Southern Charm

When you think of a vacation in Georgia, most people think of Atlanta or Savannah......well, I beg to differ. A vacation at one of the Georgia State parks is a terrific idea for a girlfriend getaway and the best thing is, the rate rocks! By "rocks" we mean "affordable" ......which is the idea behind this blog!


Where to go:
Unicoi State Park - nestled in the north Georgia mountains just two miles from the Alpine village of Helen, Unicoi is one of Georgia’s most beloved state parks. Throughout the year, the park offers outstanding programs which focus on natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources.

Accommodations:Rent a 2-bedroom cottage at Unicoi State Park for $135 per night in September. With tax, cottage totals $310.50 for a 2-night stay. For a group of 4 girls, the cost is $78.00 per person. Cottage is 2 bedrooms with a separate living room, dining room and kitchen fully stocked with all utensils to prepare a full course meal. You may plan your meals ahead of time and bring your own supplies OR grab a few items from one of the Package stores in the area.

Things to do: The plan is to check in on Friday -- catch up on the latest affairs over a few drinks then call it a night! On Saturday, the great outdoor awaits. Enjoy hiking and biking on scenic mountain trails, especially those leading to Helen and Anna Ruby Falls. Try *lake fishing or boating then enjoy a picnic while bird watching from one of the picnic tables scattered around the park. Craft lovers should not miss the lodge gift shop specializing in hand-made quilts and local pottery.
*Fishing Tackle Loaner Program:
The DNR's fisheries management office and several state parks have created a program where visitors may borrow equipment for no charge. Visitors can check out a pole, try their luck, then return the equipment when they are finished

Bring along: Girlfriend getaways are not complete without a book discussion. Bring along a copy of Wendy Wax's book called "Leave It To Cleavage." According to the list author on Amazon, this novel is "Cute, contemporary romance set in the fictional town of Truro, GA. According to the author, it's more correctly in the NC mtns, just north of the GA line, but the book calls the town Truro, GA."

 

Travel Tips

Sure you are excited about your girlfriend getaway but before you go, here are some tips to keep you on track:

• Get all your friends involved. Each friend needs to be responsible for a portion of the planning, from hotel to transportation, things to do to overall budget (you catch my drift).
• Decide on your travel date. To stay on budget, plan weekend trips (shorter = cheaper) and research special deals. TIP: avoid holidays like spring break, summer, memorial day, etc.
• Arrange Childcare. If you are traveling on the weekend, perhaps dad will be home but for mid week travel, it’s probably a good idea to plan your trip when the kids are in school so they can to stick to their routine. Also, keep in mind family and friends that can help out. Be careful when you give the real reason for going off – some friends may get jealous!
• Travel. If all your friends are in the same city, carpooling could work. If not, plan to stay at hotels, cottages, etc that have free shuttle to the airport or in town.
• Plan Meals. Cook for a few days so dads (or baby sitter) can heat and serve
  Write out a schedule of the kids' daily activities to help keep Dad on track while you're away.
• Before you go: check the Internet for weather, travel warnings etc. Its best to be prepared for any and everything.
• Have FUN!