Tip 1 - Set Realistic Expectations

Know the price points for the areas you are looking at and set your expectations accordingly. If something looks too good to be true, it usually is. Cottages will range by number of bedrooms and bathrooms, whether they are renovated or not, lot size and whether they are on the water. Do a little research up front to get to know the range for the size of cottage you need and then compare cottages in the range to determine what you get at the top and bottom of that range. Depending on your budget, you will have to prioritize and make trade-offs accordingly. Number of bedrooms and beds is often harder to compromise on than level of renovations, for example. 

Tip 2 - Check the Amenities

Make a check list for yourself in advance of what you really want in a cottage. Some common things people look for are:

• How far is it from where I live?
• Is it on the waterfront?
• Is there a sandy beach and gradual entry for kids?
• What is the privacy like?
• Is there a BBQ?
• Are there enough beds for everyone? Don't be fooled by # bedrooms, sometimes they have a single bed or no bed at all.
• Is there enough seating in the main dining area for everyone?
• Is the cottage renovated, updated or original?
• Does the cottage come with any boats, canoes, life jackets etc?
• How close is the nearest grocery store?
• Are there nice walking trails nearby?
• Is there air conditioning?
• How busy is the waterfront?
• Are there modern conveniences like small appliances, telephone, cable/satellite?

Of course, these are just some thought starters. Best to sit down with your family and make your own list to ensure the cottage you pick meets you and your family's needs.

Tip 3 - A Picture Tells 1000 Words

This one is probably the most obvious tip, but one never to forget. Always ask for pictures. And if there are some already posted, always see if you can get more (the answer is typically no, but you never know unless you try!) A cottage with no pictures means one of two things: a lazy landlord (which does not bode well for the care of the place) or it's a disaster that would never rent if they showed you what it really looks like. It's a lot harder to "spin" a cottage when you can see it for yourself.

Tip 4 - Ask Around

Reviews are a great source of information. See what others have to say if a cottage has been reviewed, and if not, why not ask the owner for some past cottagers to share their experience. You never know what you may find out. Cottagers love to share.

At the end of the day, the only sure-fire way to find the absolute perfect cottage for you is to actually check it out. If you can take the time to drive up to the cottage of your choice and the landlord is willing to grant you access, it's the best way to ensure a successful family vacation. Pictures, words and reviews can get you 80% of the way there, but seeing with your own two eyes is always fool proof.

Cottage country offers various options for all budgets. Whether you rent a cottage for a week, find yourself a local bed and breakfast or splurge for a resort, your cottage country vacation can cost as little or as much as you want it to. Cottage rentals start at $500 for the week and allow you to make your own meals (always a lot cheaper!), Bed and Breakfasts and Hotels will cost you upwards from about $100/night. By driving to the cottage country nearest to you, you remove the expense of flying (often the most expensive part of any trip.) For a family of four, that can be significantly more than the cost of one week at a comfortable cottage.

So we have determined that it's a cheaper bet, but the question remains, are you compromising on the quality of your scared family time together? With only one or two precious weeks a year to bond as a family unit, we can't afford not to have the time of our lives. As any cottager will tell you, there is something truly special about a cottage country vacation. Imagine renting a cottage that offers total seclusion, where it's all about you and your family for a whole week. Picture lounging on your raft, as your float off the side of the dock, sipping your iced tea and chatting with your kids about their latest trials and tribulations. Or perhaps hanging on the back deck in the early evening, as you barbecue some hot dogs for your hungry brood.

How about sitting around the kitchen table for a heated game of monopoly, or taking long walks in the morning through the quiet peaceful woods around you. With a little sun, a lake and nature around you, how could any cottage country vacation not be great?

So break back out the swimsuits, dust off the suitcases, and start surfing through those cottage, B&B and hotel listings. The vacation of a lifetime is just a few hours away.

Find many accomodation listings at CottageCountry.com

Grillers Toolbox

• Sturdy bristle brush
• Barbecue grill cleaner
•  Toothpicks Soap 

• Water Venturi brush 

Step 1

Remove all the cooking grids, grates and burners and use a sturdy bristle brush to remove the build-up of grease on the inside of the oven.    Using a barbecue cleaner scrub the inside and outside of the oven and then rinse with water.  Never use oven cleaner on your barbecue, it is corrosive and can damage the other components.

Step 2

Inspect the burners making sure there are no holes rusted through any of the components.  If there are, it's time for a replacement. Clean out any clogged ports using a toothpick, being careful not to damage the ports. Next, clean out the venturi tubes using a venturi brush.  It's very important to keep these tubes clean, Spiders love to make nest in these tubes, creating blockages that can cause serious damage.

Step 3

Examine the heat medium, if you have a heat plate remove any grease build-up and make sure there are no holes rusted through. If you have briquettes make sure they aren't crumbling and the pores aren't clogged with grease.

Step 4

Check the cooking grids and make sure no welds are broken and brush off any stuck on residue.  If you have cast iron cooking grids, season them with oil to help keep food from sticking and help prevent rust.

Step 5

Inspect the gas hose to make sure there aren't any cracks or leaks.   This can easily be done by preparing a soapy solution and applying it to the connections at the tank and valve. Turn the tank on slowly and watch for bubbles to form, which indicates that there is a leak.  Try tightening the connections and re-test.  If persistent leaking or blistering is detected, the gas assembly should be replaced. 

Finally, check the condition of your control knobs, thermometer, and handles.  Replacing small items like this can refresh your grill and make it look new again. 

For more grill maintenance tips visit http://www.broilkingbbq.com/

The Cooking System 

A well designed burner system should fill the entire bottom of the oven, eliminating hot and cold spots.  The key is even heat, don't get caught up in BTU's, they are only important in relation to the efficiency of the overall system.   Make sure the heat medium has no flat spots where juices can pool and that it protects the burner.  Heavy cooking grids provide better heat retention; choose cast iron grids if you are looking for superior searing performance or stainless steel grids for easy maintenance.

The Oven Design

A deep oven design promotes even heat distribution and provides plenty of room for large cuts of meat such as turkeys and roasts.  A cast aluminium oven is rust-proof and provides excellent heat retention. 

The Construction

Underneath it all a great gas grill has to stand the test of time.  Give the grill a shake.  It should feel solid, sturdy and roll smoothly.   Look for heavy components, premium quality finishes, galvanized steel parts, and rust-proof hardware.  This will ensure your investment lasts for years.

The Brand

Find out who makes the grill and where it is made.  Examine the warranty; it should be clear and concise, with no fine print.   If you have questions or need support is there someone you can call? Find out about replacement parts, are they easily avaliable? 

Finally, to determine which grill is right for you, ask yourself a few simple questions.   How many people will you be cooking for?   Do you entertain often?  What kind of cooking do you do? How much room do you have?  What features appeal to you?  Would you use a side burner or rear burner? 

Once you have a clear understanding of what to look for and what you need, you will be able to determine which barbecue is right for you.

For more information on grilling and great recipe ideas, visit www.broilkingbbq.com.

Maple Smoked Maple Ribs 

Serves 4 - Preparation Time 0:20 

Ingredients

• 2-3 pounds pork side ribs
• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, minced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds 

1. Soak maple planks in sink or clean bucket filled with water for at least 1 hr. (this can be done during first stage of cooking the ribs)

2. Light one side of  your barbecue, and Preheat until temperature gauge shows - 350ºF (175ºC). Place ribs meat side up in a 9x13 inch roasting pan. Cover pan tightly with foil and place on the unlit side of your barbecue. Bake for 1 1/4 hours. This step can also be done in the oven.

3. In a saucepan over medium heat on the stove or on the sideburner of the barbecue, combine maple syrup, orange juice concentrate, ketchup, soy sauce, mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in curry powder, garlic and green onions. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Remove ribs from roasting pan, and baste completely meat side and bone side with still warm sauce. Retain 1/2 of sauce for additional basting. Place ribs on soaked maple planks bone side down.  Put the planks with the ribs on them on one side of the barbecue with low heat setting directly underneath them. Turn the other side of the barbecue to high and close lid. Keep temperature around 350ºF. Planks should begin to smoke within a few minutes, and produce a sweet fragrant smoke in your barbecue. Adjust the amount of smoke you would like to add by increasing/ decreasing direct heat underneath the planks, and opening/closing the lid.

Do not allow planks to catch fire. Allow ribs to cook on the planks for 25 minutes. Use remaining sauce to baste ribs several times throughout cooking. Remove planks with ribs on them from the grill and place the planks directly on a plate or tray for serving. 

For more great grilling recipes visit http://www.grillpro.com/

Last year, we took the kids to a cottage for the first time. We'd rented a cottage up in Huntsville for a week. My kids were 1 and 3 - I know, what was I thinking? Seriously, though, taking kids to the cottage no matter what the sacrifice is one of the best things you can do for them. They'll experience nature beyond the city park, try so many new things - like boat rides! - and they'll be busy with all sorts of cottage activities, rain or shine. 

I was lucky last year because my parents were staying at the cottage with us. So, I was able to hand the kids over to them and get a break now and then. This also gave my parents a great opportunity to spend quality time with the kids and experience the natural beauty through their eyes. 

It was a great trip. An unforgettable trip. And the kids and our family are looking forward to going again this year. This year, though, we found a cottage with a swing set - bonus! 

Now that we've been to the cottage once already as a family, I'm sure to be even more prepared this year. So, here's my list of TOP 10 things cottagers with young children need to bring: 

1. Toiletries. For some reason, I always forget the kids' shampoo/body wash when we go away, and tear-free shampoo isn't something you can find in most small-town convenience stores;

2. Bathing Suits and Beach Toys. You want a little break, and Grandma's not with you? Beach toys! Especially if you're staying on a sandy beach, beach toys are a must. Kids will have endless fun in the sand making sandcastles, shoveling, etc.;

3. Kids' Sunscreen and Mosquito Repellent. Again, small-town convenience stores might not carry kids' sunscreen or mosquito repellent, so be sure to bring some with you;

4. Snacks. Crackers, chips, carrots, fruit, juice boxes, raisins, pretzels, cereal, milk or formula;

5. Marshmallows! Kids love sitting by the fire and eating roasted marshmallows. Bring some graham crackers, and make smores;

6. Potty/Toilet Seat. Just trust me on this one. Don't forget the potty...; 

7. Shoes for the Beach. Whether its crocs or water shoes - to protect little feet from the lake/ocean floor;

8. Clothes for all Kinds of Weather. Don't forget raincoats, rain boots, sweatshirts, jackets and sun hats;

9. Portable Crib. Be sure to check out if your cottage provides a crib. If not, you can bring a Pack n' Play (that's what we did);

10. Books, toys, games. For rainy days and indoor play, be sure to bring your kids' favourite toys, books, colouring books, play dough, and games. This will also give them a sense of security and routine - enjoying their books before bedtime, etc..

Oh, and one more....

11. GRANDMA

I'm really looking forward to taking the kids to the cottage again this year. And, they couldn't be more excited! Now that they're a year older, and there's a swing set behind the cottage (did I mention that?), it'll be even more wonderful.

 Enjoy!

Last year I went to a beautiful cottage for a week with my family - my kids, parents, brother and sister and their spouses and dogs. It was a busy little holiday with so many of us there. But I was determined to relax and get some time for myself.  

I was determined to practice yoga.

I remember when we first got to the cottage, we unpacked our bags and went outside on the deck to drink wine and unwind. The weather was beautiful, the scenery stunning, the sky so blue. What better moment to practice yoga -- when everything around me is still new, unfamiliar? And, after a long car trip, I was in need of a good stretch.

And stretch I did. I handed the kids over to my family and unrolled my mat right on the deck. The family was congregated on the other end of the deck, but, sure enough, they ended up near my mat - and my kids were all over it, of course!

It wasn't the ideal practice that first day. I mean, I wasn't able to really focus and meditate. But, I stretched, and laughed and just absorbed the beauty around me. I took it in and, indeed, breathed it in. Fresh, country air. Ahhh....

The next day, I handed the children over to my parents and asked them to give me an hour to practice on the dock. The waves were a little rough for balances and standing poses, and the boaters and cottagers across the lake were a tad distracting. But, it was worth it.

I'll never forget that particular practice, gazing up at the clear blue sky and down at the reflecting waters.... It was gift to be able to celebrate the experience and simply to be in the moment there through yoga.

If you're going to practice yoga at the cottage, my advice would be to go with the flow - the flow of the waves beneath you if you're practicing on a dock, or the flow of events around you, the distractions and interruptions.

Give yourself permission to have a less-than-perfect practice (as one always should), and just enjoy. Use the yoga to make the most out of your cottage experience, and not the other way around.

 Enjoy! And, namaste....

You get to the cottage, and it's raining. What do you do? 

For one thing, many cottages up for rent include libraries of books, videos, and board games. So, don't be surprised if you find yourself a little giddy at the first drum of thunder, the first tap of rain on the windowpane. Because there's nothing cozier than lazing around in a cottage by a lake on a rainy day. 

Pull out the Scrabble board. Go to the local store and rent the latest chick flick. Sit back and read that trashy novel, and take in the country smells - the trees, flowers, cottage cedar - all rendered even more potent by the rain.

If you find yourself getting stir-crazy and up for adventure, check out the local indoor tourist attractions: museums, sports centres, libraries, movie theatres, restaurants, libraries and art galleries. See if there are any local artists offering workshops, any theatres or concert halls offering live shows. And, of course, shop!

Most small towns offer wonderful antiquing opportunities, unique and trendy clothing stores, and one-of-a-kind crafts. Rainy days are, indeed, the perfect time to pick up souvenirs for loved ones back home. 

So, basically, if you're caught in the rain at the cottage, don't despair. Make the most of it. Enjoy...!

PEI is family-friendly. Rent bikes and hit the Confederation Trail, which runs the length of the Island. There's plenty of family-style attractions in Cavendish and the north shore. But if it's a slower pace you seek, consider a spot closer to the south, east or west coasts. Don't forget your camera!

The cottages available for rent run the full spectrum, from luxurious to rustic. Most have fully-equipped kitchens, and the Island is dotted with modern supermarkets and smaller grocery stores and roadside vegetable stands, so home-cooking and barbecues are easy and relaxing.

Go Kayaking, or on a seal-watching excursion. Have dinner at a fine restaurant, or a family-style (and family-priced) restaurant.  And catch an incredible performance at one of our main theatres or go by a small hall for the best local music.  Call our toll-free number (1-800-463-4PEI), and travel counsellors will be glad to help you.

Maybe I'm a little biased, though, since I went to a sleepover camp on Lake Muskoka when I was a child. I remember looking out the windows as we neared camp at all the red rocks, and at so many lakes sparkling in the sun. The plateaus, beaches, sunsets. 

I remember those Muskoka smells, birds, trees, those Muskoka nights - the twinkling stars, so much brighter than anything I'd ever seen in the city. 

So, maybe I'm a little biased. But, every time I go back to Muskoka I'm taken back to that childhood paradise. And every time I go back to Muskoka, I build new memories with my own children. 

Muskoka Cottages - why so beautiful? Because of the memories, the natural beauty, the peace and quiet, the starry skies, and because my family and I build new beautiful memories there together every summer.

You can view Muskoka Cottages, Accommodations, Bed and Breakfasts or resorts here:

http://www.cottagecountry.com/region/muskoka/

Enjoy Cottage Country !

This is an excellent opportunity for the local area which will benefit substantially from this international focus.  This summit will introduce millions of potential tourists to the Cottage Country and bring in hundreds of millions of dollars to the local economy.

The G8 is an international gathering for governments of 8 different nations including : Canada, Untied States, France, Germany, United Kingdom, Russia, Japan  and Italy.  The intention of this meeting is to discuss issues that are mutually concerning from a global perspective.

Certainly it will be difficult to find accommodations in and around the time of the event, so ensure that you book early.

You can find local reservations for the G8 here: http://www.cottagecountry.com/region/muskoka 

Hundreds of thousands of tourists will flock to this region to be part of this historic event. Ontario will see the benefits of this G8 summit for years to come. Deerhurst resort is the perfect place to have this summer with its combination of natural beauty and serene environment.

This will be the fifth time that Canada has hosted the G8 summit. Kananaskis was the fourth Summit Canada has hosted, and the first held in Western Canada. The previous three Summits were held in Ottawa-Montebello (1981), Toronto (1988) and Halifax (1995).

The G8/G20 Summit in Cottage Country is quickly approaching and accommodation reservations for the end of June 2010 are getting booked quickly.

When travelling to cottage country for the G8 summit, you should expect about a 2 hour drive out to Cottage Country. Pearson Airport in Toronto will be the most accessible airport. The drive to Cottage County is fairly straightforward with many different places to stop along the way. Gas stations are frequent, so don't worry so much about filling the tank.

Make sure to book your accommodations well in advance of your arrival. There are several excellent resorts to stay at in Muskoka very near to where the action will be. These 5 star resorts are complete with excellent service and facilities you would expect for the finest resorts in Canada.

If you're looking for something more private and rustic, consider a private cottage rental. There are many private cottages for rent all over the Muskoka area that will be in very close proximity to the G8 summit. You can begin your search for a private cottage or hotel here:

http://www.cottagecountry.com/region/muskoka/

Huntsville, Ontario will be the host city for this landmark event. It is really a perfect place to hold the G8 summit as it features a perfect tranquil setting full of lakes, excellent wilderness and beautiful Muskoka sunsets. Huntsville Ontario has a lot to offer to all of the tourists that will flock to take in part of the G8 Summit. Huntsville has many bed and breakfasts, hotels, motels of course private cottage rentals available for booking. Don't forget to enjoy the amazing golf courses nearby. More information on Huntsville can be found here:

http://www.cottagecountry.com/region/muskoka/city/huntsville/

If this is your first time out to Cottage Country, take a few minutes to review our cottage packing list and to read some of the articles about vacationing in Cottage Country.

The buzz about the G8/G20 summit is all over Cottage Country, so make sure you have all of your reservations taken care of. Don't forget to enjoy the excellent nature and golfing and activities while your checking out the G8/G20.

When seeking a vacation destination any time of the year, consider Ontario - not only for it's sweet scenery, but also for its extraordinary cottage country. 

Community, scenery, antiquing, recreation - Ontario's got it all throughout the year. Rent a cottage in the summer, and enjoy the pristine lakes, hikes in the forest, biking, and more. Rent a cottage in the winter, and enjoy skiing, skating, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and more. 

Yes, Ontario's your place if you're looking for the perfect cottage rental. For more information visit http://www.cottagecountry.com

There are so many different regions to rent a cottage in Ontario and explore Cottage Country. Make sure to spend some time looking at all of the different locations and pick the one that is most suited to your specifications.

 Cottage Country Regions can be found here:

http://www.cottagecountry.com/region/

 So, when I want to get out in nature, I choose cottage country. Somewhere by a lake, with sweet cedar lawn chairs, a sparkling lake, trees all around, and the odd raccoon or two - keeping a safe distance, of course - and a bed and bathroom, kitchen, TV.... 

Of course, there are country houses you can rent, hotels, bed and breakfasts, but I love the idea of a cottage. Yes, a cottage in cottage country with lots of other cottages nearby in case I need sugar or coffee or pie or cake - mmm..., cake. 

Seriously, though, I go to a country house every year. It's on a farm. It's lovely, really, but it's not a cottage. It lacks the character, community and LAKE of a cottage - of a cottage country cottage. It's a completely different summer getaway.

 Don't get me wrong, I love going to the country, but, for me, cottage country is where it's at. Where I can wake up, walk out to the dock, raise my arms and yawn and stretch and drink in beautiful surroundings, greet the canoers and kayakers rowing by.... The kids play on the beach with their new cottage friends. My dad takes the boat out.... 

There's nothing better. Can't wait to see our latest cottage rental this summer. You bet I'm bringing my camera!

Special Event in Cottage Country :

The 2010 G8 Summit will be held in the heart of Cottage Country in Huntsville, Ontario.

Make sure to visit CottageCountry.com for all your rental needs.

Cottage Owners Checklist - Things all Cottage Owners should know when renting your cottage

1. Devise a security deposit in case something goes wrong, or in case more cleaning needs to be done when guests leave. 
 
2. Pets - how many are renters allowed to bring? And, what kind? How big? Any Pictures?
 
3. What are the check-in and check-out procedures including check in and out times.
 
4. Do you have good directions to the cottage to offer your renters? Can you send them a map?
 
5. Devise a rental agreement - complete with cottage rules.
 
6. Create a manual to place on the cottage premises explaining how things work - including cleaning and garbage instructions, safety, barbecue, lighting, shower, water system, boating.

7. Swimming tips - Is the water shallow? Diving, or no diving?
 
8. Other helpful tips: nearby grocery stores; must-see attractions; good restaurants or movie theatres, etc..
 
9. Ask renters to leave the cottage keys in a safe place.
 
10. Lock doors that you don't want opened.
 
11. Smoking rules should be clearly demarcated.
 
12. Be sure to speak to your renters at least once by phone instead of relying solely on email.
 
13. Make your renters feel at home by leaving them a welcome note for when they arrive.
 
14. Payment - get an email transfer, cash, or make sure the check clears prior to renters' arrival.
 
We hope this checklist helps ease your mind when renting your cottage. Good luck!

How to close your summer cottage? The task seems daunting to the average cottager. But, it's not so bad. Here's a check list to make things easy for you.

• Make sure you have your security system in place.
• Void all water pipes to avoid freezing.
• Shut down the propane.
• Take the boats out of the water - bubble them or take them to storage.
• Remove all food, and anything that may attract animals.
• Defrost and unplug the refrigerator.
• Place an open box of baking soda inside the refrigerator to keep odors away.
• Scatter moth balls in the attic and anywhere small animals or bugs might gather.
• Anti-mildew boxes can be purchased inexpensively to help prevent dampness.
• Cover windows with shades for storm protection and theft prevention.
• Store the barbeque.
• Store patio furniture.
• Make sure all garden tools are safely put away to help prevent break-ins.
• Pull the dock out of the lake to avoid cracking and breaking.
• Check the sump pumps to ensure they're working.
• Organize snow removal.
• Tell your neighbors you're done for the season, and be sure to leave your home phone number so they can reach you if necessary.
• Take summer pictures of your cottage to use for advertsing purposes.

Every cottage is different, of course, so be sure to add your individual requirements to the above. Take a careful walk around before you leave just to make sure you have it covered.

• Bury the plumbing and insulate it so that it doesn't freeze.
• Insulate walls, floors and ceilings.
• Set up heating, whether propane fireplaces or furnace.
• At minimum, install double glazed thermopane windows.
• Have a standby generator in place in case of power failure.
• Organize snow removal - for in and out access.
• Circulate water to prevent freezing.
• Obtain programmable thermostats to secure heat inside the cottage.
• Prepare to shovel the cottage roof at least once in the winter to prevent roof-damage and leakage due to snow build up.
• Take the boats out of the water - bubble them or take them to storage.

Pull the dock out of the lake to avoid cracking and breaking.

Good luck, and enjoy the winter season!

About a two hours' drive from Toronto. An easy drive: we plugged in our trusty GPS, our favourite podcast, strapped the kids in the car, and didn't look back - until the little one started screaming and I had to spend 2/3 of the drive twisted so I could hold his hand. Awesome.

After a summer of uncharacteristically cool, rainy weather, we were lucky the week we chose to rent our Muskoka Cottage was perfectly balmy! We spent our days at the beach, and by the dock, enjoying the fresh waters of Lake Muskoka, and my brother's infinite playlist.

Port Carling - Lake Muskoka

We canoed, went tubing, watched our neighbours jet ski (alas), swam, walked a long the winding roads. My husband enjoyed the chip truck, and I enjoyed all the galleries. So many galleries filled with beautiful local art and artists!

Every morning, we went into Port Carling for a delicious organic smoothie at the Juicery, and checked out all the great stores and sales. So much to do! We'd also do a daily trek to IGA because we seemed to always need something.

It was a wonderful week's vacation. The sunsets were spectacular, the sounds of the loons sublime and so country..., and the people were so friendly.

I've been to a lot of lakes, rented many cottages. This was a vacation to remember. I think what surprised me most was the lake. It was the perfect temperature, and so clear, and the perfect depth for lake-swimming with no fear! My kids even swam with me - attached to my hip....

I'll go back to Muskoka again, no doubt. Perhaps to another part of the lake so I can check out some other cute towns and shops and artists and exquisite lakesides.

You can begin planning your trip and checking out Muskoka Cottage rentals, Accommodations, Bed and Breakfasts or resorts here:

http://www.cottagecountry.com/region/muskoka/

Enjoy Cottage Country !

• research fire lighting on the internet so you can stoke an old-fashion fireplace (the best kind), if necessary;
• bring lots of warm clothes - sweaters, sweatshirts, perhaps a blanket, hats, scarves, gloves, well-insulated boots, ski clothes, etc.;
• maybe bring some soups or your favourite hot chocolate;
• check the local tourist board for movies, museums and indoor entertainment, as well as recreational facilities, like skating rinks, ski resorts, and sugar bushes - mmm, syrup;
• bring a bathing suit or two for that hot tub;
• check if you need to bring bedding, pillows and towels (a must for any cottage rental).

Finally, be sure to check out the winter festivals - they thrive in cottage country.

You're good to go. Enjoy!

• Skiing -- Downhill, Cross-Country;
• Snow tubing;
• Skating;
• Snow Shoeing;
• Ice Fishing;
• Snowmobiling;
• Tobogganing;
• Bird Watching;
• Sugar Bushes;
• Winter Festivals;
• Movies;
• Museums, art galleries;
• Reading by the fire;
• Boardgames;
• Curling up by the fireplace with that hot cocoa....

Of course, there's so much more to do in the winter months in cottage country. Do yourself a favour and check out the local directory for things to do in the area. There may be some exciting historical sites, or great restaurants to try, theatre events, etc..

You can also ask your renter for activity recommendations. Keep warm, and have fun!

See, my in laws have an actual country house - it's in the country, in the middle of acres of farm land. And, as lovely as it is to visit, there's one thing missing, one giant beautiful thing that I totally depend on when I'm out of the city: the lake.

Don't get me wrong, family and I love visiting this country house, and we feel blessed to have such a great get-away spot at our disposal. There are acres of farmland, mooing cows in the backyard, organic gardens, coyotes howling in the night, and there's a swimming pool. When we visit in the summer, we spend most of the time lounging by this swimming pool, having diving competitions in this swimming pool, as well as laying in the hammock, visiting the cows, and gawking at giant sunflowers.

But, even though we have this lovely spot to visit, we also love renting a cottage every summer. And, I don't know about the rest of my family members - who are perfectly satisfied with a pool and acres of land - I need a lake. I need a lake, and a dock, a canoe, and loons, and ducks, and a sandy beach for the kids to play on. My dad will fish, my kids will float in their lifejackets, I'll canoe and swim laps to the buoy and back (which is much more interesting than swimming laps in a pool), and I'll just stand there ingesting the beauty. Yoga by the dock is also pretty sweet.

When renting a cottage, then, be sure to check out the lake. What lake is it? Is it clean? Is there a dock? How deep is the water around your dock? Is there a boat available? Jet ski? Canoe? Life jackets? All these questions are important to ask in determining what kind of cottage vacation you want.

Georgian Bay is a famously large bay situated in Ontario, Canada, south of Manitoulin Island and east of the Bruce Peninsula. It's a part of Lake Huron -- BUT it's also called the sixth Great Lake. In addition to the Manitoulin District and Bruce County, surrounding areas include Sudbury District, Muskoka District, Simcoe County, Grey County and Bruce County. And it is filled with over 30,000 islands and contains 2,000 kilometres of shoreline. Needless to say, there's lots explore in Georgian Bay. And I kind of want to go there right now!

Renting a cottage in Georgian Bay is easy because this is the LAND of COTTAGE COUNTRY. Of course, you have to plan early to get the cottage you want because this is an incredibly popular tourist destination and a hot cottage spot. You'll have to decide what kind of vacation you want in Georgian Bay. Do you want to stay on the mainland, or do you want to stay on the ancient rocks (we're talking rocks that are billions of years old)? Do you want a cliff-side luxury cottage? Or an island getaway only attainable by boat? Do you want one of the more popular shoreline cottages? Or one romantically hidden within the trees?

If you're planning on renting in the summer in Georgian Bay, enjoy the ultimate escape from the city. Plan to spend lots of quiet time in the sun, to encounter 100+ species of wildlife - including snakes, deer, bears, muskrats, beavers, fish and more - to experience extraordinary starry skies and the Northern Lights, and, of course, cosy up in front of toasty bonfires!

You'll also want to consider renting a cottage with a good boat at your disposal so you can tour the various magnificent islands in the bay and its surrounding district (otherwise, you can definitely catch a cruise).

Of course, fall and winter in Georgian Bay are wonderful times to rent, as well. Think romance in the fall, fine dining, spa treatments, walking in the parks, on the beach, festivals galore (including Santa Claus parades and Midland Georgian Bay Festivals of Light). In the winter, think hockey, curling, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, skiing at Horseshoe and Mount St Louis Moonstone, and more!

Rent a cottage in Georgian Bay any time of the year, and enjoy!

First things first.  Cats Generally can't come to the cottage. There is NO reason to bring a cat to a cottage. Indeed, if you're renting a cottage and happen to ask the owner if you can bring your cat, s/he WILL say no. Take it from me, cat owner PAR excellence: when you own a cat, people don't want to come to YOUR house; when you rent a cottage, people don't want your cat to come to THEIR house. That's my experience anyway.

Just this past summer, we rented a (big) cottage with my parents, siblings and their families. Well! My wee family and I were banned from the master bedroom because the owner of the cottage was apparently "deathly allergic" to cats. So, not only were we not allowed to bring our dear Minden (pictured above) to the cottage -- not that we would have, because he would have been angry and confused the whole time (as cats tend to be when they're out of their element) -- but we were not even allowed to SLEEP in the master bedroom....

Yeah yeah. I've heard it all before.

On the other hand, cute small non shedding dogs are usually allowed to come to the cottage....

She's a little dog, not too yappy, and hardly sheds. Most cottage owners (from my experience), would consider this the perfect pet.

Big shedding dogs, on the OTHER hand, not as much.... 

Basically, it's a crap shoot. It all depends on the owner. Some cottage owners say absolutely NO PETS ALLOWED. And, others are all "heck, yeah!" So, it's up to you to decide what kind of holiday you want and if your pets would do well in a cottage environment.

My cat would not do well in a cottage environment. But, my sister's dogs, of course, thrived there last summer, and we certainly enjoyed watching them bound about in the forest and chase after sticks and balls in the lake.

So, when you're renting a cottage, be sure to ask if they allow pets. How many pets are allowed? Will there be other pets in the area (bigger dogs, for example)? Be sure to poop-and-scoop, and enjoy!

The annual G8 summit brings together eight of the world's leading industrial countries: Canada, the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Italy, Germany and Russia. Leaders of these countries get together specifically to discuss important economic issues that are impacting the world.

The G20 is an even bigger event. Formed in 1999, it includes the above eight, as well as Argentina, Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, and the European Union. In this summit, issues broaden to include human rights, global warming and national security. The dates of G20 are as yet unconfirmed. But, it's suspected that the summit will occur either directly preceding or following the G8 summit - at Huntsville's Deerhurst Resort. Canada and South Korea will be chairing the event.

Huntsville, Ontario, (population 18,280) is located in Muskoka - just north of Toronto. It was chosen to host both of these prestigious events because the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Study determined the massive, scenic Deerhurst Resort was the perfect place, with its excellent accommodations, facilities, accessibility, security, affordability, and location relative to surrounding businesses and residences.

Of course, Huntsville is looking forward to this major event because tourism will no doubt skyrocket both around the time of the summit and beyond. Huntsville will become an historical attraction, and international exposure will bring people from around the world to it's beloved wilderness, pristine lakes and stunning sunsets!

Huntsville has already started preparing for the big event. A new media centre is being constructed, and the town's major structures, roads, bridges and landscapes are all being serviced in preparation.

Huntsville's cottage renters are in an interesting position, as their properties are becoming hot commodities for the exciting event. They're being told to exercise caution when renting and to talk to Ottawa first, where they're screening renters in advance just to be safe. And the town's being prepped for the inevitable protesters and heightened security via meetings, the local newspaper and Town Hall. It's all rather thrilling for a small town!

If you plan on going to Huntsville this summer, enjoy! And keep a look out not only for famous governmental types but also Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn - they own a cottage there!

For G20 Accomodations begin your search here: Huntsville Accommodations

Well, we got to Huntsville, and everything was gorgeous as can be. Only the accommodations weren't quite what I expected. My husband Josh had parked the car in front of a bed and breakfast! I'd never been to a bed and breakfast before. And, to be honest, I wasn't feeling adventurous. But, fortunately, I was very pleasantly surprised.

The house was old and full of character. The owners, a lovely old couple, greeted us in tasteful bath robes and slippers. I think I might even remember the man of the house sitting in front of the fireplace, reading some hard-cover tome and sucking on an unlit pipe - although that may be more stereotype than memory. The atmosphere was just exactly what you'd imagine, so comforting and welcoming....

As we ascended the stairs, gripping the beautiful antique handrail, I became more and more comfortable with the idea of staying in someone else's home, as opposed to an impersonal hotel. It was clean, homey, and, again, full of character and full of love for Huntsville!

The bedroom was beautifully prepared for us and just lovely. The antique bed had ivory legs, and the mattress was luxuriously high! There were sweet antique pictures all over the walls, a rocking chair, a teeny antique bedside lamp. I'd never stayed in a place like this before. And I was liking it! For Josh, on the other hand, this was old hat, since he'd stayed at plenty of bed and breakfasts when he went backpacking through Europe as a teenager....

Unfortunately, there was no washroom in our bedroom, and we had to share one with another couple. But the other couple staying there was lovely, and we laughed at the so-called inconvenience.

And don't get me started on the breakfasts! The breakfasts made up for ANY perceived inconvenience. The food was whole, creative, rich and delicious, and the owner served it with great pride.

In the end, I loved the bed and breakfast and, indeed, the whole old-fashioned, grassroots concept of it. Betty's Bed and Breakfast, I believe it was called. Huntsville itself is a beautiful town with great shops and fun pubs by the water. But this Bed and Breakfast gave our trip character and made it utterly unforgettable, all those years ago now.... And, Betty did make our bed for us!

The G8 summit meeting will be held about 1.5 hours outside of Toronto, Ontario, in Huntsville Ontario and the expanded G20 will now be held in Toronto. Originally both were scheduled to be held in Cottage Country, but the move from Huntsville to Toronto was required for the G20 due to a lack of resources required for an event with this magnitude.

Toronto offers a wide range of excellent accommodations for The G20 and while you're in town you can take a short drive to one of the many beautiful cottage regions just outside of the city. 

Bed and Breakfasts, resorts and private cottage rentals just outside the city, also offer excellent accommodations close by both events and will be a nice change of pace from the regular hotel room. 

Booking a private cottage, resort or bed and breakfast near the G20 or G8

For information and to book private cottages or bed and breakfasts near The G20 and the G8, please browse through our listings in these areas. With summer driving conditions being optimal, it is well worth staying in one of these accommodations and driving into the city for the event.

• Simcoe County
• Niagara County
• Quinte and Prince Edward County
• Kawarthas
• Muskoka

 Be Sure to book now as space for these accommodations is already booking for the summer 2010.

Because the town is located just around two hours north of Toronto, Parry Sound - also known as the "Jewel" of Georgian Bay's 30,000 Islands - is a popular getaway for Torontonians. It's not only a visually stunning, serene place, but also rich in culture, heritage and the arts. Some hotspots include the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts and, of course, the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame - which honours the town's hockey hero, the great Bobby Orr!

In the summer, lounging on the lake and enjoying waterfront activities is complemented by the great golfing at The Ridge at Manitou, the Deer Run Golf Course and the Parry Sound Golf & Country Club, as well as the Seguin Recreational Trail, Chippewa Boat Cruise and Island Queen Cruise, helicopter adventures, and more! In the winter, ice hockey and snowmobiling are the favoured recreational activities.

And then there are Parry Sound's fabulous festivals: the famous summer Festival of Sound (a famed classical music festival), the ATV Jamboree, the RBC Parry Sound Dragon Boat Festival (a Canada Day Celebration), Pointe au Baril Arts on the Bay, Art in the Park, Tugfest, and more!

Art lovers simply must check out the extraordinary Parry Sound Station Gallery, which celebrates both local and international artists.

I myself have a personal connection to the Parry Sound. I was a counselor at a sleepover camp in the area. I didn't have much to do with the lake other than strutting my stuff on the docks and sunbathing on the grassy hills with friends on our breaks. And, though I didn't swim much at the time, the lake was stunning, and the skies were magnificently starry at night, when the campers went to bed and counselors got to play!

Occasionally, we'd leave the camp grounds and go in to town. I remember enjoying the pub life, the adorable craft and souvenir shops, and, of course, my best friend's cottage - where we'd go boating, jet skiing, hot tubbing and canoeing on days off. The cottage country was quiet, as I recall it, and magnificent.

Rent a cottage in Parry Sound this summer and enjoy all the beauty, fun, and spirit the town and its many lakes have to offer! There are dozens regions to choose from - among them, the stunning Bell Lake, Duck Lake, Isabella Lake, Little Whitefish, Robert's Lake, and Sugar Lake, and the Almaguin area, which includes Ahmic Harbour, Ardbeg, Arnstein , Bear Lake, Burks Falls, Callader, Commanda, Dunchurch, Emsdale, Golden Valley, Katrine, Kearney, Loring, McMurrich Monteith, Magnetawan, Novar, Perry, Port Loring, Powassan, Restoule, Ryerson, South River, Sprucedale, Strong, Sundridge, Trout Creek, Whitehall, Whitestone. All of these cottage country regions offer plenty of rental options.

Enjoy!

You can start your Parry Sound cottage rental search here: http://www.cottagecountry.com/region/parrysound/

Around the lake's edges you'll find such prime cottage destinations as Simcoe County, Durham Region, York Region, Barrie, Orillia, Thorah Island, and the quaint residential town of Georgina -- which includes such popular communities as Keswick, Jackson's Point, and Sutton -- and more!

Rent a cottage anywhere in Lake Simcoe and you'll find a wide variety of recreational activities. In the summer, enjoy swimming, chilling on the beach, boating, hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, golfing and more. In the winter, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and ice fishing opportunities abound. Indeed, Lake Simcoe is also known as the "Ice Fishing Capital" of Ontario! Year round, there's great theatre to enjoy, antique and home shoes, concerts, farmers markets, concerts, festivals - like Orillia Blues Festivals, the Beaverton/Canington/Sunderland Fall Fairs, and the famous Ontario Winter Carnivals.

When renting a cottage around Lake Simcoe be sure to take advantage of all the wonderful destinations in the area. Take a road trip to Barrie or Orillia, and visit Horseshoe Valley for great skiing and fall sugar bushes, for example, and party like a rock star at Wasaga Beach.

If you're around Jackson's Point, be adventurous and take in a play at the Red Barn Theatre. I did when I stayed at the Briars Resort during a business conference, and it was a definite highlight of the trip.

Rent a cottage on Lake Simcoe and enjoy the beauty of the scenery, the water and winter recreation, the communities, bustling cities, great shops, restaurants, festivals, beaches and more!

 To get you started, here's some essential safety gear:

 • Standard first-aid kit, including a manual, alcohol wipes, disinfectant, band aids, wound coverings, bandages, scissors, adhesive tape, any medications or extra epipens and fast-working antihistamines);
• 10 candles, windproof matches, and a wind-proof candle holder;
• Flashlight (preferably a rechargeable one);
• Batteries;
• Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors (tested regularly)
• Fire Extinguisher;
• Pot or kettle suitable for boiling water over an open flame;
• Hatchet or small axe;
• Enough bottled water to last 72 hrs, per person;
• Instant food and beverages (soups, hot cocoa, tea, protein bars);
• Can opener;
• Snack items in secure containers (cereals, pretzels, crackers);
• Extra pet food in secure containers;
• Don't forget the hats, sunglasses and sunscreen!

 Essential boating gear:

• Life jackets -- one per person;
• Sunscreen;
• An Oar;
• Blanket;
• A bucket or bowl for bailing out water;
• First-aid kit;
• Flashlight (for night boaters);
• Waterproof matches.

In the Winter, add the following to the list:

• Shovel;
• Waterproof, insulated boots;
• Spare clothing, hats, mittens, and thick blankets and/or sleeping bags;
• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries;
• Sand or cat litter (non-clumping) -- for traction;
• Booster Cables.

Some extra precautions:

• Children must always be supervised outside the cottage - particularly around WATER!
• Keep children and pets away from barbecue areas;
• Everyone should avoid swimming alone;
• Know your cottage's full address and emergency numbers;
• Know the location of the nearest hospital;
• Don't leave candles or campfire unattended;
• If your municipality allows campfires, build the fire with care - on exposed rock or bare soil, and keep a bucket of water or sand close by.

Following these safety guidelines will ensure your cottage holiday is the most memorable ever for the right reasons!