| So you've decided to place your next vacation in | | | | the place to hike to the top of a mountain, rent a |
| a setting that is laid-back, peaceful, rich with | | | | bike and go exploring, or simply stroll around one |
| character and well above average in terms of | | | | of the hamlets in search of fresh fruits and |
| showcasing the natural beauty of a country | | | | vegetables, a great cup of coffee or a fabulous |
| sometimes better known for its theme parks and | | | | dessert. Imagine a friendly-looking vacation |
| southern playgrounds for the rich, famous and | | | | cottage smack dab in the middle of a lush |
| retired. Embracing a place like Washington's San | | | | forested area of Orcas. Wake up each morning |
| Juan islands rather than overlooking them will be | | | | knowing that you can do what you want; take a |
| the best holiday decision you'll ever make, as will | | | | ferry to one of the nearby islands, rent a sea |
| enhancing the scene by choosing to stay in a | | | | kayak for some wilderness-themed exercise, or |
| snug, charming vacation rental for the duration of | | | | settle down on the sun-dappled patio and turn |
| your trip. | | | | your attention to that novel you've been wanting |
| The San Juan Islands are the embodiment of all | | | | to read. |
| things lovable about the Pacific Northwest - | | | | San Juan Island is another major draw, and also |
| gorgeous, unpretentious, filled with activities of | | | | has a few attractive rental properties worth |
| various kinds, and completely welcoming of | | | | taking a look at. In one quaint cabin the windows |
| newcomers and repeat visitors. A stay here is | | | | reveal 180 degree views of the harbor (there's a |
| restorative; no matter which island is chosen or | | | | dock right out back) and a ten minute walk will |
| which itinerary is drafted, adventurers and | | | | take guests right to town. Sailors take note; there |
| break-takers will leave feeling recharged and | | | | is a yacht available for use with this home as well |
| ready for whatever the world has waiting. | | | | as a full kitchen, washer and dryer and a king |
| No matter where you are, having a vacation | | | | sized bed. Don't be surprised if you find yourself |
| rental at your disposal makes life easier. Unpacking | | | | longing to stay for more than just a handful of |
| a suitcase into a proper closet, sitting back on a | | | | days... |
| sofa in a tastefully decorated living room, checking | | | | Once it's been decided to head to the San Juans, |
| email in the computer nook and whipping up a | | | | the anticipation will begin to build. Bird watching, |
| quick meal in the easy-to-navigate and | | | | sightseeing, antiquing, swimming, fishing, whale |
| well-equipped kitchen are all moments that tend | | | | viewing, hiking and more are all options that will |
| to push regular trips into the realm of fantastic. | | | | exist before you as you wake each morning and |
| Little details have a way of coming together | | | | ponder your choices. Culture and Mother Nature |
| seamlessly within the walls of a vacation home | | | | coexist so mix up the schedule by including both |
| and make a solid foundation for the rest of the | | | | civilized and wild diversions and then return to |
| week's events. | | | | your home away from home to wind down and |
| For example, Orcas is the largest of San Juan's | | | | sleep peacefully before doing it all again. |
| islands and makes for a good home base. This is | | | | |