are you a big water person? Surround yourself with the endless beaches that are present on Mallorca, Spain. Indulge in the magnificent architecture, food and nature that the island has to offer. Hiking, cycling and trekking are common activities that tourists come here to experience. Book your flight through Emirates.com, using Emirates promo code for awesome discounts on your trip. You can save for souvenirs, of which this place has a lot to offer. Undertake in activities that you normally can’t in your city like sailing and deep water solo, which rock is climbing above deep water. 

 La Mauricie National Park  - Canada

Want to get lost in the wilderness, without paying a fortune for the trip, La Mauricie is the perfect place for this. By no means is this the biggest park in Canada, but it has so much nature and wilderness to offer. Camp with the moose, black bears and beavers that this park contains many of. The diversity in flora and fauna that this park has to offer is unimaginable, so go ahead and book your trip with Emirates Online Booking Discount from Barakatalan, and get lost in the wilderness. Enjoy a quiet night by the campfire with your loved ones for the ultimate trip. 

 Bay of Islands - New Zealand 

Tranquility at its peak is what Bay of Islands has to offer you. The azure blue waters that you’ll be surrounded by here is a pull factor for any water lover. You can indulge in activities like Sailing, diving and other water sports. Located in the far-north region of New Zealand, this location is an ideal location for all those looking forward to a relaxing time. Come and see Rainbow Falls, or swim near Dolphins and Orcas when you visit Bay of Islands. Book your stay through Emirates Airlines coupon code and Emirates promotional code for wonderful discounts on flight tickets, and accommodations. 

Noosa - Australia 

Not satisfied with what New Zealand has to offer? Hop on over to its neighbour from down under, to Noosa, Australia. Experience the best of both worlds, with water and the woods. Noosa is a perfect combination of both. It has a National Park and Forest Reserve filled to the brim with biodiversity. It is also home to beaches, which are popular worldwide for the quality of surfing that can be done there. Also engage in other water sports like scuba diving or longboarding, or hop on to a cruise on Noosa River. Emirates makes it the best experience for you with their Emirates Discount Code.

#Emirates Airlines Offers #Emirates Airlines Discount Code

[gtfovacations-blog]

5 Best Boating Destinations to Explore

Open water, the wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the feeling of freedom. These are just a few of the reasons that boating is a favorite  pastime for so many. With over 95,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes, the United States boasts some of the best boating destinations for mariners seeking their next great adventure. From sailing to fishing, historic cities to secluded parks, here are five of our absolute favorite boating destinations.

Newport, Rhode Island

Michael Kagdis Newport has been a longtime favorite destination for mariners. Its rich history, beautiful scenery, and sailing culture make it an ideal spot for amateur and experienced boaters alike. Rent a boat or dock space from one of the city’s huge array of marinas and set sail in whatever direction strikes your fancy, from Newport Harbor and Brenton Cove on the west side to Easton Bay and Sheep Point Cove to the east. While you’re in the area, soak in the quintessential New England experience by indulging in fresh seafood from dozens of local restaurants. When you’re ready to dock and hop back on land for a bit, you can visit Newport’s Historic District to enjoy incredible colonial architecture or head to one of many nearby beaches to soak up the sun. Be sure not to miss out on Newport’s famous Cliff Walk, where you can birdwatch and stop to study historic mansions as you hike through 3.5 miles of incredible wildflowers and breathtaking New England shoreline. Time your visit just right (July 14-15 for 2018), and you can hit up the annual Newport Kite Festival, a free event where enthusiasts gather to show off colorful and quirky flying contraptions. For anglers, there are tons of sites for fresh- and saltwater fishing, and even shellfishing for oysters and the infamous New England quahog — but don’t forget to get your license first! All in all, Newport makes for an incredibly well-rounded vacation that will satiate your need for open water, fresh seafood, and historic sightseeing.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Dubbed “The Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is the epitome of a boat-centric city. In addition to being dotted with over 300 miles of waterways, the city houses over 40,000 yachts and 100 marinas, gets 3000 hours of sunshine per year, and hosts one of the world’s largest boat shows, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (October 31 through November 4 for 2018). Once a major hot-spot for spring-breaking college students, Fort Lauderdale is now fully aimed at resort-style living. Dock at local restaurants to enjoy some fresh catch or spend the day fishing and bring your own in to be cooked. Ample waterways are a parasailer’s paradise, or you can kick back and just enjoy the stunning views from your captain’s chair. Coral reefs make for incredible snorkeling and open water diving, and the nearby Everglades provide a huge stomping ground for new adventures. Visit the 4,000 square mile wetlands to take airboat tours, go fishing, kayak, hike trails, and experience a truly unique ecosystem swarming with wildlife from turtles and alligators to manatees and dolphins. When you’re in a landlubber mood, disembark and head to Fort Lauderdale’s bustling downtown, where you’ll find beaches, dozens of golf courses, the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District, and popular Las Olas Boulevard, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and unique architecture. Or you can park yourself at the Thunderbird Drive-in, the world’s largest such theater with 14 screens. Fort Lauderdale is also a great destination for vacationers who like to day-trip as it’s within ferrying distance of both the Bahamas and Miami.

San Juan Islands, Washington

An hour and a half north of Seattle lie the San Juan Islands, a gorgeous archipelago of 172 named islands that make for an amazing boating destination if you’re looking to take things slow. The islands have a temperate year-round climate and less rain than Seattle, so it’s easy to schedule a trip where you can enjoy the scenery without Mother Nature interrupting your plans. Rent your vessel from one of the nearby marinas or hop on the Washington State Ferry from Anacortes. Head out on the water and enjoy stunning views of mountains and sea at the same time — and get some whale-watching in. The islands are one of the best places to spot Orcas in the wild, so much so that one of the islands is named Orcas Island. Whales aren’t the only natural sights you can look forward to. The islands are also home to the greatest concentration of bald eagles in the contiguous United States, along with plentiful other species like harbor seals, river otters, black-tailed deer, and herons. Take to the land for even more adventure by taking a mellow, leisurely drive over the Orcas Island Scenic Byway or biking through incredible preserved woodlands on the San Juan Island Scenic Byway. Round out your trip with kayaking, hiking, local farm visits, museums, horseback rides, arcades, and more. The San Juan Islands’ protected status, along with hundreds of harbors and docks, make them a perfect boating destination for travelers looking for a serene getaway that still offers plenty of entertainment.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

Isle Royal National Park/Facebook If seclusion is what you’re after, head to Isle Royale National Park on Michigan’s Lake Superior. The park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, so it’s tough to beat if you’re looking for pure solitude. Once there, you’ll find yourself in a tranquil world of history and nature. This national park is unlike any other. With 165 miles of trails peppered with sites for backpackers to pitch their tents and wildlife sightings that can include moose, foxes, and beavers, it’s the passionate camper’s wildest dream. For the best and fullest experience of this wild paradise, plan your visit for August – pesky insects start to die down in late July just as wild blueberries begin to ripen. Once you obtain a camping permit, you can spend your nights under the stars by docking or dropping anchor on the park’s perimeter. While you can’t water ski or jet surf at the park, there’s plenty of kayaking and fishing to be had. For a touch of civilization, visit one of the park’s two developed areas: Windigo and Rock Harbor. Windigo, which is situated at the southwest end, is largely a camper’s respite, with a small store, showers, cabins, and campsites. Rock Harbor, while still quiet and secluded, functions as the park’s “downtown” area. It’s located in the northeast and has a restaurant, store, boat dock, and the Rock Harbor Lodge. While you’re out exploring, you can visit a historic copper mine or check out the lighthouse quietly perched atop Passage Island. Lake Superior waters can be rough at certain times of the year, as evidenced by Isle Royale’s over 25 shipwreck sites you can now dive to explore, so if you’re not an experienced boater, you may prefer to hire a charter or take a ferry instead. For tranquil scenery, unique boating, and rugged camping, there’s nothing quite like Isle Royale National Park. Plan properly, though — the park closes from November to mid-April due to extreme weather.

Lake Havasu, Arizona

A mere 24 miles away from the high-rolling hustle of the Las Vegas strip is Lake Havasu, right on the border between Arizona and California. The lake is a reservoir formed by the Hoover Dam and is all about no-holds-barred fun. There are no size or speed restrictions, so you’re free to do everything from jet skiing to leisurely canoe rides. Havasu is connected to 60 miles of continuous waterways, including the Colorado River itself, so there’s no shortage of places to point your bow. Beaches, coves, and the beautiful Copper Canyon are all easily accessible for boaters hoping to explore and sightsee. The lake is also spanned by London Bridge, a popular attraction that once spanned the River Thames and was sold to Lake Havasu City by the City of London in 1831 (a reassembly was completed in 1971). Teeming with large carp, smallmouth bass, striper, redear sunfish, and more, the Lake is a popular destination for anglers. It’s no wonder, as several have reeled in massive hauls over the years, including a world record-setting sunfish in 2014 (surpassing the previous title holder, which was also caught on Lake Havasu). Rent a houseboat and you’ll never have to leave the water — there’s even a local restaurant that will deliver pizza dockside by skateboard. If you do decide to hit the land, there’s plenty of additional fun to be had in Lake Havasu City, where you can hike, mountain bike, take hot air balloon tours, go off-roading, visit local shops and restaurants, stay at a resort, or go on a lighthouse tour (with over 24, the city has more lighthouses than any other in the country). With ample opportunities for watersports, sightseeing, outdoor adventuring, and fishing, Lake Havasu is an ideal boating destination if you’re traveling with family or a larger group. Whenever you’re planning a boat trip, it’s important to do some research. If you want to fish, camp, or dock your boat, you may need special licenses or reservations to ensure everything goes smoothly. Weather conditions can impact the ability to boat on some bodies of water at certain times of the year. Read the full article

#boating #Ft.Lauderdale #IsleRoyaleNationalPark #LakeHavasu #Newport #SanJuanIslands

[janerchambers88]

11 Great Places To Rent A Summer Lake House (That Probably Aren’t Your First Guess)

Best Lake House Vacations

Forget the oceanfront hotel. We’re all about a stunning lake house this summer. Okay, so we’re not totally against the beach. But there’s another type of vacation that was made for America: a classic summer cottage on the lake. Or a cozy cabin. How about an eight-bedroom summer lodge for a full-family affair?

You get the point.

America boasts some of the best lake destinations in the world for outdoor recreation, incredible scenery, and action-packed adventure. In other words: the perfect combination of activities for a thrilling (or relaxing) summer escape.

A summer lake house often comes with kayaks, canoes, paddleboards or even your own personal boat for use (assuming you have a license)! You’ll stay just steps to the water—or hiking trails—and enjoy substantial privacy.

But with so many great lake house options, where should you choose? Enter FlipKey. We’ve bypassed the touristy, crowded lakes—nobody wants to share the bay with other jet skiers, after all—and instead identified 11 amazing summer lake retreats that aren’t quite as…occupied. You’ll find affordable summer cottages and cabins in each of these spots just waiting for you to make new lifelong memories.

Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

Maryland’s Deep Creek Lake has everything you could dream of in a summer vacation. The surrounding towns of McHenry, Oakland and Swanton all offer lake house rentals of various types. Get the adrenaline pumping with whitewater rafting or opt for more leisurely pursuits in fly-fishing, a scenic kayak ride, horseback trek or walking through Deep Creek Lake State Park. A summer lodge, complete with outdoor patio and barbecue grill, is the perfect home base after the day’s adventure. As night falls, spark up the fire pit and gaze at the stars.

See all rentals in Deep Creek Lake on FlipKey!

Moosehead Lake, Maine

As its name would suggest, this Maine gem has abundant wildlife. When you aren’t fishing for landlocked salmon or trout, keep your eyes peeled for moose and other four-legged friends that roam the land. A summer cottage on Moosehead Lake puts you just steps to unlimited water recreation. And the lake is especially good for canoeing and kayaking, boasting tons of hidden coves, inlets and islands to explore. Lake houses are mostly located in the towns of Greenville and Rockwood, both offering rentals from charming summer cottages to classic log cabins. Some properties even come with personal ATVs – the trails around the lake are ripe for off-roading.

See all Moosehead Lake rentals on FlipKey!

Minocqua, Wisconsin

Part of the “Lakeland” area of Northern Wisconsin, Minocqua is a small town as cozy as the summer cabins themselves. There’s the aptly named Lake Minocqua, plus Blue Lake, Kawaguesaga Lake and Tomohawk Lake all in a short vicinity of each other. If you’re seeking a peaceful summer escape, look no further. Vacation rentals here are fewer than some other popular lake spots, meaning your summer cottage will have the utmost privacy. Enjoy a morning coffee on the porch while watching water skiers slice across the clear waters. Choose to join them with some aquatic adventures, or simply take another sip as the sun warms the air.

See all rentals in Lake Minocqua on FlipKey!

Lake George, New York

This 32-mile-long “Queen of American Lakes” is chock-full of summer lodging, attractions, eateries and just about any form of recreation you can name. Take your pick: parasailing, fishing, diving, jet skiing, hiking, golfing, mini-golf, horseback riding and more. If you’ve got kids in tow, you can spend a day at the Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom, New York’s largest amusement park. Hikers gravitate to Prospect Mountain, which offers panoramic views from the top. Among the cleanest and clearest of major US lakes, Lake George is as splendid today as when Thomas Jefferson described it as “…without comparison, the most beautiful water I ever saw.”

See all rentals in Lake George on FlipKey!

Grand Lake, Colorado

Take your family to Grand Lake and enjoy stunning Shadow Mountain scenery with the tranquility of a private summer lake house. Spend a lazy afternoon lounging on the hammock, or rent a pontoon boat for leisurely lake cruising – just don’t forget to bring the cooler! Nearby Rocky Mountain National Park offers great hiking trails, often shared with deer, elk and foxes.

See all rentals in Grand Lake on FlipKey!

Lake Champlain, New York

Lake Champlain is one of the Eastern United States’ most beautiful attractions. It stretches almost the full length of Vermont, separating the Green Mountain State from neighboring New York. Summer lake houses are abundant in many of the surrounding towns, most notably Shelburne, Colchester, Burlington and the Grand Isles (VT); and Plattsburgh, Keeseville and Willsboro (NY). Lake Champlain is great for families, offering calm waters and great outdoor recreation. For a unique cabin experience, stay in a Burlington rental right on the lake. You’ll be close to the charming downtown area of Church Street (shops, bars, restaurants and live music), yet have adventurous activities like hiking, kayaking, paddle-boarding, boating and swimming right at your fingertips.

See all rentals in Lake Champlain on FlipKey!

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Meredith is New Hampshire’s go-to lakeside destination, with Lake Winnipesaukee offering incredible summer lodges, cottages and cabins for groups of all sizes. Popular with 20- and 30-somethings, Lake Winnipesaukee visitors are often a lively bunch, enjoying the water sports and warm weather to the fullest. Though there’s still plenty of privacy to be had, as many rentals have their own docks at secluded areas along the lake.

See all rentals in Lake Winnipesaukee on FlipKey!

Soldotna and Sterling, Alaska

Heading to The Last Frontier? You’ll soon be basking in the dramatic, diverse terrain of wide-open spaces, mountains and forests, with wildlife galore and many small towns. If it’s a summer lake house you seek, just follow the Kenai River! The gorgeous body of water runs westward from Kenai Lake to the Cook Inlet, through the towns of Sterling and Soldtona. A summer rental here is as close to nature as you can get without actually camping. It’s truly a mesmerizing experience, capped by the “midnight sun” –  when the sun sets around 12:00am due to the long daylight hours during summer season.

See all rentals in Soldotna on FlipKey!

See all rentals in Sterling on FlipKey!

Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia

Talk to anyone about a Virginia vacation and you’ll hear about Williamsburg’s rich history or the boardwalk at Virginia Beach. But avid summer vacationers would be wise to consider a different destination, some 240 miles away from the ocean. We’re talking about Smith Mountain Lake, the state’s popular lakeside retreat though not as frequented by the outside masses. A summer cottage on “SML” means sunshine, scenery and s’mores all week long. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscape, with most rental accommodations in the community of Moneta.

See all rentals in Smith Mountain Lake on FlipKey!

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

If we were giving out nicknames, Lake Coeur d’Alene would get “that of many bays.” Summer lodges are cozily tucked within numerous bays across the lake, like Bennett Bay, Windy Bay, Sun Up Bay, Kokanee Bay and Rockford Bay, to name a few. This means plenty of privacy and calm, kid-friendly waters. But Coeur d’Alene is notable for more than its stunning lake: it’s a unique combination of five-star resort town (fine dining, theaters, golf courses and spas) and natural wonder (unspoiled hiking trails, scenery for days). An affordable cabin gives you the best of both worlds – sunshine free of charge.

See all rentals in Coeur d’Alene on FlipKey!

Mount Desert, Maine

Mount Desert may better be known as the side of Acadia National Park that doesn’t include Bar Harbor, which makes it the perfect uncrowded, relaxing escape for a summer lake house. Echo Lake and Long Pond Lake are the two staples for outdoor recreation or leisurely sunbathing. Picture this: you’re eating breakfast on your private patio looking out over the vast clear waters. The kids are readying for a day of swimming, canoeing or kayaking. Maybe even a ride on the pontoon boat. As evening falls, the family enjoys a home-cooked meal before a nightcap in the hot tub. Pure bliss.

See all rentals in Mount Desert on FlipKey!

This post was originally published on the TripAdvisor Rentals blog. FlipKey is a TripAdvisor company.

The post 11 Great Places To Rent A Summer Lake House (That Probably Aren’t Your First Guess) appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

[kevingbakeruk]

11 Great Places To Rent A Summer Lake House (That Probably Aren’t Your First Guess)

Best Lake House Vacations

Forget the oceanfront hotel. We’re all about a stunning lake house this summer. Okay, so we’re not totally against the beach. But there’s another type of vacation that was made for America: a classic summer cottage on the lake. Or a cozy cabin. How about an eight-bedroom summer lodge for a full-family affair?

You get the point.

America boasts some of the best lake destinations in the world for outdoor recreation, incredible scenery, and action-packed adventure. In other words: the perfect combination of activities for a thrilling (or relaxing) summer escape.

A summer lake house often comes with kayaks, canoes, paddleboards or even your own personal boat for use (assuming you have a license)! You’ll stay just steps to the water—or hiking trails—and enjoy substantial privacy.

But with so many great lake house options, where should you choose? Enter FlipKey. We’ve bypassed the touristy, crowded lakes—nobody wants to share the bay with other jet skiers, after all—and instead identified 11 amazing summer lake retreats that aren’t quite as…occupied. You’ll find affordable summer cottages and cabins in each of these spots just waiting for you to make new lifelong memories.

Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

Maryland’s Deep Creek Lake has everything you could dream of in a summer vacation. The surrounding towns of McHenry, Oakland and Swanton all offer lake house rentals of various types. Get the adrenaline pumping with whitewater rafting or opt for more leisurely pursuits in fly-fishing, a scenic kayak ride, horseback trek or walking through Deep Creek Lake State Park. A summer lodge, complete with outdoor patio and barbecue grill, is the perfect home base after the day’s adventure. As night falls, spark up the fire pit and gaze at the stars.

See all rentals in Deep Creek Lake on FlipKey!

Moosehead Lake, Maine

As its name would suggest, this Maine gem has abundant wildlife. When you aren’t fishing for landlocked salmon or trout, keep your eyes peeled for moose and other four-legged friends that roam the land. A summer cottage on Moosehead Lake puts you just steps to unlimited water recreation. And the lake is especially good for canoeing and kayaking, boasting tons of hidden coves, inlets and islands to explore. Lake houses are mostly located in the towns of Greenville and Rockwood, both offering rentals from charming summer cottages to classic log cabins. Some properties even come with personal ATVs – the trails around the lake are ripe for off-roading.

See all Moosehead Lake rentals on FlipKey!

Minocqua, Wisconsin

Part of the “Lakeland” area of Northern Wisconsin, Minocqua is a small town as cozy as the summer cabins themselves. There’s the aptly named Lake Minocqua, plus Blue Lake, Kawaguesaga Lake and Tomohawk Lake all in a short vicinity of each other. If you’re seeking a peaceful summer escape, look no further. Vacation rentals here are fewer than some other popular lake spots, meaning your summer cottage will have the utmost privacy. Enjoy a morning coffee on the porch while watching water skiers slice across the clear waters. Choose to join them with some aquatic adventures, or simply take another sip as the sun warms the air.

See all rentals in Lake Minocqua on FlipKey!

Lake George, New York

This 32-mile-long “Queen of American Lakes” is chock-full of summer lodging, attractions, eateries and just about any form of recreation you can name. Take your pick: parasailing, fishing, diving, jet skiing, hiking, golfing, mini-golf, horseback riding and more. If you’ve got kids in tow, you can spend a day at the Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom, New York’s largest amusement park. Hikers gravitate to Prospect Mountain, which offers panoramic views from the top. Among the cleanest and clearest of major US lakes, Lake George is as splendid today as when Thomas Jefferson described it as “…without comparison, the most beautiful water I ever saw.”

See all rentals in Lake George on FlipKey!

Grand Lake, Colorado

Take your family to Grand Lake and enjoy stunning Shadow Mountain scenery with the tranquility of a private summer lake house. Spend a lazy afternoon lounging on the hammock, or rent a pontoon boat for leisurely lake cruising – just don’t forget to bring the cooler! Nearby Rocky Mountain National Park offers great hiking trails, often shared with deer, elk and foxes.

See all rentals in Grand Lake on FlipKey!

Lake Champlain, New York

Lake Champlain is one of the Eastern United States’ most beautiful attractions. It stretches almost the full length of Vermont, separating the Green Mountain State from neighboring New York. Summer lake houses are abundant in many of the surrounding towns, most notably Shelburne, Colchester, Burlington and the Grand Isles (VT); and Plattsburgh, Keeseville and Willsboro (NY). Lake Champlain is great for families, offering calm waters and great outdoor recreation. For a unique cabin experience, stay in a Burlington rental right on the lake. You’ll be close to the charming downtown area of Church Street (shops, bars, restaurants and live music), yet have adventurous activities like hiking, kayaking, paddle-boarding, boating and swimming right at your fingertips.

See all rentals in Lake Champlain on FlipKey!

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Meredith is New Hampshire’s go-to lakeside destination, with Lake Winnipesaukee offering incredible summer lodges, cottages and cabins for groups of all sizes. Popular with 20- and 30-somethings, Lake Winnipesaukee visitors are often a lively bunch, enjoying the water sports and warm weather to the fullest. Though there’s still plenty of privacy to be had, as many rentals have their own docks at secluded areas along the lake.

See all rentals in Lake Winnipesaukee on FlipKey!

Soldotna and Sterling, Alaska

Heading to The Last Frontier? You’ll soon be basking in the dramatic, diverse terrain of wide-open spaces, mountains and forests, with wildlife galore and many small towns. If it’s a summer lake house you seek, just follow the Kenai River! The gorgeous body of water runs westward from Kenai Lake to the Cook Inlet, through the towns of Sterling and Soldtona. A summer rental here is as close to nature as you can get without actually camping. It’s truly a mesmerizing experience, capped by the “midnight sun” –  when the sun sets around 12:00am due to the long daylight hours during summer season.

See all rentals in Soldotna on FlipKey!

See all rentals in Sterling on FlipKey!

Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia

Talk to anyone about a Virginia vacation and you’ll hear about Williamsburg’s rich history or the boardwalk at Virginia Beach. But avid summer vacationers would be wise to consider a different destination, some 240 miles away from the ocean. We’re talking about Smith Mountain Lake, the state’s popular lakeside retreat though not as frequented by the outside masses. A summer cottage on “SML” means sunshine, scenery and s’mores all week long. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscape, with most rental accommodations in the community of Moneta.

See all rentals in Smith Mountain Lake on FlipKey!

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

If we were giving out nicknames, Lake Coeur d’Alene would get “that of many bays.” Summer lodges are cozily tucked within numerous bays across the lake, like Bennett Bay, Windy Bay, Sun Up Bay, Kokanee Bay and Rockford Bay, to name a few. This means plenty of privacy and calm, kid-friendly waters. But Coeur d’Alene is notable for more than its stunning lake: it’s a unique combination of five-star resort town (fine dining, theaters, golf courses and spas) and natural wonder (unspoiled hiking trails, scenery for days). An affordable cabin gives you the best of both worlds – sunshine free of charge.

See all rentals in Coeur d’Alene on FlipKey!

Mount Desert, Maine

Mount Desert may better be known as the side of Acadia National Park that doesn’t include Bar Harbor, which makes it the perfect uncrowded, relaxing escape for a summer lake house. Echo Lake and Long Pond Lake are the two staples for outdoor recreation or leisurely sunbathing. Picture this: you’re eating breakfast on your private patio looking out over the vast clear waters. The kids are readying for a day of swimming, canoeing or kayaking. Maybe even a ride on the pontoon boat. As evening falls, the family enjoys a home-cooked meal before a nightcap in the hot tub. Pure bliss.

See all rentals in Mount Desert on FlipKey!

This post was originally published on the TripAdvisor Rentals blog. FlipKey is a TripAdvisor company.

The post 11 Great Places To Rent A Summer Lake House (That Probably Aren’t Your First Guess) appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://www.flipkey.com/blog/2017/12/20/best-places-rent-summer-lake-house/

[mrrolandtfranco]

11 Great Places To Rent A Summer Lake House (That Probably Aren’t Your First Guess)

Best Lake House Vacations

Forget the oceanfront hotel. We’re all about a stunning lake house this summer. Okay, so we’re not totally against the beach. But there’s another type of vacation that was made for America: a classic summer cottage on the lake. Or a cozy cabin. How about an eight-bedroom summer lodge for a full-family affair?

You get the point.

America boasts some of the best lake destinations in the world for outdoor recreation, incredible scenery, and action-packed adventure. In other words: the perfect combination of activities for a thrilling (or relaxing) summer escape.

A summer lake house often comes with kayaks, canoes, paddleboards or even your own personal boat for use (assuming you have a license)! You’ll stay just steps to the water—or hiking trails—and enjoy substantial privacy.

But with so many great lake house options, where should you choose? Enter FlipKey. We’ve bypassed the touristy, crowded lakes—nobody wants to share the bay with other jet skiers, after all—and instead identified 11 amazing summer lake retreats that aren’t quite as…occupied. You’ll find affordable summer cottages and cabins in each of these spots just waiting for you to make new lifelong memories.

Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

Maryland’s Deep Creek Lake has everything you could dream of in a summer vacation. The surrounding towns of McHenry, Oakland and Swanton all offer lake house rentals of various types. Get the adrenaline pumping with whitewater rafting or opt for more leisurely pursuits in fly-fishing, a scenic kayak ride, horseback trek or walking through Deep Creek Lake State Park. A summer lodge, complete with outdoor patio and barbecue grill, is the perfect home base after the day’s adventure. As night falls, spark up the fire pit and gaze at the stars.

See all rentals in Deep Creek Lake on FlipKey!

Moosehead Lake, Maine

As its name would suggest, this Maine gem has abundant wildlife. When you aren’t fishing for landlocked salmon or trout, keep your eyes peeled for moose and other four-legged friends that roam the land. A summer cottage on Moosehead Lake puts you just steps to unlimited water recreation. And the lake is especially good for canoeing and kayaking, boasting tons of hidden coves, inlets and islands to explore. Lake houses are mostly located in the towns of Greenville and Rockwood, both offering rentals from charming summer cottages to classic log cabins. Some properties even come with personal ATVs – the trails around the lake are ripe for off-roading.

See all Moosehead Lake rentals on FlipKey!

Minocqua, Wisconsin

Part of the “Lakeland” area of Northern Wisconsin, Minocqua is a small town as cozy as the summer cabins themselves. There’s the aptly named Lake Minocqua, plus Blue Lake, Kawaguesaga Lake and Tomohawk Lake all in a short vicinity of each other. If you’re seeking a peaceful summer escape, look no further. Vacation rentals here are fewer than some other popular lake spots, meaning your summer cottage will have the utmost privacy. Enjoy a morning coffee on the porch while watching water skiers slice across the clear waters. Choose to join them with some aquatic adventures, or simply take another sip as the sun warms the air.

See all rentals in Lake Minocqua on FlipKey!

Lake George, New York

This 32-mile-long “Queen of American Lakes” is chock-full of summer lodging, attractions, eateries and just about any form of recreation you can name. Take your pick: parasailing, fishing, diving, jet skiing, hiking, golfing, mini-golf, horseback riding and more. If you’ve got kids in tow, you can spend a day at the Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom, New York’s largest amusement park. Hikers gravitate to Prospect Mountain, which offers panoramic views from the top. Among the cleanest and clearest of major US lakes, Lake George is as splendid today as when Thomas Jefferson described it as “…without comparison, the most beautiful water I ever saw.”

See all rentals in Lake George on FlipKey!

Grand Lake, Colorado

Take your family to Grand Lake and enjoy stunning Shadow Mountain scenery with the tranquility of a private summer lake house. Spend a lazy afternoon lounging on the hammock, or rent a pontoon boat for leisurely lake cruising – just don’t forget to bring the cooler! Nearby Rocky Mountain National Park offers great hiking trails, often shared with deer, elk and foxes.

See all rentals in Grand Lake on FlipKey!

Lake Champlain, New York

Lake Champlain is one of the Eastern United States’ most beautiful attractions. It stretches almost the full length of Vermont, separating the Green Mountain State from neighboring New York. Summer lake houses are abundant in many of the surrounding towns, most notably Shelburne, Colchester, Burlington and the Grand Isles (VT); and Plattsburgh, Keeseville and Willsboro (NY). Lake Champlain is great for families, offering calm waters and great outdoor recreation. For a unique cabin experience, stay in a Burlington rental right on the lake. You’ll be close to the charming downtown area of Church Street (shops, bars, restaurants and live music), yet have adventurous activities like hiking, kayaking, paddle-boarding, boating and swimming right at your fingertips.

See all rentals in Lake Champlain on FlipKey!

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Meredith is New Hampshire’s go-to lakeside destination, with Lake Winnipesaukee offering incredible summer lodges, cottages and cabins for groups of all sizes. Popular with 20- and 30-somethings, Lake Winnipesaukee visitors are often a lively bunch, enjoying the water sports and warm weather to the fullest. Though there’s still plenty of privacy to be had, as many rentals have their own docks at secluded areas along the lake.

See all rentals in Lake Winnipesaukee on FlipKey!

Soldotna and Sterling, Alaska

Heading to The Last Frontier? You’ll soon be basking in the dramatic, diverse terrain of wide-open spaces, mountains and forests, with wildlife galore and many small towns. If it’s a summer lake house you seek, just follow the Kenai River! The gorgeous body of water runs westward from Kenai Lake to the Cook Inlet, through the towns of Sterling and Soldtona. A summer rental here is as close to nature as you can get without actually camping. It’s truly a mesmerizing experience, capped by the “midnight sun” –  when the sun sets around 12:00am due to the long daylight hours during summer season.

See all rentals in Soldotna on FlipKey!

See all rentals in Sterling on FlipKey!

Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia

Talk to anyone about a Virginia vacation and you’ll hear about Williamsburg’s rich history or the boardwalk at Virginia Beach. But avid summer vacationers would be wise to consider a different destination, some 240 miles away from the ocean. We’re talking about Smith Mountain Lake, the state’s popular lakeside retreat though not as frequented by the outside masses. A summer cottage on “SML” means sunshine, scenery and s’mores all week long. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscape, with most rental accommodations in the community of Moneta.

See all rentals in Smith Mountain Lake on FlipKey!

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

If we were giving out nicknames, Lake Coeur d’Alene would get “that of many bays.” Summer lodges are cozily tucked within numerous bays across the lake, like Bennett Bay, Windy Bay, Sun Up Bay, Kokanee Bay and Rockford Bay, to name a few. This means plenty of privacy and calm, kid-friendly waters. But Coeur d’Alene is notable for more than its stunning lake: it’s a unique combination of five-star resort town (fine dining, theaters, golf courses and spas) and natural wonder (unspoiled hiking trails, scenery for days). An affordable cabin gives you the best of both worlds – sunshine free of charge.

See all rentals in Coeur d’Alene on FlipKey!

Mount Desert, Maine

Mount Desert may better be known as the side of Acadia National Park that doesn’t include Bar Harbor, which makes it the perfect uncrowded, relaxing escape for a summer lake house. Echo Lake and Long Pond Lake are the two staples for outdoor recreation or leisurely sunbathing. Picture this: you’re eating breakfast on your private patio looking out over the vast clear waters. The kids are readying for a day of swimming, canoeing or kayaking. Maybe even a ride on the pontoon boat. As evening falls, the family enjoys a home-cooked meal before a nightcap in the hot tub. Pure bliss.

See all rentals in Mount Desert on FlipKey!

This post was originally published on the TripAdvisor Rentals blog. FlipKey is a TripAdvisor company.

The post 11 Great Places To Rent A Summer Lake House (That Probably Aren’t Your First Guess) appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

from The FlipKey Blog http://ift.tt/2BPYDih

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20 Affordable UK Winter Holiday Destinations You Might Not Have Thought Of

We all know that Christmas can be a pricey time of year, but if you’re still longing for a holiday during the winter, help is at hand! These top 20 winter holiday destinations are some of the most affordable in the UK—all under £500 per week on average for a rental stay. So you won’t need to miss out on getting away during the colder months.

20 Best Winter Holidays That Are Easy on The Pocket

If you’re looking for a relaxing winter holiday destination, Holiday Lettings has thousands of options to choose from, including secluded cottages, family-friendly farmhouses, stylish apartments and rentals by the sea. Simply choose where you want go to enjoy your best winter break ever—without blowing your budget. You can rent a two-bedroom property in each of these winter holiday spots for under £500 on average for a weeklong stay.

#1 Clacton-on-Sea | £281 AVG weekly rate

The seaside resort of Clacton-on-Sea has an atmospheric feel in winter. Watch the wind sweeping through the beautiful Blue Flag beach or take a stroll along the quiet pier. Step back in time at the West Cliff Theatre, established in 1899, where you can enjoy live performances, such as tribute acts, comedy and plays. On rainy days, treat the family to a day out at the Pavilion, with its bowling alley, amusement arcades, and cafe.

Find a winter escape in Clacton-on-Sea

#2 Great Yarmouth | £304 AVG weekly rate

Great Yarmouth has been welcoming visitors since the mid-18th century and is one of the country’s most popular holiday resorts. Take a refreshing walk along Gorleston Beach or explore the Merrivale Model Village. Pop into a cosy pub and warm up next to a roaring fire before enjoying a hearty meal. And with so many affordable rentals and no plane tickets to worry about, this pocket-friendly winter holiday destination is definitely one to consider.

See all rentals in Great Yarmouth

#3 Keighley | £320 AVG weekly rate

Keighley in North Yorkshire is the perfect winter break from which to explore the surrounding area.  Brontë Country and the stunning scenic route of the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway line are within easy reach. For literature lovers and history buffs alike, a wander round the Brontë Parsonage is a real treat. Children of all ages will enjoy a ride on the steam train that takes you past delightful countryside, much of which was used in the filming of The Railway Children. And in winter, a relaxing meal at the local watering hole will be a lovely end to your day.

Pick an affordable rental in Keighley

#4 Callington | £348 AVG weekly rate

Situated in southeast Cornwall, Callington was once a busy mining area. Walk to the top of the old mining stack on Kit Hill and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over Bodmin Moor. The nearby Tamar Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a haven for wildlife. Rich in history and legends, Cornwall has much to stimulate the imagination, and a winter holiday in Callington means you can also explore the surrounding countryside. After a busy day of sightseeing, refuel back at your private holiday rental.

See all stays in Callington

#5 Blaenau Ffestiniog | £372 AVG weekly rate

Blaenau Ffestiniog is a great base to visit the surrounding area of Snowdonia. Famous for its quarries, this area has provided the slate that has roofed countless homes here and abroad. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy this winter holiday destination, as mountain biking and hiking are popular pastimes in Blaenau Ffestiniog. Book a visit to Llechwedd Slate Caverns for an underground adventure, or get the adrenaline pumping at the Bounce Below Playground with its zip line slides and trampolines.

Book a break in Blaenau Ffestiniog

#6 Settle | £378 AVG weekly rate

Looking for a cheap winter break with stunning scenery and plenty of amenities? Then Settle will be just your cup of tea. This lovely market town is situated on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is the perfect place for anyone passionate about the great outdoors. There are plenty of scenic routes to satisfy walkers and cyclists, but if you want a more relaxing way to enjoy the landscape, then climb aboard the train and take a trip along the famous Settle to Carlisle railway line. In the evening, put your feet up in your own private holiday rental.

See all winter holidays in Settle

#7 Amble | £397 AVG weekly rate

Sitting pretty on the coast of Northumberland, Amble is a popular holiday destination with a fascinating history—and makes for an intriguing, and affordable, winter break. The town and surrounding area have been inhabited since ancient times, and there is evidence of Roman occupation here. Being almost completely surrounded by water, some of Amble’s major attractions include sailing and fishing. However, if the British winter weather isn’t too great, Amble still has plenty of indoor activities to offer for a relaxing break. The nearby towns of Warkworth, Morpeth and Alnwick are all worth a visit, too.  

Book a holiday rental in Amble

#8 Bridlington | £404 AVG weekly rate

This bright and breezy fishing port is a popular seaside resort on the East Yorkshire coast. In winter, the rugged white cliffs of Flamborough Head look stunning against a crisp blue sky. The award-winning promenade is the ideal spot for a bracing stroll on a winter’s day. There’s some seriously good seafood restaurants here, so your taste buds are in for a treat! And if you’re in need of a little refreshment, choose a pretty cafe or a traditional pub where you can stop for a tipple or a warming mug of hot chocolate.

Choose a cosy rental in Bridlington this winter

#9 Heacham | £406 AVG weekly rate

This coastal holiday resort in Norfolk is just three miles from Hunstanton and offers a central location for exploring the many nearby east coast attractions. Famous for its lavender, the Norfolk Lavender visitors’ centre is the place to go to experience this evocative and nostalgic fragrance. The shop, tea room and restaurant are surrounded by acres of lavender fields, so it’s well worth a visit. Bird lovers will not want to miss a the Snettisham RSPB Nature Reserve, home to many species of birds. Norfolk is known for its big open skies and Heacham Beach has some stunning sunsets. So, be sure to get cosy in your winter woollies and head to the beach for a glimpse of this golden winter glow.

Find a winter break in Heacham

#10 Seaton | £409 AVG weekly rate

As part of Devon’s awe-inspiring Jurassic Coast, the seaside town of Seaton is popular with geological fanatics. Hikers can take a ramble down the mouth of the River Axe and marvel at the magnificence of the chalky cliffs which make up the coastline. If you’d prefer a less taxing journey, ride the tramway to enjoy the miles of natural beauty and breathtaking views of the English Channel. And on a chilly day, layer up and take a walk along the pretty pebbled beach. If you’re seeking a calm, scenic winter holiday destination, Seaton is won’t disappoint.

See all stays in Seaton

#11 Porthmadog | £411 AVG weekly rate

This Welsh harbour town has a rich, maritime history and is famous for its role as a commercial port in the 1800s. Not far from Porthmadog is Portmeirion – an Italianate-style village used as the setting for the filming of the cult 1960’s show, The Prisoner. If a winter walk along the seashore stirs your soul then wrap up against the elements and visit Black Rock Sands. Afterwards, head back to town for a visit to the Purple Moose brewery where you can sample some craft beers at the end of the tour.

Choose a rental in Porthmadog this winter

#12 Launceston | £413 AVG weekly rate

  Launceston in Cornwall is steeped in history, making for winter holiday as educational as it is affordable. Stroll around the narrow streets to get a feel of its ancient Norman past. The castle and nearby prison are well worth a visit, and the row of grand Georgian houses near the gatehouse was described as the “loveliest street in Cornwall” by poet, Sir John Betjeman. In town you’ll find traditional butchers, bakers and independent shops. The indoor Friday Market at St Mary’s Hall is the place to go to pick up some local produce, so you can cook a delicious meal back at your private holiday rental.

See all stays in Launceston

#13 North Ayrshire | £414 AVG weekly rate

With its world-famous malt whiskies, locally caught seafood, and picturesque villages, North Ayrshire makes a great countryside escape this winter. Take an invigorating stroll along the scenic coast or bundle up and go stargazing near the Firth of Clyde. The wildlife in this area is abundant and fascinating, so be sure to take a camera. Why not treat yourself to some locally-caught fish to enjoy back at your cosy holiday rental?

Find a winter break in North Ayrshire

#14 Dumfries and Galloway | £415 AVG weekly rate

Scotland is a country renowned for its beautiful and varied landscape, and Dumfries and Galloway certainly has its fair share of stunning scenery. For sports enthusiasts, there’s watersports, cycling, walking, and golf amongst the activities on offer. Or maybe pull on some winter woolies and explore the beaches with their sandy bays and rugged, rocky outcrops. Dumfries and Galloway has a wide range of places to visit including castles, monuments, and heritage sites, so you’ll have plenty to do.

Book a break in Dumfries and Galloway

#15 Grange-over-Sands | £419 AVG weekly rate

Situated between the Lake District Fells and Morecambe Bay, Grange-over-Sands has plenty to offer winter visitors. The Promenade, with its ornamental gardens and a duck pond, is a great place to take a refreshing winter walk. The town has an Edwardian feel, with many of the shopfronts retaining their original features. If you want to venture further afield, explore Kendal or Windermere with its range of activities on offer, such as a visit to the aquarium or a segway tour.

See all rentals in Grange-over-Sands

#16 Weston-super-Mare | £419 AVG weekly rate

Beaches don’t have to be a summer only attraction and Weston-super-Mare’s miles of sandy beaches are ideal for a winter walk. If the weather turns too chilly then Westerns’ famous Grand Pier offers an indoor theme park for a family day out. Here, you can also enjoy a range of food from fish and chips to afternoon tea, or relax in the pub whilst enjoying the view. For fans of aviation, a visit to the helicopter museum is a must and if you’re feeling adventurous you could even book a flight.

Find a rental in Weston-super-Mare this winter

#17 County Tyrone | £420 AVG weekly rate

County Tyrone in Ireland is steeped in myths and legends. If you enjoy walking or cycling in beautiful unspoilt landscapes, County Tyrone will be perfect for you. The stunning scenery has plenty of photo opportunities so take your camera to snap those memorable moments. If you enjoy delving into the past, visit the Beaghmore standing stones and feel the presence of Ireland’s Celtic ancestors. After a day of sightseeing and invigorating walks, warm up in your private holiday rental for a relaxing end to a busy day.

See all winter rentals in County Tyrone

#18 Newtonmore | £424 AVG weekly rate

    Newtonmore lies at the southern end of the Spey Valley in the Cairngorms National Park. Its location makes it the ideal place to explore the surrounding area, whether you’re planning a short winter break or a few weeks away. Fans of the TV show, Outlander, may recognise the scenery, as much of the area was used for filming. With a plethora of outdoor activities on offer and a variety of places to eat, Newtonmore is an ideal place for a winter holiday destination.

Find a rental in Newtonmore this winter

#19 Benllech | £427 AVG weekly rate

Benllech is a seaside resort on the east coast of Anglesey. Its golden sands and clear blue sea make it a firm favourite for family holidays in the summer. However, if you’re planning a winter break, the peace and quiet is sure to appeal. Wrap up warm and enjoy a scenic walk along the Anglesey Coastal Path before tucking into a warming meal at one of the restaurants or pubs nearby. Approximately seven miles from Benllech is Beaumaris Castle where you can find out about Edward I’s campaign to conquer North Wales.

See all holiday rentals in Benllech

#20 Brixham | £427 AVG weekly rate

Feeling flat after the Christmas festivities are over? Why not enjoy a winter break in Brixham to give you a lift. Situated at the southern end of Torbay, Brixham has something for all the family, including scenic walks, golf, fishing, and outdoor pursuits. Many of the towns and villages nearby have heritage centres and museums where you can find out more about this fascinating area. A visit to the nearby Babbacombe Model Village and Garden is not to be missed. This charming miniature world is packed with surprises, humour and replicas of historical buildings, including Stonehenge.

Book a break in Brixham this winter

Prices reflect the average weekly cost of a Holiday Lettings two-bedroom rental property in that destination, for a stay during Winter 2017/2018 (December through February).

The post 20 Affordable UK Winter Holiday Destinations You Might Not Have Thought Of appeared first on Holiday Lettings Blog.

from News And Tips For Traveling https://blog.holidaylettings.co.uk/cheap-winter-holiday-destinations-breaks-uk/

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11 Great Places To Rent A Summer Lake House (That Probably Aren’t Your First Guess)

Best Lake House Vacations

Forget the oceanfront hotel. We’re all about a stunning lake house this summer. Okay, so we’re not totally against the beach. But there’s another type of vacation that was made for America: a classic summer cottage on the lake. Or a cozy cabin. How about an eight-bedroom summer lodge for a full-family affair?

You get the point.

America boasts some of the best lake destinations in the world for outdoor recreation, incredible scenery, and action-packed adventure. In other words: the perfect combination of activities for a thrilling (or relaxing) summer escape.

A summer lake house often comes with kayaks, canoes, paddleboards or even your own personal boat for use (assuming you have a license)! You’ll stay just steps to the water—or hiking trails—and enjoy substantial privacy.

But with so many great lake house options, where should you choose? Enter FlipKey. We’ve bypassed the touristy, crowded lakes—nobody wants to share the bay with other jet skiers, after all—and instead identified 11 amazing summer lake retreats that aren’t quite as…occupied. You’ll find affordable summer cottages and cabins in each of these spots just waiting for you to make new lifelong memories.

Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

Maryland’s Deep Creek Lake has everything you could dream of in a summer vacation. The surrounding towns of McHenry, Oakland and Swanton all offer lake house rentals of various types. Get the adrenaline pumping with whitewater rafting or opt for more leisurely pursuits in fly-fishing, a scenic kayak ride, horseback trek or walking through Deep Creek Lake State Park. A summer lodge, complete with outdoor patio and barbecue grill, is the perfect home base after the day’s adventure. As night falls, spark up the fire pit and gaze at the stars.

See all rentals in Deep Creek Lake on FlipKey!

Moosehead Lake, Maine

As its name would suggest, this Maine gem has abundant wildlife. When you aren’t fishing for landlocked salmon or trout, keep your eyes peeled for moose and other four-legged friends that roam the land. A summer cottage on Moosehead Lake puts you just steps to unlimited water recreation. And the lake is especially good for canoeing and kayaking, boasting tons of hidden coves, inlets and islands to explore. Lake houses are mostly located in the towns of Greenville and Rockwood, both offering rentals from charming summer cottages to classic log cabins. Some properties even come with personal ATVs – the trails around the lake are ripe for off-roading.

See all Moosehead Lake rentals on FlipKey!

Minocqua, Wisconsin

Part of the “Lakeland” area of Northern Wisconsin, Minocqua is a small town as cozy as the summer cabins themselves. There’s the aptly named Lake Minocqua, plus Blue Lake, Kawaguesaga Lake and Tomohawk Lake all in a short vicinity of each other. If you’re seeking a peaceful summer escape, look no further. Vacation rentals here are fewer than some other popular lake spots, meaning your summer cottage will have the utmost privacy. Enjoy a morning coffee on the porch while watching water skiers slice across the clear waters. Choose to join them with some aquatic adventures, or simply take another sip as the sun warms the air.

See all rentals in Lake Minocqua on FlipKey!

Lake George, New York

This 32-mile-long “Queen of American Lakes” is chock-full of summer lodging, attractions, eateries and just about any form of recreation you can name. Take your pick: parasailing, fishing, diving, jet skiing, hiking, golfing, mini-golf, horseback riding and more. If you’ve got kids in tow, you can spend a day at the Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom, New York’s largest amusement park. Hikers gravitate to Prospect Mountain, which offers panoramic views from the top. Among the cleanest and clearest of major US lakes, Lake George is as splendid today as when Thomas Jefferson described it as “…without comparison, the most beautiful water I ever saw.”

See all rentals in Lake George on FlipKey!

Grand Lake, Colorado

Take your family to Grand Lake and enjoy stunning Shadow Mountain scenery with the tranquility of a private summer lake house. Spend a lazy afternoon lounging on the hammock, or rent a pontoon boat for leisurely lake cruising – just don’t forget to bring the cooler! Nearby Rocky Mountain National Park offers great hiking trails, often shared with deer, elk and foxes.

See all rentals in Grand Lake on FlipKey!

Lake Champlain, New York

Lake Champlain is one of the Eastern United States’ most beautiful attractions. It stretches almost the full length of Vermont, separating the Green Mountain State from neighboring New York. Summer lake houses are abundant in many of the surrounding towns, most notably Shelburne, Colchester, Burlington and the Grand Isles (VT); and Plattsburgh, Keeseville and Willsboro (NY). Lake Champlain is great for families, offering calm waters and great outdoor recreation. For a unique cabin experience, stay in a Burlington rental right on the lake. You’ll be close to the charming downtown area of Church Street (shops, bars, restaurants and live music), yet have adventurous activities like hiking, kayaking, paddle-boarding, boating and swimming right at your fingertips.

See all rentals in Lake Champlain on FlipKey!

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Meredith is New Hampshire’s go-to lakeside destination, with Lake Winnipesaukee offering incredible summer lodges, cottages and cabins for groups of all sizes. Popular with 20- and 30-somethings, Lake Winnipesaukee visitors are often a lively bunch, enjoying the water sports and warm weather to the fullest. Though there’s still plenty of privacy to be had, as many rentals have their own docks at secluded areas along the lake.

See all rentals in Lake Winnipesaukee on FlipKey!

Soldotna and Sterling, Alaska

Heading to The Last Frontier? You’ll soon be basking in the dramatic, diverse terrain of wide-open spaces, mountains and forests, with wildlife galore and many small towns. If it’s a summer lake house you seek, just follow the Kenai River! The gorgeous body of water runs westward from Kenai Lake to the Cook Inlet, through the towns of Sterling and Soldtona. A summer rental here is as close to nature as you can get without actually camping. It’s truly a mesmerizing experience, capped by the “midnight sun” –  when the sun sets around 12:00am due to the long daylight hours during summer season.

See all rentals in Soldotna on FlipKey!

See all rentals in Sterling on FlipKey!

Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia

Talk to anyone about a Virginia vacation and you’ll hear about Williamsburg’s rich history or the boardwalk at Virginia Beach. But avid summer vacationers would be wise to consider a different destination, some 240 miles away from the ocean. We’re talking about Smith Mountain Lake, the state’s popular lakeside retreat though not as frequented by the outside masses. A summer cottage on “SML” means sunshine, scenery and s’mores all week long. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscape, with most rental accommodations in the community of Moneta.

See all rentals in Smith Mountain Lake on FlipKey!

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

If we were giving out nicknames, Lake Coeur d’Alene would get “that of many bays.” Summer lodges are cozily tucked within numerous bays across the lake, like Bennett Bay, Windy Bay, Sun Up Bay, Kokanee Bay and Rockford Bay, to name a few. This means plenty of privacy and calm, kid-friendly waters. But Coeur d’Alene is notable for more than its stunning lake: it’s a unique combination of five-star resort town (fine dining, theaters, golf courses and spas) and natural wonder (unspoiled hiking trails, scenery for days). An affordable cabin gives you the best of both worlds – sunshine free of charge.

See all rentals in Coeur d’Alene on FlipKey!

Mount Desert, Maine

Mount Desert may better be known as the side of Acadia National Park that doesn’t include Bar Harbor, which makes it the perfect uncrowded, relaxing escape for a summer lake house. Echo Lake and Long Pond Lake are the two staples for outdoor recreation or leisurely sunbathing. Picture this: you’re eating breakfast on your private patio looking out over the vast clear waters. The kids are readying for a day of swimming, canoeing or kayaking. Maybe even a ride on the pontoon boat. As evening falls, the family enjoys a home-cooked meal before a nightcap in the hot tub. Pure bliss.

See all rentals in Mount Desert on FlipKey!

This post was originally published on the TripAdvisor Rentals blog. FlipKey is a TripAdvisor company.

The post 11 Great Places To Rent A Summer Lake House (That Probably Aren’t Your First Guess) appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.