March 31, 2010
In this tight economy, many people are cancelling their holidays all together. For some, though, money is still not a problem. There are some great holiday villas out there for the high rollers, with any sort of feature that you can imagine. For those that have to stay at home this year, read through these descriptions and enjoy your own personal ‘imagination holiday.
There are many Caribbean holiday villas that aim to please, with price tags to match. If your idea is sitting on a private beach in St. Martin, theres a place for that. Many of the villas have private pools but are also stationed beach side. The Olympic-sized infinity pools overlook the ocean or private, immaculately groomed tropical gardens. Courtyards surround the pool, along with lux lounge chairs.
Staffs usually come as part of these pricey holiday villas. Many of these places need at least one staff person, if not several. Bedrooms can number in the teens and the accommodations can be four or five floors high. One rental villa is way beyond that sort of description – a castle in Jamaica used to lord over a plantation, but now can be yours for a week at the price of several months rent.
Transportation is a must for these places, and they give you options. Many luxury villas come complete with a yacht and a boat crew, a helicopter pad and several cars to get you around. For the prices you would pay, it would be a sin not to include those amenities. Drivers are also part of the package, letting you sit back and be carted off around for tours and sightseeing.
Gates usually surround these sorts of abodes, but if you are really concerned with privacy, many of these villas give you an extra measure of security. You could rent an entire island and avoid any prying eyes whatsoever. The islands come with boat crews to shuffle you from the mainland or main island to your rented estate.
Most of these places come with basics like large flat panel televisions, hot tubs, tennis courts, and gyms. Some even offer chefs and unlimited food and drink for your visit. You have to relax in an environment like that. The only thing that would keep you from becoming a content pile of mush is the money. Thats why these places are a fortune – who wants a stressful guest who could afford to stay at the villa but couldn’t afford to leave afterwards?
March 30, 2010
Many vacationers don’t even bother checking beyond hotel prices for their accommodations. They might think that staying anywhere else – bed and breakfasts, guest houses or rented apartments – is too risky. Who knows what the place looks like, if it’s clean and charming or crummy and old, or if there will constantly be an owner chatting you up or ruining your quiet. A good idea for people who are willing to try something new is to rent villas. These accommodations, found throughout Europe, allow a person or group to have certain conveniences they give up at a hotel.
One good part of having a villa is that your time is your own. Since you have the run of the place, there aren’t any housekeepers bothering you to move so they can clean your room. When you rent villas, you don’t have to worry about locking up your possessions. No one can disturb your castle, even if it is only your castle for a week or two.
Many of the companies or people that rent villas do not live in them otherwise – they are solely rental properties. While they might have a few quirks, it is not like staying in someone’s home. They are well maintained, clean and convenient to the attractions. They are attended to by a person or staff that makes sure the place is clean and prepped before you set foot in the door. Some even have a staff person on duty during your stay, making sure that beds are made daily and everything is kept clean.
Many of the villas for rent are quite posh – the sheets are fancy, the views are amazing, porches and terraces abound. These are places meant to impress. The kitchens, gardens and beds are meant to mimic or surpass hotel accommodations. While this option might be more expensive, it can be a great and affordable way to serve a large group of people for a longer period of time.
One of the best parts of staying in a villa is that you can mimic or recreate the feeling of home while you are abroad. In a hotel, you share a room with one to three people; your family is divided up into small rooms. You head out alone at the end of the night to get ready for bed and fall asleep. In a villa, everyone shares and no one ever has to be apart, unless they want to. Its a great way to make sure your vacation is a bonding experience for the whole group.
March 29, 2010
Everyone is trying to save a few dollars here or there these days – a poor economy is a recipe for cancelled plans, shortened stays and downgraded rooms. It’s also a recipe for sales and rare deals on fancy accommodations. If you are looking to travel and aren’t completely strapped for cash, there are a lot of options for you to save on your holiday accommodation. Here are some tips to keep your pockets lined with spending money.
- Consider a package. This is not always the way to go, but many travel sites and hotels are teaming up with flights to create a deluxe package at skimpy prices. If you are not so picky about your holiday accommodation, it can be very easy to find great deals. Some of the packages these days are pairing a flight with luxury hotels or lodgings for a really lux stay at bargain prices.
- Ignore the so-called “bonuses.” It might seem great that your holiday accommodation of choice includes a free meal or evening drinks, but that might not add up. Think about how much money you would actually save if you spent your money on breakfast at a local café or even if you brought breakfast food to eat in the morning. Consider if you really need a pool, or if you will be just as satisfied with the public beach. A bare-bones hotel can be just as wonderful as anything fancy, especially if you are saving tons of money in the process.
- Try to find deals on lodging through organizations you are a member of. There are so many organizations that offer deals, from a workplace, a union, an alumni association or even veterans groups. Talk to the hotel and ask them for all of the groups that they work with. Chances are you are a member of one of those groups.
- Look for coupons on line. Many of the companies that used to put out paper coupons are doing the same on line. This time, they are easier to find. A quick search can turn up several different sorts of discounts, from free nights after a certain number of booked nights to discounts for kids. If you see a deal from another competing hotel or lodging, call the one you prefer and see if they can match.
In this economy, it pays to do a bit of homework and to talk to the lodgings you want to stay in. Many groups are ready to make a deal in order to get more business.
March 28, 2010
A place with its own micro climate, beautiful landscape and language, Cornwall is a place that should not be missed. Planning a trip to this enchanted locale is easy due to the great holiday cottages in Cornwall that make the whole trip even more magical. If you are considering a stay in this area, here are some ideas that might make you decide to head out to Cornwall in a second.
Cornwall is a county located in the southwestern corner of the UK and is known for its beaches and quaint villages. There is an air and charm about the area that makes it a great location for holiday cottages in Cornwall. The whole county is dotted with small towns and natural beauty that make it prime for vacationing.
If you are a seafood fan, you’ll die and go to heaven in Cornwall. The county has tons of fishermen in the area, so finding a fresh catch is a breeze. One particular specialty is the dressed crabs. You can grab these treats easily, no matter the location of your holiday cottages in Cornwall. These crabs are all over the area, being featured at most of the harbors in the county.
Seeing the area is a breeze thanks to great walking paths and bicycle rental companies all over the area. You’ll be glad to see the area up close. There are fields of flowers, beach views and historic stops along the way. One of these trails is the Camel Trail. This former train line has been converted into a 17-mile path for pedestrians and peddlers alike.
If you are a beach bum, you’ll find your fill of surf activities in the area. There’s surfing, swimming and sand bathing for every sort of vacationer. A dream area for surfers, there are many beaches that boast rolling waves for all of the boarders. Other beaches are less intense, perfect for a family outing or a gentle swim in the water.
Gardening is a prime activity in the area. Cornwall boasts historic properties that feature gardens to knock your socks off. There are many National Trust properties, and the gardens are kept up to match the splendor of the buildings.
To finish off this trip, don’t forget to grab some Cornwall clotted cream. A specialty of the area, this treat should dot your jams or scones every morning during your stay in Cornwall. You’ll never want to leave!
March 27, 2010
If you are a renter or a potential vacation home owner, finding the right property rentals are important. This is especially true if you are looking to create a lovers nest away from the bustle of everyday life. From Italy to France, Spain to Hawaii, there are amazing options out there for a couple that wants to leave it all behind. Here are some of the top choices for romantic getaways:
- Sibillini Mountains in Italy. This hidden locale is a great place to hide from the world with the person you love most. The mountains make a great backdrop for all of the property rentals. Being away from the cities lets the sky clear up for great stargazing every night. Find a bungalow for two, or buy one and add a hot tub. You’ll be reconnecting with your loved one in no time.
- The Dordogne region in France. This region is known for castles, fortresses and cathedrals. You can soak in some culture during the day and drink in the regions great wine at night. You can find property rentals in quaint villages around the region and spend the days trolling through markets and living the small-town life.
- The Warwickshire countryside in the UK. With its rolling green hills that stretch for miles, it’s easy to forget that one city is inundated with tourists. Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon, is in this area and can be visited for those renting in the region. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, stay in the countryside and enjoy a rental that inspires you to read sonnets to your lover.
- Istanbul, Turkey. Being romantic doesn’t have to mean being away from it all. Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a lovers paradise. The city is teeming with culture, from the food that fuses Islamic and European traditions to the music that comes from all over the world, you can explore your relationship while you explore this city. The Turkish baths during the day will surely leave you ready be in each others arms, and the food and atmosphere will give you a nights full of memories.
- The Canary Islands. A beach setting is a great way to heat up the romance. These islands just off the northern coast of Morocco are an archipelago of romance and beauty. The islands feature many rentals that can be used as a private retreat away from the world, where beach views and the natural setting will turn off your mind and let you tune in to your partner.
March 26, 2010
You’ve found the place, and you are living the life – heading off to Spain for six months, or going to vacation in Italy for eight weeks.
Once you have found your long-term rental, it can seem like you are all set. There are a few things you should think through before you head out the door. While a long term rental covers many of the basics that you’ll need for your holiday, you don’t have to live like a pauper. Getting the car you need is a great way to make sure your trip is perfect.
You might enjoy walking a lot, but being without a car for months might not be the best scenario. Visiting the village where your long term rental is located can be exciting for a few visits, but you are inevitably going to want to explore the region. Getting a car is the best way to make this a reality. Driving from village to village will enrich your trip beyond words. Being able to pick friends up from the train station and safely transport them to your home is a great way to ensure that your friends actually come for a visit. Six months might not seem like a long time, but you will surely want some company during your solo stay or a break from your family if you are heading out as a unit.
There are several companies that offer long term rental options for cars. Take the time to research them and find the best deal. Many will offer a flat daily rate, often at a discount to what is offered for a short-term rental. Feel free to negotiate, look for better bargains and search for coupons. You will be a big customer for the company, so make sure they give you all of the deals and cost cuts that they can.
Getting insurance for your rental is essential. Normally something we skip when renting a car for a few days at a time, this car will be in your possession for a long time. Make sure that it is properly covered so that if something happens, you are not at fault and left footing the bill. You want to be able to enjoy your vacation, not worry about a sudden hailstorm that pocks up your roof or the errant driver who tinged your car door. Having a car that is properly insured and priced right will go a long way to making your dream vacation even better.
March 25, 2010
Everyone is trying to save a few dollars here or there these days – a poor economy is a recipe for cancelled plans, shortened stays and downgraded rooms. It’s also a recipe for sales and rare deals on fancy accommodations. If you are looking to travel and aren’t completely strapped for cash, there are a lot of options for you to save on your holiday accommodation. Here are some tips to keep your pockets lined with spending money.
- Consider a package. This is not always the way to go, but many travel sites and hotels are teaming up with flights to create a deluxe package at skimpy prices. If you are not so picky about your holiday accommodation, it can be very easy to find great deals. Some of the packages these days are pairing a flight with luxury hotels or lodgings for a really luxurious stay at bargain prices.
- Ignore the so-called “bonuses.” It might seem great that your holiday accommodation of choice includes a free meal or evening drinks, but that might not add up. Think about how much money you would actually save if you spent your money on breakfast at a local café or even if you brought breakfast food to eat in the morning. Consider if you really need a pool, or if you will be just as satisfied with the public beach. A bare-bones hotel can be just as wonderful as anything fancy, especially if you are saving tons of money in the process.
- Try to find deals on lodging through organizations you are a member of. There are so many organizations that offer deals, from a workplace, a union, an alumni association or even veterans groups. Talk to the hotel and ask them for all of the groups that they work with. Chances are you are a member of one of those groups.
- Look for coupons on-line. Many of the companies that used to put out paper coupons are doing the same on-line. This time, they are easier to find. A quick search can turn up several different sorts of discounts, from free nights after a certain number of booked nights to discounts for kids. If you see a deal from another competing hotel or lodging, call the one you prefer and see if they can match.
In this economy, it pays to do a bit of homework and to talk to the lodgings you want to stay in. Many groups are ready to make a deal in order to get more business.
March 24, 2010
If you have a holiday let you want listed, you are probably confused as to all the options. There are several ways to put your home away from home on the market for rentals, but if you are new to the business, you should be wary. There are several legitimate options, but also scammers and unscrupulous people who will take advantage of your freshness.
There are several types of agencies that are eager to help families with listing and advertising their holiday let. Think about what you are more comfortable with. There are legitimate large agencies and many smaller agencies in each area. The large agencies are often national or international, which lets you know that they are legitimate. That does not mean that these agencies are fair or friendly towards homeowners. Talk to other holiday homeowners to see how they manage their home and rentals, and see if any agency name comes up.
The commission charged by these agencies varies. For each holiday let, agencies charge from just under 20 percent up to 25 percent. Anything drastically under – or over – these rates should make you wary. If you are a homeowner, turning over on fourth of all of a rental fee might seem steep, and it can seem worthwhile to go for it on your own. Being your own agent takes a lot of work and time, so keep that in mind.
Getting away from the agencies sounds great, but can be tough in practice. There are some many things you need to think about, and you must be in charge of all of your own advertising. One popular option is on-line classified ads. As an additional way to advertise the home, these sorts of ads work well, but must be followed up with a legitimate and professional website. This is when an agent comes in handy, as they have websites featuring several homes and describing the benefits of renting in a certain part of a country.
Ask the agency how they advertise their site and the homes, how many visitors they get to their website a year, and how they use search engine optimization to make sure their site is being used. This is a great way to find out if the company knows how to harness the power of the Internet, or if they are just putting up a site and hoping for the best.
March 23, 2010
Its hard enough to find decent, affordable apartment rentals in Paris, but now there are more and more reports of rental scams on innocent foreign visitors. Its easy to get duped into thinking you found a good deal. Keep in mind that anything that sounds too good to be true probably is. Trust your gut – if the owner or agent says he cannot get you a lease or contract, you should feel worried and walk away. The best deal in the world is not worth the panic or heartache you might feel as you worry about your vacation.
One of these scams is offering one apartment and then giving another. If you have talked to an agent or owner and are ready to get the ball rolling on your apartment rentals, make sure your contract is appropriate. Ensure that the contract mentions the number of rooms, size of the space and the amenities. If your agent assures you that there will be Wi-Fi and you find this crucial, make sure that the contract states that there is Wi-Fi. This gives you recourse if you find that your location is not suitable. Do not sign an “As is” lease if you are not completely sure about the agent or owner. The terms of an “as is” lease will probably not be favorable to you as a renter.
Do not rent from anyone that demands you give a deposit via Western Union for their apartment rentals. Any legitimate company will have a PayPal account or accept cash on arrival. A Western Union payment is cash and will be in their hands long before you find out that the apartment you rented doesn’t exist.
Check out your rental company or owner thoroughly. A professional-looking website is not enough – if the company is legit, then there should be reviews somewhere on the web of their services. There are several sites that review travel companies or rental organizations, and you should make sure that they are listed and reviewed positively on these sites. Don’t just go by references – these references offered by the rental company can just as easily be fellow scammers trying to lure you in.
Again, trust your instinct. If you feel wary, this is probably for a reason. Ask around, check out the company on-line, and don’t give money to anyone or sign anything if you feel at all wary about the situation.
March 22, 2010
Who do you contact with your holiday travel needs? Do you pay a travel agent to book your holidays? You can save yourself a ton of money by bypassing the middle man and booking your own trips. In fact, you could cut down the cost of your next trip by half.
You don’t have to go to a travel agent to take care of your holiday travel needs when you are perfectly capable of handling them yourself. If you already have an idea of where you would like to spend your holiday then it will be even easier for you to make your holiday travel plans on your own. You can go online and look for special deals on flights and be able to take advantage of savings that you never thought were possible.
Many airlines offer deals on select flights that were not booked. You can also find similar savings when it comes to booking your lodging. You can pick from deals on hotels or only property rentals. Depending upon the vacation experience that you are looking for, you’ll be able to select the right choices to meet your personal needs from all of your options.
And when you take it upon yourself to book your own trip you’ll find many options in front of you that you had never realized were available before. That is because travel agents do business with hotels and resorts exclusively. You’ll be missing out on being able to rent vacation properties by electing to use a travel agent.
Enjoy a major city like never before by being able to stay in a centrally located apartment overlooking a famous monument. You can have the most spectacular views and most luxurious accommodations by making your own travel plans. Booking your own trip is easy and very rewarding.
