Monday, December 22, 2014

Christmas Traditions Explained

Christmas is a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate together.  Each family has their own traditions they carry out year after year, while other traditions started long ago and are celebrated all across the country.  Do you know why we decorate a tree and drink eggnog for the holidays?  Your Lake Vacation has the answers to how several of these Christmas traditions began!

Decorating the Christmas Tree


Evergreen fir trees have been a winter tradition for thousands of years. Many early Christmas trees were actually hung upside down from the ceiling with chains, while others were put into pots and brought inside with hopes of flowering by Christmas. Sometimes trees were even carried around from house to house rather than being displayed inside the home. The first person to bring a Christmas tree into the home, the way we know it today, may have been Martin Luther, the 16th century German preacher. However, there are many stories of the how the Christmas tree came into being.

The first Christmas trees started in Germany and were decorated with edible things, such as gingerbread and gold covered apples. Then glass makers started making special small ornaments similar to some of the decorations we use today. In the beginning, a baby Jesus was put on top of the tree, but that later turned into either an angel that told the shepherds about Jesus or a star like the Wise Men saw. The first Christmas trees to come to Britain were sometime during the 1830s. They became even more popular in 1848 when a drawing of "The Queen's Christmas Tree at Windsor Castle" was published in the London News. The publication of the drawing brought the Christmas tree tradition to the United States.  

Hanging Mistletoe


Have you ever kissed someone under the Mistletoe at Christmas? The tradition of hanging it actually dates back to the times of the ancient druids. Supposedly, it possess mystical powers which bring good luck to the household and wards off evil spirits.  According to Norse mythology, Mistletoe was used as a sign of love and friendship, and that's where the tradition of kissing under it comes from.

Legend says that Balder, the god of the summer sun, was destined to die. His mother and wife went to every living thing to beg for kindness.  However, they failed to notice the Mistletoe and Badur was killed by an arrow made from the wood of a Mistletoe plant. The lesson here was to never forget about the Mistletoe, which is why it is hung in the doorways.  We kiss under it to remember what Baldur's wife and mother forgot.  The custom comes to us from England, where originally a berry was picked from the sprig of Mistletoe before the person could be kissed. Once all the berries were gone, there would be no more kissing!

Drinking Eggnog 


Does drinking a glass of eggnog get you into the Christmas spirit?  For some people, eggnog is an important part of their Christmas traditions. The beverage is made of eggs, sugar and cream, which is often flavored with nutmeg and spiked with alcohol. The beverage originated as a wintertime drink for British aristocracy because only the wealthy could afford the ingredients. They added expensive liquors like brandy and sherry to keep the drink from spoiling. Eggnog came to the Unites States colonies in the 18th century, where the drink was changed to include rum because it was easier to get their hands on. The name "eggnog" actually comes from two colonial slang words: grog, the word for rum and noggins, the word for the small wooden mugs that bartenders served it in. The drink became known as egg-n-grog and was later changed to eggnog.

Singing Christmas Carols


The tradition of Christmas carols actually began in Europe thousands of years ago. However, in the beginning, they were pagan songs sung at Winter Solstice celebrations.  People danced around stone circles and the word "Carol" originally meant to dance to something, such as a song of praise or joy. Carols used to be written for each season, but the tradition of actually singing them has only survived through Christmas.

Early Christians all over Europe took over the pagan celebration, writing new Christian "Christmas Carols" to replace the pagan songs. Since most of the songs were written in Latin, by the Middle Ages most people has lost interest.  St. Francis Assisi changed this in 1223 when he started his Nativity Plays in Italy. The carols were typically sang in the language of the audience, so they would be able to join in.  Therefore, these new carols began to spread all across Europe. Before caroling in public became popular, there were sometimes unofficial carolers called "Waits." These were band of people led by local leaders who had the power to take money from the public.  (If others did this, they were considered beggars.)  Carol services, often by Candlelight also became popular. Both of these traditions are still popular today, all around the world.

Exchanging Christmas Gifts 


The tradition of giving and receiving gifts at Christmas began as a reminder of the gifts given to Jesus by the Wise Men, Frankincense, Golf and Myrrh. Christmas itself is a celebration of the largest present ever given to us, Jesus. John 3:16 reads, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." All over the world, families and friends give gifts to each other over the holidays. Another tradition related to gifts, is that of Santa Claus. Many children around the world believe in someone who brings them gifts each year on the night before Christmas. Although Christmas is celebrated a little differently in each country, the tradition of gift giving has a strong presence in each culture.

Sources:
http://www.whychristmas.com/customs/
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/mistletoe-the-evolution-of-a-christmas-tradition-10814188/?page=1
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2014/12/22/christmas-traditions-explained-eggnog/19796657/

Your Lake Vacation wishes you and your family a very Merry Christmas!  If you'd like to take a Christmas vacation to the Lake of the Ozarks, it's not too late to take advantage of our Holiday Special.  Between now and January 2nd, when you pay for 2 nights, you can get another 2 nights for free! Contact us today at 877-284-0267 to setup your reservations!

For more information please call us toll free at 1-877-284-0267!!
4571 Osage Beach Pkwy, Suite A
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Local - 573-365-3367
Fax - 573-365-5076  

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Water's Edge Condominium Rentals at Lake of the Ozarks

Water's Edge Condominiums at the Lake of the Ozarks are the perfect vacation spot for renters and owners alike.  The complex offers a very nice, large outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court and a small playground.  The condos are perfect for single families or family reunions at the Lake of the Ozarks.  We have multiple 1, 2 and 3 units available for nightly rental. Located on the 13 mile marker of the Lake and only 3.5 miles down Horseshoe Bend, Water's Edge Condominiums are centrally located among all the activities you'll want to enjoy at the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks!

Water's Edge 11-1A 


This 2 bedroom, 2 bath second tier condo features a King and a Queen bed, Queen sleeper sofa, 3 TVs, DVD player, stereo and high speed internet. Located near the pool, this nautical themed condo will sleep 6 comfortably.

Water's Edge 12-2A 


Renovated in early 2012, this 2 bedroom, 2 bath second tier condo features a King and a Queen bed, Queen sleeper sofa, dining room seating for 6 and a deck with a gas grill.  This condo is also close to the pool and will sleep 6.

Water's Edge 20-2B


This 3 bedroom, 3 bath waterfront condo features a King, a Queen, 2 Fulls and a Queen sleeper sofa. All 3 bedrooms have deck access, with a gas grill for you to enjoy.

Water's Edge 22-2B


This beautiful 3 bedroom, 3 bath waterfront condo comes with an exquisite view of the main channel and has been beautifully decorated with leather and rattan furniture giving you the feel and flavor of the tropics. The condo features two Kings and a Queen bed and will sleep up to 6 people.

Water's Edge 25-3A


You will enjoy a nice view of the main channel from the deck of this 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo. Features of the condo include 2 Kings, a Queen and a Queen sleeper sofa, full kitchen, dining area and deck with a gas grill.

Water's Edge 32-2B


New to our program in 2013, this large 3 bedroom, 3 bath waterfront condo features a great layout with 2 master suites. The condo will sleep 8 people and includes 2 Kings, 2 Fulls and a Queen sleeper sofa.



Your Lake Vacation has been serving Lake of the Ozarks vacationers since 1986.  We have helped thousands of guests with their vacation planning and hosted more than 10,000 guests staying more than 40,000 nights in the past 25 years. With everything from one bedroom condos to 5 bedroom waterfront homes at the Lake of the Ozarks, we have you and your group covered. Contact us at 877-284-0267 to start your 2015 vacation planning today!

For more information please call us toll free at 1-877-284-0267!!
4571 Osage Beach Pkwy, Suite A
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Local - 573-365-3367
Fax - 573-365-5076  

Monday, December 8, 2014

How to Maximize Your Vacation Rental Property

Understanding our Lake of the Ozarks vacation rental season is the key to maximizing your property. Since we have a very unique vacation season here at the Lake of the Ozarks, properly understanding that season can help you be more successful in your vacation rental ownership experience. Here are a few things for you to consider when it comes to renting out your vacation rental property.

Lake of the Ozarks Rental Season


Effectively, the rental season at the Lake runs from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. This past year, 83% of all our rentals occured during that time period. Within that rental season there is a nine week "prime" rental season that runs from the middle of June through the middle of August. Sixty-four percent of all our rentals occured during that short time frame. Compared with many other vacation areas, this is a very short rental season. Once you realize that 83% of all your rentals may occur in the span of 15 weekends, which represents only 29% of the entire year, you can prepare for that short rental season.

Reconsider Handing Out Discounts 


During thr prime season, don't be so quick to give discounts. During those nine prime weeks, there's very little availability around the Lake, so there is not much need to discount. Also try to avoid shorter rentals durin that time. Depending on the size (number of bedrooms) of your property, you should  not take a 2 night rental, especially with larger properties (4+ bedrooms). In 2013, our larger homes averaged 4.31 nights per rental, so taking a two night rental would mean giving up 50% of your potential income during that period.

If you are going to discount, do so wisely. Obviously you will have to discount during the Winter months where almost any rental is like found money. During the Spring and Fall, prior to Memorial Day and after Labor Day, you may have to discount to compete with other rental properties at the Lake of the Ozarks. During the summer, a good time to discount is during the week. If you typically only fill up the weekends, then discounting Monday through Thursday may increase your rentals and fill your unoccupied nights.

Ensure You Have What People Are Looking For 


The other way to maximize your property is by ensuring you have what the vacationing public is looking for in a vacation rental at the Lake of the Ozarks. These days you need to have WiFi, flat screen TVs, an updated nice looking decor and everything needs to be in good working order. If you don't, potential guests will pass you over for places that look nicer and have better amenities. These things are also important for building your repeat business clientele.

In addition to what's inside your home or condo, people are looking for a great location and/or great amenities.  Most people vacationing at the Lake of the Ozarks want to be right on the water, where they can sit out on the deck enjoying the view.  If you have a condo you're renting rather than a home, people are looking for what the complex offers.  Most people want a pool and owning a condo at a place with an indoor pool is a bonus because you can rent more often during the off season.

If you're in the market and looking for a great rental property or think you might have a great potential Lake of the Ozarks rental property, don't hesistate to give me a call at 573-365-3367.  I would love to speak with you!  Happy Renting!

Russell Burdette is the owner of Your Lake Vacation, a professional vacation rental management company at the Lake of the Ozarks since 1986.  If you would like more info on renting your home or condo as a vacation rental, please call 573-365-3367 or email russell@yourlakevacation.com.

For more information please call us toll free at 1-877-284-0267!!
4571 Osage Beach Pkwy, Suite A
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Local - 573-365-3367
Fax - 573-365-5076  

Monday, December 1, 2014

2 Bedroom Condo on the Big Niangua Arm of Lake of the Ozarks

Cedar Glen Condo


This two bedroom, two bath condo is located at the 13 mile marker on the Big Niangua Arm off the main channel of the Lake of the Ozaks just a few minutes South of Camdenton.

The unit overlooks the Lake and is close to the heated lakeside pool.  Complex amenities include a playground, horseshoe pit/volley ball area, boat ramp and boat trailer parking.  Also conveniently located close to one of Missouri's best state parks, Ha Ha Tonka.

The living area includes a sectional sofa, large flat screen tv, stereo and access to the deck overlooking the lake.  The dining area seats four at the table with room for 2-3 more at the breakfast bar.  Full kitchen is adjacent to the dining and living rooms.

The Master Bedroom features a King Bed, flat screen tv, private bath with a jetted tub and access to the deck.  The Guest Bedroom features a Full Bed and a Full over Full Bunk Bed and a flat screen tv and is located just off the kitchen area.

Other features include a gas fireplace, full sized washer/dryer, wifi, ceiling fans in both bedrooms & the living room and a 12 x 32 boat slip in the community dock.

If you enjoy golf at the Lake of the Ozarks, you are situated next to Lake Valley Golf Club and within five minutes of Old Kinderhook. And for those who love the outdoors you are within five minutes of Ha Ha Tonka and about 15 minutes from Bridal Cave Park.

Camdenton is less than 10 minutes away where you will find plenty of stores including grocery, Walmart, fast food and not so fast food (there are some really good Mexican and Asian Cuisine restaurants) as well as local shopping.  And you are less than 25 minutes away from Osage Beach where you can enjoy fine dining, attractions, shopping and more!

Take advantage of our Holiday Specials and try out the newest condo on our program!  Stay in one of our many homes or condos at the Lake of the Ozarks between now and January 1, 2015 to get 4 nights for the price of 2!  Plus you can add a turkey or ham dinner for 10-12 people with all the fixin's for just $75. Contact us at 877-284-0267 to setup your Lake of the Ozarks vacation rental reservations today!

For more information please call us toll free at 1-877-284-0267!!
4571 Osage Beach Pkwy, Suite A
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Local - 573-365-3367
Fax - 573-365-5076