The World Is Going Glamping Crazy… And So Are We!
On a recent photo shoot of the Tin Tent for the new Amazing Spaces book I had a conversation with Ben Anders, an outstanding photographer I have the pleasure of working with on the project, about the growing trend of glamping. We talked about why we thought it was becoming so popular and what we specifically would look for and like in a glamping location. We even planned our ideal trip, and this is what we came up with.
What We’d Take
As little as possible to keep it as easy and simple as it can be, but we might take a pre-cooked meal (if it isn’t already provided) to make sure our first night glamping is as easy as possible.
What We’d Expect
- Space around the site and our accommodation so we didn’t feel cramped or shoved into a field like sardines.
- A decent bed and linen with a comfort level comparable to what you would find in a hotel.
- Nice materials, equipment and fittings within the accommodation. As the name ‘glamping’ suggests, this isn’t a time for ordinary, dull and poor quality.
- Being able to walk to a good pub so we wouldn’t have to worry about the drive home.
- Sitting by a real camp fire in the evenings so we could swap stories and stargaze.
- For us we prefer not to have wi-fi on site as the temptation to look at emails and get involved with work is too much if it is
- available
- A fridge: essential for something cold and sparkling - oh yes… and not forgetting keeping the food fresh!
- Arriving to find a pint of milk, basic provisions and a bottle of wine in the fridge
- Not having to put the tent up or to set up beds, to leave us with more time for having fun.
- That the location will be great even if the weather isn’t.
- Without doubt we would expect our own private shower and bathroom area.
- The Tin Tent has an honesty shop and free firewood, which made staying there easy and simple.
The Perfect Glamping Weekend For Ben
Ben usually works late so he always pre-prepares a chilli or something simple to take with him, together with beers so he and his companions have an easy and quick dinner available shortly after they arrive. It would be even more amazing if their hosts provided this.
They stay all day Saturday, shop locally in a farm shop for example, cook, play and generally muck about in the countryside getting as much fresh air and exercise outdoors as possible.
Someone will have a guitar and will sit by the fire, playing while they eat and take it easy.
They will go to a local pub in the evening and head for home early because of the children. Once settled into their beds the grownups will have more time with music by the campfire.
On Sunday they will wake to cook breakfast, such as a BLT (bacon lettuce and tomato) sandwich, would pack up and load the car around 2 pm after which they will visit the local pub for lunch and then drive home.
As far as Ben is concerned, the best glamping trips are those with 1 or 2 other families, which keeps the kids entertained and makes them feel as if they’ve had their own mini festival.
