I saw in the national events thread that preparations are underway for the '04 Tail of the Dragon gala. I wondered a few things (specifically from the St. Louis folks, since I actually know some of you all now, but any Midwest discussion is welcome)

a) how many of you would go (again) in 04?
b) where did you stay and would you want to stay at the same place the next time?
c) how soon should I plan on making a reservation? (apparently they've already got a group thing set up with 1 or more of the facilities there and are taking reservations...i don't want to get shut out)

_________________
Black Knight



His Faithful Steed: '03 Jet Black MINI Cooper S w/white roof, mirrors, bonnet stripes and wheels; all 3 Combo Packages; Roof Rack w/ Luggage Holder

Can’t answer the first question, but the other two, I may be of some help because I went to The Dragon Run last year.

B. There are three main places to stay at the Gap.

Fontana Village, which has cabins to rent and share expenses if you wish. It’s about 14 to 18 miles from the Dragon I believe.

The Microtel, which is in Robensonville. Nice rooms in a corporate type Motel 6 high-rise. It’s about 20 miles from the Dragon.

Tapoco Lodge, where I stayed. A lodge with cabins and lodge rooms and is the only place in the county you may purchase alcohol if you wish to. This is 3 miles from the Dragon.

All three places have nice facilities and price will determine where you may want to stay along with how many to split the expense.

C. You should book a room as soon as you know you will be going. I would suggest the first part of the year. We booked our room in February for the May event and had no trouble. Take into account that this was the first of many MINI meets to happen there and we only had 65 to 70 show up. This year, after all the talk and fervor about the last meet, count on a few hundred showing.

Hope this helps and I hope to see you at the Dragon next year BlackNnight.

a) how many of you would go (again) in 04?
b) where did you stay and would you want to stay at the same place the next time?
c) how soon should I plan on making a reservation? (apparently they've already got a group thing set up with 1 or more of the facilities there and are taking reservations...i don't want to get shut out)

Consider me there, along with a MOB of MINI-friends :grin:
I stayed at Fontana Village, a very nice cozy village, and the main spot for this years' MINI people.

From Deals Gap; Tapoco lodge is 3.8 miles, Fontana Village is 9.6 miles, and Robbinsville (the Microtel) is 19.8 miles. Keep in mind Robbinsville is the only place to see civilization, and wash your MINI (unless you bring a hose with you and you're at Fontana)

Yes, reserve your place soon. If you've got roomies (esp. at Fontana) make sure to confirm them soon. (well, beginning of the year is fine)

ooooh, I can't wait!
Remember, the 1st weekend in May (starting Thursday, April 29th thru May 2nd)
Cheers,
Ryan