So what exactly is a Yurt anyway? I first heard of one when a friend who had moved to New Mexico sent me an ad from Craig's List offering a Yurt for rent. It was fairly reasonably priced and my curiosity was piqued, so I started to investigate.
A yurt is a canvas tent house, sturdy enough to withstand bitter winter weather and originated in Mongolian Asia about 3,000 years ago. Today's Yurts can be constructed quickly, are durable, and surprisingly, very comfortable and appealing to many people who are looking for a more simplified lifestyle.
While visiting New Mexico this week, I happened upon a Yurt while visiting Ojo Caliente, the hot mineral springs, just outside Santa Fe. It was being used as a Yoga Studio, so it was not set up as a dwelling, but I was able to go inside and get the full effect.
Unlike my experience with the Earthships, which were much more appealing online than in real life, the Yurt was very appealing and attractive. This one had hardwood floors, and window flaps that allowed plenty of light. Most Yurts are almost self sustaining. The only drawback? The necessity for an outhouse.
I found a short video on HGTV demonstrating how a Yurt was designed and constructed for a woman, who created a very comfortable living arrangement out of a simple circular tent house. http://www.hgtv.com/video/yurt-tent-home-in-new-mexico-video/index.html 
Another very short video shows four men putting together a Yurt in seven hours! It's under 2 minutes.
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