Private Villas

Private Villas

As many of you know, I am a Private Travel Planner (or agent, if you prefer). I specialize in booking unique & luxurious, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for people who really want to upgrade their travels and do something extraordinary. I talk a lot about private travel experiences and unique destinations, because they are singular in every way- and those are the things I want to share with you! Today I want to introduce you to Private Villas!

Private villas, or private homes, are one of my favorite ways to experience travel. They have a bit of everything: Style, privacy, and a whole lot of personality! I’m not talking about Air BNB (which could be sketchy) but top, verified, luxury villas to satisfy all your wants, needs, and plans.

And that’s what I’d like to talk a little bit about today!
First…

What is a Private Villa?

A private villa, in the travel world, is a house that is owned by a private party and available to be rented. These villas are typically grander, more luxurious, and more secluded than an ordinary house. They are set farther away from large populations and cities, and are often used for vacations and retreats, as opposed to just a place to sleep.

Most of what you see on sites such as Air BNB are vacation houses. Travelers pick the destination they want to visit and then look for a private home within the area… whereas, travelers who book private villas are usually looking for their stay to be more of an experience than just a place with a bed. They may be less concerned about the location and book based on the villa they would like to stay in! 

Benefits of Private Villas Over Resorts

Privacy-
Private homes are an exciting way to get away from the over-crowding of resorts and enjoy a more private experience for you and your travel mates. The extra privacy allows you to really bond with your guests and loved ones while not having to deal with outsiders.

While villas are known for being roomie enough to accommodate large families, they are also suitable for more intimate stays as well. A private villa offers the perfect atmosphere for a romantic getaway, a small family affair, or a grand celebration. You’ll be able to connect with your loved ones in absolute privacy and zero distractions in a way that you’d never be able to in a hotel.

Room for Everyone-
Some resorts may be able to accommodate family gatherings by getting everyone rooms on the same floor, or in the same wing, however, during certain times of the year this is not always possible. Many private villas are able to accommodate 10, 20 or even more guests! Allowing everyone to gather in the same place like this makes them the ideal place to hold a family vacation, reunion, or gathering. 

The best part is that everyone can have their own rooms, and gathering spaces are more easily accessible. Children don’t have to wait for their parents to go down to the lobby to see their cousins or friends, they are free to safely roam the grounds at will.

Personality-
One of my favorite things about private villas is how much personality they have! Unlike hotels, you can stay in 100 different homes and never have two that feel the same. Each one offers a different, unique atmosphere for you to get to know and love.

I have seen homes that give off laid-back beachy vibes, and ones that offer a more city-like, crisp and clean experience. I’ve seen ones that are very modern, and others that are modeled after different historical eras. There are no limits to what you can find.

Perks-
It’s true that one of the things travelers love most about resorts are the all-inclusive options that come with them. What you may not know, is that many private and villas can come with the same options and luxuries.

Many private villas around the world offer full-service either with their rentals, or as an upgrade. Options include private chefs, transfers, housekeeping services, spa services, and more! This allows travelers to customize the experience they are looking for without feeling like they are missing out on anything.

You will see more of this as a trend across the EU, and in Africa and Asia, but these options are still available with many private homes in the US as well.

EXTRA Perks-
If you start looking around at different villas you will notice a variety of added features that will really start to draw you in. For instance, I have seen homes with multiple pools and jacuzzis, movie theater rooms, bowling alleys, fitness rooms, saunas, full game rooms, wine cellars, and even karaoke rooms.

Depending on the location and time of year, your stay may also include bonuses such as private beach access, ski lift passes, or vouchers for local tours.

If you’re looking to for something really original and unique, or to keep the entire family entertained, this truly is the way to go! You don’t even have to leave the grounds for everyone to enjoy themselves.

Destinations-
Private villas can be found just about anywhere in the world- from major cities to quite country sides, ocean fronts to secluded forests, scenic mountains to tropical islands, and everywhere in between.

I currently am connected to villas on every continent except Antarctica! This means that you can have the adventure you’ve always dreamed of in the destination of your choice! Just choose the backdrop you’d like and pack your bags to accommodate the atmosphere.

Health & Safety-
As you could imagine, private homes see less visitors than huge hotels and resorts. This means that they come in contact with far less germs than the latter. Your own private pool, jacuzzi, or beach will be far less crowded than those of a hotel… As will your exercise facilities, sitting areas, dining areas, and, well, everything.

If you’re looking for a way to still take a family vacation safely, this is going to be your best option! And like I mentioned, there will be plenty to do to keep everyone busy, even if you never leave the property.

So, What are the Drawbacks?

What are the drawbacks? Honestly, there aren’t many, but I do need to mention a few.

1. For instance, many of these homes, specifically the more unique or exclusive villas, will need to be booked pretty far in advance. There are some homes in Utah and Colorado neighboring popular ski slopes that need to be booked almost 2 years out if you’re looking to visit during their busy season. Beach front homes are also scarce during certain times of the year. If you find a villa you would love to stay at you may need to be flexible with your travel dates or be willing to book further out.

2. Another thing to keep in minds is that not all homes will be able to offer all the extras. Yes, private butlers, chefs, and masseuses make for the ultimate stay, but they are not always available with every home, or may come at an upcharge. To some this won’t matter, but if this is really something that would make your stay all the more special, talk to your travel agent to see what can be worked out.

3. And the final drawback I will add to the list is that some of these homes are really out of the way. When I say that they can be very secluded, I mean it. Getting there may require flying in on a private jet or cruising on via boat (usually included in the cost). You will not likely be able to go shopping for food or souvenirs, so be sure to talk to your travel specialist to ensure everything you need will already be there awaiting your arrival.

Booking Private Villas

Now that I’ve got you all excited about booking a villa for your next trip, how do you go about actually doing it? That’s easy!

The first thing you need to decide is if you are looking for a specific destination or experience, a place that will accommodate a certain number of people, or just something a little more unique and exclusive. Determine what aspects of the home you would like to have and what you can’t live without. If you absolutely need a fireplace in your bedroom, that’s something to let us know before we start planning. If you need some inspiration, visit my Villas page and then Contact Me when you’re ready! 😀

Be advised
I will not book something you’ve found on AirBNB (nor will any other travel planner). If I am able to find the same villa through another trusted and verified provider, I would be happy to do so.

Let’s Work Together!

Let’s Work Together!

I would love to meet you and get to know all about your dream vacation! So, if you’re ready, schedule your first travel consultation with me now! Not quite ready to start planning yet? Get inspired HERE, and check out my Planning Process to see how I work.

I appreciate you taking the time to read this article, and I do hope you’ve found the information in it valuable. Please remember to like and subscribe so that you never miss out on my travel tips and updates! And don’t forget to share this article with everyone you believe might benefit from the information.

Leave a comment below letting me know how I’m doing, or suggest a topic you’d like to learn more about in the future!