A Step Back in Montana Time – The Ranch at Rock Creek

Warm, welcoming and equidistant to Yellowstone and Glacier National Park, The Ranch at Rock Creek is a place to fully embrace Montana glamping.

The hour and a half ride to get to this all-inclusive off-the-beaten-path ranch is a journey through Western Montana’s rich history. On the way, ask your driver to stop off in historic Phillipsburg. The small town oozes old charm reminiscent of Montana’s turn of the century mining culture as well as a famous candy store and great local brews. Continue reading “A Step Back in Montana Time – The Ranch at Rock Creek”

Digital Detox in a Tulum Treehouse

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7120

Leading up to a recent last minute trip to Mexico, and my first time exploring the area of Tulum, my travel friend Megan and I spent some time researching a place to park ourselves for a few days in the Quintana Roo state. We scoured the internet seeking out unique accommodations in the main Tulum area which have stayed true to Tulum’s sustainable roots. And roots we happened upon. We would be staying the night high above the treetops with beachside views in an actual treehouse.

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7091

Newly opened in December 2016 and surrounded by dense Jungle, the Papaya Playa Project Treehouse, in collaboration with Design Hotels, is where we perched ourselves for a night of digital detox.

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7177

The Wi-Fi-less room allowed me to explore a deeper connection with my surroundings. I could feel the Mayan energy I’ve heard others speak about among the 360 degree views from our spacious deck with views of the white sandy beach. As golden hour passed, the clouds changed from shades of pinks and purples lighting up beneath the slowly swaying palms and the night sky faded to black revealing the shining stars above. Can you tell I didn’t want to leave?

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7048

The treehouse structure itself is literally intertwined with the rooted tree below and branches intersect throughout the bedroom and bathroom. As a rule of thumb, Papaya Playa Project leaves 93% of the jungle intact when adding additional rooms and structures to their property. In the case of the addition of the Treehouse, no flora or fauna was touched. Rustic charm and sustainable by nature, indigenous local materials like chukum, a tree resin that the Mayans used, were used in construction naturally fusing with the whitewashed walls keeping the interior naturally cool throughout the hot day.

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7062

I swung away the afternoon in a hammock chair on the middle layer of the treehouse. Just a floor above, as I first step inside the treehouse itself, I followed the rope ladder up above the bed reliving my youth hiding out in my own little nook of the world.

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7312

When Megan and I were ready to venture out and enjoy the beach, we set up shop under one of the many flatbed cabanas with small tables ordering an ice cold salty margarita (they have full service here) while watching kite surfers drift by between leisurely plunges in the turquoise ocean under the Yucatan sunshine. The on-site restaurant also serves delicious cold fresh pressed juices and crave-worthy fish tacos among other local delights.

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7104

Another rest and relaxation highlight on property, I wound and walked my way to the spa in the afternoon indulging in a holistic Mayan treatment. The Mayan White Clay Mask is offered in an open air treatment room overlooking the ocean, followed by an outdoor shower, and finished off with a massage. The detoxifying clay for this treatment is made by the barrel in the local neighboring community infused with stones and natural minerals. It left my skin happy for days to follow.

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 6752

They call Papaya Playa a ‘project’ because it is an ongoing initiative to constantly improve the property goal of becoming a zero emissions by 2018. Project Director Emilio Heredia hopes others will catch onto the model they are working hard to create, striving to keep Tulum a destination that won’t outgrow itself in the future.

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7090

Papaya Playa Project works with as many small producers as possible sourcing on property offerings from neighboring communities like fabrics and interior furnishings inside the treehouse, honey shampoos and body wash, and fruit and vegetables. Within the last year, they’ve also added their own sacred to the Mayan stingless bees called Melipona, which have just produced their first honey inside the notches of the trees.

Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7082
Glamping review of the treehouse at Papaya Playa in Mexico by Kristen Kellogg 7074

It is wonderful to know people like Emilio and properties like Papaya Playa Project exist, promoting conscious, sustainable living. Tulum has grown out of it’s once backpacker roots to now accommodating the prevalent upscale, often conscious traveler frequenting. Rustic in style, being in the Papaya Playa Treehouse feels like a natural luxurious stay.

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When you choose to stay at Papaya Playa Project, you are not just paying for a room – you are investing in the future of Tulum. Papaya Playa Project is continuing to explore new ways to inspire their neighbors and fellow business owners in the area to follow their sustainable settings strong foundation and hopeful future for tourism in the lovely little rapidly growing region that is Tulum.

8 Winter Activities To Experience On Your Next Glamping Trip

Glamping Blog News 8 Winter Activities Snowboarding Main by Lacy - Kristen Kellogg

Winter is a time of year where sometimes all you want to do is curl up under a blanket, eat soup, and drink hot cocoa, but it’s actually the most perfect time to get outside and try new things. Here are nine winter adventure activities I’ve experienced and you should too on your next snow-covered glamping stay.

1. HIT THE SLOPES THEN APRES SKI
Glamping Blog News 8 Winter Activities Apres Ski - Kristen Kellogg

Whether it’s your first lesson, or you’re a seasoned snowboarder or an off-piste pro, there’s nothing more refreshing than when the cool mountain air hits your face as you take turns down the slopes. Equally as gratifying is the glass of wine and a pot of fondue after a long days work in your ski boots.

Go skiing at Tin Poppy in British Columbia

2. TOBOGGANING
Glamping Blog News 8 Winter Activities Tobogganing - Kristen Kellogg

One activity that always brings me back to the fun and free childhood feelings is tobogganing downhill.

Go tobogganing at Moose Meadow Lodge in Waterbury, Vermont

3. SNOWSHOEING
Glamping Blog News 8 Winter Activities Snowshoeing - Kristen Kellogg

Snowshoeing is an excellent way to keep warm and stay active at a relaxed pace stopping along your path to enjoy the views while ascending to an overlook.

Go snowshoeing at Tree House Tranquil-a-Tree in Washington

4. SNOWMOBILING
Glamping Blog News 8 Winter Activities Snowmobiling - Kristen Kellogg

A thrilling backcountry experience, hop on a snowmobile and feed your inner adrenaline junky. Many winter destinations even have their own ‘highways’ for use getting to school or work and back.

Go snowmobiling at The Resort at Paws Up in western Montana

5. DOGSLEDDING
Glamping Blog News 8 Winter Activities Dog Sledding - Kristen Kellogg

Being pulled through the snow-laden forest by a pack of huskies eager for a good long run is a truly memorable experience – one for those ready to sit back, enjoy the ride, and maybe snap a few pictures along the way.

Go on a dogsledding adventure at Horses and Huskys de los Pehuenes in Neuquen, Argentina

6. SNOW SCOOTING DOWN A HILL
Glamping Blog News 8 Winter Activities Snow Scooting - Kristen Kellogg

A cross between riding a scooter and snowboarding downhill this is one for the whole family to try. Make sure you wear a helmet for this one!

Try Snow Scooting at Whitepod in Valais, Switzerland

7. ICE FISHING
Glamping Blog News 8 Winter Activities Ice Fishing - Kristen Kellogg

Ice-fishing is a patient mans (or woman) activity best done with a group of friends. Depends on the day what you’ll bring in, but half the fun is the conversation and catching up with friends.

Go Ice-fishing at Icehotel Jukkasjarvi in Kiruna, Sweden

8. ICE BATHING
Glamping Blog News 8 Winter Activities Ice Bathing - Photo by Lacy

An out of body experience, hopping in an ice-cold lake is an activity you’ll be telling your friends about for years to come. I’m told by locals practicing it regularly that ice bathing helps to push mental limits.

What is on your own winter experience bucket list?

Main Image, Snow Scooting Photo, and Ice Bathing Photo Credit: Lacy Colley Yamaoka