LURE OF THE LAND YACHT
Like the classic American diner, which has been rediscovered and reinvented for today's culinary tastes, the mid-century Airstream trailer and similar models are experiencing a revival fueled by nostalgic Boomers and retro-hungry Gen Xers. The shiny aluminum “silver bullets” appeal to entertainers, design aficionados and a certain kitschy-cool crowd.
Even pop heiress Paris Hilton traveled in one while producing her reality show, The Simple Life.
At Kate's Lazy Meadow Motel, a tchotchke-filled Catskills retreat owned by rocker Kate Pierson, a member of The B-52s, “Bubbles” and “Tinkerbell” are two vintage Airstreams available for rent, decked out with whimsical, funky furnishings. Tricked up trailers are also available at the Starlux Hotel in Wildwood, NJ and even the upscale Asian-spa resort, Ten Thousand Waves in Santa Fe, NM.
“Our owner was taken with the tiny capsule hotels in Japan, which offer cheap accommodations near train stations,” relates Waves' Director of Lodging Elizabeth Sutton. He bought and furnished a new Bambi Airstream and offers it as an affordable option ($99 a night) for spa-goers.
At The Shady Dell RV Park in Bisbee, AZ, a sleek lineup of lovingly restored vintage aluminum trailers accommodates overnight or weekly rental. The collection includes a 1949 Airstream, 1950 Spartanette, 1954 Crown and 1951 Royal Mansion. Interiors feature rich blonde wood or highly polished aluminum, and remain true to the décor's original look. Tapes of big band and old radio programs are provided for play in reproduction vintage radios. Magazines and books from the period complete the effect.
Complimenting the vintage vehicles is Dot's Diner, a 1957 Valentine 10-stool model that was featured in Gourmet magazine, also restored to its Art Deco splendor.
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