There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse, occurring August 21st, and visitors to Central Oregon are expected to top one million. Authorities suggest preparing just like you would a natural disaster. With that in mind, here are a few practical tips to help you have a fun and safe eclipse experience.
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Plan ahead – have plenty of gas and groceries to last you at least a week by no later than Wednesday, August 16. Don’t forget to pick up your prescriptions so you’re not running out on E-day!
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Stay put – unless it’s an emergency, plan to stay home. Monday the 21st and Tuesday the 22nd are anticipated to be the worst dates for travel.
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Be safe – make sure you are equipped with a survival kit if you’re going to be traveling during or around the time of the event. Include things like water, snacks, first aid, and eclipse viewing glasses for safety.
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Be prepared for heavy traffic and large crowds at restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, etc., and anticipate a long wait. Check tripcheck before heading out for current road conditions and travel times.
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Be patient, and have fun! There is going to be a huge influx of visitors in Bend – many of them first timers. Use this as an opportunity to make new friends, and don’t forget to enjoy this once in a lifetime experience!
So you’re prepared for the eclipse, now what?
Consider capitalizing on this rare event by renting your space out! People are paying top dollar for a front row seat to the eclipse – and with hotels and campsites being booked out far in advance, eclipse chasers are turning to websites like Airbnb, VRBO, and Craigslist to find a place to hunker down before the main event. Homes are renting out for anywhere between $300-$3000 a night, so make sure to see what other homes in your area are going for when determining your nightly rate. We spoke with several local couples who listed their homes on Airbnb for the Eclipse dates. One in Three Rivers South, a 1300sf home, booked for $350 a night within 30 minutes of putting it on the site. One in Redmond, a 3200sf home rented for $1450 a night. Consider your proximity to the path of totality and how many people your space accommodates, then price accordingly. Don’t forget to look into state/county regulations for short term rentals – and make sure your neighborhood allows it.
Looking to avoid all the chaos and get out of town?
Here are a few suggestions for a peaceful, long weekend outside of central Oregon…
Pack your swim trunks and head to the coast! If you’ve been looking for the perfect excuse to sneak away for a family vacation before the kids go back to school – here’s your chance! Head south and take in the many breathtaking views Gold Beach has to offer, or experience the rich history of Coos Bay with a walk along the boardwalk and a visit to the Coos Art Museum. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for adventure, head north to Cannon Beach to experience art, shopping, spectacular sights, and fine dining.
Hitch up the trailer or pack your tent and head out on HWY 101. Experience non-stop access to coastal towns, national forests, and a wide variety of restaurants and attractions along the way. Be sure to check out the Tillamook Cheese Factory, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, and don’t forget to try the life changing cinnamon rolls at Camp 18!
Spend a few days soaking up the sunshine at Wallowa Lake. If fishing, hiking, camping, boating, and swimming, all while enjoying crystal blue waters and a picturesque mountain backdrop sounds like your thing, you’ll want to check this one out! Camp at the lake or stay at the nearby town of Joseph while exploring this beautiful park. Bonus: there is a tram ride up to the top of Mt. Howard if you’re looking to take your adventure to the next level! Other activities in the area include horseback riding, miniature golf, go-karts and canoeing.
However you choose to spend your Eclipse day, we hope it’s a fun and memorable one!
As always, our team is here to help with any Real Estate needs you may have. Give us a call at 541-312-9449.