Sure, hotels and resorts have their perks. The high-end ones have restaurants, entertainment, and a variety of activities to offer. For some travelers, being around other guests is a comfort, even if they’re strangers. These kinds of accommodations work well for solo travelers, or those who are nervous about being in a country for the first time.
On the other hand, hotels and resorts have a cookie-cutter feel. If you’re looking for a home away from home that offers warmth and personality, consider a private villa for your next getaway.
In terms of price, the range is enormous, from hundreds to thousands a night. Where and when you travel can impact the cost. For instance, Caribbean villas during the festive period are more expensive than during the spring and summer, which is the low season.
The following destinations have great private villas for your next vacation.
Italy
From manors that have been in the same family for centuries to contemporary houses, Italy offers many kinds of villas. Some can even be booked for special occasions, like weddings and family reunions.
The great thing about Italy is that you can find private villas nearly everywhere. The Lake region in the north offers high drama and romance. Further south, there’s Tuscany, a sprawling region of major cities, villages, and medieval towns. Don’t forget the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, Sicily, and Sardinia. The crowds flock to these areas in the summertime.
Best of all, not all of the villas are overly priced in terms of renting for your stay. You can book a decent villa in Tuscany for around $4,300 per week. You just have to know where to look and who to trust.
Bali
If you want a vacation in paradise that costs less than you might expect, go to Bali. You’ll find top villas in Canggu, Jimbaran, Seminyak, and other areas.
There are smaller villas that are suited for honeymooners, all the way up to palatial, multi-level estates. The grounds are always beautifully manicured, perfect for long walks and contemplation.
Some have additional amenities like tennis courts and fitness centers. While villas elsewhere might only come with a housekeeper and gardener, Balinese villas typically have an entire staff dedicated to making your stay memorable.
Need additional staff like a personal trainer or babysitter? Say the word, and that can be arranged for an extra fee.
Jamaica
Jamaica is a jewel in so many respects, and there are some lovely villas on the island to enjoy. Many have a traditional Caribbean style in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and elsewhere. If you’re looking for ultra-contemporary villas, St. Barths, Barbados, or Turks & Caicos might be more your speed.
The largest English-speaking island in the Caribbean gives you a bang for your buck. The villas come with a maid, laundress, and a cook who can make delectable meals. If you want the villa to be stocked with groceries prior to arrival, many property managers and owners can accommodate your request. The cost is usually settled on-site.
Want a fusion of the private villa and resort experience? The Tryall Club or Half Moon are great choices.
Croatia
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you might already know that parts were filmed in this beautiful nation, which sits between Eastern and Central Europe.
From centuries-old castles, palaces, and national parks, Croatia and its islands are something to behold. As far as private villas go, some of the most beautiful are in Dubrovnik, Split, and the island of Hvar.
Whether you want the Old World look, the modern look, or a fusion, there’s plenty available. Most villas have private swimming pools and afford views of the Adriatic Sea. Nothing like enjoying a cocktail at sunset and a cup of coffee at sunrise.
If you’re a seafood fan, you’re in luck. According to Adventures Croatia, there are more than 400 species of sea creatures in the Adriatic, which explains why seafood is such a staple.
St. Martin
This island has a French and Dutch side. However, the French side has the prettiest villas, especially Terres Basses. The homes offer maid service and pool/garden maintenance. If you want a professional to handle cooking duties, that’s an extra expense.
If you can bring yourself to venture beyond your villa, you have 37 beaches you can visit. Marigot, the capital of the French side of the island, has colonial and Creole influences. Some say it resembles the Cote d’Azur in places. Check out the market for fresh produce and non-food items like hats, t-shirts, and various trinkets you can buy for yourself or as a gift.
Also in Marigot is the port, where you can catch a ferry to the neighboring island of Anguilla. Passports are required and be sure to keep an eye on the schedule so you won’t be left behind.
That said, being stranded in Anguilla isn’t the worst thing. There are some very nice accommodations there and Shoal Bay is gentle enough for swimming.
Turks and Caicos
There are several great beaches on this island, but Grace Bay wins awards year after year for a reason. You’ll find not only luxury resorts here but also many villas. There’s no need to drive to the beach when you can simply walk out the front door and sink your toes in the white sand.
There’s really no such thing as a budget-friendly villa when it comes to this destination. Even off-season, private villas run thousands a night. A two-bedroom property like Beach Cake in Turtle Cove can be over $3,000 a night before taxes. With that in mind, you can imagine what larger homes like Amazing Grace (5 bedrooms) and Hawksbill (11 bedrooms) cost.
If you’re looking for that once-in-a-lifetime trip in the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos may be it. You only live once, treat yourself royally.
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