Yurts are really cool. They originally were used as nomadic homes, quickly framed and draped in pelts and furs for warmth and protection from the elements. Ours is much more permanent and modern than some out there, and I'd like to tell you why you should come see/stay in ours.
First of all, there is the whole bucket list phenomenon. If you haven't stayed in a Yurt, the experience alone is worth it. We have ours set up to be a comfortable home, with awesome beds, linens, plumbing, hot water, kitchen and barbecue grill. However unlike most modern homes, there is no TV or internet. Before launching on Airbnb, we contemplated adding those features, but decided that in the modern world, disconnecting might be more of a favor to our guests.
Today, people sit and stare at their phones and tablets all day and well into the night - a terrible practice for getting good rest. There are lots of studies revealing the benefits of reconnecting with nature and rising/falling with the sun to sync up biological clocks, and that's what we've aimed to provide for our guests. The only entertainment we feature are:
- Beautiful landscapes and sunsets
- Sounds and views of wildlife
- Cornhole boards and bags
- Horseshoes
- Campfire pit with roasting sticks and s'mores fixins
- Wine (duh)
- Assorted board games and puzzles
- Record player and classic vinyl collection
Our thought was that if we received complaints about the lack of technology, we could add it. Thankfully, our guests have been mostly grateful for the break. We get a lot of feedback thanking us for making them put their phones down to listen to music and talk to one another. We've had some people bring wireless hotspots if they have work they need to stay connected to, but mostly people focus on being present - and that's what we hoped would happen.
I've used Airbnb several times myself when traveling, and my favorite places are those set up to be 'self-driven' - meaning just show up, move in and call us if you need anything. My least favorite stays have been with overly enthusiastic hosts - no knock on them or their generosity - I just don't always feel like sharing space/meals/drinks with my hosts. I like feeling like I have a private home waiting for me - which is how I set up our operation. The morning of your arrival, you receive check-in instructions, offering you the option of coming early to taste wines. If you're not able to make it by 5pm, we leave bottles with prices and descriptions out for you to pick your own. The level of interaction you have with us is completely up to you. Some people come to the winery and tour/taste/chat for hours, some just stay in the yurt and come and go without a word. Both are just fine!
Okay, this is a blog, not a novel. My last note is that we recently became 'Superhosts' on Airbnb. This badge is awarded to hosts with outstanding reviews, response time and lack of cancellations. I'm really proud of this milestone, and hope that it only attracts more and more quality people to our little town.
Thank Yurt for reading!
Tyler