A combination of "glamorous" and "camping", offers a luxurious camping experience complete with amenities and often resort-style services. This trend has gained popularity among contemporary tourists who desire modern conveniences like Wi-Fi while also seeking the escapism and adventure of traditional camping. Accommodations for glamping include cabins, tents and treehouses. Speaking Of Cool Tree Houses, Check This Out!
Some History!
The term "glamping" was first used in the United Kingdom in 2005 and was later added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2016. Although the word itself may be modern, the idea of luxurious tent-living (or other camping accommodations) is not. As early as the 16th century, the Scottish Earl of Atholl hosted a grand experience for King James V and his mother in the Highlands. The Duke set up opulent tents and stocked them with all the comforts of a royal palace. However, perhaps the most extravagant display of tent-living in history was at the Field of the Cloth of Gold summit in 1520, where Francis I of France and Henry VIII of England erected over 2,800 tents and marquees and even had fountains flowing with red wine.
During that period, the Ottomans would transport lavish tents to each military expedition. A team of skilled artisans accompanied the army to construct and upkeep these regal shelters. According to Professor Nurhan Atasoy, The ornate decoration found both inside and outside the tents used by Ottoman sultans made them grand residences befitting a ruler. These tents were also utilized to create a magnificent stage for ceremonial events, as depicted in miniature paintings showcasing banquets, audiences, and celebrations held in the imperial tent complex throughout history. The imperial tents were adorned with lavish designs reminiscent of tiled panels, often featuring floral patterns crafted through appliqué work using various colored fabrics or embroidered with silk and metal thread.
About four centuries later, in the 1920s, the African safari became a popular choice among wealthy Americans and British. However, these affluent travelers, though seeking adventure, were not willing to compromise on comfort or luxury. They had access to all sorts of domestic luxuries during their travels, from electric generators to folding baths and even cases of champagne. This trend can also be seen in the rise of glamping in recent years, with its roots dating back to the 1990s when safari camps gained popularity in Africa and coastal Thailand. According to CNN's report in 2011, glamping has since spread to countries like the United States, Europe, and Australia. Unlike traditional camping with sweaty sleeping bags, glamping offers holidaymakers spacious designer-outfitted tents with soft sheets for a more comfortable experience. Additionally, by reducing the need for constantly setting up tents and practicing proper waste disposal, glamping is considered an environmentally friendly option as well.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in 2020, there has been a resurgence of interest in glamping within the tourism industry. This is due to its ability to facilitate social distancing and offer outdoor recreational activities.
Discover the wonders of camping in Massachusetts beyond the bustling city lights of Boston. This populous New England state offers a plethora of outdoor getaways for those seeking a change from their ordinary vacation spot, including: seaside Cape Cod , tranquil woodlands in the Berkshires, convenient RV parks near Boston, and luxury camping options on Boston Harbor's islands.
For those seeking a unique getaway experience, Glamping might be for you with many options to suit your style. If you're unsure where to start your search, here are some suggestions. VRBO is a great resource for finding cabins, cottages, and houseboats in Massachusetts. While it may not have a specific glamping category, we have discovered some hidden gems through our search on the website. Hipcamp is another option that specializes in private campsites, including glamping options. Currently, most of their properties in Massachusetts are located in the Berkshires and tend to be rustic yet affordable. For those looking for a more luxurious glamping experience, Glamping Hub features yurts, treehouses, cabins, and tents throughout Massachusetts. Although the prices may be higher, their extensive selection and user-friendly booking process make it worth considering. Lastly, Airbnb also offers unique stays such as barns, castles, yurts, and campers under their "More Filters" section. Keep in mind that glamping choices on this platform may be limited in Massachusetts.
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