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Effortless Rental Group News Travel

Our Chief Content Officer, Becca visits Taranaki, New Zealand

As we drove along the potholed dirt road leading to our first real farm in New Zealand, we didn’t know what to expect. My friend and I had stayed with a few families who kept small veggie gardens or a couple of chickens. We had worked on a vineyard and painted a house on the coast near the sparkling Bay of Islands. But never before had we worked on a rare breeds farm with cows, horses, goats, donkeys, llamas… and that’s all we could gather from the blurry photos posted online. The farmer’s post asked for help designing signs and constructing a few buildings. It sounded perfect: I would paint, my friend would do the heavy lifting. We figured we’d stay a week or maybe two, but no longer as we were eager to continue south to the Tongariro Crossing trek and then to the capital city of Wellington.

Six weeks later, we packed up everything from our shepherd’s hut, a replica built by our host famer of those used in the 19th century. This tiny shack was no bigger than a closet, with a twin bed wedged into one side and a miniature desk nestled into the other. But it turned out this was all the space we needed—one of many ways we learned to live simply in those six weeks. That morning, as with every other morning on the farm, we opened our door to a field of animals that had woken up with the sun: a donkey rubbing its back on a tree with a goat teetering in the upper branches, a cow chomping grass with a baby alpaca running in front of it, swaying its legs from side to side as if in a joyful dance. We attempted to wedge the mementos of the last month and a half into our already overstuffed backpacks. A huge curled ram’s horn found on the side of the stream. A couple bottles of homebrewed ginger kombucha. A rubber castration ring that the farmer jokingly instructed me to pull out of my pocket and threaten to use when a guy gave me unwanted attention in a bar.

I didn’t paint one sign on the farm; my friend didn’t help with one construction project. Instead, we herded animals, helped sell meat and beeswax at the farmer’s market, and learned how to make cheese and bread. I milked the six mama goats twice a day, and the house cow, a stout Dexter named Susie who was about as wide as she was tall, every morning. We bottle-fed this milk to baby goats and sheep who had been separated from their mothers, drank it ourselves, and used it to make cheese and butter for the house. We gathered, harvested, or butchered all of our main food staples: fruit and veggies from the garden, meat from the field, eggs from the coop. Volunteers and friends came and went, but we typically had around ten people to feed every day. Even with a group this large, we produced only a small grocery bag of kitchen trash every two weeks. Growing and raising our own food allowed us to cut down our plastic waste, especially from packaging, to almost nothing. We were truly living off the land.

After saying our goodbyes to people and animals, my friend and I climbed into our car, still smelling like the bonfire from the night before. We drove past the site of the hangi, a traditional Maori method of cooking meat and vegetables on red-hot coals in a deep hole in the ground. We passed by the emu with a bad attitude, who flashed his red eyes and stepped forward with dinosaur feet as big as my face. I pulled out the curled ram’s horn and set it on our dashboard, where it rattled and jumped all the way down to Wellington, freeways replacing rivers, parking lots filling in fields.

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Effortless Rental Group News Travel

Rooms with a View

We know that one of your favorite parts of a vacation is just sitting back and relaxing, with no obligations or responsibilities. Whether it’s at a peaceful mountain resort or vibrant downtown loft, we want your chill time to be the best it can be. That’s why Effortless Rental Group offers a variety of properties with awesome views. Mountains, skyline, or the calm ripples of a lake—whatever you’re looking out on, we want the view to be a memorable part of your vacation. Check out our list below for our top six properties with the best views.

 

Stunning Home Main St—Walk Everywhere!

Breckenridge, CO

https://nightlyrenter.com/vacation-rentals/stunning-home-main-st-walk-everywhere-sleeps-10/

This Breckenridge paradise features amazing mountain views from the outdoor fireplace area, wraparound deck, and large picture windows. Located right on Main Street, you’ll be within walking distance to all of the amazing restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops that Breckenridge has to offer. Relax in the hot tub and soak in the tranquility of the Rockies.

Accommodates: 10
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3.5

 

Breckenridge Mountain Getaway Sleeps 10!

Breckenridge, CO

https://nightlyrenter.com/vacation-rentals/stunning-mountain-getaway-sleeps-10/

This bright luxury home is nestled in the lovely town of Breckenridge and has breathtaking views of the mountains. After a day of sightseeing or skiing, kick back on the large deck with seating and a grill, or unwind in the private hot tub. You’ll be in the perfect location for hiking and biking trails, family-friendly activities, vibrant nightlife, skiing, and much more.

Accommodates: 10
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3

 

Incredible Indian Hills Estate

Indian Hills, CO

https://nightlyrenter.com/vacation-rentals/stunning-indian-hills-estate-sleeps-24/

Panoramic views of the Colorado foothills and the highest standard of luxury make this six-bedroom estate an unforgettable place to stay. Picture windows throughout the estate bring the outdoors inside, providing natural light and spectacular views. With towering trees, horse riding trails, and snow-capped mountains in your backyard, nature will surround you everywhere you look.

Accommodates: 24
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 9

 

Walk to Mile High Stadium—Roof Deck!

Denver, CO

https://nightlyrenter.com/vacation-rentals/modern-walk-to-mile-high-stadium-roof-deck/

It doesn’t get much better than gazing at this fantastic view of the famous Denver skyline while you sip a drink on the rooftop patio of this beautiful home. Within walking distance to Mile High Stadium and Jefferson Park, you’ll be in the prime location to spend your days exploring the heart of the city.

Accommodates: 6
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1.5

 

Amazing Downtown Views at Larimer St!

Denver, CO

https://nightlyrenter.com/vacation-rentals/amazing-downtown-views-coors-field-larimer-st/

You’ll be right in the middle of all the downtown action in this completely remodeled condo in a terrific location. Lounge in your living room and watch bustling Denver spread out below. Stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and leather furniture give this property a sleek and modern feel, with easy access to downtown hotspots like Larimer Square and Coors Field.

Accommodates: 4
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1

 

Luxe 3 Story Loft Rooftop Deck!

Denver, CO

https://nightlyrenter.com/vacation-rentals/luxe-3-story-loft-rooftop-deck-city-views/

Jump right into all of the concerts, festivals, and exhibits that downtown Denver hosts year-round with a stay at this gorgeous 3-story loft centrally located near LoDo. Sit out on the rooftop deck and take in the amazing city views, especially at sunset! With high ceilings and large rooms, your group will have plenty of space to plan your Denver outings.

Accommodates: 8
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3

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Entertainment Events Travel

Denver Concert Calendar—October

Whether you’re soaking up the sun in the world-renowned Red Rocks Amphitheater or visiting great local venues like the Bluebird and the Fillmore, live music is everywhere you look in Denver. Check out the best concerts happening in October.

 

Oct. 2: Kings of Leon – Red Rocks

Oct. 3: Incubus – Red Rocks

Oct. 3: SG LewisLarimer Lounge

Oct. 4: Matchbox TwentyPepsi Center

Oct. 5: The Shins – Red Rocks

Oct. 6: Milky Chance – Fillmore Auditorium

Oct. 7: Weezer & X Ambassadors – Red Rocks

Oct. 9: The xx – Red Rocks

Oct. 10: KrewellaOgden Theatre

Oct. 10: The ScriptParamount Theatre

Oct. 12: Alison Krauss & David Gray – Red Rocks

Oct. 13: Tech N9ne – Red Rocks

Oct. 13: Zach Heckendorf – The Bluebird Theater

Oct. 14: HansonSummit Music Hall

Oct. 14: Imagine Dragons – Pepsi Center

Oct. 14-15: The War on Drugs – Ogden Theatre

Oct. 16: Red Hot Chili Peppers – Pepsi Center

Oct. 16: The Strumbellas – Summit Music Hall

Oct. 17: Janet Jackson – Pepsi Center

Oct. 18: Radical Face – The Bluebird Theater

Oct. 19-20: Deadmau5 – Red Rocks

Oct. 21: Bob Dylan & His Band 1stBank Center

Oct. 25: Arcade Fire – Pepsi Center

Oct. 26: Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band – Pepsi Center

Oct. 27: Blind MelonCervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom

Oct. 29: Halsey – Pepsi Center

Oct. 30: Bruno Mars – Pepsi Center

 

Categories
Entertainment Events Travel

Denver Culture Calendar—October

There’s so much going on in the Mile High City, it can be difficult to narrow down your options. So we’ve done it for you! Whatever you’re seeking for your next outing, Denver has it. Scroll through the gallery below to get a taste of October.

 

Comedy

Oct. 1: Rob LoweEllie Caulkins Opera House

Oct. 5-7: The Sklar BrothersComedy Works (South)

Oct. 6: Carlos MenciaParamount Theatre

Oct. 7: Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood – Paramount Theatre

Oct. 11: Adam Cayton-Holland – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Oct. 19-21: Jon Lovitz – Comedy Works (South)

Oct. 20: Mike Birbiglia – Paramount Theatre

Oct. 20-22: Jay Pharoah – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Oct. 22: Nick Offerman – Paramount Theatre

Oct. 28: Jay Leno – Paramount Theatre

 

Theater

Oct. 1-14: AppropriateCurious Theatre Company

Oct. 1-22: Girls Only: The Secret Comedy of WomenGarner Galleria Theatre & Bar

Oct. 1-28: The Legend of Sleepy HollowMiners Alley Playhouse, Golden

Oct. 1-29: Macbeth – Space Theatre

Oct. 1-Nov. 11: Once: A New MusicalMidtown Arts Center, Fort Collins

Oct. 6-Nov. 5: A Delicate BalanceThe Edge Theater

Oct. 7: Purple Rain: The Music of PrinceBoettcher Concert Hall

Oct. 13-15: Mozart’s Requiem – Boettcher Concert Hall

Oct. 13-Nov. 19: Smart PeopleRicketson Theatre

Oct. 17-29: Something Rotten!Buell Theatre

Oct. 26-27: Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas – Boettcher Concert Hall

Oct. 28: Halloween Spooktacular –  Boettcher Concert Hall

 

Museum Exhibits

Oct. 1-29: La Musidora – Denver Art Museum

Oct. 1-Nov. 12: Common Ground: Photographs by Fazal Sheikh, 1989-2013 – Denver Art Museum

Oct. 1-Jan. 21: Still & Art – Clyfford Still Museum

Oct. 1-May 19: Stampede: Animals in Art – Denver Art Museum

Oct. 3: Beers Made by Walking – Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Oct. 6-Jan. 15: Ultimate Dinosaurs – Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Oct. 6-Feb. 1: Conquest of the Skies 3D – Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Categories
Entertainment Events

Denver Culture Calendar—September

There’s so much going on in the Mile High City, it can be difficult to narrow down your options. So we’ve done it for you! Whatever you’re seeking for your next outing, Denver has it. Scroll through the gallery below to get a taste of September.

Comedy

Sep. 1-3: Noah GardenswartzComedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 1-3: Jon Dore – Comedy Works (South)

Sep. 4: Doug Benson – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 5: Bob Meddles – Comedy Works (South)

Sep. 6, 8-10: Monty Franklin – Comedy Works (South)

Sep. 9: Howie MandelBellco Theater

Sep. 10: Comedy Hypnotist Rusty Z – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep 11-12: Jim Breuer – Comedy Works (South)

Sep. 13: James Veitch – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 14-16: Tony Hinchcliffe – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 14-16: Bob Marley – Comedy Works (South)

Sep. 16: Tom Segura – Bellco Theater

Sep. 17: Phil Palisoul – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 19: Phil Palisoul – Comedy Works (South)

Sep. 20: Mitch Fatel – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 20: The Pump and Dump – Comedy Works (South)

Sep 21 – 23: Mike Finoia – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 24-25: Matt Holt – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 27: Adam Cayton-Holland – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 28-30: Nick Swardson – Comedy Works (Downtown)

Sep. 28: Brent Gill & Stephen Agyei – Comedy Works (South)

Sep. 29-30: Norm Macdonald – Comedy Works (South)

Theater

Aug. 17-Oct. 1: FrozenBuell Theatre @ DPAC

Sep. 1-Oct. 15: August: Osage CountyVintage Theatre

Sep. 9-Oct. 7: The Mystery of Love and SexThe John Hand Theater

Aug. 25-Sep. 17: Dinner – The Edge Theater Company

Jul. 7-Sep. 29: Fake Network News – The Bovine Metropolis Theater

Jul. 8-Sep. 30: Heirs of Hogwarts – The Bovine Metropolis Theater

Sep. 15-Oct. 29: MacbethSpace Theatre @ DPAC

Sep. 16-Sep. 17: Belleville – The John Hand Theater

Sep. 21-Oct. 22: Girls Only – The Secret Comedy of WomenGarner Galleria Theatre @ DPAC

Sep. 21-Nov. 18: The Snowy DayConservatory Theatre @ DPAC

Museum Exhibits

Nov. 13-Sept. 14: Destination Solar System – Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Aug. 13-Nov. 12: Common Ground – Denver Art Museum

Apr. 1-Dec. 1: Tripod Photography at the Butterfly Pavilion – Butterfly Pavilion

Jun. 16-Jan. 1: Nature’s Amazing Machines – Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Sep. 13: Saber Acomodar | Opening Celebration – Museum of Contemporary Art Denver

May 27-Sep. 10: The Western: An Epic In Art And Film – Denver Art Museum