How To Prepare for Your Weekend Getaway

It's not too difficult to fill a weekend bag with the basics: clothes, shoes and some toiletries. Traveling to the Catskills is a casual vacation that doesn't require very much in terms of fancy clothes. However, there are some things to keep in mind that could make your weekend getaway much more comfortable.  Here is a guide for a great Catskills vacation.

Include the following for maximum comfort!
Bring layers, including fleece. The thing about going up to the country is that even during the summer, it can get cool at night. A decent fleece is always useful.

A hat is ideal when its cold, but make no mistake, when you are hiking or roaming about in spring and summer, its great protection from little critters flying about.

A flashlight might not seem like an obvious choice, but I can tell you that there are typically no street lamps in most areas, and you will find it pitch dark, especially if arriving late on a Friday night. That plus the occasional walk in the evening will make this a useful tool.

A bottle opener is just one of those things that you should keep around. You'll soon realize that whether its to pop off a top or unscrew a cork, you are out of luck if you don't have one.

Matches will come in handy if you have the option to start a garden fire, barbecue or simply wish to light a candle. While most rented cabins should have them, its such a small item to bring along and it sure does beat rubbing two sticks together.

Handiwipes are simply handy! If you go for a hike or explore the great outdoors at all, you might just find that there are only port-o-potties which means you won't have much of an option for cleaning up. Of course, an outdoor picnic would also be reason to want a quick wipe down.

Boots or shoes for muddy conditions, because no matter the season, unless you are going during a very dry time, you will find that rural = dirt. No need to mess up those new sneakers or pair of sandals. Pack wisely and plan for a bit of earthiness.

Snacks are essential for any getaway as far as I'm concerned. But when you arrive in the middle of nowhere, you will quickly find that most stores close at 7pm. It's just the way they do it and if you're feeling snacky, you'll wish you had a bag of chips and some bottled water.

Cash is golden! You are not going to no man's land, however while exploring farmers markets and the like, you will find that cash is the currency. Plus, if you're like me and refuse to pay banking fees, you will unlikely find your chosen commercial bank, though you can certainly come upon an ATM.  That's a personal choice.

Last, either print out or make a note of where you are traveling to if it's your first time. While cell towers are popping up all over to provide stronger connections, you will inevitably find pockets where you don't have service. If relying on GPS, it might fail you. So get a sense of the roadways you'll be taking before you leave, as it can only help.

Enjoy your trip!

Exploring Callicoon

There are many hamlets that comprise The Catskills and Callicoon is one of them. Similar to most of the towns nearby, it has a small residential population and a Main Street to provide basic needs to the community. In addition, there are a few restaurants, furnishing stores, a brewery and a charming old theater, which also accommodate the weekenders and visitors. When visiting the area, here are a few landmarks not to miss!

• Villa Roma, one of the famous resorts still standing, is located in Callicoon. It still plays host to many regularly visiting families year round and has even expanded to include a time share designation. With an indoor pool, golf course, spa and full calendar of events including dinner shows, it is a great location for those looking to keep it all under one roof.

• Sullivan County Farmers Market sets up every Sunday from May-November in the heart of town. There you will find many local farmers and artisans selling all kinds of veggies, fruits, honey, bread, woodwork, cheese, eggs, and even coffee! A delightful group of hardworking people who are happy to chit chat and share their knowledge.

• The Callicoon Theater was built in 1948 and is still a classic single-screen movie house that primarily shows independent films. While the 380-seat theater holds onto its 1940's post Art Deco accoutrement style, the projection and sound system is state-of-the-art and can accommodate a wide range of selections.

Callicoon is a special little town worth visiting when you make your way through area. Next up: Jeffersonville.