AA^3: Awesome Abodes

LODGING
As I mentioned before, Chivo and I are staying in a timeshare in the Smokies. It's called Westgate Resorts. I'm not really sure what type of room we got, hopefully one where we have a private bedroom because 2 of Chivo's friends may be joining us for part of the trip.  But if not, I'm pretty laid back and we can all just be comfy cozy together!


WESTGATE TIMESHARE
"This mountain hideaway covers about 70 acres next to the Great Smoky Mountain National Forest, in the quiet community of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Next to the Great Smoky Mountain National Forest, this earthy getaway offers a range of activities include white water rafting, nature hiking, tennis, golf, seasonal skiing, and antique shopping. At the Smoky Mountain Westgate Resort, guests can enjoy the extensive on-site water park, Wild Bear Falls (additional charges apply). Resort services include concierge, business center, Express Check-In/Out, small fitness center, free parking, outdoor pool, and Jacuzzi. The Westgate Deli is located onsite and will provide guests with the basic groceries.Every beautiful rustic log cabin features mountainside or creek side views, garden spa tubs, washers and dryers, dishwashers, microwaves, and fully equipped kitchens.Westgates Serenity Spa offers a full day spa menu of relaxing services such as facials, massages, body treatments, waxing and nails." - travelocity.com

Pros:
Free Trolly service to Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge.
Close proximity to downtown Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Great price for a weeks stay.
24 Hour Fitness Center
The views look amazing.

Cons:
$20 per person per visit for Wild Bear Falls Waterpark.
$10/night Wifi charge - from online review, one router for a whole building
Pushy timeshare sales staff - from online review, we will have to wait and see if this is tru

CAMPING

Chivo has mentioned wanting to go camping in the Smokies. Normally I'd be up for this, but the last time I was in the Smokies, I saw signs for bears EVERYWHERE!!! Not so sure I'm keen on having only a thin piece of fabric in between myself and a black bear.







Camping (in a KOA cabin) Townsend/Great Smokies KOA Stella and I stayed here on our AA^2 trip. We loved it! Our Cabin was little right on the bank of a river. It was peaceful and basically right in the mountains. 

Pigeon Forge KOA Dollywood is across the street. I have a feeling that this KOA might be busier because it's right across from Dollywood.