Vacation rentals are great options for large groups, travelling together. Accommodation becomes more economical that renting hotel rooms, and there is the charm of having a home away from home. The vacation homes that are now available worldwide are charmingly appointed luxurious houses and villas that exist in some of the more exotic locales.
1. Cape Town, South Africa - Cape Town is a magnificent city with expensive hotel accommodations. The vacation rentals here encompass the full range, right from the inexpensive to the ultra luxurious villas. There is also wide choice in terms of location, some people preferring the quiet of the outskirts, whereas others opt for the hubbub in the heart of the city.
2. Tokyo, Japan - Tokyo is vibrant, pulsating metropolis, and would bewilder most first time visitors to the city. Renting a vacation home will allow a tourist to carry a piece of themselves into the foreign city.
3. Sydney, Australia - The advantage of a vacation rental in Sydney is the privacy factor that is somewhat absent from the hotels in the city. The advantages of living like a local are tremendous, and will enable a tourist to enjoy the delights of an Australian vacation to the fullest extent.
4. Lake Windermere, Canada - A beautiful natural location for a holiday, Lake Windermere is a tranquil town with pursuits designed to calm the most frazzled of nerves. The vacation homes are luxurious, and since the town is steeped in heritage, chances are the rental that one gets has a story of its own.
5. Rincon, Puerto Rico - Rincon's claim to fame is that the beautiful seaside town played host to the World Surfing Championship in 1968. Renting a vacation home here, would bring down expenses considerably, especially if in a large group.
6. Playa Herradura, Costa Rica - Playa Herradura was an undiscovered paradise with green ocean water lapping the edges of black sand beaches and palm fringed coasts. It has emerged as a pleasanter alternative to the bustling tourist hotspot Jaco, providing a quieter environment to relax completely in a vacation rental.
7. Florence, Italy - The vacation rentals in Florence are gorgeous, traditional Italian properties, ranging from castles and farmhouses in Chianti to villas in Tuscany. Renting a home in historical Florence can serve both long term or short term accommodation needs, and are flexible in terms of budget.
8. Playa del Carmen, Mexico - Playa del Carmen developed as a tourist destination after the passenger ferry service to Cozumel was started. It has now emerged and established itself as a world-famous scuba diving destination and offers plenty of vacation rental options.
9. Canggu Beach, Bali - The coastal Bali town is the best place to watch the world go by as traditional Balinese fishermen ply their trade. Canggu has the beautiful beaches to recommend it, as well as the abundant nature that flourishes beyond it.
10. Kona Coast, Hawaii - A strong contrast exists in the beautiful location of Kona Coast, ancient Hawaiian culture exists alongside cutting-edge activities on the Big Island of Hawaii. Known as the healing island, the Big Island of Hawaii is the best place to unwind and a rental vacation home is the best and most economical way to do it.
10 Golden Rules of Renting a Vacation Home
By choosing to rent a vacation home, you've distinguished yourself from most travelers; you're sensible and savvy. You know hotels are overrated and overpriced and you'd prefer to live in luxury like a local, rather than out of your suitcase like a tourist. Despite your wise and sophisticated choice for lodging, you still might manage to jeopardize your vacation. Here are some easy, sure-fired tips to ensuring your trip lives up to, and even surpasses, your expectations.
1. Comparison shop
Many folks are so eager to get out of town that they horn in on the first appetizing deal and book too soon. It's worth it to spend quality time comparing your options (and there are thousands), so that you find the very best vacation rental for you and your loved ones. Because such a wide variety of vacation rentals are out there, you can easily end up with accommodations that seem designed for you and you alone - why settle for less?
2. Don't judge a vacation home by its photos
Photos are helpful. However, keep in mind that photos can also be misleading and outdated. Ask the owner for additional photos, and also ask candid questions about the size and look of the property; don't assume the photos have all the answers.
3. Verify the location
With the Internet, it's easy to discover precisely where your vacation rental is located. Ask for the physical address of the property and search for it on Google or Yahoo maps. See for yourself how close your doorstep is to your favorite attractions!
4. Read the fine print
Examine the rental contract carefully, and make sure any verbal agreement is in writing as well. The rental contract is your only means for retribution if something happens to go wrong on your trip, so don't take it lightly. Policies regarding pets, cancellation, cleaning fees, and security deposits, are especially important.
5. Be wary of wiring money
In many cases, wiring money to a bank account is the most efficient way to pay for your rental. However, make sure the vacation rental owner or management company you're wiring money to is legitimate! When you wire money, you put your financial security at risk, so you should be certain of where your money's going to before you wire it.
6. Don't put your faith in every vacation rental directory
Some vacation rental directories and sites are better than others; it's best to consider all your resources. Ask friends and family how they've found vacation rentals in the past and find out what their experiences were like.
7. Get to know the vacation rental owner!
Research the property and its owner as best as you can; seek out traveler reviews and take a look at the property beforehand if possible.
8. Don't be shy!
Do not be afraid to ask lots of questions and openly express any and all concerns. Outgoingness pays off when it comes to renting a vacation home!
9. Inform the owner of maintenance issues right away
If something goes wrong on your trip, whether it's minor or major, make sure the property management company or homeowner knows right away. This way the problem can be fixed immediately and you won't have to haggle over contract issues after the fact. Chances are things will go smoothly. But if they don't, the owner more than likely will be eager to assist - so be proactive!
10. Be kind and respectful
Remember, you may be staying in someone's second home and you have a deposit invested in it! Be gentle with the furniture and tidy up if there's not a maid. Vacation rentals thrive because of a basic trust between owners and renters, so help to keep this fabulous travel trend going by doing your part.
1. Comparison shop
Many folks are so eager to get out of town that they horn in on the first appetizing deal and book too soon. It's worth it to spend quality time comparing your options (and there are thousands), so that you find the very best vacation rental for you and your loved ones. Because such a wide variety of vacation rentals are out there, you can easily end up with accommodations that seem designed for you and you alone - why settle for less?
2. Don't judge a vacation home by its photos
Photos are helpful. However, keep in mind that photos can also be misleading and outdated. Ask the owner for additional photos, and also ask candid questions about the size and look of the property; don't assume the photos have all the answers.
3. Verify the location
With the Internet, it's easy to discover precisely where your vacation rental is located. Ask for the physical address of the property and search for it on Google or Yahoo maps. See for yourself how close your doorstep is to your favorite attractions!
4. Read the fine print
Examine the rental contract carefully, and make sure any verbal agreement is in writing as well. The rental contract is your only means for retribution if something happens to go wrong on your trip, so don't take it lightly. Policies regarding pets, cancellation, cleaning fees, and security deposits, are especially important.
5. Be wary of wiring money
In many cases, wiring money to a bank account is the most efficient way to pay for your rental. However, make sure the vacation rental owner or management company you're wiring money to is legitimate! When you wire money, you put your financial security at risk, so you should be certain of where your money's going to before you wire it.
6. Don't put your faith in every vacation rental directory
Some vacation rental directories and sites are better than others; it's best to consider all your resources. Ask friends and family how they've found vacation rentals in the past and find out what their experiences were like.
7. Get to know the vacation rental owner!
Research the property and its owner as best as you can; seek out traveler reviews and take a look at the property beforehand if possible.
8. Don't be shy!
Do not be afraid to ask lots of questions and openly express any and all concerns. Outgoingness pays off when it comes to renting a vacation home!
9. Inform the owner of maintenance issues right away
If something goes wrong on your trip, whether it's minor or major, make sure the property management company or homeowner knows right away. This way the problem can be fixed immediately and you won't have to haggle over contract issues after the fact. Chances are things will go smoothly. But if they don't, the owner more than likely will be eager to assist - so be proactive!
10. Be kind and respectful
Remember, you may be staying in someone's second home and you have a deposit invested in it! Be gentle with the furniture and tidy up if there's not a maid. Vacation rentals thrive because of a basic trust between owners and renters, so help to keep this fabulous travel trend going by doing your part.
What to Pack on Your Caribbean Villa Vacation
If this is your first villa vacation, you are probably wondering what to bring with you and what will be provided at the villa. This varies depending on location and nightly rate of the villa rental so the focus will be on moderate priced Caribbean villas. The higher the rate, the more amenities and services you will receive.
Most of the villas will not come stocked with shampoo, conditioner, lotion, dishwashing soap etc. like you have at a hotel so you will need to provide your own. With today's luggage regulations, I would recommend purchasing these items which are usually readily available after you arrive at your destination. Some villas offer a pre-stocking service, if you do not want to go grocery shopping. However, if you do have a favorite product that you can't live without, I would bring it with you since the selection is limited and the price is high.
You are going to the Caribbean so of course you will need sunscreen. Sunscreen is available at a high price and the stores may not have the SPF that you are looking for. So I would pack sunscreen in your checked luggage and put it in a zip lock baggie. Most of the time in the tropical environment of the Caribbean bug spray is necessary especially if you are prone to bug bites, so I would pack a small bottle in your checked luggage.
In addition to the obvious items such as your bathing suit, clothes, sweater (it can get chilly in the evenings and in the air-conditioning), other items to remember are: Water shoes, sunglasses, umbrella, camera and passport depending on which island you are traveling to.
Lastly, make sure to pack in your carry on luggage, a bathing suit (in case your luggage gets lost, you can still swim in the pool or ocean), medicines, camera and important documentation.
Most of the villas will not come stocked with shampoo, conditioner, lotion, dishwashing soap etc. like you have at a hotel so you will need to provide your own. With today's luggage regulations, I would recommend purchasing these items which are usually readily available after you arrive at your destination. Some villas offer a pre-stocking service, if you do not want to go grocery shopping. However, if you do have a favorite product that you can't live without, I would bring it with you since the selection is limited and the price is high.
You are going to the Caribbean so of course you will need sunscreen. Sunscreen is available at a high price and the stores may not have the SPF that you are looking for. So I would pack sunscreen in your checked luggage and put it in a zip lock baggie. Most of the time in the tropical environment of the Caribbean bug spray is necessary especially if you are prone to bug bites, so I would pack a small bottle in your checked luggage.
In addition to the obvious items such as your bathing suit, clothes, sweater (it can get chilly in the evenings and in the air-conditioning), other items to remember are: Water shoes, sunglasses, umbrella, camera and passport depending on which island you are traveling to.
Lastly, make sure to pack in your carry on luggage, a bathing suit (in case your luggage gets lost, you can still swim in the pool or ocean), medicines, camera and important documentation.
Romantic Getaways in Central Florida - Vacation Ideas For Couples
If you're looking to plan a romantic getaway, you'll find plenty of Central Florida events perfect for two. You'll find Central Florida things to do like hot air balloon rides, golfing, relaxing massages and many different romantic places to eat and stay.
Where To Stay In Central Florida
Central Florida is full of beautiful, romantic places for couples to stay. The area offers private vacation rental homes, inns and bed and breakfasts so chances are good that you'll find the perfect place to stay close to romantic Central Florida things to do.
Many of the vacation rental homes are fully furnished and each comes with its own private, screened in swimming pool so it's perfect for couples who want a little privacy. Don't feel like leaving the home? Call a local massage therapist to your home for a couples' massage and a personal chef to prepare a romantic meal for two and you won't even have to leave home. If your vacation includes your children, consider calling a local children's sitting service so you can enjoy an evening enjoying the romantic Central Florida things to do.
If the thought of an entire home is a little overwhelming, consider staying at the Chalet Suzanne Restaurant and Country Inn. The Country Inn has been named one of the most romantic places to stay in Florida by a national bridal magazine and caters to couples with romantic Central Florida things to do nearby. Chalet Suzanne offers 26 different rooms, each with a private bath and complimentary breakfast the next morning.
Another romantic option for couples is the Town Manor on the Lake Bed and Breakfast. The manor was built in 1933 and is full of old-fashioned charm with modern conveniences. Weddings at Town Manor are Central Florida events in themselves, making the bed and breakfast a beautiful place for vow renewals or a second honeymoon.
Romantic Central Florida Things To Do
Romantic Central Florida things to do include taking in the view from above in a hot air balloon, visiting Hollis Garden and enjoying a concert in the Bok Tower Gardens.
One of the most romantic Central Florida things to do is a hot air balloon flight by Fantasy of Flight. The company allows up to four passengers per flight, but will make special arrangements for a romantic couples' flight. Fantasy of Flight even offers a champagne toast during the flight to make it extra special. The balloon flights are offered seven days a week, weather permitting.
Strolling around Hollis Garden is just another of the romantic Central Florida things to do. Located in downtown Lakeland, Hollis Garden is a beautiful 1.2 acre botanical garden with thousands of flowers and plants. The garden also has several water displays, like a grotto, koi pond, fountains, waterfalls and a lily pond. There's even a butterfly garden with plants grown specifically to attract local butterflies. Hollis Garden is located within walking distance of the historic Terrace Hotel and its award winning restaurant, the Terrace Grill.
Central Florida events at Bok Tower Gardens include concerts, art exhibits and gardening classes. Concerts include an evening picnic with music provided by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon. Watching the sun set atop Iron Mountain while enjoying a romantic picnic is the perfect relaxing vacation activity.
After enjoying all these Central Florida events, book a romantic spa appointment for two and enjoy a couples' massage. If you'd rather relax with a round of golf, you'll find many courses nearby so don't forget to bring your clubs.
Where To Eat In Central Florida
If all the Central Florida things to do have left you hungry, make your way into some of the romantic restaurants in the area. Even if you're staying somewhere else, the restaurant at the Chalet Suzanne is a romantic place to spend an evening. The restaurant has been named one of the Top 10 Country Inns in the United States by Uncle Ben's Rice and has won Florida Trend Magazine's Golden Spoon 'Hall of Fame' award. Most famously, though, Chalet Suzanne's soups reached world-recognition when they were selected to travel to the moon by NASA and the crew of Apollo 15 in 1973, thanks to astronaut James B. Irwin. The soups were also aboard Apollo 16 and Russia's Apollo Soyuz. Visitors to Chalet Suzanne can enjoy these famous soups, as well as salads and steaks, right on the lake.
Where To Stay In Central Florida
Central Florida is full of beautiful, romantic places for couples to stay. The area offers private vacation rental homes, inns and bed and breakfasts so chances are good that you'll find the perfect place to stay close to romantic Central Florida things to do.
Many of the vacation rental homes are fully furnished and each comes with its own private, screened in swimming pool so it's perfect for couples who want a little privacy. Don't feel like leaving the home? Call a local massage therapist to your home for a couples' massage and a personal chef to prepare a romantic meal for two and you won't even have to leave home. If your vacation includes your children, consider calling a local children's sitting service so you can enjoy an evening enjoying the romantic Central Florida things to do.
If the thought of an entire home is a little overwhelming, consider staying at the Chalet Suzanne Restaurant and Country Inn. The Country Inn has been named one of the most romantic places to stay in Florida by a national bridal magazine and caters to couples with romantic Central Florida things to do nearby. Chalet Suzanne offers 26 different rooms, each with a private bath and complimentary breakfast the next morning.
Another romantic option for couples is the Town Manor on the Lake Bed and Breakfast. The manor was built in 1933 and is full of old-fashioned charm with modern conveniences. Weddings at Town Manor are Central Florida events in themselves, making the bed and breakfast a beautiful place for vow renewals or a second honeymoon.
Romantic Central Florida Things To Do
Romantic Central Florida things to do include taking in the view from above in a hot air balloon, visiting Hollis Garden and enjoying a concert in the Bok Tower Gardens.
One of the most romantic Central Florida things to do is a hot air balloon flight by Fantasy of Flight. The company allows up to four passengers per flight, but will make special arrangements for a romantic couples' flight. Fantasy of Flight even offers a champagne toast during the flight to make it extra special. The balloon flights are offered seven days a week, weather permitting.
Strolling around Hollis Garden is just another of the romantic Central Florida things to do. Located in downtown Lakeland, Hollis Garden is a beautiful 1.2 acre botanical garden with thousands of flowers and plants. The garden also has several water displays, like a grotto, koi pond, fountains, waterfalls and a lily pond. There's even a butterfly garden with plants grown specifically to attract local butterflies. Hollis Garden is located within walking distance of the historic Terrace Hotel and its award winning restaurant, the Terrace Grill.
Central Florida events at Bok Tower Gardens include concerts, art exhibits and gardening classes. Concerts include an evening picnic with music provided by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon. Watching the sun set atop Iron Mountain while enjoying a romantic picnic is the perfect relaxing vacation activity.
After enjoying all these Central Florida events, book a romantic spa appointment for two and enjoy a couples' massage. If you'd rather relax with a round of golf, you'll find many courses nearby so don't forget to bring your clubs.
Where To Eat In Central Florida
If all the Central Florida things to do have left you hungry, make your way into some of the romantic restaurants in the area. Even if you're staying somewhere else, the restaurant at the Chalet Suzanne is a romantic place to spend an evening. The restaurant has been named one of the Top 10 Country Inns in the United States by Uncle Ben's Rice and has won Florida Trend Magazine's Golden Spoon 'Hall of Fame' award. Most famously, though, Chalet Suzanne's soups reached world-recognition when they were selected to travel to the moon by NASA and the crew of Apollo 15 in 1973, thanks to astronaut James B. Irwin. The soups were also aboard Apollo 16 and Russia's Apollo Soyuz. Visitors to Chalet Suzanne can enjoy these famous soups, as well as salads and steaks, right on the lake.
6 Month Countdown to Your New Zealand Vacation
Planning an international vacation is something that you don't want to do on the spur of the moment. When you plan a New Zealand vacation you want to start at least six month before you plan on leaving. This will give you plenty of time to find the best deals, get your passport and travel visas, buy your travelers' insurance and save up money for your vacation. With all the planning that you have to do, now is the perfect time to learn what you need to do in the six months leading up to your New Zealand vacation.
6 Months to Your New Zealand Vacation
When you are six months from your New Zealand vacation you will want to start gathering information about your vacation options. This is also the time that you will want to apply for your travel visas and passports. If you want to go on a cruise while in New Zealand then this is the month that you need to select a cruise and make your down payment, usually about 50 percent, to hold your reservation.
4 Months to Your New Zealand Vacation
When you are about four months from your New Zealand vacation you will want to make your hotel and car reservations. You will also want to purchase your traveler's insurance. During this month you will want to also start looking at special events that you want to attend and make plans to visit specific cities in New Zealand. You will also need to make a payment on your cruise, if you are taking one.
3 Months to Your New Zealand Vacation
When you are about three months away from your New Zealand vacation you will want to finalize your plans, confirm reservations and make any remaining reservations that you still need. This is also a good time to start watching travel alerts for New Zealand and the South Pacific.
1 to 2 Months to Your New Zealand Vacation
Make your final payment on your cruise, confirm reservations and make sure you have all the travel documents that you need. This is also a good time to talk to your doctor about forwarding your prescriptions to a New Zealand pharmacy. Check with your airlines and with New Zealand customs to see what you can bring with you and what you can't.
30 Days to Your New Zealand Vacation
During the last month before your vacation you will want to create a packing list, make arrangements to have someone watch your house, make arrangements for your pets' care and you will want to notify your community watch that you will be going on vacation. You will also need to pack your bags, make arrangements for pickups and dropoffs from the airport and you will need to lock down your home. Finally, you need to tell someone in the United States about your vacation itinerary. That way someone knows where you were going and when you should return to the United States.
6 Months to Your New Zealand Vacation
When you are six months from your New Zealand vacation you will want to start gathering information about your vacation options. This is also the time that you will want to apply for your travel visas and passports. If you want to go on a cruise while in New Zealand then this is the month that you need to select a cruise and make your down payment, usually about 50 percent, to hold your reservation.
4 Months to Your New Zealand Vacation
When you are about four months from your New Zealand vacation you will want to make your hotel and car reservations. You will also want to purchase your traveler's insurance. During this month you will want to also start looking at special events that you want to attend and make plans to visit specific cities in New Zealand. You will also need to make a payment on your cruise, if you are taking one.
3 Months to Your New Zealand Vacation
When you are about three months away from your New Zealand vacation you will want to finalize your plans, confirm reservations and make any remaining reservations that you still need. This is also a good time to start watching travel alerts for New Zealand and the South Pacific.
1 to 2 Months to Your New Zealand Vacation
Make your final payment on your cruise, confirm reservations and make sure you have all the travel documents that you need. This is also a good time to talk to your doctor about forwarding your prescriptions to a New Zealand pharmacy. Check with your airlines and with New Zealand customs to see what you can bring with you and what you can't.
30 Days to Your New Zealand Vacation
During the last month before your vacation you will want to create a packing list, make arrangements to have someone watch your house, make arrangements for your pets' care and you will want to notify your community watch that you will be going on vacation. You will also need to pack your bags, make arrangements for pickups and dropoffs from the airport and you will need to lock down your home. Finally, you need to tell someone in the United States about your vacation itinerary. That way someone knows where you were going and when you should return to the United States.
Family Vacation Ideas For the Home Business Owner
Family vacation ideas for the home business owner should be all about maximizing time with family while getting to do things that most families do not get to do for a period of time that most adults simply cannot afford to take off of work. In other words, your family vacations are, or should be, longer and more exciting than the vacations of ordinary families.
If you are struggling to find family vacation ideas, here are a few that I have for you.
One exciting adventure is to take a road trip that will take you through most, if not all, of the 50 states. Most people visit only a handful of states in their lifetime. Taking your family vacation through as many states as possible will be an experience for you and your family. Experience the beauty of coastal America, the flatland of the Midwest, the Rocky Mountains, the northeast, Washington D.C., or whatever sites excite you and your family the most.
Another family vacation idea that would be an experience is the New England countryside during fall. Take your family to learn about Colonial America while seeing the beautiful fall foliage and your family will have an experience to remember.
If you are looking for family vacation ideas for the winter season, take your family to Yellowstone and go snowmobiling in the permitted areas. Take them to Aspen or Breckenridge for a couple of weeks of skiing and hot chocolate. When you own your home based business, your time is limitless.
Finally, you can take what my family considers the dream summer vacation: Spend a month at the beach. One of our favorite locations is Gulf Shores, Alabama. Rent a comfortable condo or beach house and spend quality time relaxing on the beach, by the pool, and enjoying the view overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Take the time to go to a water park, eat at the various restaurants, and let your family choose adventures such as deep sea fishing or para sailing.
Whatever family vacation ideas you might have, owning your own home based business your possibilities are only limited by your imagination. Find the ideas that will make your family vacation an event that you and yours will talk about for years.
If you are struggling to find family vacation ideas, here are a few that I have for you.
One exciting adventure is to take a road trip that will take you through most, if not all, of the 50 states. Most people visit only a handful of states in their lifetime. Taking your family vacation through as many states as possible will be an experience for you and your family. Experience the beauty of coastal America, the flatland of the Midwest, the Rocky Mountains, the northeast, Washington D.C., or whatever sites excite you and your family the most.
Another family vacation idea that would be an experience is the New England countryside during fall. Take your family to learn about Colonial America while seeing the beautiful fall foliage and your family will have an experience to remember.
If you are looking for family vacation ideas for the winter season, take your family to Yellowstone and go snowmobiling in the permitted areas. Take them to Aspen or Breckenridge for a couple of weeks of skiing and hot chocolate. When you own your home based business, your time is limitless.
Finally, you can take what my family considers the dream summer vacation: Spend a month at the beach. One of our favorite locations is Gulf Shores, Alabama. Rent a comfortable condo or beach house and spend quality time relaxing on the beach, by the pool, and enjoying the view overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Take the time to go to a water park, eat at the various restaurants, and let your family choose adventures such as deep sea fishing or para sailing.
Whatever family vacation ideas you might have, owning your own home based business your possibilities are only limited by your imagination. Find the ideas that will make your family vacation an event that you and yours will talk about for years.
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