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Packing 101: Selection

Posted on November 23, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Photo by Craig Sunter via Flickr

Whether flying or driving to your next vacation destination, you can make the travel a little easier by packing smarter. Lightening your load can be liberating, leaving you with fewer things to worry about and more energy to enjoy your adventure. There are countless strategies for managing your baggage, but they all boil down to two categories—organization and selection. Today’s post will cover how decide what you should bring. Check back later for tips on getting it all into your case.

I know you have a closet full of amazing clothes at home. And you don’t know exactly what your new environment will call for. But that doesn’t mean you should pack a unique for every possible situation you might find yourself in. That kind of packing will only make more work for you and likely won’t yield the results you expect. Because nobody can plan for every eventuality.

Make a list. This isn’t a list of each exact piece of clothing you want to bring. OK, if you want to pack your favorite button-up, put that on the list. But otherwise keep it vague. Count the number of days and nights you’ll be traveling, and think of the type of activities you’ll be doing. Then write down loose terms for the absolute necessities you’ll need to bring. You can get more specific later in the process if you’re the type of person who’d forget their head if it wasn’t screwed on. But for now, it should read something like: toiletries, 5 t-shirts, 2 pair shorts, 1 pair jeans, pajamas, swim suit, 5 socks & underwear, 1 pair shoes.

Decide on a color scheme. Try to pick out items that are in the same color family, and don’t be too liberal with items of coordinating color. If you’re afraid of feeling like you’re wearing the same thing all the time, consider opening your suitcase on the final day only to find striped pants and a polka dotted shirt. (While this might technically qualify as a power clash, that’s a topic for another day…and another blog.) By limiting your wardrobe to one color scheme, you’re actually opening up more combinations, which means you can pack fewer items.

Follow the classic rules. We all know that pants can be worn multiple times before needing to be washed. And if you swap out your shirt, nobody is going to notice that you’re wearing the same pants as a day or two ago. Multi-purpose garments are another traditional travel staple. Many ladies have a little black dress that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Similarly, men have a coat and maybe a tie. If you have a piece of clothing that you would only wear in one specific situation, it probably shouldn’t make it into the suitcase. (Of course exceptions will be made if you’re traveling to an event like a wedding. Don’t leave your bridesmaid dress behind just because I said so.)

Plan to do laundry. I know laundry isn’t fun, and it might be the last thing you want to deal with on your vacation. But when space is truly at a premium, this might be your best option. And planning ahead can make it relatively painless. When booking accommodations, try to pick a place that has laundry facilities on-site or nearby. All of Stay Alfred’s vacation rental properties have in-home washers and dryers, so you can wash whenever it’s most convenient. We even provide the detergent! If you aren’t staying somewhere with such amenities, don’t forget to pack a roll of quarters or some cash, and throw some single load detergent pods in with your toiletries.

I hope these tips help you on your next trip. And if you don’t have a trip planned, check out our properties for a little inspiration.

Vacation Rentals: Perfect for Families

Posted on November 10, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Photo by Ted Sakshaug via Flickr

Planning a vacation can be daunting and stressful; especially when you’re planning a family vacation. Between managing arguing siblings, making sure everyone is properly fed, and making your way to all the local hot spots, there’s barely any time to actually sit down and relax. Thankfully that’s not the case when you and your family stay with Stay Alfred.

We’ve all been there at one point or another. It’s 6pm, starting to get late, and everyone is hungry. The one problem is, everyone wants to eat something different! Thankfully, when you stay with Stay Alfred, you have access to a fully stocked kitchen. Our guests have the option of dining out and experiencing the local cuisine or stocking up on groceries and preparing meals themselves, making it much easier to make sure everyone’s happy and eliminating the search for the perfect restaurant.

While on vacation, tensions tend to rise when you’re all cramped in the same stuff hotel room. With only one bathroom and usually only one window it doesn’t take long for the cabin fever to set in. But what if you could spread out? At a Stay Alfred property you can! The kids can relax and watch TV in the living room while you take a nap in peace in the master bedroom. Another reason Stay Alfred is perfect for your next family vacation: you’ll have room to relax, spread out, and breathe.

We know that once you’ve stepped through the front door you’ll never want to leave but the convenient location of Stay Alfred properties makes living like a local a breeze. No more squeezing into the minivan and searching for the next attraction. When you’re family is ready you can simply walk out the front door and you are instantly immersed in the city’s culture. Saving you the time and stress of getting everyone ready and loading them in and out of the car.

Overall there are many reasons why Stay Alfred is perfect for a family getaway. Bur location and convenience can’t be beat. Save your family the stress and plan your next family getaway with Stay Alfred!

Debunking the Myths About Vacation Rentals

Posted on October 27, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

As vacation rentals move into the spotlight, there continues to be a lot of myths and misconceptions out there about the industry. People who have never used a vacation rental don’t know what to expect, especially with the pushback from traditional lodging interests muddying the waters. Here are 7 persistent myths about vacation rentals:

Myth: Vacation rentals are only for the wealthy.

Truth: Vacation rentals often offer huge cost savings compared to other lodging options because large groups are able to stay together instead of booking multiple hotel rooms. On top of that, you’ll be able to save on foods cost by cooking for yourself instead of dining out for all your meals.

Myth: Vacation rentals aren’t secure or reliable forms of lodging.

Truth: Professional management companies make sure that their rentals have proper inspections, maintenance, housekeeping, laundry, and much more. Furthermore, professionally managed vacation rentals often provide better guest and concierge services than traditional lodging,

Myth: There’s no one to help me if I need assistance during my trip

Truth: When renting through a professional management company, there is always an emergency contact to call 24/7 for any questions or maintenance issues. Nearly all management companies have staff dedicated to customer care and assisting with guests’ needs.

Myth: Someone will try to sell me something.

Truth: Vacation rentals are not like timeshares. They do not involve any type of ownership, maintenance fees, or commitments of any sort. As a guest, you simply check in and out just like you would at a hotel.

Myth: Vacation rentals are only a good value for large families and groups.

Truth: There are many different types of vacation rentals, from studio-size condos in metro areas to huge houses able to accommodate scores of people. There are options for single travelers, couples, small and large groups, all offering great values.

Myth: I’ll have to stay for a minimum of seven nights.

Truth: Vacation rentals have adapted to the changing preferences of travelers. Guests looking for a short stay can often find established rental companies with little or no minimum stay requirements, especially during off-season time periods.

Myth: I can’t get the same luxuries as I can in a hotel.

Truth: Professional vacation rental management companies provide guests with the opportunity to experience all the benefits of traditional lodging with additional amenities and an inherent value that remains unmatched. Management companies often include concierge services as well as options for in-home massages and spa treatments, personal chefs, grocery delivery, child care, and much more!

Are you planning a trip? Click here to view all of our downtown vacation rentals

Delicious Philly Food Spots

Posted on October 7, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

When you mention Philadelphia, many people’s’ minds automatically think of two things: terrible sports fans and cheesesteak. But what most Philly travelers don’t realize is that hiding under the looming shadow of the famous Philly Cheesesteak is an array of foodie favorites and impressively decadent dishes.

PYT. Photo by Jessica Rossi via Flickr

For starters: Federal Donuts. The only place you need to stop in Philly for doughnuts and fried chicken. Drop in and try the classics like a chocolate eclair or old-fashioned glazed or step out of your comfort zone and opt for a grapefruit brulee or a strawberry lavender instead. Once you’ve had your fill of doughnuts there’s no shame in coming back for dinner. With seasonings and glazes such like chili garlic, honey ginger, and sweet soy garlic you may find it difficult to eat anywhere else!

If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to add Bassetts Ice Cream to your list of daily activities. Founded in 1861, Bassetts still stands as America’s oldest ice cream company and has had plenty of time to perfect their variety of flavors; both traditional and not. With flavors ranging from butter almond to Guatemalan ripple, you may find it difficult to try only one.

If you hadn’t had your fill of doughnuts yet, there one more to try. Head on down to PYT and try ‘The Doh! Nut’ for yourself. Comprised of copious amounts of cheese, bacon, and burger, all surrounded by fried dough goodness. This eclectic burger joint puts a new spin on the cheeseburger, announcing a brand-new crazy burger concoction every week, with specialties such as the Cocoa Krispies Chicken Burger and the PB&J bun burger.
Plan a trip and visit Philadelphia for your next foodie adventure!

5 Best Activities in Boston

Posted on March 13, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Boating on the Charles River. Source: Flickr user Leonardo Dasilva

We love Boston! There is so many exciting things to do and see, it would be impossible to fit everything into one trip. To make life a little easier for you, we put together this short list of some of our favorite activities when we visit Beantown:

Catch a Game: In case you haven’t noticed, Boston is a big-time sports town. Their four major league teams have been stacking up a slew of championships since 2002 (including one against our beloved Seahawks), so they must be doing something right. On top of the Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins, and Celtics, they also have the New England Revolution MLS team, several rugby clubs, and a Major League Lacrosse team. No matter what season you visit, there’s always an exciting game to watch, and thousands of screaming fans to watch it with.
Visit a Museum: As one of America’s oldest cities, it makes sense that Boston would be home to world-class museums. There are so many museums in this town that you’re sure to find one to satisfy any interest. One of Boston’s most-visited attraction is the Museum of Science with over 700 interactive exhibits. The Museum of Fine Arts houses one of the world’s most impressive art collections totaling more than 450,000 pieces from around the world. The JFK Presidential Library and Museum sits on 10 beautiful acres right on the waterfront. Other favorites include the Institute of Contemporary Art, the Harvard Museum of Natural History, the Sports Museum, and the USS Constitution Museum.
Ride a Bike: Whether you want to take a guided tour or just explore on your own, one of the best ways to see Boston is from a bicycle seat. Urban AdvenTours is a company that offers a variety of tours and rents out several types of bikes. Boston is also home to Hubway, an automated bike rental system that is perfect for short rides between destinations. You just pick up a bike at one of the 140 stations around town and drop it off at any station when you’re done.
Boating on the Charles River: Spending time on the water is a time honored tradition for Bostonians. It’s easy to get out there yourself and have as much fun as everyone else. Try renting a kayak or paddleboard from Charles River Canoe & Kayak. If sailing is more your style, Community Boating offers classes for every skill level, and guests are allowed to join members for free. If you mingle on the docks, you can usually find someone looking for another person to sail with.
Explore the Boston Harbor Islands: Dozens of islands make up this National Recreation Area, where you can walk a Civil War-era fort, visit historical lighthouses, explore tidal pools, hike lush trails, camp under the stars, or relax while fishing, picnicking, or swimming-all within reach of downtown Boston. To get to the islands, catch the ferry from Long Wharf-North to Georges Island, home of Fort Warren. From there you can connect to smaller shuttle boats that will take you to different destinations. You can also reach several peninsula areas by car: Deer and Nut Islands, Worlds End, and Webb Memorial.

Are you planning a trip to Boston? Click here to view all of our great downtown Boston vacation rentals.

Avoiding Airbnb Scams

Posted on March 11, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

We have previously written about avoiding vacation rental scams, and it looks like it is time to bring up the topic once again. Airbnb is currently the hottest thing since sliced bread and their seemingly meteoric rise to the top of the game has included a fair share of hiccups. While the large majority of guests enjoy their stays, there are still a few horror stories out there. Scams can hit hosts as well as guests, and the sophisticated criminals are looking to do a lot worse than just trash your apartment.

Phishing scams are one of the oldest in the book. The premise is simple: you receive an email urgently prompting you to log into your account or provide some other sensitive information. On the surface the message appears to be from a legitimate organization, but if you click on the links you are sent to a website that will actually steal your login information. Once your login has been stolen, the scammers have access to a whole treasure trove of profitable material. They can lock you out of your account, divert payments to their own accounts, and even sent up fraudulent listings to ensnare unsuspecting guests. This is a nightmare situation for any vacation rental owner.

Fortunately, while prevalent, these types of scams are fairly easy to avoid. Let’s look at some examples. First we have what looks like a promising reservation, just waiting to be confirmed:

However, closer examination will reveal significant problems. The first and most obvious is the originating email address. Anything that is legitimately from Airbnb will be from @airbnb.com. This email is not:

Close, but no cigar. The second tip off is that the rates being offered are not correct. This request is showing $99 per night which is the base rate of the listing, not the accurate rate for the specific dates shown. If this was actually a request from Airbnb, it would have had the correct rates. It’s obvious what has happened is that a scammer has simply lifted the rates and the picture from the listing page and build a fake notification using our information.
Along with these phishing emails, another scam we’ve started to see from people using Airbnb is the oldie-but-goodie “I’m in trouble, please send me money” scam. Let’s take a look at another message we recently received:

Jodi was an actual guest of ours and it appears someone was able to gain access to her account (possibly using the methods previously described) and send us this message. There are multiple things about this email that should set off warning signs, not the least of which being the actual warning sign from Google. The next would be the grammar mistakes throughout. Having corresponded with Jodi in the past, we immediately realized that there was something wrong here, but common sense dictates that the obvious falsity of this email should be apparent to anyone.

The unfortunate truth is that scams like these are becoming increasingly common as our society moves more and more of its interactions online. The good news is that scammers are, by their very nature, lazy. They don’t put a lot of effort into creating the perfect rouse. To them it’s a numbers game. If they target as many people as possible, they’re hoping that an unlucky few will not be paying attention enough to spot the obvious. As long as your exercise an appropriate amount of caution and diligence, you can avoid being that person.

Are you planning a trip? Click here to view all of our great downtown vacation rentals.

Top 5 Activities in Seattle

Posted on March 7, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

What’s not to love about Seattle? Well, maybe the traffic, but is an abundance of amazing things about this city that more than make up being stuck crawling at a snail’s pace on the freeway. It’s great to be in a city that has all refinement of a world-class metropolis while at the same time being cradled in the majestic wilderness that is the Pacific Northwest. It’s truly the best of both worlds! Here is a list of some of our favorite activities in the Emerald City

1. Visit a museum: Seattle has so many museums you’ll be sure to find something to pique any interest. Here are some of the most popular ones for starters: Seattle Art Museum, Museum of Flight, Pacific Science Center, Experience Music Project, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum.

2. Take a ferry: For many people living in Seattle, riding the ferry is just part of the daily commute but there really is no better way to see the city skyline or the Puget Sound. Whether you’re taking a short trip to Bainbridge or Vashon Island or an extended adventure into the San Juans or even to Canada, your Seattle visit would not be complete without a ferry ride.

3. Ride the Ducks: Tour Seattle by land and by water in a WWII amphibious landing craft. The wacky captains are both knowledgeable and hilarious, in a cheesy sort of way. A favorite for families but fun for any age group, it’s a party on wheels that floats!

4. Check out the music scene: While often considered a mecca for punk and grunge music, Seattle has a rich musical history that includes jazz, folk, country, and hip hop. If you feel like getting down and dirty with the rockers, catch a show at the Crocodile or Neumo’s. For a less raucous experience, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley and Tula’s are great venues.

5. Underground or ghost tour: For you history buffs, taking one of these interesting and informative tours is a great way to learn about Seattle’s storied history. The Underground tour takes you below the streets to explore the remnants of the city that existed before the Great Seattle Fire in 1889. The Market Ghost Tour has been named one of the 10 best in the US and is an entertaining mix of spooky, funny, and educational.

Pike Place Market. Source: Flickr user runner310

Are you planning a trip to Seattle? Click here to view all of our great downtown Seattle vacation rentals

Welcome To The City Of Brotherly Love

Posted on March 5, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Source: Flickr user Gene Tobia

Stay Alfred’s springtime expansion continues as we move into the City of Brotherly Love. We’re excited to bring our trusted brand of vacation rental hospitality to this great American city! There is so much to love about Philadelphia, we can hardly wait to host your stay here while you explore everything this art-centric, food-focused metropolis has to offer. Our new downtown Philadelphia vacation rentals will be perfect for any stay , whether it’s a romantic getaway for two, a work-filled business trip, or a full fledged family vacation.
Philadelphia is one of America’s original cities, predating the Declaration of Independence by almost a hundred years and serving as the first capital of the newly-formed United States. The city enthusiastically celebrates its historical tradition. Along with the famous Liberty Bell, you can visit Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 and the Constitutional Convention was held eleven years later. Benjamin Franklin, Philadelphia’s favorite son, also has a strong presence in the city. Besides the Benjamin Franklin Museum, you’ll also find Franklin Square (one of five original squares from William Penn’s plan for the city) and the Franklin Institute (one of the oldest science museums in America which houses the Benjamin Franklin National Memorial). If you travel to New Jersey, you’ll even cross the Ben Franklin Bridge. You may even run into one of the city’s many Ben Franklin impersonators. They’re like the Elvises of Las Vegas.
Philadelphia is also home to a wonderful variety of world-class museums. The most visited is the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the third-largest art museum in the country. Sitting majestically on a rise at the end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the museum is also the site of the famous Rocky Steps and a statue of the city’s other favorite son: Rocky Balboa. There are also many other great museums in the surrounding area. The Rodin Museum houses the largest collection of works by the French sculptor outside of Paris. The Barnes Foundation is home to perhaps the best collection of Impressionist and Modernist paintings in the world. Nearby you’ll also find the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, the Penn Museum, the Institute of Contemporary Art, and the Mütter Museum.
Eco-friendly Philly boasts some 220 miles of bike lanes, good public transportation and the crown jewel of urban parks, 9,200-acre Fairmount Park, the largest landscaped urban park in the world. Furthermore, a 2011 study by Walk Score ranked Philadelphia the fifth-most walkable major city in the United States. With so much history and culture easily acceptable, it’s no wonder 40 million visitors a year travel to this amazing hidden gem on the East Coast. Stay Alfred is proud to offer the comforts of home in the heart of downtown, which means our vacation rentals will be where to stay in Philadelphia. They say Philly is “The City That Loves You Back.” Let us show you how true that is!

Are you planning a trip? Click here to view all of our great vacation rentals

Top 5 Activities in Portland

Posted on February 28, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Portland’s Old Town. Source: Flickr user pdx107

Whether you enjoy urban adventures or exploring nature, or both, you can always find plenty of exciting and fun activities in Portland. Here is a list of some of our favorite things to do when we visit Stumptown:

Hug A Tree: Portland prides itself on its green spaces and residents love to spend time in the city’s many parks. The most popular is Forest Park, the largest urban park in the country covering more than 5,100 square miles with over 70 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Ride A Bike: Whether you want to take a guided tour or just explore on your own, the best way to experience Portland is from a bicycle seat. Cycle Portland and Waterfront Bikes are two companies that offer tours and rent out a wide variety of bikes which include a helmet, a lock, and a handy map.
Go To The Market: The Portland Saturday Market (also open Sundays) located on the waterfront under the Burnside Bridge and the Portland Farmers Market located on the PSU campus are popular places for locals and tourists alike. At the Saturday Market you can find a wide variety of handmade crafts and food carts, while the Farmer’s Market has nearly every type of produce you can imagine.
Take A Brewery Tour: There are over 50 breweries in Portland, quite possible the most of any city in the world, which can make deciding which to visit a daunting task. Luckily the good people at Brewvana are happy to drive you and your friends around on their awesome party bus and show you the inner workings of their favorite establishments. You even get snacks and souvenirs!
Sample The Food Carts: The food cart may not have been invented in Portland but it was definitely perfected here. Just like fish and teenagers, food carts often hang out in groups (known locally as “pods”) which makes it easy to find something you like or sample a little bit of everything. The largest of these pods is located downtown on SW Alder St. and SW 10th St.

Are you planning a trip to Portland? Click here to view all our our great vacation rentals in Portland, Oregon

The Importance of Reviews

Posted on February 26, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Source: Flickr user Paolo Camera

When you’re making a purchase online, do you read user reviews before making a decision? If you are like the majority of online buyers, you probably do. Whether it’s a new smartphone case or a new car, it just makes sense that you would want to know what you’re getting. Nearly every online marketplace offers people the opportunity to post product reviews, and checking out those reviews is now just a standard part of being an informed consumer.

Just like everything else online, vacation rentals rely heavily on user reviews. In fact, reviews are probably more important to vacation rentals as a source of advertising than most other products you can think of. First of all, people want to know that your vacation rental is not a scam and that what they see is what they’re going to get. Secondly, hearing about the great times previous guests have had makes it easier to spend a significant amount of money on something they’re not going to see in person until they arrive.

All the great photographs and glowing descriptions in the world will not have as much impact on your vacation rental as the heartfelt endorsements of people who have had wonderful experiences at your property. A recent survey by TripAdvisor found that travelers are 80% more likely to book a vacation rental listing that includes guest reviews. Obviously the more reviews you have, the better, but Homeaway and VRBO advise that you try to have at least 12 reviews for the highest Listing Quality Score.

Getting guests to leave reviews on your listing can be a challenge, but it is worth the effort. Vacation Rental Marketing Blog founder Matt Landau found that soliciting reviews is the most cost-effective ways to generate more bookings. Sending a guest an email, or even a handwritten note, inquiring how their stay went is an excellent way to generate feedback. If they had a positive experience, it is a good opportunity to politely ask them to leave a review. One method we have found to be highly effective is to send each of our past guests a survey using SurveyMonkey. We get the valuable feedback we need and are able to ask guests who enjoyed their stay to post a review. If a guest did not have a good experience, the survey gives them the chance to express their frustration without turning to the public forums.

Getting a bad review is not the end of the world. It is just a fact of life that you cannot please everyone all of the time. The important thing to remember about a bad review is that it is just as important as a good review when it comes to showing that you care about your guests. Travelers will read the bad review, but they will also read your response. Always be courteous and professional, another TripAdvisor survey found that an aggressive or defensive manager response to a bad review would make 64% of travelers less likely to book. Instead, your response should include five parts: address their specific complaints, apologize for your mistakes, let them know what you’ve done to fix the problem, highlight the positive parts of their stay, and always invite them back!

Are you planning a trip? Click here to view all of our great vacation rentals

America’s Best Fried Chicken

Posted on February 24, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Fried chicken is of those ubiquitous American meals that can serve any purpose, from Sunday night family dinner to a leisurely picnic in the park. And there are probably as many different recipes for fried chicken as there is places to eat it. Some lucky folks at Thrillist had the chance to scour the country in search of the best fried chicken in America, and it turns out there’s a few places on their list that are in Stay Alfred cities (and a couple in cities we’re looking at)! We thought we would share these finds with you, in fact you’ll probably get to try them before we do!

The following was published 2/20/15 by Kevin Alexander and Liz Childers at Thrillist:

Portland, OR: The People’s Pig

“People’s Pig answers a question few have asked, yet probably should: what would bacon taste like if bacon was made from fried chicken? The answer is the Smoked Fried Chicken at this food cart turned brick-and-mortar, which gives the boneless bird a light wood-based sauna session before it’s dunked in batter and fried. Not bad for a place that made its name with porchetta and BBQ. There’s a lot of great fried chicken in Stumptown (big love to Dub’s and Reel M Inn), but the People’s Pig gets mad love for taking something as beloved as fried chicken and transforming it into something utterly different and magnificent.”

Nashville, TN: Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack

“Yes, we know it’s technically hot chicken. But that hot chicken is fried, right? And Prince’s, on the North side of Nashville, just happens to be the best damn spicy fried chicken in America. If you can spare a couple of hours to deal with the line, hit up Andre Prince’s ode to the spicy side of the bird and get a whole chicken, some extra pickles, and bread. We like it “hot,” which is just enough to make us sweat, but not enough that it feels like you’re being punished for eating. And don’t worry about finishing the whole bird. We just wanted to leave you enough to take some home with you.”

Willie Mae’s Fried Chicken. Flickr/the foodhoe

New Orleans, LA: Willie Mae’s Scotch House

“New Orleanians are wont to throw around words like ‘legendary’ and ‘institution’ and ‘classic’ when it comes to their restaurants that can lay any kind of claim to those adjectives. But, well, Willie Mae’s fried chicken deserves it. That crispy, spicy chicken was enough to drive crowds of volunteers to tend to the nearly half-a-century old restaurant after Katrina flooded through, and its melt-in-your-mouth skin and juicy meat are enough to beckon even the most tourist-averse locals to wait in the lunch line on a weekday for a plate, plus a side of salty, smoky red beans and rice. So, yes, Willie Mae’s Scotch House is a legendary, classic institution — not just of NOLA, but of the South.”

Austin, TX: Top Notch

“Sure, you can’t start any conversation about Top Notch without mentioning its iconic placement in Dazed & Confused, but there’s a damn good reason the old-school drive-up joint’s in the movie to begin with. Since 1971, it’s made Austin’s finest fried bird. And as the city’s food scene has evolved into more haute takes on comfort classics, Top Notch still does what it’s always done: it makes a perfectly crisp, salty, old-school chunk of chicken that’s golden fried and bursting with juice. That’s the good thing about Top Notch. You keep getting older, but that chicken stays the same.”

Are you planning a trip to any of these cities? Click here to view all our our great vacation rentals.

Top 5 Denver Activities

Posted on February 18, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Coors Field, source: Flickr user Geoff Livingston

Whether you enjoy urban adventures or exploring nature, Denver has plenty of exciting activities for the whole family. Take some time during your stay to get out there and experience everything that the Mile High City has to offer! Here are five of our favorite things to do when we are in town:

Shopping at 16th Street Mall: At 1.7 miles long, the 16th Street Mall is the longest outdoor mall in the U.S. Considered a pedestrian area, but if you don’t feel like walking you can hop on and off the free shuttle that runs the entire length of the mall. The heart of the mall is the Denver Pavilions, a collection of over 40 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues including a bowling alley and movie theater
Rent a B-Cycle: Denver boasts more than 850 miles of paved, off-road trails that connect to hundreds of additional miles of dirt trails, as well as dozens of notable attractions. You can rent a bike using the Denver B-Cycle, an automated bicycle sharing system with 700 bikes and 82 stations throughout the city. Some of the most popular rides are the Cherry Creek path and Washington Park. See why the Mile High City is a paradise for cyclists!
Brewery Tour: More than 200 distinct beers are crafted in Denver daily and there are more than 50 brewpubs and breweries in the area, so exploring local pubs and tasting rooms is a great way to sample the true flavor of the city. Try a guided tour to get a true behind-the-scenes experience, complete with plenty of beer samples. The most popular are the Brews Cruise and Banjo Billy’s Brewery Tour, they’ll even drive you and your friends from stop to stop.
Visit Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Located just 10 miles west of Denver, Red Rocks is widely considered to be the best outdoor music venue in the world. The amphitheatre is nestled among the giant red sandstone outcroppings where the scenery is breathtaking and the acoustics are superb. Besides music, the venue also hosts yoga classes, a summer film series, and even Easter sunrise service. Definitely worth a visit even if you don’t get a chance to see a concert.
Catch a game: Denver is a big-time sports town, in fact it’s one of only 12 cities to have teams in four major sports (5 if you count the MLS, which plenty of Rapids fans do). Any time of the year you can find an exciting game to watch and thousands of cheering fans to watch it with. You’ve got the Broncos at Sports Authority Field (locals still call it Mile High Stadium), the Rockies at Coors Field, and the Avalanche and Nuggets at the Pepsi Center.

Are you planning a trip to Denver? Click here to check out all of our great vacation rentals.

Marketing Your Vacation Rental, Part 2

Posted on February 16, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

In our previous blog post we discussed how to create a listing for your vacation rental that will stand out from the pack and attract guests. However, just having a catchy title, a great description, and professional-looking photos is not enough. With so many vacation rentals on the professional listing sites, you need to be proactive in promoting your property.

The main place that travelers search for and book their arrangements is online, so naturally this should also be the place that you focus most of your marketing efforts. Listing services like VRBO offer ways to increase your listing’s visibility, for a price. Purchasing a higher subscription level or paying to temporarily boost your property with a “special offer” or “featured listing” status can greatly increase the number of people who will see your listing, especially if it’s located in a crowded market. But not everyone has the budget to spend on these services, and while more viewers might get your more inquiries, it doesn’t guarantee more bookings.

The only good Spam is in a can. Source: Flickr user freezelight

One way to promote your property that doesn’t necessarily have to cost anything is to utilize social media. It’s free to set up an account with the major services like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin. With so many people checking in on these sites daily, it’s practically a given that you should have a social media presence for potential guests to verify your professionalism. Social media users generally don’t appreciate being spammed with blatant advertising, but if you post a good mix of interesting links, funny pictures, and some subtle self-promotion, your base of followers will start to grow. Who knows, you might even go viral!

The most direct way to reach potential guests is with targeted emails. Start compiling a list of email addresses from everyone who has ever stayed with you or even sent you an inquiry. Using a service like Vertical Response will allow you to create a promotional offer or informational newsletter and send it to select groups of people. You can also track how many people open the email, click on included links, unsubscribe from your list, etc., which lets you know just how effective your email campaign is. Targeted email can be a powerful tool, but should not be used carelessly; if too many people report you as spam, you risk getting your service suspended.

Not all marketing needs to be online. There are still plenty of traditional print mediums where you can advertise your vacation rental. Local visitor’s bureaus and chambers of commerce publish city guides that often include advertisements for short-term accommodations. Websites like Club Flyers offer an affordable option for printing flyers and brochures that you can place in local visitor’s centers. And don’t forget about one of the most reliable forms of advertising: the good old business card. Make sure you always have a few on hand to turn the next stranger you strike up a conversation with into a potential guest.

Planning a trip? Click here to view all of our great vacation rentals.

Tips for Marketing Your Vacation Rental

Posted on February 7, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

This is not good marketing. Source Flickr user gruntzooki

A lot of people get into the vacation rental industry thinking that all they need is a nice home in a good location and the money will start rolling in. Nothing could be further from the truth. As in any crowded marketplace, it requires a lot of hard work, some creative marketing, and a little bit of luck to distinguish yourself in the world of vacation rentals. The hard work part is entirely on you, and there’s nothing we can do about the luck, but we’re glad to share a few tips with you that will hopefully demystify the marketing process.

We’re going to assume that you’ve already listed your property on the major listing sites like Homeaway, VRBO, Flipkey, and Airbnb. If you haven’t, you should (unless you have way of getting millions of visitors to your own website, it which case we’d love to hear it). Large parts of this industry are pay-to-play and you will see more success if you just bite the bullet and fork over the cash.

Once you have a listing for your property, you’ll need a good title. After your photos, your title is probably the second-most important aspect of your listing. You need something that will entice potential guests while at the sometime highlighting what makes your property unique. Does your property have a pool? Free wifi? Spectacular views? Make sure your guests can tell right away what you’re offering. It’s always a good idea to include the number of bedrooms as well.

You also need to provide of description of your property that will paint a picture in the minds of your guests of what to expect. A good description should erase any uncertainty about your property. Include specific information about sleeping arrangements like the number and size of the beds, as well as the amenities that are included. Think about the types of guests you want to attract (couples, families, business travelers, etc.) and try to target them with your description. Remember that online readers prefer short sentences and paragraphs, and be sure to proofread for any errors.

With a catchy title and a good description, it’s time to start thinking about the most important part of your listing: the photos. The old adage that a picture is worth a thousand words has never been more true. The best way to ensure quality pictures is to hire a professional photographer that specializes in real estate. Of course, that’s not always an option for everyone so if you’re going to take the photos yourself, there a few key things to remember:

Get pictures of every room and amenity, paying special attention to the kitchen. Having a kitchen is one of the main reasons travelers choose a vacation rental over a hotel, and as one guest recently told us, “I know that if the owner makes sure the kitchen looks great, they’ll pay just as much attention to the rest of their home.”
Make sure there’s plenty of light. Open the blinds and turn on all the light fixtures. Turn on your camera flash. Lots of light will give the feeling of warmth and make your property more inviting. If the pictures are dark, it will feel cold and unwelcoming.
The ideal shooting height is approximately five feet above the ground with the camera pointing straight ahead. Be careful not to tilt the camera up or down because this will distort the image and make it harder for the guest to get a feel for the space. Try to fit the entire room into the frame.

By following these simple tips, you should have enough of a foundation to get your vacation rental up and running. Keep in mind, there is always more to learn. In future posts, we will talk about promoting your listing and how to turn your guests into your best advertisers.

Are you planning a trip? Click here to view all of Stay Alfred’s great vacation rentals.

Top 10 Food Carts in Portland

Posted on February 5, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Food carts hold a treasured place in the heart of Portlanders. With over 400 food carts operating in the city, you can find every type of food you can possibly imagine (and quite a few you never would have thought of). Like whales and teenagers, Portland’s food carts love to hang out in groups (known locally as “pods”), which makes it easy to sample a wide variety of delicious treats. The largest downtown pod is the Alder Street pod; you’ll also find the 5th Avenue Pod and the 3rd Avenue Pod downtown. Other popular pods are the Cartopia Pod located on SE Hawthorne at SE 12th Ave, and the Cartlandia Pod located along the Springwater Corridor bike path in Southeast Portland. Obviously with so many food carts in Portland any Top Ten list is bound to be open for debate, but here are some of our personal favorites:

Nong’s Khao Man Gai, source Flickr user sstrieu

Nong’s Khao Man Gai (Alder Pod) Perennial contender for Best Cart in the City does one thing and does it to perfection: their namesake Khao Man Gai (Chicken and Rice)

Koi Fusion (6 locations) One of Portland’s original food carts, this local favorite offers Korean-infused Mexican food like bulgogi beef burritos and kimchi quesadillas.

Miss Kate’s Southern Kitchen (Mississippi Marketplace) Features the owner’s grandmother’s recipes for Southern staples like biscuits and gravy, collard greens, and some of the best fried chicken in the city.

Tábor (5th Ave Pod) Homestyle Czech specialties like potato pancakes and borscht, but the star of the menu is their famous Schnitzelwich, a huge breaded pork tenderloin sandwich.

The Frying Scotsman (Alder Pod) Run by a Scottish ex-pat, this “chippie” offers the genuine British fish and chips experience, serving up cod, haddock, halibut and more.

People’s Pig (Alder Pod)- Known for their mighty pork sandwiches made several different ways, like BBQ pulled pork, Cubano, and the always-satisfying porchetta sandwich.

Grilled Cheese Grill (Alder Pod) From basic grilled cheese sandwiches to the monster Cheesus Burger which has grilled cheese sandwiches in place of buns, this food cart puts the distinctive Portland flair on childhood favorites.

808 Grinds (Alder Pod) Authentic Hawaiian lunch plates like kalua pork, fried chicken, and Spam musubi, all served with rice and macaroni salad.

Haan Ghin (PSU Pod) Skip the ubiquitous Thai food and try some delicious Laotian cuisine at the Portland State University campus. Try the Laap Gai (basically DIY chicken lettuce wraps).

Pyro Pizza (Cartopia) Another one of those carts that has become a Portland institution, the specialty here is authentic Italian-style wood fired pizzas made from locally sourced ingredients. They even make their own natural sodas!

Are you planning a trip to Portland? Click here to check out all of our great Portland vacation rentals

Our 5 Favorite New Orleans Restaurants

Posted on January 31, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

If it ain’t got okra, it ain’t gumbo!

Few cities in the world can match the rich culinary tradition of New Orleans. French, Spanish, Italian, African, Creole, Cajun, and Southern influences all blend together into a perfect storm of delicious foodie heaven. You can spend your entire life exploring all the different facades of New Orleans’ culinary world. Of course, we know you don’t have that kind of time, so we put together a short list of our favorite places to eat in the Big Easy. Consider this the crib notes; by no means complete, but enough to get you started. We’d also love to hear what some of your favorites are, so don’t be shy!

K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen: Chef Paul Prudhomme is the godfather of Cajun cuisine and his French Quarter restaurant is practically a New Orleans institution. His recipe for blackened redfish almost single handedly put the species on the “endangered” list. In a city with such a rich culinary tradition, K-Paul’s ranks right at the top. Must Try: Blackened Drum and Bread Pudding with Hard Sauce
Red Fish Grill: Part of the Brennan family restaurant dynasty, Red Fish Grill offers a respite from the chaos of Bourbon Street. as well as some of the best seafood in New Orleans, which is to say, some of the best seafood anywhere. The BBQ oysters are world-famous (although they’re more buffalo wing-style than true BBQ). Must Try: Alligator Sausage & Seafood Gumbo
The Ruby Slipper: This bustling diner serves a plethora of breakfast and lunch options, from traditional fare to dishes imbued with that New Orleans fare. They have several locations close to downtown and are regularly voted “Best Breakfast” in the city. Must Try: Bananas Foster Pain Perdu (French Toast)
Cochon Butcher: New Orleans is a big-time sandwich town, from muffalettas to po’ boys of every type, which makes Cochon Butcher’s place as one of the best shops in town all the more impressive. They cure their own meats in-house and also feature a great wine and beer selection. Must Try: The Gambino
Clover Grill: It’s not the fanciest place to get a greasy burger and chili fries in the town, but it’s open 24 hours and offers some great people watching. Probably best to save this one until after you’ve been partying all night in the French Quarter, and leave the attitude at the door. Must Try: A few Hurricanes before you get here.

Still planning your trip to New Orleans? Click here to view all of our great New Orleans vacation rentals.

Are You Ready For Austin Vacation Rentals?

Posted on January 29, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Austin city lights

Fresh off our recent expansion into San Antonio, Stay Alfred is setting its sights 80 miles to the northeast. That’s right folks, the Austin vacation rentals you’ve been clamoring for are finally on the horizon! There’s so much to love about this city, we’re just as excited as you are to be part of the unique weirdness that is Austin, Texas. And we’re not the only ones. Austin is the fastest growing of the 50 largest metropolitan areas in the US. It’s easy to see why; over the past ten years, Austin has not only landed on numerous “best of” lists, it frequently finds itself in the top spot. The city has been picked for “best place to see live music” (Travel+Leisure), “best city for golf” (Golf Digest), “best shopping” (Lucky Magazine), “best top chef” (Bravo), “best bar” (Esquire), and more. Austin and it’s inhabitants have always been on the cutting edge, and now the rest of the country is catching on.

Officially adopting the slogan “Live Music Capital of the World” in 1991, Austin boasts the most music venues per capita in America with over 250 and counting. Any visitor to Austin would be seriously remiss if they didn’t sample some of the great live music the city has to offer. Along Red River Street and the surrounding area, you’ll find the iconic Stubb’s BBQ, Mohawk, and Holy Mountain. The area is also home to the wildly popular SXSW music festival. Head over to the University of Texas campus to experience the landmark venues Hole in the Wall and Cactus Cafe, which have played host to such famous acts as Lucinda Williams and hometown hero Stevie Ray Vaughan. Of course, we couldn’t talk about music without mentioning Austin City Limits, the main focal point of the Austin live music scene. Tickets to tapings are distributed by a drawing, but you can buy tickets to other performances that are held at the Moody Theater almost nightly.

Before it was the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin was (and continues to be) the capital of Texas, with all the history and culture befitting a city of such stature. In the heart of downtown you will find three major attractions within five blocks of each other. First there’s the Texas State Capitol with a dome that is larger than the US Capitol (of course) and 22 acres of monuments and beautifully landscaped lawns. Just up the street is the Bullock Texas State History Museum which tells the “Story of Texas” with three floors of interactive exhibits, including a special effects show and Austin’s only IMAX Theatre. Across the street is the Blanton Museum of Art, the largest university art museum in the country and home to the largest private collection of master works in the United States. A must-see for any art enthusiast.

With an average of 228 sunny days a year, Austinites love their outdoor activities. When the summer days reach 90+ degrees, the locals head to their favorite natural swimming holes like the Barton Springs Pool, fed by a natural spring that keeps the water temperature a constant 68 degrees year-round, or the Hamilton Pool Preserve in its natural limestone grotto with a 50 foot waterfall. Lady Bird Lake flows through the center of town and with the restrictions on motor boats, the lake is a haven for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Hike up Mount Bonnell, Austin’s highest point at 775, for the best views of the city, Lake Austin, and the surrounding hills.

Are you planning a trip? Click here to view all of our great vacation rentals.

5 Reasons Stay Alfred is Perfect for Valentine’s Day

Posted on January 22, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

539400562_1f6f12ef00_o Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Now’s the time to start thinking about what you are doing to show that special someone just how much they mean to you. Sure, you could buy roses or make homemade coupons for “1 Free Backrub”, but getting away for the weekend as a couple is as romantic as it gets. If you want to make the most of your time together, skip the typical hotel experience. Here are five reasons why picking a Stay Alfred vacation rental can be the key to the perfect Valentine’s Day getaway:

Privacy: If there’s one day of the year when you want your privacy, it’s probably Valentine’s Day. In a vacation rental, you have plenty of space to be secluded with your significant other without feeling like you’re being crammed into a tiny hotel room. Plus, if you can’t escape the kids, at least you’ll have separate bedrooms and bathrooms.
Amenities: One of the best reasons to choose a vacation rental is all the extras you won’t find in a hotel room. Want to whip up a special candlelight dinner just for two? That’s what the full kitchen is for. How about sitting on your private balcony, sipping champagne as the sun sets over the city? Done.
Location: We wouldn’t blame you if you want to spend the whole weekend staying in, but there’s always plenty of excitement right outside your door. Canoodle in a fancy restaurant, catch an after-dinner show, or get tipsy at a swanky nightclub without a worry because your great vacation rental is within easy walking distance.
Atmosphere: Is there a bigger mood killer than spending time and energy planning something special, only to be totally disappointed by the result? Say goodbye to underwhelming surrounds, our rentals really are as great as they look in the pictures. Modern furnishings, amazing views, and spectacular locations all add up to an experience you’ll never forget!
Value: When you take into account location, space, and amenities, vacation rentals are usually the most cost-effective way to spend any trip. That means you’ll have some extra cheddar to splurge on that high-end meal or fancy bottle of champagne.

Still planning your Valentine’s Day getaway? Click here to check out all of our great vacation rentals

10 Helpful Articles for Vacation Rental Owners

Posted on January 19, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

In the ever-changing vacation rental landscape, it’s always a good idea to stay on top of current trends and new ideas. Luckily, there is a wealth of information out there in the form of blogs and news sites. As a growing company, we spend a lot of time doing research and we’ve found quite a few great resources for staying abreast of the latest developments in the market. We’ve put together a list of 10 articles that we’ve found to be quite helpful, not just from the owner’s perspective but also for looking at the industry from the guest’s viewpoint. Hopefully you’ll find these as useful as we did:

Matt Landau has been called the vacation rental marketing guru and if you aren’t reading his site, vacationrentalmarketingblog.com, you’re doing yourself a serious disservice. His articles use a ton of data-driven experimentation as well as interviews with key industry figures. He writes mainly for vacation rental owners and a large number of them are active participants in his readership community. You can find all sorts of tips to increase your bookings, here are three of our favorite articles:

Top 10 Cost-Effective VR Marketing Activities

21 Clever Ways to Close More Bookings Over the Phone

10 Experts Predict Vacation Rentals in 2015

The folks over at Evolve Vacation Rental Network focus on providing a good mix of B2B and B2C articles that cover a huge range of topics, from help on collecting the proper taxes to the best songs to play on a road trip. As a vacation rental owner, it is always a good idea to put yourself in the potential guests’ shoes and anticipate their questions. Being able to answer those questions before they’re asked is a great sales strategy, which is why we like these articles:

8 Reasons to Rent a Vacation Home Instead of a Hotel Room

Want to Book a Vacation Rental? 10 Questions You Should Ask

How to Write a Standout Property Description for Your Vacation Rental

No matter how hard you try as an owner, you’re bound to inevitably have a guest who is less than satisfied with their stay. Just remember: it’s how you deal with these guests that will have a lasting impact on your business.

The 3 Types of Guests

Dealing with Difficult Guests

How to Deal With Negative Reviews of Your Vacation Rental Property

One of the most important aspects of the modern vacation rental business is digital marketing. Your online presence is the way that potential guests will find and connect with you. The sheer scope of and complexity of marketing in the digital age can be intimidating, but there are plenty of companies out there that provide an easy playbook for DIY-ers and as much additional assistance as you’re willing to pay for. This comprehensive list of marketing tools provides everything from data integration to SEO optimization.

Planning a trip? Click here to see all of our great vacation rentals.

Property Spotlight: The Essex House

Posted on January 15, 2015 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Stay Alfred’s newest vacation rental property is located right in the heart of downtown Portland, in the quiet Business District. The Essex House offers all the comforts that our guests have come to expect, as well as perfect location to explore everything that Portland has to offer. First off, the building itself is amazing. The 9-foot ceilings and large windows allow plenty of natural light as well as dramatic city and waterfront views. Porcelain tile floors, granite counter tops, and stainless steel appliances and fixtures add and extra degree of elegance to home away from home. After a workout in the state-of-the-art fitness center, relax in the hot tub and sauna. If the weather’s nice, enjoy the outdoor sun terrace and barbecue grill.

The Essex House: Stay Alfred’s Newest Portland Vacation Rental

Of course, we don’t expect you to spend your entire vacation inside your unit (although after seeing it, you may want to). The best part about Stay Alfred’s properties is how close you’ll be to all kinds of dining and entertainment. In the blocks surrounding the Essex House you’ll find some of Portland’s best restaurants: Veritable Quandary, Raven and Rose, Nel Centro, Shigezo, and The Picnic House. Want to take in some of the city’s unique culture? The Portland Art Museum and the Oregon Historical Society are quarter of a mile away, as well at the historic Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.

Portland’s amazing shopping is never far away, either. Pioneer Place Mall is a five-minute walk up 3rd Avenue, where you’ll find over 100 upscale retail shops and eateries, like Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co., as well as Regal Cinemas. Keep heading north and you’ll run into the famous Portland Saturday Market (it’s also open Sundays), nationally recognized as the largest continuously operating open-air arts and crafts market in the country. Don’t forget to stop by Voodoo Doughnut, home of the original Bacon Maple Bar!

No matter what your plans are for your stay in the City of Roses, The Essex House is conveniently located close to the Transit Mall and multiple MAX stations, making travel to all parts of the city a breeze. Like all of our Portland vacation rentals, you can expect the highest standards of cleanliness and hospitality. Our free smartphone app provides you an insider’s guide to the city, and our super-friendly customer care agents are more than happy to answer any questions you might have. Enjoy your vacation, Stay Alfred’s got your back!

Still planning your vacation? Click Here to view all of Stay Alfred’s Portland Vacation Rentals

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