Cabin Fever

While some gay men still identify with Carrie Bradshaw, few of us would freak out the way she did over a squirrel in the SATC episode where she visited Aiden’s cabin. Mind you, we would never get as full-on crunchy as Carrie's ex during a forest retreat, but we definitely get our rustic on—usually by infusing the experience with a heaping tablespoon of Martha Stewart (bringing along a bear never hurts either). And we've compiled some of the gay essentials for a great log cabin experience. 

Ask questions about the cabin beforehand:
You want to go rustic, not Third World, so find out if a prospective rental has a TV and DVD player. Yes, you’ll be mountain climbing by day, but at night you and your fellow campers will be aching for some camp entertainment. Internet access is also important for finding points of interest, local activities, road maps and weather updates. And bring sleeping bags: Better to sleep in your own bedding than the blanket and sheets found in a rental. 

Bring food and beverages:
The local general store should be fine for buying fresh produce and meat for the grill, but you probably won't find health conscious edibles. Plan ahead by stocking up on almonds, dark chocolate and canned fish. And fill your ice chest with light beer, because nothing makes a better chaser than crisp mountain air. Besides, flavored Vodka cocktails do not go with rock-climbing boots.

Plan for lakefront activities:
Though lakefront temperatures are often cooler than ocean beaches, the sun is still strong, so you'll need to bring plenty of sunscreen. And remember that most ocean beaches are located in cosmopolitan areas, while most lakes are in rural settings. Which means that rocking a red speedo probably won't go down well. Boardshort style trunks are more appropriate.

Don’t forget the essentials: 
Even though you may spend the nighttime hours burning pinecones in the fireplace, you may need to wonder outside in the dark, so don’t forget a powerful flashlight and plenty of batteries. And biting bugs are a bummer, which makes a first aid kit that includes insect repellent and anti-itch cream another essential. Mosquito bites and infected scrapes are not relaxing.

And most important of all:
Seeing the sites is recommended, but the goal of vacation is to relax. That should be at the top of your "to do" list