We just had our first glamping trip ever, at Autocamp, Russian River, California. And we are completely hooked! For those who don't know, glamping (short for glamorous camping) is a new a kind of travel, which offers those who prefer sleep outdoor an updated on rest and recreation. We didn't pitch any tent, or unroll our sleeping bags, instead, we slept, cooked and grilled outside a beautiful designed airstream.

Autocamp is located among the Redwood Forest by the Russian River, in California. It is about 1.5 hours drive from San Francisco (pass the Golden Gate Bridge) without traffic. When we arrived, the friendly staff welcomed and checked us into our Airstream. Waiting for us in the cabin, were wine, tons of snacks, bags of firewoods (there is grill just outside the door) and many packages of S' mores. Then we had a quick look-around at our little home for three days. Inside this newly renovated airstream, there is a bed with super comfy mattresses, soft linen and pillows. Then it is the living area, consists of a kitchen (you can find almost everything you need here, cups, mugs, plates, grill pans, coffee machine, spices, knives, etc.) and a pullout couch (with plenty of blankets), then it is the bathroom. And what a chic bathroom it is. One of the things put me off from camping is not to be able to use a proper bathroom, but not at this place. I was totally smitten with the entire design of the auto home.

During our stay, we visited some local places as well as grilled some food on our own at the camping site. There is actually a great breakfast place just outside the camp site. If you drive 5 mins along the road, you will get to the town, where you can find many great cafes and restaurants. Safeway (supermarket) is also just 5 mins drive away, which we bought many fruits, firewoods and things we like to grill.

In terms of activities, we hiked in the Armstrong Redwood Forest, which is just 10 mins drive (you can also the biked provided by Autocamp to get there). The kids rowed the kayak in the Russian River (which is actually super shallow, so it is safe). In the late afternoon, we always stayed at the camp site and lighted up the fire. The kids played the games and and helped me with cooking.

All in all, our first glamping experience is way beyond what we have imagined. The kids enjoyed it so much that they didn't want to go home. Well, like I told them, there is always next time. :-)