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8 Reasons to Travel in 2020
Jan11

8 Reasons to Travel in 2020

Latest News, Travel 0 comments

If you’re like many, ringing in the new year means changes and new resolutions. For some, resolutions are about losing weight, being more positive, or maybe challenging yourself in a hobby or skill. On the other hand, for some, travel resolutions are popular and they’re a great way to kick back, see the world, and feel accomplished doing so. If travel in 2020 is going to be your stress relief rolled into a new year resolution, we’ve got just the motivation to kick start your travel planning. With our top 8 reasons to travel in 2020, we know it’ll ignite some passion in you!

8 Reasons to Travel in 2020

Aside from having the awesome opportunity to see the world, exploring new cultures and taking in amazing views, there are actually great physical and mental reasons to get out and travel more. Here are our top 10 reasons why you should book that flight and travel in 2020.

  1. Gain world insight – If you’re looking to broaden your cultural horizons, there’s no better way than to live it. By traveling you have the opportunity to submerge yourself in cultures around the world. Experiences you can’t get at home, dining, history – there’s so much to be gained from a little worldly perspective. 
  2. The holidays! – Lets face it, you probably have your own beloved traditions and celebrations, but why not see how the rest of the world does them? Not to mention, at any time of year, you’ll get the chance to experience holidays you may not even know existed. 
  3. Learning new languages – The benefits of learning a new language are endless – not only will you get your brain working, but it will definitely help you connect even more profoundly to the cultures you’ve chosen to visit. 
  4. Meaningful memories and relationships – Chances are good you won’t ever forget laying on a tropical beach or interacting with remote cultures. You’ll probably always remember your well thought out vacations where you got to experience the unknown. Not only do you get to hold on to these memories forever, but it helps you connect with your travel companions and people all over the world. It’s not bad for conversation back home, either! 
  5. Broaden your adventurous horizon – Going snorkeling, riding icelandinc ponies, petting a koala – these are things you’re most likely not going to do sitting back at home. It may not equal adventure to everyone, but traveling abroad means upping your chance to enjoy great adventures!
  6. Sabbaticals are great for your mind – Whether you’re going for a short weekend or a month, checking out and relaxing is great for your physical and mental wellbeing. Sitting down and giving yourself the chance to check out and enjoy your surroundings can definitely recharge your battery. Whether you choose a backpacking trip in Europe or  you just want to curl up in a bed and breakfast on the coast, treating yourself has amazing benefits. 
  7. It fits your budget – Now better than ever, traveling is easier and more cost effective. Traveling from place to place is simple with budget airline packages, and more and more places of employment are allowing remote work.
  8. Reconnect with the great outdoors – It doesn’t matter if you’re standing on a beach, in the jungle, or climbing the alps – vacation and travel is the best way to reconnect yourself with nature. That in itself is great for your mind and body.

It’s easy to get caught up in the work grind – and it’s even harder sometimes to convince ourselves we need a break. Your travel in 2020 doesn’t have to take you halfway across the world. Local getaways are a great way to check out without commitment to lengthy travel or international trip planning. No matter what, we hope you find your little slice of heaven where you can reap the benefits of all the world has to offer!

Ready to book your next vacation? Located in historic Bath, North Carolina, the Inn on Bath Creek invites you to take a step outside of the ordinary, and find out why we believe life is better on the water. Click here to request a booking online, or call us on 252-923-9571.

Thanksgiving is a Great Time To Travel
Nov21

3 Reasons Thanksgiving is a Great Time to Travel

Latest News, Travel, Visit NC 0 comments

Thanksgiving is nearly here! For many of us, this time of year means time with friends and family, lots of good food, and (the best part) leftovers! You may not want to travel at this time of year in an attempt to avoid the crowds and added expense. But there are definitely advantages to traveling at Thanksgiving. Here are our 3 reasons Thanksgiving is a great time to travel.

Why is Thanksgiving is a Great Time to Travel?

1. A Break from Routine

A vacation at this time of year could be just what the doctor ordered. A break from your routine and the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, to give thanks for things you might otherwise take for granted.

Autumn/winter brings more hours of darkness and cooler weather which both tend to result in us staying indoors and feeling a little isolated and flat in mood. Taking a vacation gives you the motivation to get out there and be more sociable. This is incredibly restorative and great for mood boosting.  

2. Catch up with Friends and Family

This holiday is all about giving thanks for what we have, and one thing we surely should be grateful for, is our loved ones. Do you have relatives abroad? If so, did you know that international deals are plentiful around this time of year?

Why? 

Well, a lot of other countries don’t celebrate Thanksgiving so you don’t get the same travel rush as at Christmas or New Year. You could arrange to host a celebration and show your relatives from across the pond just how we do it over here. Alternatively perhaps you could jet set off to visit them and take it in turns each year!

3. Fall in NC is Beautiful

We may be biased, but here in NC we have some stunning areas of natural beauty that will make anyone pause and give thanks. With the glorious scenery that surrounds us, what better way could you celebrate thanksgiving?   

We Wish You A Happy Thanksgiving

Whatever you decide to do this Thanksgiving, we hope that you have a wonderful holiday. If you’d like to book a stay at the Inn on Bath Creek, please get in touch today. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

Jul16

Keep Your Cool This Summer in NC

Latest News, Travel, Visit NC 0 comments

It’s summer time! Here in North Carolina, that means we are right in the middle of one heck of a heatwave. Some days it can get uncomfortably hot, but have no fear we have put together our top tips to help you keep your cool this summer.

Safety First

  • Know the signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, headache, excessive sweating, rapid or weak pulse, fainting, pale complexion. If you are experiencing these symptoms of heat exhaustion, try to move inside into an air-conditioned room. If you cannot go indoors, move to a shady area and drink plenty of fluids.
  • It doesn’t take long for the interior of a stationary car to get very hot. On a hot day, temperatures inside a car can reach a staggering 116 degrees F! Don’t shut yourself, your kids or your pets in a stationary car, even with the windows down the heat rises very quickly.

Basics To Help Keep Your Cool This Summer

  • Stay well hydrated during the hottest hours. Alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate you so save these until the cooler evenings (if you have pets, keep checking that they have a supply of water too).
  • Wear loose fitting, light colored clothing, ideally made from cotton.
  • Fill a spray bottle with water and refrigerate overnight. Keep this handy and spritz yourself to cool off during the day.
  • Keep lotions in the fridge and feel the cooling, soothing benefit at the end of the day.
  • Take cool showers when possible to lower your body temperature
  • Wear a peaked cap or hat to shield your eyes from direct sunlight and protect your scalp from sunburn. Another trick is to pour a little ice cold water inside the cap then quickly flip it onto your head.

Outdoors / Getting Active

  • If you want to venture outdoors sightseeing or for exercise pick cooler times of the day such as early morning or evening.
  • Freeze water or juice in plastic bottles to take out with you the following day. This will defrost during the day and provide you with a chilled drink for hours.
  • Select cycle or hiking routes that have wooded or shaded areas along the way. Pack plenty of fluids including sports drinks with electrolytes (these replace body salts lost through sweat). Be prepared to cut your excursion short if you feel too tired or hot.
  • Take a few moments in the shade when you feel overheated. In urban areas, seek out the mall or a libraries to benefit from their ac. In rural settings or the beach find a tree or parasol etc.

Tasty Treats

  • Try putting fruit in the fridge for some cooling light snacks. Watermelon or fresh pineapple are particular treats that will also hydrate you.
  • NC is famous for our delicious BBQ’s, with seasoned meats and all the greatest dishes of our region. Cooking outdoors is a great tip because it keeps all the heat outside where it will easily disperse into the air.

Indoors

  • Try to block out as much sunlight as you can during the day, keep curtains and blinds shut. This will reduce the greenhouse style effect from happening inside your home.
  • When indoors, use ceiling or floor fans to circulate cool air around. Check ceiling fans are rotating counter clockwise as this pulls warmer air upwards.

The Inn on Bath Creek is ideally placed right next to the water, where you can choose from several activities that will keep you cool and entertained. Or if you fancy a slower pace, you can relax on our porch with a cool drink and watch the world go by without breaking a sweat.

To book your stay, call us today on 252-923-9571 or click here.

 

5 myths about bnbs
May13

5 Myths About Staying In A BnB

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Bed and Breakfasts like the Inn on Bath Creek are becoming increasingly popular with travelers. And why not? BnBs offer a different atmosphere to your standard hotel-chain, and it’s the smaller personal touch that keep many guests coming back year after year. But for many, there are 5 myths about BnBs that may cause them pause for thought before booking into one. We’re here to bust the 5 most common myths about staying at a B&B.

5 Myths About BnBs

‘You won’t get any privacy.’

We deeply respect your need for privacy and our top priority is enabling you to have a pleasurable stay. As such we will not disturb you, and you will find most other guests will be busy enjoying their own stay. However, we are happy to hand over any local tips etc, all you need do is ask. There are also communal areas throughout the Inn, where you can kick back and relax during your stay. You’ll certainly appreciate the peaceful front porch area, with views over Bath Creek. 

Front Porch Inn on Bath Creek

‘There are strange rules and curfews.’

In efforts to keep all our guests happy, relaxed and safe we do have some house rules, such as no smoking other than on the front or rear porches. But it’s nothing that you wouldn’t ask of a guest in your own home. We ask that you consider other guests when coming in late or rising early. You can view our terms and conditions here http://innonbathcreek.com/terms-conditions/.

‘A BnB is not suitable for business travel.’

We have some frequent business travelers who find the Inn perfect for their needs. We offer a private study and wireless internet and limitless tranquility! To find out more visit … http://innonbathcreek.com/specials-packages/

Inn on Bath Creek Ocracoke Study

‘It’s expensive.’

We are transparent about our rates, starting from $130 per night for a double occupancy with breakfast. We even have special offers and a discount on stays of 4 nights or more. Unlike hotels, our prices do not fluctuate throughout the year and our rates are comparable to similar local stays.

‘Breakfast is nothing special.’

Here in the South, we love flavor and we take pride in preparing and serving a mouth watering treat each morning to fuel you for your day.(Please let us know your dietary requirements as soon as possible and will do our best to accommodate them.) Breakfast is served at our communal table and guests tend to make genial conversation and swap travel experiences. If you prefer to dine alone, perhaps on the sunny porch – just ask.

Inn on Bath Creek Breakfast

But don’t take our word for it. We’d love to welcome you to the Inn on Bath Creek to help you bush these 5 myths about bnbs for yourself. Click here to book your stay at the Inn on Bath Creek, or give us a call on 252-923-9571 today. 

Mar21

‘Spring’ over to Bath Creek!

Latest News, Travel, Visit NC 0 comments

Here at Bath Creek we’re so blooming excited for Spring to be back!

Now, of course we think it’s beautiful here all year round. But it has to be said that the parks and nature spots that we are lucky to be surrounded by, do quite literally come to life from March onwards. With splashes of color from the wild flowers dancing in the breeze, to the local wildlife busying itself with its new lives to nurture.

It’s enough to make anyone smile from ear to ear!

From one week to the next, treading the same walk can surprise you with its changes in the flora and fauna.

We have a number of blooms native to North Carolina and many others to be found too. First of all keep your eyes peeled for our state flower the Dogwood which can be seen from mid spring and often has white or pink petals. You can find it in woodlands or often it’s planted as an ornamental bush.

In April and May you may see the purple bloom of a native North Carolina showstopper, the Redbud (or Cercis canadensis) which is often found intermingled with Wisteria. You will likely find it on hiking trails or arching over the many highways all over the state.

It’s also possible to see Bradford pear trees and different cherry trees growing in the wild here too. Alongside the native varieties of the Wild Cherry or Black cherry (or Prunus serotina), you may even notice the aptly named Carolina Cherry Laurel (or Prunus Caroliniana) in blossom. (Just be careful as whilst these fruits are edible and the flowers are beautiful, some of the varieties have poisonous leaves.)

So when you come to visit our glorious haven this springtime here are some of our recommendations for a spot of natural therapy.

Then these other sites will require a little travel:  

If you love the great outdoors, whether it’s hiking or just to meander – we just know you will love the natural beauty here. This is why we encourage you to ‘spring’ over to Bath Creek where you can indulge your senses and your wellbeing all at the same time.

As your hosts we can also happily give you even more ideas for walks, beaches and places to visit or dine during your stay. To check availability why not call us on 252-923-9571 or click here.

Valentine's Day
Feb14

Delicious Valentine’s Day Treats Here in NC

Latest News, Travel, Visit NC 0 comments

This Valentine’s Day, why not indulge the senses? You can find the foods of love – right here in Bath and our surrounding areas. Simple pleasures really can express how you feel, and it need not cost a fortune.

Here are our top indulgent foods to enjoy with a partner this Valentine’s Day (or anytime for that matter!).

Chocolate  

In Raleigh we have Escazú Artisan Chocolates  who source their raw beans from Costa Rica, Venezuela and Peru. New flavors are constantly tried and artistic finishing touches are given to their confectionery. Their treats have previously won them a Good Food award (no surprise, given the creativitions comes from a pair of chefs).

Also in Raleigh is Videri Chocolate Factory . Their beans are sourced from Central and South America and where possible fair-trade and organic are selected. They offer chocolate tours, taste tasting and you can even bake your own creation for a loved one.

Other sweet spots to consider are…

Fish

If you prefer something savory, there are many fantastic eateries who pride themselves on using local produce. Because we are so close to the water, fish is an obvious choice. Our tops finds are…

Spoon River Artworks and Market located in Belhaven serves artful food in a unique environment. Unfortunately they suffered severe damage in the floods last year and hope to reopen soon. Keep an eye out as they will certainly appreciate support from hungry customers.

In the meantime Fish Hooks Cafe also in Belhaven and has a lunch menu or a buffet style menu and good reviews.

Alternatively there’s Washington Crab and Seafood Shack where you can buy produce to cook yourself or dine in. They offer “the best food around and a relaxing atmosphere to match. Recipes are authentic, time-tested and the ingredients are always fresh and from North Carolina.”

Italian or Steak

Italians speak a language of love, and their pasta dishes can be a culinary delight. If one of your prefers steak, then Marabella Pizza Grill in Washington can offer you both to a high standard.

Cocktails

If some liquid lubrication is your partner’s thing, why not be the designated driver and take them to try out what these hot spots have to offer?

In Washington you will find The Bank Bistro and Bar and The Hackney Distillery and Restaurant. Both serve fine dining and also the best handcrafted cocktails. Perfect if you fancy something more elaborate for a special occasion.

Cakes or Pastries

Rachel K’s Bakery in Washington is run from a historic building and has something sweet to tempt us all. Creating freshly baked, scratch made pastries, breads, sweets, and meals. They work with local farmers, always use high quality ingredients (and when possible those in season). These little pieces of heaven will make you smile and feel all the more in love.

We hope this has whet your appetite for a stay in our flavorful county. It’s a guaranteed love affair for your tastebuds! Plus, it makes a great Valentine’s Day gift. To book a stay with someone special, call us on 252-923-9571
today or click here . 

romantic special
Nov15

Romantic Couples Break – The Perfect Holiday Gift

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Stuck on gift ideas? Why not try a romantic couples break

The Holiday Season is fast approaching. If you find you are stuck on gift ideas, have you considered a romantic couples break? You may wish to escape before the all consuming busy period begins, or perhaps you would like a cosy respite to look forward to as your reward.

There are many reasons why it’s important to get away just the two of you from time to time:

  • Having a break from the normal stresses of life can actually make you more productive on your return.
  • It can help a couple to reconnect and restore balance, giving time and opportunity for talking and simple things like enjoying a meal or an open fire etc .
  • Being in a different environment can help you breathe a little deeper and enable a perspective shift, so the small things no longer seem to matter. Having regular short breaks can strengthen long term relationships for this reason.
  • The chance to indulge in the simple pleasures of life and having time to really enjoy them can rekindle intimacy. Candlelit meals, walks on the beach, natural beauty, tasty food. It’s a revelation for the senses!

What do we offer to make your stay both romantic and magical?

We welcome you to stay in our charming Georgian home in historic Bath. We overlook Bath Creek, and are only minutes away from lots of activities and stunning scenery. Take a moment to Explore the Area and see just how much there is to do!

Our ‘Romantic getaway package’ is two nights of pampered luxury. We recommend upgrading this to include the extra privacy and indulgence of our spacious Calabash Room, which is situated on its own at the very top of the house. It features a king size bed and indulgent soaking bath as well as climate control and free WiFi.

Whichever room you select, the package includes a fabulous welcome bundle that awaits your arrival in your room. This bundle includes fresh flowers, a box of chocolates, small cake or other desert and champagne on ice with two glasses. In addition, each morning we will prepare you both a full home cooked breakfast.

A romantic getaway is a gift that keeps giving, even when you return home. If you would like more information or to discuss a date why not call us on 252-923-9571 or contact us today.

Croatoan Mystery
Oct22

The Mystery Of The Croatoan

Bath, History, Latest News, Travel 0 comments

Given the ghostly time of year – with all hallows eve approaching we thought the local spooky tale of the  Croatoan “lost colony” would get you in the “spirit”.

This true story is a mystery from our North Carolinian history dating back to 1587 – it begins with the word CROATOAN carved into a tree and the disappearance of 115 people. It’s even been noticed by American Horror Story who seem to be including it in their sixth series.

Croatoan Mystery

In 1587 Hatteras island was known as Croatoan Island, its native tribe the Croatans. It’s about 80 km southeast of Roanoke, which is where the second attempt at establishing an English colony on American soil was located. At some point between late 1587 and August 1590 the entire population of 90 men, 17 women and 11 children vanished. Leaving only the word CROATOAN carved into a tree and ominously the letters CRO scratched into another. The mystery still remains unsolved.

The colony had met hostility from the Secotans tribe and their supplies were running low. Leader John White sailed back to England for help. He left behind his daughter and newborn granddaughter, whom he would never see again. When he left he had no idea he would be delayed in his return by almost 3 years due funds and the war with the Spanish. Or, that he would become the only known survivor of the “lost colony”.

He landed back at Roanoke on his granddaughters birthday but found nothing – other than the dismantled buildings and that message on the tree. There were no animals or belongings nor any bodies or evidence of battle or massacre.

He returned to England without investigating the Croatoan tribe – there is no given explanation for why.

Is it possible that the colony travelled and absorbed into the Croatan tribe? Archeological remains found from that area and from a site 80 km northwest and inland of Roanoke are being studied to try to answer that question.

Did they meet tragic ends? Gruesome suggestions range from cannibalism, disease, massacre and a failed attempt to sail back to England.

The Mystery Deepens

Here’s where it gets more eerie…

The Croatans were said to believe in a malevolent spirit from their land who could change people into animals – or trees!

And in these more recent mysteries, where the word CROATOAN appears – people disappear.

  • Aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart scribbled it in her journal before her disappearance.
  • Horror Author Ambrose Bierce had the word carved into his bed before he disappeared. 
  • Poet Edgar Allan Poe uttered it on his deathbed in a delirious state.
  • Stagecoach robber Black Bart prisons cell wall was found to have the word scratched into it – he wasn’t seen again after his release.
  • An abandoned ship, ran aground at Cape Hatteras (close to what was Croatoan Island) in 1912, on the last page of it’s logbook – the word CROATOAN.

Is that spirit leading people to their doom, is it a strange coincidence, some secret society or long standing hoax? Could it just be a fascinating story that intrigued these people and drove them to isolation?

Will we ever know? So far, all attempts by historians, explorers and archeologists have fallen short.

You may lose yourself here, you could find yourself here. We’re sure you will never want to leave mwah hahahahahaha.

Readers' Choice award
Sep25

Inn on Bath Creek Wins Readers’ Choice Award

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We are delighted to announce that for the third year in a row, the Inn has won the Readers’ Choice award. The Washington Daily News Readers’ Choice awards are designed to celebrate local businesses. This year, over 100,000 votes were cast across a number of categories, including Food & Beverage, Services, Shopping and more.

The Readers’ Choice awards first started in 2016. According to the Washington Daily News Advertising Director David Singleton, voter participation has increased year on year.

“What we’ve learned is that community businesses put a lot of hard work and endless hours into their dreams; more so than many of us realize. To that end, a contest like Readers’ Choice gives the local businesses an opportunity to see how they rate with local customers, and that’s the lifeblood of all local businesses,” Singleton said in the WDN.

The Inn was awarded ‘Favorite Bed and Breakfast’ in the Favorite Service category.

Winning ‘Favorite Bed and Breakfast’ for the third year in a row is a huge compliment. We wish to thank everyone that took the time to cast a vote. Most importantly, we’re looking forward to bringing you another year of award winning service.

Ready to book your stay? Click here to request your reservation now.

 

Aug06

10 Thrilling Activities To Enjoy During Your NC Vacation

Latest News, Travel, Visit NC 0 comments

It’s your vacation, how are you going to fill your time when you #VisitNC?

Planning a vacation in North Carolina? Our website includes a wealth of information about hiking, biking, kayaking and our fascinating historical sights. But for the more adventurous, who don’t mind a bit of a journey we have compiled this list of thrilling activities nearby. Special thanks to Visit NC for this awesome resource of information!

  1. People are drawn to our beautiful state by the scenery and tranquility. We highly recommend Goose State Park (just 6 miles away). Featuring picnic areas, a swimming beach, eight miles of trails and a visitor centre. https://www.ncparks.gov/goose-creek-state-park/events-and-programs.
  2. Local cool dude and expert shredder Corbin runs wake2wake watersports. He’ll happily arrange some white water activities with his expert tuition. So hit the water today!
  3. A little over an hour away is Roanoke River Lighthouse in Edenton. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday 10-4. Its history is filled with fateful events and colorful characters, and well worth a visit. 
  4. With so much history and legends, ghosts are a plenty in New Bern. The hour long Ghosts of New Bern tour is sure to haunt your memories! 
  5. Why not indulge in a dinner cruise on the “Belle of Washington”. She docks only 24 km from Bath Creek. Events are listed here. 
  6. If motor sport sets your heart racing, then Dixieland Speedway is for you! Although little further away at 1hr 40 minutes in Elizabeth City, motorheads are sure to enjoy the trek. 
  7. Try Hang-gliding at Nags Head. It’s a longer journey at almost 2hrs away, but an amazing experience to behold. 
  8. In Fayetteville, which is approx 2hr 20 away, your quest awaits amongst the treetops with zip wires. Challenge your courage and get your pulse racing with Zipquest Tours.
  9. At the Port of Plymouth Museum in Washington County (under 1hr away) you can learn about Civil War history. In particular, the 1864 Battle of Plymouth and the CSS Albemarle.
  10. If golf is your game, North Carolina has many impressive courses. One of the closest (1hr 25) and highly rated is Sound of Freedom Golf Course at Cherry Point.

Your vacation can be whatever you make it.

We’re here to help you have the best vacation ever! You’re welcome to share our relaxing and beautiful home for as long as you can. A delicious breakfast will fuel you each morning as you explore and immerse in our diverse and friendly state. For more information or to make a booking click here or call us on 252-923-9571 today!