North Carolina

I think most guys have thought about taking a trip to the Smokies at some point - whether it is that epic motorcycle trip or chasing rainbow trout, this is a destination that guys are instinctively drawn to. While there are a wide variety of accommodations that you can stay at in the area - from luxury hotels to rustic camping spots - our pick would be to find a glamping spot where you can have modern amenities but enjoy the back to nature experience too.

Imagine you're nestled in the heart of the majestic Smoky Mountains, swapping stories around a roaring fire.  Picture luxurious yurts, hearty meals, and a cold regional beer in hand. It's not just camping, it's glamping, and it's about to become your favorite way to bond with the boys.

There is no better way to spend a summer day than fishing in one of our picks for the best fly fishing in the USA! Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fisherman, there is a spot for you on our list. While there are legendary fly fishing spots in Montana, Oregon, and Wyoming - even less iconic spots closer to home can offer an amazing experience. The important thing to remember here is that this is a chance to relax, connect with nature, and spend some time disconnected from the rest of the outside world. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best fly fishing places in the United States as well as why we love fly fishing when it comes to planning a great guys trip.

Valentine's Day is obviously an annual excuse to focus on love and romance, the reality is that any time of year is a great excuse for a romantic getaway. When it comes to the best vacation spots for couples, there's a lot of great options and it is really up to you to make sure it is the perfect fit for the two of you. Here's our picks for some of the most romantic destinations to take your wife this year!

Most guys who are new to wine think of iconic destinations like Napa and Sonoma as the places to go for wine. While I am a huge fan of California wines... the reality is that there are great wine regions all over the country. Some such as Lake Michigan Shore have gained prominence in recent years, while others such as the Snake River Valley AVA just west of Boise are lesser-known. What's great about these "undiscovered wine country" getaways is that they tend to be less expensive, more relaxed, and offer other opportunities to build a perfect getaway without making wine the singular focus.

For generations, people have escaped to the mountains of North Carolina to avoid the stresses of everyday life. While some settled here in the mountains permanently and become the subject of legend and myth, others come here with the intention of resetting, recharging, and reconnecting with what it means to be man in a society that is ever-changing. These mountains possess untold beauty all year round but are especially enjoyable in the summer and fall. Whether you are looking for fishing, hunting, craft beer, artisanal food, or just fresh air - it's all hear and ready for you to take your share.

The mountains of North Carolina have a rich tradition of producing whiskey and frankly trying new things to produce a unique product that other distillers may consider unconventional. While it is unlikely that you'll ever be able to hike out in the woods and see how illicit moonshine is made, this is the next best thing... maybe even better!

Fishing is the perfect opportunity to unwind, take in beautiful scenery, and do something you enjoy either by yourself or with a group of friends or family members. If you visit the same fishing spot quite often, a change of location can be good for you. It may seem like a difficult task to find that ideal fishing spot that has everything you're looking for, but there are many great areas available right in America.

Biltmore Estate is more than just stuff for the girls. In fact, this place is a hidden gem for those of us seeking some outdoor adventure while exploring how the "other half" lived. Even better is that it is located in one of the BEST mancation destinations in the United States - Asheville, NC.

Last month, Heather and I had a chance to visit Haywood County, NC and stayed at Boyd Mountain Cabins. For those of you who have never heard of Haywood County, it is located in North Carolina's Smoky Mountains, just off of I-40 and only a few hours from all the major cities of the South East. It is also a very easy drive from most places in the Midwest. The collection of seven different cabins plucked from locations all over North Carolina, have been restored, refined, and brought up to date will all the modern conveniences you would expect for a romantic weekend together - including a full kitchen, heat and central air, comfortable beds, rocking chairs on the porches and more.

This isn't a "luxury cabin rental", but it had everything we were looking for. If you are looking to get away from it all by relaxing in the middle of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains, there aren't many better ways to do it!