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Living Airstream: Glamping Rentals Galore

Airstreams not only hold the hearts of many with memories of camping and childhood road trips, but the metallic gleam is a staple of the brand stopping many in their tracks to marvel at these unique recreational vehicles. We sat down with Bill Ward of Living Airstream, a luxury rental company of his fleet of vehicles ranging from vintage model rentals to newer models nightly, weekly and monthly. Renting for all types of occasions, from photo shoots to weddings, mobile offices to Burning Man accommodations, Living Airstream is picking up momentum as the cult-like following of Airstream becomes engaged.

Bill Ward

Glamping.com: How did you first become involved with Airstreams?

Bill Ward: I first got started with Airstreams when I saw one up the street from where I lived in Denver (super shined up exterior… beautiful), thought “what the hell” I’ll buy one! I mentioned it to my father and a friend of mine and they wanted in on it, too, which sparked the idea that maybe other people might be interested in becoming a part of this as well.

G: What markets are you currently in with Living Airstream?

BW: We have our main branches in Denver and San Francisco and satellite offices in Los Angeles and Scottsdale.

Bill Ward

G: Any favorites in the fleet?

BW: I really like the 1964 Bambi, because they truly represent the all-American road trip.

G: What makes Airstreams the right fit as opposed to other RVs?

BW: Airstreams are rolling pieces of art that have stood the test of time with a cult-like following. Anytime anyone sees that polished aluminum exterior pull up to a campsite, they immediately want to look inside and take photos. Plus, more than 60% are still in use (from what I’ve researched). We also have a new website, www.rentbowl.com where customers can rent RVs, campers, off-road ATVs and more as part of a sharing community, much like airbnb.com but with recreational vehicles.

Bill Ward

G: How is Living Airstream a glamping experience?

BW: Living Airstream is a unique glamping experience in that it allows for a mobile airstream experience. Between our high-quality product and our customer service we are bringing retro back into glamping.

G: Where do you see the future of the company?

BW: For the future of the company, I see Living Airstream expanding to a commercial division as well. I want us to then take both divisions, business and leisure alike, throughout the United States and eventually Europe where Airstreams are enormous.

Whether purchasing a new Airstream to refurbish or moving inventory across the country, Ward does so with a smile. With the company growing and the demand increasing with it, glamping in style with Living Airstream is proving to be a popular option across the United States. Eventually utilizing rentbowl.com, Ward is looking to the future for an inventory-less model, making room for even more unique stays as the site becomes more popular. Rental information for Living Airstream can be found at LivingAirstream.com.

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The Outlook Lodge: A Place in the Pines

The gentle mountain breezes began to sway the boughs of pine trees situated in front of the wraparound porch, gentle whispers of quaking aspen heard from the back patio as I rocked in my chair sipping an early-morning coffee. Colorado is known for its 300 days of sunshine, and today was not to disappoint. Located in southern Colorado near Manitou Springs, west of Colorado Springs, The Outlook Lodge is perfectly situated in the quiet mountain town of Green Mountain Falls—a location most Coloradans don’t even recognize in casual conversation.

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The six-room retreat was originally constructed in 1889 as a rectory to the nearby Church in the Wildwood. Now, the humble abode has become a luxury retreat boasting chic interiors and curated artworks. Touches of timeless charm still pepper the property, while additions such as the outdoor firepit make for a cozy getaway in the sleepy town.

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Christian Keese is the visionary and owner updating The Outlook Lodge into the current 21st century abode that it is today. Splitting his time between Oklahoma City and New York, the businessman and philanthropist is visiting the property during the Green Box Arts Festival that he founded in 2007, bringing artworks he owns on loan from the Met as well as dancers from the Oklahoma City Ballet Company to perform in this off-the-path retreat for a unique art-viewing experience and unexpected dance performances and workshops.

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“I jumped on the opportunity to celebrate and bring more attention to two things I appreciate very much: The arts and this town,” said Keese. “The goal is to bring nationally-acclaimed artists to this small community and provide workshops and studio for those who are not-so-well-known, while at the same time create a draw for visitors to come and discover this beautiful town and all it has to offer.” Today, I see the piece “Cloud City” by Tomas Saraceno on the hillside; the geometric mirrored reflections bouncing images of Colorado blue skies and deep forest greens within the massive sculpture usually at home on the rooftop of the Met. The 20-ton piece seems oddly at home nestled into the hillside for its temporary cross-country exhibition in the sleepy mountain town. The piece has since been removed and will be replaced this summer with a new art piece “10 Swings” a musical, interactive swing set.

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I decide to stroll down the dirt main street to the picturesque gazebo that is the centerpiece of Green Mountain Falls. Surrounded by a small lake, locals fish in the waters while I soak in the sunshine on a park bench. Pike National Forest surrounds the town on three sides, the fresh mountain air is invigorating and sense of still a rarity in locations a mere thirty minutes from larger cities.

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My room, one of the two Carriage House Bay Window Rooms, overlooks the sloping gardens of the lodge. Contemporary furniture and finishes compliment the Victorian rustic feel in an unexpected symbiosis. Ample light comes in from the bay windows, creating little nooks to be enjoyed throughout the day. Small touches appear throughout the property, from antique mailboxes to Pronghorn antlers, rich wood paneling to contemporary streamline finishes which only further the warmth and approachability of this retreat.

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A perfect hideaway to spend hours on the porch enjoying a good read from The Outlook Lodge’s library or to appreciate unexpected artworks or performances, The Outlook Lodge is a hidden gem in Colorado. If needing an urban infusion, nearby Manitou Springs and Colorado Springs also supply a plethora of activities before returning the oasis in the pines, The Outlook Lodge.

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Ranch at Emerald Valley: A Gem in the Mountains

The Broadmoor Resort and Spa is known for its 5-Star, 5-Diamond status, so when a glamping opportunity is available through the world-renowned resort, guests know they are in for a treat. Located 40 minutes from the Colorado Springs haven via private transfer, the Ranch at Emerald Valley is a luxury lodging opportunity set in a serene mountain environment high in the Colorado foothills.

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Originally a logging operation and then an exclusive fishing camp, the historic grounds have been re-purposed for the Ranch at Emerald Valley. Offering private log cabins complete with wood-burning fireplaces, heated floors and bathrooms that are not only chic but rustically charming, the ranch is primed for a luxury stay akin to the Broadmoor. Two central, stocked fishing ponds are ideal for idling away the afternoon, with gourmet chefs on-hand to cook your catch of several varieties of trout or help release back into the stream-fed waters.

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Wild raspberries appear throughout the property in season, ripe for picking they are the most organic, natural fruit you may ever have. Nibbling a few on my hike up the Emerald Valley Pipeline Trail, we passed towering aspen groves, crystal clear mountain streams, and a historic cabin fireplace that make for a wonderful and scenic hike steps from the central camp. Horseback riding is also available from the stables and knowledgeable guides speak of the history and ecology of the local area.

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Back at camp, the Olde Swan Tavern bar is a perfect place to grab a cocktail or glass of wine to take to the outdoor deck overlooking the fishing pond. Better yet- the fireplaced gazebo overlooking the lower pond as the sun sets over the valley with nearby two outdoor Jacuzzis. Attentive Broadmoor staff, for which the resort is known, are perfectly placed around the property; attentive but not overbearing, warm and welcoming without being a nuisance. Archery, horseshoes, canoeing and board games are also available as entertainment at Emerald Valley Ranch, where cellphone reception is sparse at best and fairly non-existent for the time being. A welcome respite from the day-to-day phone calls, texts, and social media-alerts via phone, WiFi is available on property so techies are not completely cut off from the digital world.

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Meals are one of the highlights at the Ranch at Emerald Valley. Treated to a scrumptious breakfast, light but tasteful buffet lunch and several course dinner, the culinary experience at Broadmoor delights throughout their property, even in the middle of the 100,000 acres of Pike National Forest in which the lodge is set. Utilizing local ingredients and approachable game recipes, sommelier suggestions made our meal even more delicious with perfectly paired wines with succulent offerings such as Wagyu beef ribeye, Colorado Lamb medallions and other seasonal fare. Save room for pre- and post-dessert nibbles as well. A ramekin of fresh blueberry compote over a bite of creamy panna cotta before receiving a sizzling skillet of fresh Palisade Peach cobbler with creamy ice cream, finished with house-made hazelnut truffles as a post-meal finish was delightful, if filling. I had to pass on the campfire s’mores…

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Lodging at the Ranch at Emerald Valley is exceptional, the ten cabins on property unique and full of character. The cozy bungalows are free of television; fireside lounges and legendary Broadmoor beds make for a luxury in-room camping experience. Pre-prepared logs in the fireplace beg to be lit for an aroma that will fill the room with fresh pine and mountain air as the sound of the cascading water feature on property seeps through the windows. Thoughtful touches, such as the horseshoe-material door pulls and historic western art pieces only enhance the look and feel of the property. Starlit skies and the feeling of being “away from it all” comingle with the well-kept greenbelts and splashes of wildflowers on property. Thick forests, fresh mountain breezes, and chattering squirrels allow for a relaxing, nature-filled summer vacation spot in the mountains.

To book your reservations at the Ranch at Emerald Valley, visit www.broadmoor.com/EmeraldValleyRanch. From visiting with guests around the Main Lodge firepit to exploring the surrounding wilderness, the Ranch at Emerald Valley is a beautiful glamping experience to be had in Colorado Springs, Colorado.