Real versus Fake: The Christmas Tree Debate

Jenna Corcoran • November 19, 2019

As households everywhere begin to think about purchasing and decorating their Christmas tree in preparation for the holidays, many families are deciding whether or not they are going to purchase a real Christmas tree or dig up the old fake tree from the basement. While it has been estimated that 60% of families now opt for fake Christmas trees, here is some important information you should consider when deciding which tree will be the centerpiece of your holiday festivities:

Real Christmas Tree

Few scents are more evocative of the holidays than the rich scent of a real Christmas tree. Despite what you may think, real trees are far more environmentally friendly than their fake counterparts – they provide oxygen to the environment, prevent soil erosion and are completely biodegradable (after the Christmas season many trees are used as compost or firewood). Real trees also support local businesses, and can serve as a habitat for indigenous wildlife. So while it is more expensive and time consuming to go out and buy a real Christmas tree every year, it may be the more responsible holiday choice. The ideal and most eco-friendly option is to buy a live tree with the roots intact, and replant the tree once the holidays have passed.

Fake Christmas Tree

Over the past few years many families have been opting for the convenience and simplicity offered by a fake Christmas tree. However, many people are unaware of their hidden dangers. The majority of synthetic Christmas trees are manufactured overseas, most of which are made with PVC, a non-renewable and environmentally offensive chemical that is harmful to the environment. Some fake Christmas trees (especially the older ones) contain lead and other additives that have been linked to liver, kidney, neurological and reproductive damage in animals. So while a synthetic tree may be the easy and economical choice, it may not be the best one for your family and the environment. If you do decide to invest in a fake Christmas tree try to ensure that it is PVC free and take care of it so that it will last for many years to come.

Bridesmaids and bride in pink robes and pajamas laughing on a bed with a log headboard.

Bachelorette Packages

By Jenna Corcoran • March 11, 2024
Looking for the perfect spot to celebrate your girl this summer? We are excited to introduce our new Bachelorette Packages, to help making celebrating that special bride to be as fun, stress-free, and affordable as possible.
Polaroid photos arranged on paper: camping, person fishing, tent, bed, and outdoor scene.

Our newest Safari Tent: Scuttlebutt

By Jenna Corcoran • May 8, 2023
This year we are excited to introduce our newest Safari Tent at Whispering Springs: Scuttlebutt. Inspired by Red Fisher, the iconic fisherman and renowned conservationist, this tent is an homage to the great outdoors.
Graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate for s'mores, with a campfire in the background.

Complimentary S'mores Around the Campfire

By Jenna Corcoran • March 14, 2023
Who doesn’t love s’mores? They are the gooey goodness that symbolize summer evenings in the great outdoors. This year, we are excited to announce that we will be offering complimentary s’mores to our guests. Join us at The Watering Hole every evening at 6 PM to enjoy some complimentary s’mores around the communal campfire. It’s the perfect time to say ‘hi’ to our friendly bartenders, get to know your fellow glampers and try out a cocktail or two. S’more summer fun is just around the corner!
Couple embraces in snowy forest; woman in wedding dress, man in sweater, holding bouquet.

Winter Elopements at the Springs

By Jenna Corcoran • August 24, 2020
We are excited to announce that this year we will be offering winter elopements at our stunning Chalet and La Petite Chapel. Say ‘I do’ surrounded by your nearest and dearest in the heart of the stunning snow-draped Canadian wilderness.
Apple crisp in a cast iron skillet with apples in the background.

How to Make Campfire Apple Crisp

By Jenna Corcoran • August 23, 2020
Looking for an easy and seasonal dessert to whip up on your glamping getaway? Apple crisp is one of our favourite autumnal desserts at the springs and is easy to prepare and cook over the BBQ. Whispering Springs is also located in the heart of apple country, so there are lots of nearby orchards to visit and load up on home-grown and delicious Ontario apples.
Person holding coffee, resting on wooden deck with pumpkins, autumn leaves, and nuts; wearing cozy sweater and socks.

What to Bring on Your Fall Glamping Getaway

By Jenna Corcoran • August 21, 2020
Fall is officially here, which means that along with stunning fall foliage and pumpkin spice lattes, we are also privy to chilly mornings and even chillier evenings. While this may not be a problem for the average person, it poses a bit of a challenge for the camper (or glamper) who wants to spend time in the wilderness during autumn. Here a few things we suggest to bring along on your fall glamping getaway!
Pulled pork nachos in cast iron skillet, topped with jalapeños, onions, and lime wedges.

How to Make Campfire Nachos

By Jenna Corcoran • August 21, 2020
One of our favourite campfire snacks at Whispering Springs are Campfire Nachos. They are easy to cook and prepare and make a great snack to enjoy around the campfire on a warm summer evening. Check out our favourite recipe today!
Campfire burning in a metal fire pit with flames and smoke, set against a blurred green backdrop.

How to Build a Campfire

By Jenna Corcoran • July 19, 2020
Whether it’s your first time glamping or you’re a seasoned camper, one of the trickiest aspects of the outdoor wilderness experience is getting the campfire a blazin’. By far the most common question we receive from our guests is “how do I build a campfire?”. Here are a few helpful tips & tricks to get your campfire aglow and impress your friends (or that special someone) on your next glamping getaway!
Couple in robes share a toast in bed, breakfast tray, wood headboard, lamp, and bedside tables.

How to Plan the Perfect Romantic Glamping Getaway

By Jenna Corcoran • June 22, 2020
Treating that special someone to a romantic glamping getaway at the springs? Here are a few ways to take your glamping getaway up a notch and plan a truly unforgettable wilderness escape with the special someone in your life.
S'mores ingredients on a wooden board with a campfire in the background: graham crackers, marshmallows, and dark chocolate.

How to Make Gourmet S'mores

By Jenna Corcoran • June 8, 2020
We’re all familiar with traditional s'mores, that delicious combination of graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallows that instantly brings back memories of childhood and summer camp. This summer, get a little fancy at the campfire and impress your friends and fellow campers with these easy, creative and delicious gourmet s’more recipes