Support local wineries and Cherryland Humane Society when you Visit Up North happening this weekend

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Help a good cause and have some fun too!

Monday, June 27-Monday, July 4: Pours for Paws to benefit Cherryland Humane Society

Participating Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association members will be each feature a special wine during a promotion to benefit the Cherryland Humane Society, with proceeds donated to the organization. Wineries have the option of running the special throughout the entire week or any part thereof. Participating wineries are Gill’s Pier (Ankle Biter), Chateau de Leelanau (Solem Farm Red), L. Mawby (Greene), Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor (Abbondanza), Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay (Red House Red with special Cherryland Humane Society custom labels), Willow (Baci Rosé), Good Harbor (Manitou), Forty-Five North (Forty-Five White), Good Neighbor Organic (Icy Apple Blend) and Bel Lago (cherry wine). For more information on the campaign, contact Gill’s Pier at (231) 256.7003. For more information on Cherryland Humane Society, visit www.cherrylandhumanesociety.org.

Dog by Pyramid Point
Need a place to stay? Visiti Up North Vacation Rentals will take 10% off of your reservation for new reservations that book during the date of June 27-July 4.

Beach etiquette so we all can keep enjoying our beautiful beaches in Northern Michigan

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treaslk

Take your trash with you:

Not only is trash and food waste on the beach an eyesore that can end up suffocating sealife, it attracts birds and wildlife that end up defecating on the sand. This ends up contributing to the already problematic sewage problem, says Nancy Stoner, director of the Natural Resources Defense Council’s clean water project. She advocates disposing trash in lidded bins, or if those are not available, containing the trash and packing it out yourself.

No leaky diapers:

“When it says swim diaper, that doesn’t mean [the waste is] self contained,” Stoner said. “I know this from personal experience. Plastic pants are the way to go.”

Outfiit your baby with the best diaper using Green Guide’s “Diapers Buying Guide.”

Pick up pet waste:

“Pet waste is a big problem and so easily solved by scooping up the waste,” Stoner adds.

Smoking ban:

During the coastal cleanup, volunteers found more than 3.2 million cigarette butts and filters. If you have to smoke, don’t leave evidence.

Stick to organic sunscreens, cosmetics, and insect repellent:

Research has shown that some sunscreen compounds suspected to be endocrine disruptors are finding their way into fish tissue. Scientists have said some of these could alter reproductive function and birth weight in fish. Not all ultraviolet filters have harmful materials, but to be safe, try to use natural ingredients. The possible synergistic human health and environmental affects of residue from the hundreds of chemical compounds in cosmetics and personal care products give water quality experts a real fright.
(excerpt from National Geo Go Green)

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Deer Crossing Northern Michigan Visit Up North Travel safe

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For our furry friends the deer, this is the season to run across the road. You are more likely to see more deer this time of the year. Some practical preparation before you travel can help to keep encounters with these animals from becoming a tragedy.

If a deer crosses your path, brake firmly and hold onto the steering wheel with both hands. Steer to maintain control of the vehicle, and stop safely within your lane or along the shoulder of the road.

Most motorist deaths and injuries occur when drivers swerve to avoid hitting the deer and lose control of the vehicle. Drivers crash into roadside ditches, strike objects such as trees or other cars, or roll over. Not veering, however, greatly increases your ability to control your vehicle.

“No one wants to see a deer destroyed, but striking the animal is often the safest action,” states Community Safety Services, AAA Michigan.

To avoid deer-vehicle collisions, keep these tips in mind while driving.

Become familiar with the deer-crossing areas along routinely traveled roadways. (there is a reason for deer crossing signs on our highways)

If you see one deer, assume there are more on either side of the road. They are herd animals and they travel in groups.

Be especially alert at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active.

Don’t rely on vehicle-mounted or roadside deer-warning devices. Flashing your high-beams headlights or honking your horn also won’t deter deer.

All motorists should “think deer” whenever they are behind the wheel. The most effective way to avoid a collision is to watch for deer at all times.And, remember, “Don’t Veer for Deer.”

Have a safe trip!

Looking for a great management company? Visit Up North Vacation Rentals can make renting your cottage, condo or home a breeze

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Look at what we can do for you!

Do you enjoy the unsurpassed beauty of Northern Michigan?
Do you enjoy the familiar sense of community that a small town readily offers you?
Do you enjoy the abundant recreation of walking the awesome beaches, festivals, swimming, boating & fishing?
Are you finding it is rare or never that you get to enjoy your vacation home?

With almost 30 years of experience managing vacation rentals, Visit Up North Vacation Rentals, LLC (formerly Harris Properties, Inc.) offers the most comprehensive package of owner services available. Our management is a complete turn-key solution that provides everything you could require in a first-class rental management program. At Visit Up North Vacation Rentals we love what we do and we do it well. Let us take away all of the work and make your vacation home a profitable one.

Contact Us 800-901-8922

Discount rental services just don’t provide the quality experience that keeps guests coming back year after year. And doing it yourself will surely cost you time, money and aggravation, precious time most just do not have. So go with the pros – we handle everything!

Conveniently located, new office in the heart of downtown Traverse City offers convenience for customers and owners.

Friendly, knowledgeable reservation staff

24 hour toll free reservation lines

Online reservations (“real-time” with several pictures of unit)

Almost 30 years in business – A huge pool of returning renters ready to rent your home

Advertising through numerous publications

Very Successful Internet marketing program in Northern Michigan

Courtesy call to renters prior to check-in, plus mail confirmation

Linen/Laundry service

After hours emergency line

First-rate cleaning service

Deep cleaning as requested

Monthly owner statements

State tax compliance

Real-time future rental reports

Maintenance staff

Interior Design Services

Annual evaluations

Inspects your home after each tenant

Accepts credit cards no fees to owner

Please contact us at our Traverse City office at
800-901-8922 for more details or information packet. Teresa or April will be happy to assist you with this big step of renting your home or condo.

So many reasons to visit Traverse City See what others think of this terrific location

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christmasCove2010

AOL Travel News (June 2010) gave Traverse City the #8 spot in its list of America’s Top Ten Beach Towns, and named Traverse City one of the Top 10 “Coolest Towns in the States.”

TripAdvisor.com (May 2010) listed Traverse City in second place in “Our Top 10 Charming Small Towns.” (First Place went to Carmel, CA. We can live with that.)

Livability.com (April 2010) listed Traverse City in first place in its Top 10 list of Surprising Foodie Towns, after surveying 200 American cities.

TripAdvisor.com (Oct. 2009) listed Traverse City as one of America’s Top 10 Wine Destinations.

Midwest Living placed TC in first place in its list of the Midwest’s Five Top Food Towns in 2009 and 2010.

USA Today (Oct. 2010) named Traverse City one of the Top 10 Places to Enjoy Local Wine.

Bon Appetit (Sept. 2010) named Traverse City one of America’s Five Top Foodie Towns.

NationalGeographic.com (Oct. 2009) listed Traverse City as one of America’s Top Adventure Towns.

Money Magazine (Sept. 2009) listed Traverse City as #3 on its list of 25 Best Places to Retire.

Triathlete Magazine (Oct. 2010) said Traverse City is “one of the top Tri towns in the US”.

TripAdvisor.com (Oct. 2010) named Traverse City as one of America’s Top 10 Fall Foliage Destinations.

USA Weekend (July 2009) listed Traverse City as #4 in its list of Five Great Towns to Retire to.

The pleasure of Old Mission Peninsula stay here and be enchanted

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alohakingbedroom

Make this lovely home your escape. Mention this post and receive $50.00 off of your new reservation. (not good on reservation already made)
When you enter this home you will be welcomed by the sound of water trickling down a waterfall stream. Around the corner are soaring ceilings with gentle light filtering through the expansive great room/living room. Sit and relax in the comfort of this peaceful home and relax in luxury. The Aloha house is for that discerning guest that wants the best and values their privacy. Located in a wooded setting, the loft offers pocket views of the Bay and sits above one of this areas premier wineries. The gourmet kitchen is fully stocked for preparing meals or mixing cocktails. If part of your vacation involves work, a convenient work station is located in the great room area with internet access.

This 5 bedroom 3.5 bath home sleeps up to 11 guests with a spectacular master bedroom with King bed and a spa bath/shower that is not to be missed. Sink into the jetted tub for two and relax after a hard day of play and enjoy the 2 sided fireplace. Large walk in shower also provided. 2 additional main floor bedrooms with King & Full. Half bath features a Peruvian butterfly collection set into the window. 2 bedrooms with King and Queen and bath are located on the lower level walkout.
alohastaircase
For evening dining, an enclosed lanai makes for a fun area to eat and drink. Turn up the gas tiki lights and sit around the firepit and make some memories with your family and friends. Upper lanai boasts views of the bay and the winery. Lower level has separate entrance with an additional lanai in the woods. Cable/DVD/Internet. Central Air Cond., High efficiency Washer/Dryer, Dishwasher, gas fireplace, central vacuum. Linens are included. Small pet considered. No Smoking. Sun-Sun.

Old Mission Peninsula is host to many of the best wineries in the state. Situated on east and west bay enjoy spectacular views as you tour this beautiful location. 15 miles to downtown Traverse City. Enjoy summer fesitvals, tallships on the Bay, great shopping, dining and so much more. Quaint farmer markets and road side stands offer local bounty of tasty treats. This is a not to be missed location!
Old Mission Peninsula included in “Top 10 for ’10″ Travel Destinations Posted: 1/8/2010 A Grand Traverse County gem is being recognized as one of the top travel destinations in the world. The Chicago Sun-Times recently named Old Mission Peninsula as one of the “Top 10 for ’10″ to visit. The article calls it the “Nearby Napa”. The reporter notes the area is spectacular to take a bike ride from vineyard to vineyard. “(Old Mission Peninsula is) up there with Bavaria in Germany and Hong Kong and South Korea, so it’s really a recognition off a world class destination, which, of course, we are,” Marie-Chantal Dalese, marketing director for Chateau Chantal, said. The Chicago Sun-Times also ran an article this summer, calling the area “Michigan’s Grape Escape” for cyclists to visit the vineyards and wineries.

AOL lists Traverse City one of ten top beaches in the U.S.A.

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R1-30

If beautiful beaches aer your thing look no further. Visit Traverse City Michigan! Rent a cottage or condo with Visit Up North Vacation Rentals. Call today 800-901-8922.

8. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City’s tawny beaches and towering dunes merit the moniker Malibu of Michigan. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features wilderness islands, trails through diverse ecosystems, and preserved historic farmsteads. This part of Michigan has a deep history and South Manitou Island, reachable by ferry, recreates pioneer days from old schoolhouse to 1871 lighthouse while area museums celebrate everything from steam railroads to Scandinavian heritage. Traverse City’s Victorian downtown boasts hundreds of galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Foodies should pick up a Tasty Traverse guide if they want to chat with brewers and bakers, fromageres and fishermen. There are also those great American summer activities like mini-golf, bumper boats, go karts, and video arcades. Early July brings the famous National Cherry Festival with arts-and-crafts fairs, air shows, and cherries baked, pressed, and jammed in every way possible.

dogsplayonbeach

5 reasons to Take a Girls trip & Visit Up North-Traverse City Northern Michigan fun

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For a fun filled weekend head to Traverse City-the city by the Bay! This welcoming waterfront community has it all. 5 reasons to go now:
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You want to reconnect with nature

For those looking to escape the bustle of busy city life, this area boasts wide open spaces of lush areas of natural beauty, big blue water, twinkling starry nights and cool fresh air. Climb the Sleeping Bear Dune, hike the Boardman River natural area, rent a bike and tour on the Tart Trail. These are just a few of the opportunities to reconnect with nature. At the end of the day you will feel relaxed, stress free ready for the next exciting adventure.

Explore your artistic side

The Traverse City and surrounding area is home to more than 35 art galleries. Featuring local and national artists you will be more than inspired by the creative force that lives in this community. Art festivals are featured at different times of the year in each small waterfront village thru the fall months. Need to be even more inspired? Take one of the many one and two day art workshops. Visit www.artcentertraversecity.com for more information.


You want to drink wine

Traverse City & the surrounding area are home to 24 wineries and counting. The wines of this area are rivaling some of the countries most tasteful wines. You will not be disappointed and surely will bring home a bottle or two of one of the many delicious wines. Start your wine journey on Old Mission Peninsula. Currently hosting 7 wineries make sure to visit them all. 2 Lads Winery, Chateau Chantal, Bowers Harbor and Peninsula Cellars to name a few. Enjoy free tours and tastings!pouraglass of wine

After your tour of Old Mission travel over to Leelanau Peninsula. Here you will enjoy 17 wineries. Also offering free tours and tastings you will not be disappointed when sampling the tasty nectar of the vines. Your tour takes you along the M-22 corridor along Grand Traverse Bay. Your first stop heading north will be Shady Lanes Winery featuring excellent reislings and chardonnays. Right down the road visit Willow Vineyards, Ciccone Wineries (yes Madonnas Dad owns this) L.Mawby, Chateau Leelanau and Black Star Farms. Continue north to visit the 12 other wineries waiting for your visit.


Unleash you wild side

After enjoying all the day time fun it is time to put on your party shoes and enjoy a little night life. Park you car downtown and walk to the many venues that offer something different behind every door. North Peak Brewery offers casual dining and micro brews. Favored by many locals the weekend finds standing room only but is worth the wait. Union Street Station & Shimmers offer music and dancing. Lil Bo’s and Mackinaw Brewery also offer a little local flare to hang out and meet a new friend. Check local listings to see where live music and specials are in this great town.

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Indulge yourself

All this fun starts to sound like work! Treat yourself to some local treats of heavenly chocolate confections at Phils on Front (great drink specials too) or Jacque Torres Chocolates (goes great with all that wine you purchased) also downtown Traverse City on Front St. Enjoy local spa services or have them come straight to you at your location. See local guides for details. Visit Up North Vacation Rentals Cottages and Condos has a perfect place for you to stay. Relax in front of a fireplace looking over one of the beautiful lakes this area enjoys. No matter which way you look at it this is a perfect location to get away for a few days with friends. The last reason to come? Take $100.00 off of your new reservation by mentioning this post. Good on new reservations from Nov 22 2010- March 15 2011.ladolcevita 038