Weekends are a great time to visit Big Bear, but midweek can be even better. Here's why:

Fewer People – Because it is so close and convenient, Big Bear is a very popular weekend destination for Southern Californians. But because most of us work during the week, the Big Bear Valley tends to have fewer people visiting in the middle of the week. Fewer people makes Big Bear even more peaceful and relaxing. Fewer people means no waiting at the restaurants, fewer neighbors, and no lines. How does having a ski run, lake bay, or mountain trail all to yourself sound?

Better Value – Less people means less business and better deals for you. Big Bear offers discounts in the middle of the week to encourage midweek visitors. Your money simply goes further midweek when in Big Bear, whether it is our lower lodging rates or those of other businesses in the Valley.

Big Bear is at its best midweek.

But what about work? All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Sure there are weekends, but are your weekends at home really even that relaxing and rejuvenating? Sometimes you just have to get away to gain perspective and return to day-to-day life recharged and invigorated. For the reasons mentioned above, we'd recommend you get away midweek to Big Bear and stay with us at Three Pines Lodge & Resort Rentals. If you still think you can't get away mid-week, here's some things that will help:

You need to get away and take a real midweek break from the rat race. You could call in sick with a phony excuse, but there are better ways to save face and your sanity. Here are 4 smart strategies for getting away from work:

1. Earn it.
It is hard to argue with good performance. Come in a couple hours early or stay late for a week or two. Then negotiate time off in advance. When you work hard, you will be able to feel good about taking time off. And so will your boss.

2. Build Client Relations.
If you have a job that requires you to meet or court current and prospective clients, work good client relations into your time off. Stop and see clients on your way out of town, or invite your favorite client(s) along. Client involvement could make your trip to Big Bear a valid business expense – can you beat time off and and a tax-deduction?

3. Work Away from the Office.
With today's communications technology, it often is easy to work (or appear you are working) even though you are not at your office desk. With a cel phone, laptop, and our free high-speed wireless Internet access, you can still be in touch without being in the office. The office will still be there after your mountain getaway.

4. Make a Doctor's Appointment.
A strategically scheduled physician's appointment can get you a half-day or more away from work. An appointment first thing in the morning prevents going into the office, and with the inevitable waiting room delays, it could be afternoon before you are done, assuming you are well enough to go back to work.