One year after my husband died, I was asked to be the keynote speaker of a symposium addressing the medical community at a teaching university hospital. My presentation was to examine our experience with ALS through faith and hospice partnering with the medical field.
I decided to go to the mountains to write and prepare. It was my first trip alone as a widow. I was apprehensive but excited. I decided on Asheville, NC, because of its beauty and closer proximity to my home, it was an easy 5-hour drive. I scoured the internet for best rates, reviews, VRBO’s versus resort. We had stayed many times as a family when our children were teens and as a couple when my husband was living. I wanted someplace where I could blend in, have anonymity, and feel safe. I decided on the Village Hotel at Biltmore.
Upon arriving I was greeted by two lovely hosts and quickly given the rundown on breakfast, the coffee bar, making reservations for the Biltmore house tours, shooting skeet, carriage rides, bicycle rentals, the pool. I was warmly handed my key. just like that, I was off to my room.
The rooms are small. However, they pack a huge punch with thoughtful storage under the beds. I never lacked for space. My room overlooked the pool. I was a bit agitated at first—after all, I had told them that I was there to write. Upon further inspection, I realized all of the soaking wet children splashing about were hooping and hollering but no sound was coming out of their mouths! brilliant, Biltmore! The room was soundproof! My room was spotlessly clean. My sheets were crisp and there were ample towels and washcloths in the bathroom.
During my two-night stay at the village hotel, I enjoyed the free music on the Biltmore grounds while watching the sunset over the field of wildflowers behind the property. I brought my food from home, taking advantage of the room refrigerator. Why do you ask? Well, because I’m a Celiac, allergic to nuts and seafood. One night, I sat by myself in the field with my chicken salad, in a mirage of lightning bugs. it was breathtaking! I also went as a single rider among families on the carriage ride that goes behind the estate. That was truly magnificent and a must do!
I did eat lunch one day in downtown Asheville at Farmburger because I’m a Celiac and allergic to nuts this worked perfectly for me. Their fries are from canola and their burgers are local beef. Everything is farm to table. It’s a great vibe and delicious!
The whole weekend however, was a delightful experience. I would go back again tomorrow.
Here is Southern Living’s top solo traveling southern cities for women: https://www.southernliving.com/travel/solo-travel-southern-us