Travel Agents Vs Online Booking: Why The Personal Touch Matters

May 1st, 2023

There’s nothing more exciting than having a vacation to look forward to. However, the time and effort required scanning luxury villa rentals, available flights, and additional extras can be exhausting. Although online travel booking is easier than ever, it doesn’t always mean you’ll get value for money, and you could be missing out on sizable benefits.

There’s much to be said for the personal touch, and in this feature we’re going to look at some of the reasons why you might want to use a travel agent for your next trip.

Expertise and Access

Whether you’re visiting a destination for the first or fifth time, local knowledge is key and an experienced travel agent can open up doors. This means access to luxury villa rentals and exclusive properties that are not always available to the general public. What’s more, they are able to offer recommendations on the local area and top attractions, and may even be able to help with reservations to the best restaurants and bars in the area.

A Personalized Service

The reality of online bookings is that it’s purposely generic. While this is great in some situations, it doesn’t always serve discerning travellers well.  If you seek a personalised and unique experience, a travel agent will go the extra mile for you. From requesting your preferred amenities, to researching properties that meet your individual budget and needs. This level of personalization is hard to achieve when taken into your own hands.

Time

It may be your greatest asset, so why waste time researching properties, flights and destinations, when a travel agent can fast-track your booking. Not only do online bookings require days of research, but typically you aren’t offered the opportunity to personalise your itinerary either.

Stress-free Travel

Using a travel agent can offer peace of mind and a stress-free trip, knowing that it will be organised professionally and to the highest standard. And, should something derail your plans, you’ll always have a professional on hand to help resolve it.

Complex Itineraries

When travelling with large parties, children, or groups, it pays to have expertise. There can be logistical challenges for each itinerary involved that a travel agent can work around. There is  less flexibility with online bookings, when typically everyone has to be on the same itinerary, unless booked individually. Coordinating this effort is no easy feat, and precisely where travel agents can make a difference.

Administrative Support and International Travel

It can be overwhelming travelling to a far-flung destination, let alone the cost involved. For that reason, a robust booking with a travel agent will allow you to travel in confidence, knowing that your high standards will be met. They can also advise on vaccinations, filling out forms, filing paperwork, insurance, health and safety considerations, and other requirements needed for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Destination Occasions

If you’re travelling abroad for an event, such as a wedding, you can find a wealth of options when booking online. However, if you’re looking for something unique and special, a travel agent will be able to pull out all the stops. With insight and contacts at the very best luxury vacation rentals, you will certainly be getting the best value for money in some of the most desirable locations.

Support and Care

And finally, when you make an online booking your experience starts and ends there. There’s no follow up or aftercare. It’s not quite the same when using a travel agent, who remains at your disposal, before, during and after your trip, on hand to assist with your needs and send timely reminders. Should an emergency situation arise, or you need to amend your trip, they will be on hand to assist you.

Posted in Travel, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Travel Agents Vs Online Booking: Why The Personal Touch Matters

A Guide To The Miami Grand Prix 2023

May 1st, 2023

If the thought of Formula One gets your engines running, then it’s time to buckle up, because the Miami Grand Prix is coming to town between May 5-7! From the best luxury Miami Villas to unmissable parties, here’s what you need to know.

Grand Prix – A Quick History

The Grand Prix is a prestigious motor racing event, spanning 21 global destinations. It first took place in Le Mans, France in 1906, with each lap of the triangle circuit covering 105km. Fast-forward to the modern day and the Miami circuit length is 5.412 km with 57 laps to complete.

The inaugural Miami Grand Prix took place last year in 2022. It was originally planned to take place Downtown, but later moved to the Hard Rock Stadium complex in Miami Gardens, thanks to support from the Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross

What to expect

If it’s your first time at a Grand Prix, you’re in for a ride. Last year, the spectacle attracted more than 242,955 guests throughout the inaugural weekend. This year, that’s set to reach 300,000. The metrorail and Brightline offer direct transport links to the area. However, there are also shuttle buses and taxis for convenience. There are limited parking options at the stadium, typically restricted for hospitality suite guests.

Tickets

Yes, even with days to go, there is still time to be part of the action. Available tickets start from $770, or for a little more you can enjoy an Alfa Romeo Fan Package with behind-the-scenes and merch for $1,200. For next-level VIP treatment, take advantage of the many experience packages, which offer grid access and hospitality via the official website f1experiences.com.

For those with connections, the Paddock Club is the place to be, with its private suites and luxury rooftop – all new for 2023.

Who to Watch and Cheer On

All eyes will be on the current World Champion, Dutchman Max Verstappen, who scooped pole position last season with 146 points. His Red Bull team are hoping to maintain their position, but there’s everything to race for with Mercedes and Ferrari raising their game. Locals will be particularly excited to see South Florida’s Logan Sargeant in the line-up too, racing for Williams Team this season.

Insider Tips

We’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to, here’s a few tips to make the most of your visit.

  • Head to Turn 18 Grandstand for some of the best views of the Grand Prix in action.
  • Take note, this is a cashless event. To buy anything you’ll have to get a Visa gift card, located on site.
  • Wi-Fi can be found in some parts of the circuit, going under the name #HRSFREEWIFI.
  • Forget festival food, the cuisine on offer is next-level at the Grand Prix with 65 restaurants to choose from. Head to the Yacht Club and MIA Marina general admission areas for dishes prepared by James Beard award-winning chefs.
  • For styling it out, hot-foot it over to the Hard Rock Beach Club with resort-style pools and luxury cabanas, located at turns 11 and 12.

Fan Experiences Outside the GP

If you can tear yourself away from your luxury Miami Villas , there’s plenty of fun to be had in Miami’s bustling night scene.

Global pop stars the Jonas Brothers will be taking to the stage at the Miami Grand Prix Concert at the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Fla. On May 5 at 8pm. Take the party on at ultra-club E11EVEN with DJ Tiesto, Deadmau5 and many others hitting the decks between May 3-7.

In the run up to the event, there’s also ongoing activities at Bayfront Park, including high-tech virtual racing and Q&As with former drivers, tickets are required.

Finally, foodies can rejoice at the ‘F1 Feast at COTE’ running from May 3-7 with a mouth-watering red-carpet menu.

For the very best Miami villa rentals, visit Villazzo.com

Posted in Miami, Uncategorized | Comments Off on A Guide To The Miami Grand Prix 2023

Luxury Rentals Versus Luxury Hotels

March 30th, 2023

Luxury Rentals Versus Luxury Hotels: Which is Best For Your Vacation?

Whether you’re contemplating a luxury villa rental or a five-star hotel for your next vacation, there’s a lot to weigh up. While both offer first-class amenities, the differences between them can be distinct. Tranquility versus company, personal chefs versus mass catering, and private facilities versus shared ones; the list goes on.

To help you make an informed choice, here are some of the key differences and considerations to keep in mind:

Privacy & Exclusivity

One of the main reasons why demand for luxury vacation rentals is so high, is because of the exclusivity it affords. With your own villa, you don’t have to share your space, the grounds, or facilities with strangers. Everything is exclusively yours to enjoy in the confines of private grounds. This means you can shift into relaxation mode easily and without the inconvenience of tourists. Of course, if you do enjoy the bustle of a hotel lobby or bar, a hotel option may be better suited to your needs.

Group and Family travel

If you’re traveling with friends and family, a hotel can offer a social side to tap into. This extends to on-site creches, fitness classes, and activities for the kids to enjoy with others. For the next-level up, luxury villa rentals provide in-home services such as private gourmet chefs, around-the-clock childcare, and excursions for the family to enjoy. If you’re looking for a personalized experience, this is certainly the premium option. In terms of enjoying more space and greater privacy, luxury villas tend to have larger bedrooms, and the option for children to have their own room too.

The Amenities

Most five-star hotels are equipped with a plethora of amenities; spas, pools, restaurants and bars. This is great, if you don’t mind booking in advance and getting up at 7am to reserve a spot by the pool!

For the discerning traveler, however, exclusivity is important. Villas bridge the gap, ensuring you can enjoy the very best facilities without the need for queuing, booking in advance, and sharing your space. You can enjoy the latest in-house technology, parting spaces and an unlimited feast of facilities, such as; hot tubs, heated pools, sundecks, home theaters, game rooms, and private docks, that you won’t easily find with a hotel.

Flexibility

Both hotels and villas allow you to come and go as you please. However, only villas allow you to customize your itinerary, cook your own meals, and hire-in personal chefs and staff to meet your needs. If you’re traveling with a group, or entertaining guests, a villa may be better suited to your travel requirements.

Location

Location is everything when it comes to the perfect get-away, and most five-star hotels are situated in convenient locations, close to local amenities. However, with this comes the challenge of being in a busy tourist-heavy neighborhood. In contrast, luxury villas are often found in the most exclusive and elite neighborhoods, surrounded by natural beauty.

Customer Service

Excellent customer service is central to a stress-free vacation. From ease of booking, through to concierge support. What makes a villa experience so exceptional, is the level and quality of service you’ll receive. Leading luxury rental providers, Villazzo, for instance, offer a bespoke approach to customer care, with attentive 24-hour concierge, a dedicated full-time in-villa butler and amenities catered to your personal tastes.

Summary

When it comes to Hotels Versus Villas, the distinction is clear. While hotels cater to the masses well, there’s nothing like a bespoke experience, private surroundings and first-class hospitality. For all this and more, look no further than a luxury villa.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Luxury Rentals Versus Luxury Hotels

Babymoon Bliss: Why Thailand is a Dream Destination for Expecting Couples

March 21st, 2023

If one thing’s for sure, becoming a parent is a wonderful, if not slightly exhausting experience! Broken sleep, attending to a newborn 24/7, and recovering from birth are just some of the challenges new parents face. Which is why a ‘babymoon’ provides an opportunity to wind down and enjoy a relaxing break before the tiny pitter patter of footsteps. Here’s four good reasons to jet off to your luxury villa rental in Southeast Asia.

  1. Local Culture

Keen to explore the sights of Thailand? Good news, there’s historical temples at every turn. The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a modern day masterpiece, with intricate details carved into the wooden temple, paying homage to the world around us. For something more ancient, Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai Historical Park is a recognized World Heritage Site, at the foot of a huge standing Buddha.

With over 2,500km of coastline, Thailand’s beaches are very much part of its culture too. Some of the best ones to visit include; Choeng Mon in Koh Samui  – a crescent shape alcove with turquoise waters, and the infamous Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi which you might recognise from the film ‘The Beach’.

  1. For Rest and Relaxation

There’s nothing quite like a pregnancy massage to soothe swollen legs and aid any ailments. Most luxury villa rentals can organise a professional masseuse to visit for the full treatment. For total indulgence, look no further than Chiva-Som Spa at Hua Hin. This multi-award winning spa might just be the most famous in Thailand. It offers a menu of treatments, but the spine-tingling foot massage is one you don’t want to miss. Another popular option is the Wellness Center at Rosewood, Phuket. This oasis of calm even offers couples massages, side-by-side.

  1. Indulge in Mouth-watering Cuisine

Thailand is a foodie haven. From lip-smacking street food to gourmet cuisine – and all at affordable prices. Making it into the Top 50 Restaurants in the world, Sorn in bustling Bangkok makes it worth the visit. Flavours are punchy without being potent and dishes are impressively refined. For veggies, Anchan is a one-of-a-kind restaurant in Chiang Maai, offering delicious curries and a diverse vegetarian menu. If you find yourself in Phuket, Blue Elephant is a popular chain that fuses home-cooking with bold flavours. Still in Phuket, don’t miss the chance to eat like a Queen at Mom Tri’s Kitchen at Villa Royale. Here you can lap up fine-dining with waterside views for the ultimate in romance.

  1. Romance is in the Air

Speaking of romance, the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok is a soothing oasis in this vibrant city. The juxtaposition of this five-star hotel set against the neon sky of the capital, make for a surprisingly romantic setting. With lavish flower displays and first-class hospitality, it’s the perfect couple’s get-away.

Take relaxation to the next level with outstanding facilities at the Four Seasons Hotel in Chiang Rai. Its exotic bamboo gardens and endless pools make for a romantic setting, especially with (virgin) sundowners at the Burma Bar. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s an opportunity to walk with the resort’s resident elephant!

While you still can, make the most of the tranquillity at The Shore at Katahani. This adults-only beachfront resort is a couple’s paradise with private pools and endless sea-views to melt into. Dine under the stars or enjoy a candlelit hot tub – this is one place where romance is definitely in the air.

Looking for holiday inspiration for your Babymoon? Check out Global Luxury Villas.

Posted in Restaurants, Turks & Caicos, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Babymoon Bliss: Why Thailand is a Dream Destination for Expecting Couples

Get Ready for the 2023 Miami Open Tennis Tournament

March 21st, 2023

It’s that time of year again when the great and the good descend on the city for the coveted Miami Tennis Open. One of the highlights of the sporting calendar, this two-week annual event aracts some 300,000 guests to its golden shores.
It’s not too late to book tickets, lock down your villa in Miami, and be part of the biggest sporting event of the season. Here’s everything you need to know.

The Countdown is On!

Taking place from March 19 until April 2, the 2023 Miami Open welcomes the world’s greatest tennis players to Miami Beach. With a total prize fund of $8.5 million, there’s everything to play for.

Plan your visit

Taking place in the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, the Miami Tennis Open offers easy access and plenty of parking – accessible an hour before campus gates open. If you’re arriving by Uber there’s a dedicated pick-up and drop-off point.
The Main Stadium hosts 14,000 guests, with the smaller grandstand accommodating 5,000. There’s also smaller courts within the arena space. It’s worth looking at the virtual map ahead of time.

Booking tickets

Although the event takes place this weekend, there’s still time to book tickets. The official Miami Open website offers a host of options starting from $101 upwards, with tickets available for instant digital download. Choose from single to group tickets and luxury VIP packages, to best suit your needs. Popular full-day passes include reserved seating in the Stadium Court, while Luxury Seating offers the best (and most comfortable) seats in the house. If you’re aending with work, or in a group, the Suite Experience includes food and drink.

Players to watch

Also known as the Miami Masters, the 12-day event features 96 men and 96 women competing in the singles, with 32 teams baling it out in the doubles. Fans will be treated to world-class performances from the biggest names in tennis, including; Rafael Nadal, Coco Gauff and Stefanos Tsitsipas. However, all eyes will be on Spanish player Carlos Alcaraz as he defends his title.

Where to stay in Miami?

The Miami Open aracts an elite crowd of A-listers, tennis aficionados, corporate guests and fans. Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or work colleagues, you’ll benefit from central accommodation within a stylish seing for entertaining and impressing guests.

Luxury villas provide the perfect private space

Refined Elegance Within Easy Reach

Last-minute mansions for rent in Miami are hard to come by, making Villa Denise a gem of a find. This large luxurious property is perfectly placed for jet-set visitors. Just minutes from Miami International Airport and lile over half-an-hour to the Hard Rock Stadium without traffic. Placed in the idyllic and peaceful seing of Sunset Island, this six-bedroom mansion is perfect for gathering the gang and having an ‘ace’ time.

Soak up Miami’s Sociable Scene

Make the most of Miami’s bustling entertainment scene in this centrally-located six-bedroom property in the heart of Miami Beach. Within easy reach of the best restaurants, bars, and clubs, Villa Vanya is one of the most sought after luxury rentals in Miami Beach. Complete with a waterfront pool, cascading waterfall, and outdoor jacuzzi, it’s the ultimate residence for achieving the wow factor.

Refined Luxury, Total Tranquillity

If you’re all about the chill, Villa Kayla is a stylish, sophisticated five-bedroom outpost, that epitomises luxury rentals in Miami. Here you can enjoy instant waterfront access with your own private dock, and sweeping views across the Bay. It’s a well-equipped retreat tucked away in Miami Beach.

For more information, or to make a booking, please visit Villazzo.

Posted in Miami | Comments Off on Get Ready for the 2023 Miami Open Tennis Tournament

Destinations for Coming Together Over Thanksgiving

November 28th, 2022

This year Thanksgiving is set to be bigger than ever, as families make up for lost time over the past year. Taking place on Thursday 25 November in the US, the date is slowly creeping up. However, it’s never too early (or late) to plan ahead, and it all starts with a spacious vacation rental for all the family.

If you’re ready for a get-away, we’ve hand-picked seven of our favorite destinations for all the Thanksgiving feels.

For winter feels – Aspen

Warming the coldest of hearts, the powdery slopes of Aspen invite you over for a long weekend. Cosy up in front of the fire and get in the festive mood, with log fires burning and eggnog brewing! It’s a romantic choice for couples, as well as popular with families too.

With their huge kitchens and endless dining space, Aspen villa rentals were made for big family gatherings. There’s also a number of resorts serving Thanksgiving dinner, including Der Fondue Chessel and Ski Tip Lodge to name a few. When the turkey has settled, Snowmass mountain beckons with some of the best slopes you’ll find in the US.

Family fun – Miami

Miami villas are known for their decadence, style and swimming pools. If you’re looking to combine Thanksgiving with a mini break, this is the perfect place for you. Villa Sasha, for instance, boasts seven spacious bedrooms, with a large private outdoor space and plenty of indoor dining options. Thanksgiving in the sun doesn’t get better than Miami.

For big party vibes – New York City

There’s thousands of reasons why New York is a great choice for Thanksgiving. But perhaps one of the biggest is the infamous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. A stalwart in the diary since 1924, it attracts millions of party-goers with giant floats, musical acts and theatrical performance from Broadway stars. Perfect for couples and friends looking to party through the Thanksgiving weekend. Just be sure to book your villa rental in advance, as it gets busy.

The ultimate get-away – Hawaii

November is a great month to visit Hawaii – the busy crowds have dispersed and the weather is perfectly warm. Just a short flight from the west coast, it manages to feel a world away. If you fancy something a little different, try a luau Thanksgiving feast, full of Polynesian flavour – fun for all the family. And while you’re there, why not hit up the waves – since it’s home to some of the best in the world.

Beach life at its best – St Barth’s

Bring together your loved ones under the luxury and beauty of one of the best St Barth’s villa rentals on the island. This is the best way to enjoy privacy and luxury under one roof. Hire in a catering company to cook up your Thanksgiving feast, or take to one of the many five-star restaurants on the island. When the celebrations are over, there’s plenty of tranquil beaches for fully relaxing and making the most of your time on the island.

Calling all kids – Orlando, Florida

One for the kids (and big kids) amongst you! Orlando is home to some of the most luxurious villa rentals, hotels and of course Disney World. This Thanksgiving, the theme park is hosting all sorts of options for families within its resort, which means you don’t have to miss out whilst having fun with Mickey Mouse. Reassuringly, the standard is high here, so you won’t go wrong wherever you decide to book.

For unrivalled luxury, Villazzo offers the very best villa rentals in the most sought-after destinations in the world.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Destinations for Coming Together Over Thanksgiving

Must-Visit Destinations to Add to Your Family Track Bucket List

October 13th, 2022

When it comes to the very best in luxury villas, first-class vacations and adrenaline-filled action, it’s rarely orientated towards families. However, just because the kids are in tow, it doesn’t mean you should miss out.

From the crisp-cold shores of Iceland, to the rolling terrain of Yellow Stone Park and all that’s in between, here’s five kid-friendly action-packed destinations that the whole family will enjoy.

The Great Barrier Reef – North Queensland, Australia

Australia is a mammoth place to conqueror. So, if you’re with the family, why not focus on North Queensland – a popular spot for adrenaline-junkies – little ones too! And with year-round warm weather, there’s never a bad time to visit.

First and foremost, the main attraction here is The Great Barrier Reef. The world’s largest coral reef is a spectacle to see, with over 1,600 species of fish to marvel at. Come and snorkel or scuba-dive, there’s also plenty of conservation projects for children to learn more about. In nearby Cairns, children can swot up on local flora and fauna native to this part of the world. And when you’re ready for a rest, leave your luxury villa rental behind and jet off to the Whitsundays. This nearby archipelago of 74 tropical islands is a must – you’ve come this far after all.

Best for: families that like to swim and surf.

Rovaniemi, Finland

The capital of Finland is more than just home to Santa Claus. This winter garden is a visual feast and extreme sports haven, for those who like to get off the beaten track. Start your travels with a visit to the local museum and science centre “Arkitkum” this will give you an appreciation for its bold weather and environment. Then it’s time to dive right in to all the fun sports on hand. Reindeer and husking sledding is a popular sport here – time your travels during December to pair this with a visit to Santa’s Grotto – a truly memorable experience for kids. It’s just one of several activities on offer. You can get involved in snow tubing, cross-country skiing and a favorite local pastime: ice fishing! What’s not to love?

Best for: extreme winter sports activities

Yellowstone National Park, USA

There are over 423 national parks in America. What makes Yellowstone so special is its breathtaking terrain, geysers (gas fired water holes) hot springs and wild animals. It’s a bit of a cross between Yogi Bear and going on Safari – making it perfect for family vacations!

Sure to wow the children, this 3,500 sqm wilderness is located in land-locked Wyoming. When travelling with little ones, you will benefit from avoiding peak heat, perhaps April, September or October. This lower peak season also means you’re more likely to catch a glimpse of some of the rare wildlife too. This includes bears, elks, bison and wolves. Yes, wolves.

Far away from the comfort of your luxury villa rental, there are designated camping spots for those brave enough to pull up a tent for a night or two… Surrounded by luscious greenery, tranquil forests and dramatic canyons and rivers, it’s a wonderful place for reconnecting with nature. Take note – bears start to emerge from hibernation in early spring.

Best for: boy scouts and girl cubs.

Reykjavik, Iceland

With its rich Viking history and fresh glacier air, Iceland is one of the most magical destinations for all the family to enjoy. It’s also quite remote, so basing yourself in the capital Reykjavik will serve you well. One of the safest countries in the world, expect a warm friendly welcome, from locals that are excited to tell you all about their history. A great place to start is the National Saga Museum, offering ‘close encounters’ to Vikings up close and personal. A trip this far, however, would be incomplete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal spa brings people from the world over to experience its mineral rich water in extreme surroundings. Kids will particularly enjoy whale-watching off the coast of the island, despite the early start, it promises quite a spectacle. Finally, for all those Game of Thrones feels, head to Skaftafell, Vatnajokull National Park to witness gushingwaterfalls and breathtaking beauty at your feet.

Best for: wellness holidays

Looking for your next luxury villa rental? Check out the exclusive family-friendly collection on Villazzo today.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Must-Visit Destinations to Add to Your Family Track Bucket List

Sizzling Eastern Asian Cities to Visit in 2022

September 29th, 2022

Now that travel is back, we’ve got some making up for lost time to do. Step out of your comfort zone and try the road less travelled. Eastern Asia is one of the trending destinations for 2022, and we’re about to reveal five of the best cities to visit. Before you book your luxury villa rental, be sure to read this first!

Tokyo, Japan

Food, fashion, and futuristic vibes – Tokyo is a city you can’t help but fall in love with, if only for its originality and sheer brilliance. After all, anywhere that paints smiley faces on buses, and offers private karaoke pods for one, is a city worth visiting! Showa Memorial Park is a good place to get a feel for the lay of the land  and appreciate it’s natural beauty, especially its full blossom. This is a city of skyscrapers, so make the most of it from any of the towering city bars, including at the Four Seasons for all the views. When in Tokyo, you simply must try the wagyu beef, and where else than Gonpachi. If it’s tiered seating looks familiar, that’s because it’s straight out of Tarantino’s Kill Bill movie – the beef isn’t bad either!

Seoul, South Korea

Ever since the explosion of K-pop, the world has gone crazy for South Korean culture. This new and exciting world is ready to be discovered, and Seoul is the perfect gateway to it all. Shake off the jetlag with a barefoot walk around the serene and pretty Changdeokgung Palace as you find your bearings. Next, the N Seoul Tower is a must – this iconic building towers 774 metres into the clouds and is the place to go for selfies. A visit to Seoul would be incomplete without experiencing its bustling food scene. Start at Gwangjang market and sample a wide variety of local food and ingredients you’ll be sneaking back to your villa rental to rustle up. For a totally different vibe, two hours away by train is Gyeongju – an open-air museum of historic relics and artefacts that you won’t have seen anywhere else. In all, Seoul is a fascinating city, and with it being so undiscovered, now’s the perfect time to visit.

Taipei City, Taiwan

Named as one of the top cities of 2022 by Lonely Planet, Taipei is the East Asian trending city of the moment and it deserves your full attention. From fascinating religious traditions to a sizzling food scene, you’ll be most surprised with its ever-changing terrain. Spend the morning on the beach, and the evening in the mountains, so vast is its picturesque landscape. A photographer’s paradise, you won’t go a moment without wanting to capture its raw beauty.

Beijing, China

Home of this year’s Winter Olympic Games, Beijing is one of the more popular cities for travel to East Asia, especially for business. Here you can experience traditional Chinese culture within accessible surroundings. For instance, it’s famous tea culture and lesser known opera scene, are all worth sampling. Perhaps though, what makes Beijing so compelling to visit is the contrast between old and new and how they’re interwoven in every sense. From its youthful versus ageing population, to its modern luxury villa rentals alongside maze-like huntongs – nothing can prepare you for the such stark contrasts.

Kyoto, Japan

Sitting on the island of Honshu, the tranquil setting of Kyoto will have you reconnected to the world in no time. Adorned by some 2,000 temples and shrines, as well as geishas and quaint wooden houses, it’s like something out of a fairy-tale. It’s like you’ve stepped into another world and escaped the rat-race forever, in this peaceful, ethereal and serene setting with religious architecture at every turn. Be sure to complete your stay with a visit to Higashi Hongan-ji, where you can hear the faint chant of monks throughout its landscaped gardens. The less crowded and more affordable alternative to Tokyo, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Sizzling Eastern Asian Cities to Visit in 2022

Best Activities to Enjoy in Turks and Caicos

September 14th, 2022


Gwyneth’s a fan, Oprah’s a fan, even Drake’s a fan. But who wouldn’t be with 350 days of sunshine and 230-miles of some of the world’s best beaches. It can only be the Turks and Caicos islands…
 
If you’re planning a visit to this breathtaking archipelago of islands, then it’s time to book your Turks and Caicos luxury villa rental and get ready for the trip of a lifetime, here’s the lowdown on the best activities.

The best of beach life
Surrounded by nothing but turquoise waters and stretches of soft white sand, this is the place for beach life at its best. There are so many idyllic coastlines to choose from, but Grace Bay Beach and Parrot Cay are noteworthy crowd-pleasers.
 
Not content with just basking in the sunshine? There’s plenty of water-based activities to inspire. Head to The Bright Reef and Smith’s Reef in Providenciales for a memorable underwater experience snorkelling amongst the coral reef. Take it up a notch at West Caicos Marine National Park- welcoming to both snorkelers and divers with 397 hectares of protected land to explore. Accomplished divers should make the time to visit French Cay. Here you can experience drops of over 6,000 feet and reefs with an abundance of fish, rays, sharks and when in season – even Humpback whales.
 
If you’re better above sea level, then a favorite tourist attraction is jet-skiing around ‘La Famille Express’. This decaying shipwreck is quite the draw, and afterwards you can jet over to Dellis Cay to marvel at giant-size star fish – the kids will love it.
 
For a more luxurious experience, there’s plenty of private yacht charters to see the island in style. If you have a private dock, some of these will even collect from your Turks & Caicos villa rental. Tailor the trip to your preference, be it visiting the local beaches, reefs or islands – it’s a delightful way to spend a day.

Explore the island
This is the perfect landscape for exploring nature in all its extremes. Start with Conch Bar caves in Middle Caicos, this is the largest non-submerged cave system in the Bahamas and an unusual place to tour – look out for low-flying bats and prehistoric ruins!
 
Be at one with nature at East Bay Islands National Park. This stunning vast land is home to flocks of wildlife, bird life and mangrove wetlands – a soothing backdrop for boat trips and kayaking its lagoon-like waters.
 
Finish the extreme tour with a bird’s eye view of Grace Bay. There’s a number of reputable parasailing companies that will take you up to 500 feet for incredible views of the beach, the barrier reefs and the large sea animals below.

A foodies paradise
Whether you’re entertaining friends in your Turks and Caicos villa rental, or being entertained in one of its many five-star establishments, the food scene here is sizzling. Local cuisine is fragrant, filling and joyously healthy. Boiled fish and grits, conch fritters, and grilled lobster tail are popular dishes, with an unmistakable Caribbean kick.
 
The iconic Da Conch Shack is a great place to sample local staples, especially its namesake conch. There’s live music on Wednesday-Sunday evenings, making it a lively and inviting spot for kicking back and having fun.
 
In South Caicos, The Great House is a romantic clifftop retreat, with panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean and a first-class fine dining menu – the jerk chicken is a must. Nestled away in the Providenciales, Grace’s Cottage is a gem of a find – this bijou homely setting offers creative seafood dishes with world-class cuisine. As one of the most famous restaurants on the island, be sure to book in advance.
 
Finally, a favorite with the jet-set elite, Coyaba at Grace Bay offers a sophisticated setting for dining alfresco. Using fresh seasonal produce, the tropical setting is popular with couples and foodies, under the helm of Chef Paul Newman.
 
Villazzo leads the way in luxury villa rentals in the most desirable destinations throughout the world, including Turks and Caicos.

Posted in Turks & Caicos | Comments Off on Best Activities to Enjoy in Turks and Caicos

Getting Around Mykonos in Style

August 1st, 2022

A quick look at Mykonos on a map makes it look like a blimp in the Aegean seas, and at just

10km, it probably is. However, that doesn’t stop it from being a first-class destination when it comes to luxury travel.

After all, this is an island that’s not like the other. It’s a paradise and preserve of the rich, famous and beautiful, where only the best will do. From luxury Mykonos rentals to private super yachts, this Greek island is for those who like the finer things in life. So when it’s time to see the sights, parade its beaches and dine in its many restaurants, you’ll want to get around in style.x

However, this is Greece and anything goes – so buckle up and read on – you’re in for a ride.

Scooter

The roads of Mykonos are in good condition, if not small and windy in parts – as if meant for the humble scooter. Renting a motorbike is one of the easiest ways to explore the beaches, bays and beauty spots on the island, and there’s plenty available for visitors. Public parking is another story entirely, but shouldn’t be a problem in your Mykonos villa rental at least. Scooters come in all shapes and sizes, to style it out, seek out a BMW R1250 for all those Top Gun vibes!

Luxury car

While you won’t struggle for car hire in Mykonos, you may want to book as early as possible to nab the flashiest wheels on the road. The appetite for Mercedes soft-top’s and Jeep Wranglers is always high in these parts. Four-by-fours remain the best ways to see the island – which incidentally takes about 40 minutes end-to-end. Better still, hire a private driver to take you around – this means you can enjoy the heady heights of Mykonos Town without the worry of how to get home after one Ouzo too many. We’ve all been there.

Yacht

You won’t be out of place pulling up in your super yacht in Mykonos. The Greek islands are a magnet for sailing trips and island hopping, and most locations have well-equipped marinas for this very reason. Mykonos Marina, locally known as New Port, is still work in progress, but is the best place to moor up. However, some Mykonos villa rentals include water access and private docks, although these are always in high demand.

Jet-ski

It’s not the traditional way to see the sights of Mykonos, but jet-ski’s do have their uses. Due to the nooks and crannies and geographical lay of the land, it can be easier to travel by jet ski from one part to another, particularly around the bay of Paralia Ftelias and charming Oronos beach. Less so for late night drinks in town!

Taxis

There are only a handful of taxis on the island, making it quite a feat to flag one down. If you’re planning a trip out, it’s best to book ahead to reserve your transport. There are stands dotted throughout the city, including at the airport – however patience is the key here.

Water taxi

A fun and fast way to go from beach to beach is by local water taxi. The Platis Gialos Boat service serves the island, although don’t expect anything fancy from these fishing boats. Leaving promptly on the hour, they tootle off from key locations including Super Paradise and Elia. Starting from just €10, it’s a cost-effective solution too.

By Jimmy Choo

And finally, where possible you may want to resort to the oldest form of transport in the book: walking! Not only is Mykonos a stunning destination to walk around – you might not have a choice. Back in the day, Mykonos town was proclaimed an architectural landmark prohibiting cars from its streets, with  few exceptions.  This means lots of navigating your way through cobbled alleyways when you’re in town, the perfect excuse to invest in those Jimmy Choo sneakers.

Posted in Mykonos | Comments Off on Getting Around Mykonos in Style

« Older Entries