Day 7 - Dollywood, Pigeon Forge Great Smoky Mountains National Park area

We were full of anticipation and so excited toarrive here. To see the so many classic carand pickups was an unexpected bonus. Before heading -off to Dollywood itself, we paid a quick visit to Walmart for some essentials.This in itself was interesting....US supermarkets are getting bigger and better!. We purchased a styrofoam cooler and our first bag of ice so that we can keep drinks and food cool in the back of the car.

Dolly Parton does not call Dollywood a theme park as such, rather it is considered "family entertainment". The average working age of employees seems to be over 55 (not un-common in the US hospitality industry).The park features crafts and a lifestyle from bygone days, making for a homely atmosphere. Due to the weather (it began raining whilst we were in our first show) and the threat of lightning strikes all of the outdoor rides were closed. As part of the "Bluegrass and BBQ" event, there were live performances by four different bands held throughout the day.We were able to avoid the rain and enjoy this music. We particularly enjoyed a family band from Slapout, Alabama - the Kemptners; dad and six kids (all good looking and talented). They were so good Maureen wanted to be adopted (by the Dad !) and join the band.Although Irish bodhran-playing skills might not be appropriate! 

We would recommend this whole area as a place suitable for families, bikers (we have seen so many in the national parks) in fact just about anybody, as there is so much to do and the people are really nice and welcoming. Food is  good here and we have found some really good cafes hidden away in small towns that often don't feature in the travel books. The craft shops are of a very high standard and often include the works of aspiring local photographers .

Local people we talked to who have met Dolly or know her through a relative speak so highly about her and are grateful for the opportunity to work for her.In fact the people seem to be a part of the Dolly Parton extended family and Dollywood brand! Dolly has really put Pigeon Forge on the map and has provided guaranteed work for 9 months of the year in the park and in the surrounding service industry.

We also found out from talking to people in Washington that there is no compulsory retirement age and one person told us that a colleague recently retired at 90.