Archive for September, 2020

CHILL OUT IN THESE LEADING WINTER DESTINATIONS

Tuesday, September 29th, 2020

There’s nothing quite like fresh alpine air, the chill and thrill of the slopes, and snow-capped mountains covered in powder. And snuggled up in your luxury home rental, watching the snow fall outside is a cosy place to be.

It’s no surprise therefore, that there’s a growing number of jet-set travellers flocking to the hills to get back to nature.

If you’re one of these, or if you’re even flirting with the idea, here’s three fabulous winter destinations for cold weather fans…

Ontario, Canada
Depending on the time of year you visit, there’s a varying landscape and terrain to enjoy in Ontario. Avoid summer when it’s at peak humidity, and visit in the winter months (December to March) to enjoy sparkling beauty and breathtaking scenery. From the comfort of your luxury villa rental, you can commute to the nearby ski and snow resorts, for excellent runs for adrenaline junkies. Head to Blue Mountain, where Collingwood is a popular choice being the highest ski resort in the region.

Closer to the ground, the still and often frozen lakes of Ontario, are a sight to behold. They also make a great place for hiking and amateur photographers.

Courchevel, France
There’s something undeniably magical about the French Alps. If you’re looking for winter fun with all the frills, it’s time to head to the slopes. Come in December for a winter wonderland and guaranteed white Christmas, and complete your trip with a top-notch villa rental. Or, for tranquil times, March and April tend to be quieter with it being low season.

One of the major attractions, world-class ski runs aside, is the after-hours party scene, set to a backdrop of mountain tops. Courchevel village and Courchevel 1850 are where it’s at, with plenty of apres-ski, karaoke bars, and top-quality restaurants to make your stay special.

Aspen, USA
Seducing all the senses, this year-round destination changes with the season. So, if you’re visiting for your winter fix of snow, be sure to come between December and February, when the powder is fresh and slopes are in full swing.

With it being a popular time to visit, be sure to book your Aspen villa rental in good time. You won’t be disappointed with this family-friendly destination, that brings a touch of style and glamour to slopestyle living.

If you want to reconnect with the world, head backcountry on a remote run for unapparelled snow. Or if you’re here for the action, hang out with friends in one of the many buoyant bars and restaurants dotted around the centre.

Snowmass, one of the favourite resorts, is a four-mountain destination for all levels of skier. But, even if you’re not a fan of the slopes, you’ll find plenty to do, including zip-lining in the Lost Forest and bike riding in Elk Camp nearby. Or, if you come early in the season (September) you might be in time for a refreshing gondola ride down the lake.

Book your next winter vacation with Global Luxury Villas, and choose from some of the best luxury vacation homes available.

BEST BRUNCH SPOTS IN MIAMI

Friday, September 18th, 2020

As a melting pot of cultures, Miami benefits from some of the best chefs in the world. Whether for private hire in your Miami villa, or the many cafés and restaurants in town, it’s often said that Miami is a haven for foodies.

But it’s not just all neon lights and late night-jinx, there’s a whole host of exciting brunch spots maximizing the daytime beauty of the city. If you’re wondering where to meet up with friends, or just enjoy a casual mid-day brunch, here’s five of the best dining spots.

Three

Miami does upscale dining particularly well, and Three at the Wynwood Hotel is one of the best weekend spots (11am-3pm). If you’re looking for a smart downtown restaurant, this eatery serves up inspired brunch options with a Miami-Mexican twist. Try out the Huevos Rancheros ‘Miami style’ or ‘Oysters on the half shelf’ for something truly memorable. This stylish joint is as perfect for romantic dates as it is for family visits. Be sure to come!

News Café

It’s easy to see why the News Café was Gianni Versace’s favorite brunch spot. Teetering over South Beach, it’s a natural sun trap, as well as hip hangout. There’s no place better to sip on a smoothie and watch the world go by Perfectly placed on Ocean Drive, it’s easy to step out of your villa rental Miami and find a cozy table for late breakfast or early lunch.

The menu is plentiful, including hearty salads, eggs benedict or fruit platters to get you in the sunshine mood!

Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply

Is it the morning after the night before? Then roll out of your pad and swing into Sweet Liberty for a calorific punch to keep you going! The epic ‘Big Breakfast Sandwich’ is a local favorite, or if you’re feeling a tad guilty, the ‘Cauliflower Nachos’ are a happy alternative. A cross between a daytime club and old fashioned American diner, this is a Sunday institution for those in the know. Open from 12 onwards, it keeps the fun vibes going with throwback tunes to drown out any emerging hangovers.

Le Zoo

For all the healthy brunch vibes, Le Zoo is designed for those who like pushing salad around their plate in style. Fresh seafood, creative egg dishes and variations of smashed avocado feature heavily on the menu, as well as of course a ton of salad choices. Popular with ladies that lunch, it’s conveniently close to Bal Harbor shops and many of the Miami villas the area has to offer. Watch out, this could become an expensive brunch!

The Deck at Island Gardens

Sweeping waterfront views to rival your Miami villa, and a jet-set crowd of well-heeled clientele – that’s what you can expect from The Deck. This is somewhat reminiscent of your favorite private yacht club, in no small part owing to its close proximity to the marina.

If you’re a seafood-lover then add this to your brunch bucket list. There’s also a decadent weekend three-course brunch offer, including seasonal soups and dim sum.

Villazzo leads the way in luxury villa rentals around the world, to learn more, get in touch now.

YOGA RETREATS AROUND THE WORLD

Thursday, September 10th, 2020

With the recent turn in events, experts predict that we’ll all be seeking out wellness travel much more in the future. So, if getting back to nature, and learning to embrace a slower pace of life is high on your agenda, here’s some yoga destinations to consider, including our pick of Miami, Mykonos and Costa Rica villas.

Regardless of whether you’re an amateur or professional, yoga can be enjoyed just about anywhere. From the sandy shores of Greece, to hillside retreats of Costa Rica and glamour of Miami Beach. Here we delve into three of the best yoga destinations around the world.

Costa Rica
The practice of yoga is about body, spirit and mind, and no destination better embraces all three than Costa Rica. With luscious greenery, world-class beaches and a commitment to sustainable travel, the country is leading the way in progressive vacationing. Find any coastal get-away off the beaten track, and you’re sure to find a preserved part of the world for a spot of morning yoga.

For the ultimate in exclusivity, one of our favorite retreats is Villa Kamala. Not only is this eco-friendly Costa Rica villa hidden in the privacy of the rainforest, but it also comes with its own movement and yoga teacher. Designed around its natural habitat, Kamala offers a zen-like paradise for practicing all those ‘downward dog’ and ‘plank’ moves.

Miami
A city of two halves; one being its bright lights and after hours fun, the other is its wellbeing commitment. There’s endless locations for morning, lunch, or sunset yoga. The golden stretch of Miami Beach is a popular choice, although may enjoy the privacy of their own luxury Miami villa tuning in to remote yoga classes from the comfort of their App. With its own waterfront and dock, Villa Valentina is the perfect choice.

There’s also no end of free yoga classes to enjoy, including Bayfront Park, Coconut Grove and sunrise and sunset classes on Third Street of South Beach. Or, if you prefer inside workouts, then try one of the many world-class yoga studios in the city, including holistic studios – I Am Equilibrium and the Miami Life Center to name a few.

Greece
When it comes to getting back to nature, Greece is most definitely the word! Fresh mountain air, mixed with the sweet scent of orange groves, and pine leaf trees, combine to create a natural oasis for rest and relaxation. Couple this with the gentle lapping of the Aegean Sea, and it’s the perfect formula for a mindful break.

With as many as 227 inhabited Greek islands, you’re spoilt for choice. However, Mykonos is certainly worthy of a visit. Known for its high-end luxury, vibrant beaches and exclusive luxury villas for rent Mykonos, you’ll find yourself right at home.

Do like the A-listers, and tuck yourself away in a luxury villa with a private instructor to come to your door for personal workouts. In the quiet area of Ftelia beach, Villa Calypso is the perfect choice, offering a mesmerizing backdrop for all those yoga moves you’ll be trying out.

Global Luxury Villas offer luxury villas in a selection of leading destinations around the world.