Customized, Not Canned
In 1974 the last highway billboard in Vermont came down for good. In that spirit, Laughin' Otter endeavors to show you the genuine Vermont . . . working landscapes, peaceful trails, backroads, our traditions and heritage, free of mass-market hype. Whatever your interest, Laughin' Otter will design an itinerary that can put you where you want to be, while saving you time and potential frustration. The Otter specializes in low-key touring with a decidedly local perspective, from heritage to homegrown.
When I worked for the Forest Service, a bus group from the Midwest came into the visitor center. One of the men said, "We've been seeing road signs for moose. You people don't just put those up for the tourists, do you?" Here in Vermont, we wouldn't do that! The Otter will find the small-scale producers, purveyors, innkeepers, and businesses who place authenticity ahead of everything else.
Whether you are pursuing a particular interest or just want to stop driving and relax, Laughin' Otter welcomes seniors, photographers, artists, travel writers, researchers, students, conscientious consumers, horse lovers, Civil War & RR enthusiasts, clubs, wedding guests, and those requiring special accommodations.
When I worked for the Forest Service, a bus group from the Midwest came into the visitor center. One of the men said, "We've been seeing road signs for moose. You people don't just put those up for the tourists, do you?" Here in Vermont, we wouldn't do that! The Otter will find the small-scale producers, purveyors, innkeepers, and businesses who place authenticity ahead of everything else.
Whether you are pursuing a particular interest or just want to stop driving and relax, Laughin' Otter welcomes seniors, photographers, artists, travel writers, researchers, students, conscientious consumers, horse lovers, Civil War & RR enthusiasts, clubs, wedding guests, and those requiring special accommodations.
What else makes Laughin' Otter Travel different?
* In the new post-Irene Vermont, now more than ever you need to know how to get around efficiently and easily. GPS is useless in many scenarios. I know what's up ahead, when you don't. I develop each itinerary based on actual conditions, saving you time and potential disappointment. I take the guesswork out of finding gasoline, snacks, or a restroom on your route.
* I can vouch for the businesses personally--in many cases they're my friends, business partners, and neighbors.
* I'll never send you to a place or up a road without explicit directions.
* I include "insider knowledge" about the finer points of traveling in Vermont.
* I keep up with developments and issues around Central Vermont so you can become better informed.
* I attend many events and outings myself, for my own enjoyment and learning . . . maybe you'll see me there!
* Finally, all text and photos on this site and its companion blog sites are my original work, all rights reserved.
* I can vouch for the businesses personally--in many cases they're my friends, business partners, and neighbors.
* I'll never send you to a place or up a road without explicit directions.
* I include "insider knowledge" about the finer points of traveling in Vermont.
* I keep up with developments and issues around Central Vermont so you can become better informed.
* I attend many events and outings myself, for my own enjoyment and learning . . . maybe you'll see me there!
* Finally, all text and photos on this site and its companion blog sites are my original work, all rights reserved.
Overview
Laughin' Otter's U-Tour series of self-driving itineraries and the map-guide "On the Trail of Justin Morgan" can be purchased on the Publications page.
For rates and to contact me directly, click on How It Works.
The Calendar is just a glimpse of happenings in my 4-county area; check in often. Both the Events and the Calendar are updated as new material is available.
The Slide Shows offer a cornucopia of photos I've taken at events I've attended and places I've spent time, while working or playing.
For rates and to contact me directly, click on How It Works.
The Calendar is just a glimpse of happenings in my 4-county area; check in often. Both the Events and the Calendar are updated as new material is available.
The Slide Shows offer a cornucopia of photos I've taken at events I've attended and places I've spent time, while working or playing.
