3/2/05 - Article written for Metro Editorial Services

Vacationing – Backyard-style

Planning a vacation? Your destination could be closer than you think. Without the hassle of budgeting, packing, and heavy traffic, an escape to a restful spot could be as close as outside your back door.

When you create a vacation oasis in your backyard, there are unlimited places you can discover. You only need to include a personal magic carpet – a hammock. With the variety of styles and designs, hammocks can create an escape that is a solitary journey or one in the company of loved ones curled up for a comfy ride. Finding the perfect hammock for your backyard vacation is easy with only a short trip through the following points from the hammock travel experts.

Choosing Your Vacation Hammock -- The most popular hammock is handwoven of rope. Hammocks also are available with colorfast quilted fabric beds. The comfort of rope hammocks comes from contouring to the user's body and providing a floating-on-air feel – a true magical carpet. Quilted fabric hammocks, though slightly more expensive, are perfect for those who prefer a full fabric bed when lounging. Both style hammocks can be colorful and comfortable with the use of DuraCord® a new performance yarn used in hammock ropes and fabrics. So your vacation is enjoyed without mishap, there also are safety issues to keep in mind. Laurie Rudd, creative director for The HammockSource, manufacturers of Hatteras Hammocks and The Original Pawleys Island Rope Hammocks, points out, “Items to look for in a rope hammock are weight and amount of rope in the bed. The more rope, the stronger and the more comfortable the hammock will be.” Heavy-duty steel end hardware also should accompany your hammock for hanging safely. Most hammocks are made for two-person lounging with a weight capacity in excess of 400 lbs. In hanging the hammock, attention should be given to making sure the structure from which the hammock is hung will hold the weight planned for the hammock.

Travel Accessories … Your backyard vacation spot is limitless in location with the addition of accessories. Whether on your deck or next to a favorite garden, a hammock stand solves the need for two perfectly positioned trees. “ Most hammocks will come with hooks for hanging from a tree or post, while a large variety of stands are available for those who wish to change your vacation location,” states Chuck Sineath, president of Nags Head Hammocks. The most popular and safest stand available is made of steel and has a weight capacity of from 450 to 600 pounds. It easily assembles without the need for any tools. But, no vacation would be complete without a comfy place to lay your head…in this case, a hammock pillow. “Weather resistant fabrics are used to craft large, beautiful hammock pillows that accommodate two-person relaxing and can dress up the look of the hammock,” relates J.R. Pelletier, manager of internet retailer, TheHammockCompany.com.

Return Visits… Once your hammock is situated in your vacation spot, maintaining it for years to come is important. Quality hammocks are built for long life in the outdoors and easy clean up when they encounter the elements. A mild soap solution removes most outdoor dirt while keeping it out of direct sunlight and rain whenever possible.

Restful Vacation Guaranteed… Whether with a good book or unused travel brochures, a cool drink or a warm hug, a vacation is sure to happen each and every time you escape outside your door on your magical carpet… your hammock. And best of all, with vacationing backyard-style, you are assured that it is one vacation that won't require a rest upon your return. For more information contact www.pawleys.com ; www.nagsheadhammocks.com ; or www.hammock-company.com.