Airbnb is giving away a trip to the Smoky Mountains

It seems like a no-brainer to seek out cities over rural destinations when planning your travels. Chockfull of culture, energy, architecture, and top-notch restaurants, city trips guarantee you’ll be endlessly busy during your visit. In fact, when I think of a rural vacation, I immediately imagine Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie dawning fake tans, fried hair, and overalls while holding pitchforks in their reality TV show, “The Simple Life.” Airbnb wants to change my attitude, and maybe yours, on that. 

In an effort to boost tourism, Airbnb is offering a free trip to NC

Airbnb and Visit North Carolina have partnered up for a campaign designed to “boost economic recovery in rural North Carolina.” The launch of “Spring in the Scenic Mountains,” a part of “Dream Big in Small Town NC,” which aims to attract travelers and potential workforce to small towns throughout the state. The partnership includes an exciting sweepstakes offer. You can enter for the chance to win a trip to the Scenic Mountain region’s five designated counties: Graham, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell, and Yancey.

What you’ll get

You have until April 20 to register for one of five chances to win:

• A $1,000 voucher from Airbnb
• Three $100 gift cards to various attractions
• A $500 gift card from Visit NC for travel expenses

All you have to do is enter your information here. 

Why you should consider going off-the-beaten-path

As I write this, I immediately regret everything I just said about choosing cities over rural destinations for getaways. Cleaner air, less noise and light pollution, and the opportunity to see many forms of wildlife have me jonesing for a trip to the mountains. Note to self: you can do both. 

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Visit North Carolina with the launch of the Spring in the Scenic Mountains campaign and hope to inspire more travelers to discover off-the-beaten-path, rural areas that have so much to offer to those looking for a new vacation destination or a new home,” said Viviana Jordan, Southeast Public Policy Lead for Airbnb.

Rural travel, like a trip to the Smoky Mountains, is rich with diverse opportunities—from trekking along lush hiking trails to exploring and supporting local and unique restaurants, boutiques, artists, and more.