Archive for the ‘Global Luxury Villas’ Category

THE BEST FRENCH SKI RESORTS FOR LUXURY

Thursday, November 1st, 2018
French Alps

France is a great destination to visit any time of year, but particularly in winter. With beautiful white-washed picturesque villages, ski-season in full bloom and plenty of outdoor activities to explore, it’s time to pack your bags and get ready for a luxury home rental like no other.

Ideal for families, fun with friends and conduce for romance, it’s easy to see why more than 120 million people flock to the French Alps every year.

To help you decide which resort is best for you, our team of travel experts have hand-picked the best villa vacation rentals throughout top French ski resorts Courchevel and Val Thorens. All you have to do is get that ski pass and you’re off!

Villa Paige

For Fun with Friends

Ski by day, play by night – that’s how guests in the upbeat resort of Courchevel 1850 like to roll! Situated in the heart of town, Villa Paige is a modern four-bedroom property with everything on its doorstep. A top ski resort in reach (and ski school), as well as all the best bars, restaurants and high-end shops at your disposal make this destination great for friends and groups to enjoy. The villa also benefits from a daily maid, to help maintain the comfort of your stay.

Villa Rayna

Chic Chalet for Large Groups

Further away in a quieter spot of Courchevel 1850, lies Villa Rayna. Situated in the ultimate skier’s playground, there couldn’t be a more exclusive destination for a five-star ski experience. This Luxury villa rental can sleep up to 15 guests and is decorated to the highest standard with finishing touches to dazzle. This includes its own private lift, personal chef, personal driver and underground spa and fitness lounge complete with steam room and Turkish sauna. It’s pièce de résistance however is its indoor swimming pool, ideal for post-ski recovery.

Villa Layla

Uninterrupted Beauty

Slightly off the beaten track in Bellecôte, above the bustle of Courchevel 1850, the Nogentil region is one of great natural beauty. Here you can enjoy the majestic surroundings with total escape, but still only 50m from the ski slopes. Luxury villa rentals in the area don’t come better than Villa Layla – a distinguished property that can sleep large groups of up to 14 guests. Recently undergoing a million-euro renovation, it boasts modern touches while retaining its rustic wood-cabin charm. After a hard day on the slopes, sit back and enjoy time out in the private hone theater, game room, indoor swimming pool or spa, or just snuggle up in front of its fireplace and make the most of the stunning surroundings.

Villa Talia

Jet-set Ski-set

The enchanting Alpine resort of Val Thorens is one of the highest in Europe. As such, it’s a prime spot for great powder throughout the winter season (November through May), attracting serious winter sports enthusiasts. But it’s equally as accommodating to newbies, with a terrain to suit every level. And since the resort is purpose-built, it has no shortage of all the essentials, including a three Michelin star restaurant, making this a magical place to stay.

A luxury home rental is the only way to visit and Villa Talia is one of best properties for larger groups. Its five suites accommodate up to 15 guests, treated to charming views across the resort. There’s a bespoke activity room for kids with plenty of entertainment, along with two cinemas, a whirlpool tub, sauna and gym for bigger kids! Plus, there’s a private chef, beautician and masseur on hand to cater to your every whim.

For the best value luxury vacation rentals, visit Global Luxury Villas. With a wide selection of high-end properties including concierge services, you’re guaranteed a memorable stay.

MOUNTAIN VERSUS BEACH – WHICH ONE’S FOR YOU?

Wednesday, October 24th, 2018
Mountain vs Beach

From the fresh alpine air to warm sunshine shores, from the highest peaks to hidden beaches. It can be hard to choose between mountain or beach, winter or warmth, ski or swim.

Which is why our travel experts have compiled a list of the most desirable luxury vacation rentals around the world. Inspired by golden shores, rugged clifftops and mountainous ranges, there’s a destination for everyone in this contrasting list of unbeatable properties.

Magnificent Mountains

If you’re looking to change your scenery completely with outdoor adventure and total escapism, there’s no better refuge than the mountains. Calm and crisp, high and mighty, there’s something inviting about the highest peaks that beckons traveler’s year after year. Whether it’s for adventure travel, getting back to nature or just getting away, there’s many reasons why a mountain break could be the right choice.

Villa Justine
With high hilltop views, romantic wood burning fireplaces and complete isolation, head to Villa Justine in Aspen. This six-bedroom home offers complete privacy in the lap of luxury with all modern comforts, including; a wet bar, built-in barbecue grill and fire pit to wow guests. This world-famous American destination has some of the best ski runs in the world.

Villa Rayna
Conversely, if you’re looking for mountain fun in the thick of it, Villa Rayna in the popular French ski resort of Courchevel is a great spot. Up to 15 guests can stay in this magnificent chalet, perfectly placed for all the ski action, as well as local entertainment and dining options nearby. But with your own private chef, swimming pool, sauna and steam room, you’ll probably never want to leave your luxury vacation home.

Blissful Beaches

If you’re more in tune with the gentle sounds of crashing waves and sand between your toes, then a beach holiday may be more suited to you. There’s certainly no end of choice when it comes to white sands and turquoise waters – the challenge is finding somewhere unspoiled and undiscovered.

Villa Trina
If total pampering and pristine beaches is your thing, then say hello to the Turks & Caicos islands! With impossibly blue waters and endless stretches of golden sand, it offers the ultimate beach break. In Long Bay, the breath-taking mansion of Villa Trina is a stand-out property spanning 10,000sq feet. It features seven impeccably designed bedrooms, an outdoor movie theater with fire pit, hot tub, no less than two private pools, a tennis court and of a course a butler!

Villa Denise
Perhaps you’re looking for a tranquilly and beach life, with all the amenities of modern living nearby? Then the private residence of Villa Denise in Miami Beach offers a stunning luxury vacation home to unwind in. Expect total tranquilly and escape in this elegant property on the elite Sunset Island. Its heated pool and luscious gardens provide the perfect backdrop to a restful stay.

Villa Estelle
But if you can’t decide where to go, why not have it all?! High in the hilltops of St Barth, Villa Estelle perches on a mountain cliff, minutes from the famous Eden Rock and overlooking the beautiful ‘Baie de St Jean’. A luxurious retreat with six bedrooms for guests, complete with private pool and sweeping views, it delivers all the magic of the mountains with a ‘beach within reach’ for the complete package!

Whether you’re seeking magnificent mountains or beautiful beaches, Global Luxury Villas offers unrivaled luxury in some of the most desirable locations in the world.

THE INTERVIEW SERIES:
CHRISTIAN JAGODZINSKI – CEO, VILLAZZO

Wednesday, October 10th, 2018
Christian

In our latest interview series, we’re delighted to provide a rare glimpse into the world of Christian Jagodzinski, founder of Villazzo and widely celebrated tech entrepreneur.

An innovator ahead of his time, Jagodzinski made a name for himself in his early twenties launching ‘Telebook’ – Germany’s first fully automated online retailer. The business was snapped up by Amazon and became Amazon Germany. After working as a Director for Amazon for a while, realizing a need to fulfil his entrepreneurial spirit, Christian took an extended sabbatical to travel the world. It was during this time he discovered an untapped niche in the market; premium luxury villas with all the trappings of five-star hotels, for the ultimate vacation. Bringing his passion for luxury travel together with his technical prowess, Villazzo was born.

Q: You grew up in Germany and now live in Miami where Villazzo is based. This isn’t your typical Silicon Valley start-up, tell us a bit about how you came to reside in Florida?

I’ve always loved Florida, especially Miami Beach. The climate is perfect, it’s a cosmopolitan city with an international vibe and ‘happening’ buzz. It feels like a small resort town with a big city in its backyard! We used to have a small office here already in the late 1990s, long before it became the big international destination it is today. All our workers loved it and still do.

Wherever you stay on South Beach, or any of its islands, you’re only ever minutes away from the water, the hottest restaurants, the beach and shops, as well as just 15 minutes from a major international airport hub. Tell me any other place in the world that has the same great set up?

Q: Sixteen years’ on since it launched and Villazzo is still going strong. How do you keep up with an ever-changing online and travel landscape?

We remain true to our core values that we launched with in 2002. These are to provide a five-star hotel service and management for select top-of-the-line vacation villas.
The business was borne out of my personal frustrations renting high end villas. The service lacked any professionalism, it was just people ‘brokering a deal’ forgetting the crucial human touch required to create a memorable vacation.

Unfortunately, this hasn’t improved with the abundance of online villa booking sites, driven by price while compromising customer service. I fear that we have come to see the same cut-throat price competition in the villa market as we have in the airline industry, where customers are willing to give up luggage rather than pay $25 extra – it’s a short-sighted approach.

You only have to look at the excellent service First-Class customers are given, to understand their loyalty to an airline. Despite fierce competition, premium flyers remain loyal to the provider they receive the best service from. That’s really our approach at Villazzo too. We deliver a First-Class experience to our customers (when booking online or with other agents), and the price difference is well worth it.

Q: Tell me a bit about your day-to-day involvement in Villazzo and what your ‘job’ involves?

At the start, I was very hands-on managing all the day-to-day operations, greeting clients and hand-picking the villas myself. I realized that in order to focus my efforts and expand the business, I needed to grow them team. Last year I was delighted to appoint Hanna Talaie as General Manager, who oversees everything now. I still care passionately about the business and work hard to uphold our high standards, so remain involved at a strategic level in my new role as Chairman.

Q: And what is the most challenging part of your job?

Two things come to mind.

First of all, the technical side (website, app, client service systems) has become increasingly important in recent years. While I have a tech background, it remains a challenge to find good developers that can continue to pioneer.

We invest a lot in new properties, this includes educating home owners on ‘the Villazzo approach’ to client and property management. It’s a skill we’ve honed over the past 16 years, which ultimately leads to a better experience for home owners and guests alike.

Q: Villazzo lists Beyonce and Jay-Z, Madonna and Cristiano Ronaldo among its clients, is it just for the super wealthy?

Villazzo-serviced villas do attract an elite customer, with the $5,000+ a night price tag they come with. Acknowledging this, we recently launched our sister company Global Luxury Villas where prices are much lower, and you have a ‘concierge’ service’ instead of a ‘VillaHotel’ service. This is sufficient for a range of clients, and still much better value than a pure online booking site.

Q: What makes Villazzo stand-out from a five-star hotel, or another luxury villa rental company?

We are completely unique. There is no other villa company in the world that offers the level of care and detail that we do. From our carefully curated list of villas and ‘VillaHotel Transformation’ process, to our dedicated service training. We have a reputation for offering the best properties with unrivalled customer service.

While there are many outstanding hotels in the world, none of them can offer the sanctuary, space and privacy or our large estates at Villazzo.

Q: What’s the most unusual request you’ve had to fulfill from a client!?

This is one of the great parts of the job, where you can really make a difference to someone’s stay.

We’ve emptied and refilled a 140ft pool (it took six days!) to ensure it was untouched. We furnished a complete villa with brand new mattresses costing $4,000 each, and once we even bought a Rolls Royce Phantom at short notice for a client, which we later shipped to his home in Europe!

The most decadent request though, goes to one delightful guest who invited us to redecorate their villa for a quarter of a million dollars – the same value as the villa itself. That was a fun weekend for sure!

Christian in Mykonos

Q: If you had to pick a destination in the world for unrivalled luxury, where would you choose?

One of the perks of the job is that Villazzo is made up of all my favorite destinations; Miami Beach, St. Tropez and Aspen.

It’s hard to choose a personal favorite, but Courchevel in France is my go-to destination for skiing, while Mykonos is quickly becoming one of our worst kept secrets! It’s really blowing up in popularity, making now a great time to visit.

Q: Do you have any insider tips for online rental bookings?

If you can be flexible with timings, you can expect less than half price rates travelling off-peak. The downside though, is that you might miss out on all the action and buzz that make these destinations so great.

Holidays are so important, and so brief, that they should be spent well. I can only advise renting luxury villas with Villazzo’s ‘VillaHotel’ service whenever possible, to guarantee an unforgettable vacation. It’s the main reason why I started Villazzo.

Q: And finally, what’s next for Villazzo?

As mentioned, we recently launched our sister brand ‘Global Luxury Villas’ by Villazzo, to offer concierge-serviced villa rentals around the world. While they don’t come with the full hotel setup and staffing as VillaHotels do, they are more affordable and in a greater variety of destinations too.

We have also opened a Villazzo Investment Fund, to acquire properties with great potential that can make money through VillaHotel rentals in the meantime.

THE BEST VILLAS FOR HONEYMOONERS IN EUROPE

Wednesday, September 19th, 2018
Couple in Love

After months of preparing for the big day, there’s still one gift that newlyweds get to enjoy once the celebrations are over… and that’s a luxury vacation home as part of the honeymoon.

In Europe alone, there’s endless options for every type of honeymooner. From the chic shores of the French Riviera, to the tranquil pace of Greece, and breath-taking views of Italy. Culture and cuisine, sun and swim – whatever your heart’s desire, you can find it here.

As the most important vacation you’ll ever take, and start of your lives together, your honeymoon should be everything you ever dreamed of and more. That’s why we’ve put together our pick of Europe’s best villas for honeymooners…

Villa Marina

Relaxing Greece

Greece is a timeless destination, second to none for romance, picture-postcard beaches and its famed warm hospitality. It’s what makes it so appealing to visitors, especially newlyweds.

Surrounded by the warm Ionian Sea, the dreamy island of Zakynthos was made for lovers! Here you can soak up the sunshine by day, and enjoy great food and entertainment by night.

For an unrivalled stay, Villa Marina is one of the best luxury villas to rent on the island. Its tranquil vibe and delightful views over the harbor are conducive to recharging. While its heated pool complete with hydro massage is everything you need to relax in paradise.

Villa Divina

A-list Italy

Join the jet set list of celebrities that have honeymooned in the Amalfi Coast, including; chef Jamie Oliver, actress Reese Witherspoon and tech entrepreneur Mark Zuckerberg.

For a romantic retreat, try Villa Divina; its clifftop position boasts sweeping views over the coast, while indoors its regal touches make you feel like a member of royalty! With a romantic fireplace and cliff-edge pool, you’ll see why they call it la dolce vita.

Villa Ivana

Magical Ibiza

It’s hard not to fall in love with Ibiza. This magical island is not just for party people – it also draws those hoping to reconnect, unwind or enjoy good company. It couldn’t be more fitting for those on honeymoon.

Staying at http://global-luxury-villas.com/ibiza-rental-villas/villa-ivana offers the perfect vacation rental for a chilled get-away. This luxurious cliff top property boasts three grand bedrooms, decorated to the highest standard. Its modern design and inviting swimming pool provide the perfect backdrop for married life to begin.

Villa Leslie

Breath-taking France

Always a contender for romance and respite, the French Riviera will add a chic touch to your honeymoon.

If you’re looking for grandeur, decadence and next-level luxury, then Villa Leslie is ‘the one’! High in the hills, this magnificent property is within easy reach of Cannes, yet distant enough to enjoy seclusion.

That said, you may never want to leave, since this property that has it covered; a heated swimming pool with swim up bar, breath-taking views from every inch of its massive terrace, a private cinema, massage centre, hair and nail station and full-size boxing ring! Ensuring that you’ll never have to lift a finger, ring once for your butler and twice for private chef… well, you are on honeymoon after all!

For a memorable stay, Global Luxury Villas offers some of the most exclusive luxury vacation homes in the world. With outstanding customer service and an unrivaled portfolio of properties, you’re guaranteed a five-star stay.

WINE COUNTRY – GREAT EUROPEAN VACATIONS NEAR THE VINEYARDS

Friday, September 7th, 2018
Vineyards

Dripping in culture and attracting foodies from the world over, there are some 3.2 million hectares of vineyard to conqueror throughout Europe. But knowing where to find your dream luxury villa rental can be the hardest part.

With so many visitors wanting to soak up the local culture, as well as enjoy a tipple or two, we’ve compiled some of the best destinations to help you on your way.

Sprawling villa rentals in Saint-Tropez, idyllic Italian retreats and beautiful Bordeaux abodes, are just some of the perfect locations in which to immerse yourself in wine country, here’s why…

Villa Tatiana

Blissful Bordeaux

Known around the world for its high-quality produce, France is a must-visit for wine connoisseurs. One of the most celebrated wine-growing regions is Bordeaux – synonymous with great food and drink – some even say it’s the wine capital of the world.

For gastronomy lovers, Villa Tatiana is one of the most exquisite residences in the region to base yourself. It’s within close proximity to no less than eight Michelin star restaurants and endless vineyards, including; Latour, Margaux, Haut Brion and Cheval Blanc.

What makes this country estate so special though, is its early 20th-century architecture and vast space with eight rooms. It’s the ideal base for wine-lovers and big groups to come together.

Villa Anastasia

Sun-drenched Saint-Tropez

Further south, the glamourous shores of Saint-Tropez attract a well-heeled and well cultured set. Not just offering glamourous clubs, designer shops and yacht-upon-yacht, Saint-Tropez is perfectly positioned to enjoy a number of local vineyards in the area.

Finding the right vacation home allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds, all of which can be found in Villa Anastasia a seven-bedroom property offering the ultimate luxury get-away. Its sizeable gourmet kitchen is the perfect place to rustle up dishes using local ingredients, best enjoyed al fresco with plenty of outdoor space to choose from.

This lavish property is well placed too – 55 minutes from the airport and within driving distance to a number of charming vineyards in the area. These include Domaine Bertaud Belieu and Chateau Minuty, which offer tours and tastings.

Villa Pilar

Soak Up Florence

There’s no shortage of vineyards to visit in Italy. But, if you want to combine your stay while soaking up the local culture, the vicinity of Montecatini Terme is a must! Perfectly positioned between Florence, Pisa, Siena and Lucca, it offers the ideal base for exploring the many wineries in this bustling Tuscan region.

When it’s time to rest your weary head, a fabulous place to stay is Vila Pilar. With 11 bedrooms and a stunning outdoor area with private pool, this sprawling mansion is great for larger groups. It celebrates the very best of rural Italy, with thermal resorts and medieval villages close by.

Enjoy gentle walks to the village to enjoy fresh baked goods and local wine – a simple delight that many flock from afar to enjoy.

For a memorable stay, Global Luxury Villas offers some of the most exclusive luxury vacation homes in the world. With outstanding customer service and an unrivaled portfolio of properties, you’re guaranteed a five-star stay.

ITALY VS SPAIN… WHERE TO GO THIS SUMMER?

Thursday, August 9th, 2018

La Dolce Vita versus Vicky Cristinia Barcelona, antipasti versus tapas and pasta versus paella! Spain and Italy may be neighbors, but their offerings are varied. When it comes to luxury villas for rent though, they both offer exceptional standards. Where you decide to go is entirely up to the experience you’re after.

To help you decide, we give the low down of two of Europe’s top spots to visit this summer.

Go for the Food

Both countries have a great love of food, both benefitting from their beautiful climate creating delicious tasting local produce and wines.

Villa Regina

For a love of fresh ingredients as well as pizza, pasta and steak, Italy is best served with a glass of local vino on the side. Tuscany provides the perfect backdrop for your luxury villa rental, with lots to explore in the Chianti region.

Villa Carlora

For something meatier, Spain’s famous tapas serves up a rich mix of chorizos, spicy meatballs, fried fish and patas bravas to name a few. There’s no shortage of local wine or ‘cerveza’ either, it would after all be rude not to try a local Estrella! Each region is known for its own speciality, with so much diversity, you’d may be inclined to extend your stay. If you do, Villa Carlota in Marbella is surrounded by peace and tranquillity in its expansive gardens.

Villa Adele

Soak up the Culture

Neither country is short on heritage and sights, but Italy is home to some of the most famous art and architecture in the world. From the Colosseum in Rome, to Michelangelo’s David statue in Florence. Stay in luxury villa in Sorrento and you’ll be close enough to visit the incredible Pompeii historical site.

From the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to the Guggenheim in Bilabo and the modern architecture of Valencia. Spain’s cultural sights are endless and plentiful. Gothic architecture with baroque influences, fused with modern design deliver something for everyone.

Villa Livia

Bliss out on the Beach

Glorious weather and coastal shores are a plenty in Spain. The magical Balearic Islands provide the perfect escape for beach life. In fact, it doesn’t get much more exclusive than Villa Livia, a beautiful Ibizan bolthole set in luscious surroundings. It’s also within easy reach of some of the island’s best beaches, including Cala d’Hort and Cala Vadella. Meanwhile, the ultimate beach island of Formentera, just off the coast of Ibiza, demands a visit – least of all for its famous picture postcard views.

Looking to the mainland, Costa Brava is known for its stretches of coasts with turquoise waters, attracting tourists throughout the summer season.

Villa Wendy

Italy is of course known for its lakes, be it Como or Garda. A-listers including George Clooney are huge fans, and as such it attracts a well-heeled visitor. The seductive island of Sardinia, should however not be overlooked. With tens, if not hundreds, of beaches to choose from, it regularly tops the ‘best beaches in the world’ list. Don’t miss out on your luxury villa rental and stay close to the action.

We’ve only skimmed the surface of what these great countries have to offer. However, both are ideal to visit during the warmer summer months, and are well geared towards tourists. Wherever you decide, you can’t go wrong with a trip to two of Europe’s most popular destinations.

Villazzo and Global Luxury Villas provide luxury vacation homes around the globe, including Spain and Italy. Coupled with outstanding service, Villazzo provides all the trappings of a five-star hotel, in the privacy of your own luxury villa.

MARBELLA, MALLORCA, MYKONOS…
WHICH ONE’S FOR YOU!?

Friday, August 3rd, 2018

All good things start with an ‘Mmmm’ and vacations are no exception! Marbella, Mallorca and Mykonos all have one thing in common, and it’s not just the ‘M factor’ – they’re three of the hippest spots to hangout this summer.

Offering something for everyone, with their own distinctive personality, find out which destination is best for you…

Marbella

Marvelous Marbella

Flashy and fabulous, the Costa del Sol has long attracted a jet-set crowd, from its heyday when Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant filmed Charade. Today you’re more likely to rub shoulders with singers, tennis stars and even royalty, who have been known to visit the coastal Spanish resort. While its famous ‘Golden Mile’ attracts a rambunctious crowd, there is serenity to be found in private villas benefitting from the exclusivity of the Sierra Blanca Mountain backdrop. Villa Carlota is one such luxury villa rental accommodating up to 20 guests. This oasis is the perfect place for exclusivity, with a sizeable pool, grand sweeping stairway, sauna and Jacuzzi. The nearby marina of Puerto Banus makes for the perfect evening stroll, where you can moor up alongside the other superyachts!

Famous fans: Sarah Ferguson, Antonio Banderas, Sean Connery, Simon Cowell.

Mallorca

Majestic Mallorca

A small island with a huge personality, Mallorca is known for its azure views, hidden hideaways and some of the best beaches in Europe. Here you can easily get back to nature with rugged mountains and alcoves for exploring, or let nature come to you in one of its many picture-postcard beaches. There’s endless choices for eating out too – islanders are very proud of its great cuisine using local produce. To experience Mallorca at its most majestic though, be sure to book a luxury vacation home, such as the recently renovated 1,300 sqm Villa Pedra estate, for a well-deserved secluded and tranquil break.

Famous fans: Jennifer Aniston, Claudia Schiffer, King Felipe VI & Queen Letizia of Spain.

Mykonos

Magnificent Mykonos

The bustling island of Mykonos is everything you ever dreamed of. Windmills blowing in the warm Mediterranean air, whitewashed walls set against a deep blue sea, and cobble-stone walkways – all coupled with that unmistakable Greek charm! The island comes alive, quite literally to the sound of music, in its summer months, with packed beaches frequented by the young and beautiful. The best way to avoid the hustle, is with your own luxury villa rental. Welcoming to all, Mykonos attracts holidaymakers, fashionistas, wannabees and millionaires, as well as a LGBT crowd. Off-peak the island recharges – this is the time to visit if you prefer a more toned-down Mykonos, without it losing any of its charm.

Famous fans: Grace Kelly, Leonardo DiCaprio, Bella Hadid, Ariana Grande.

For spectacular homes at exceptional rates in Marbella, Mallorca, Mykonos and more, visit Global Luxury Villas, part of the prestigious Villazzo group.

LUXURY FOR LOVERS – TOP TEN ROMANTIC VILLAS IN EUROPE!

Thursday, July 26th, 2018

Europe has no shortage of stunning hideaways for romantic rendezvous and starry-eyed lovers. From private breath-taking retreats in Ibiza, to cozy villas weaved in to the tapestry of the Italian countryside, there’s something to suit every luxury need!

So, it’s time to turn the heat up on Europe, as we carefully curate our top ten list of luxury villa rentals for a romantic get-away…

Villa Sabrina

For Dreamy Days and Cozy Nights

Sophisticated décor and elegant surroundings make Villa Sabrina one of Ibiza’s most sought-after luxury villa rentals for lovers. Escape for days or weeks, hiding in the hillside of this magical island. And when you’re ready to resurface, it’s within easy reach of the infamous Blue Marlin beach.

Villa Teresa

For Great Food and Wine

Known for its charm and natural beauty, the luxury vacation home of Villa Teresa is located in Italy’s Montalbano – the land of da Vinci, great wine and local produce. If food is the language of love, then Teresa speaks volumes. Great for romantic walks, late night Chianti’s and natural springs, there’s so much to fall in love with – company included!

Villa Andrea

For Honeymooners

Set in perfectly manicured gardens and hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the world, you’ll never want to leave Villa Andrea. The ultimate secluded get-away, this Saint-Tropez luxury villa rental is designed with an open plan feel, ideal for honeymooners or those wanting to enjoy the comfort of their own company.

Villa Fabiana

For Impressing Someone Special

Whisk that someone special away for a memorable trip to Italy. The peaceful retreat located on the seaside between the towns of Amalfi and Positano is sure to impress, least of all because it’s built in to an eighteenth century building. Complete with plunge pool, private chef (by request) and breath-taking views.

Villa Dahlia

For French Sophistication

It’s hard not to be seduced by Villa Dahlia, with its panoramic views of the French Riviera, a spacious and Provençal style dining area and heated infinity pool. Cozy enough for two couples, why share when you can have the property all to yourself.

Villa Ilaria

For Stylish Pampering

Porto Cervo in the north of Sardinia, is the preferred destination for those seeking luxury vacation rentals, with a stylish twist. Villa Ilaria offers all the right ingredients for an unforgettable trip, including a Jacuzzi and Turkish bath, for all those cozy nights in.

Villa Cynthia

For the WOW factor!

It would be hard to say anything but ‘yes’ to Villa Cynthia, one of Marbella’s top luxury vacation homes, offering everything you could wish for and more. Accommodating up to 20 guests, this is the place to sweep your star struck lover off their feet and dazzle them with your excellent taste!

Villa Calypso

For Falling in Love

Fall in love with Mykonos from the minute you step inside Villa Calypso. With an infinity pool overlooking the ocean and split-level rooms, you can always find a quiet corner to enjoy some time-out.

Villa Camilla

Find your Happy Place

Spend quality time together in the tranquility of this Mallorca farmhouse with its own in-house concierge to ensure you don’t have to lift a finger! Offering sea-views, a private infinity pool and exquisitely landscaped gardens, you may never want to leave.

Villa Tatiana

For Family Fun

Take the kids and enjoy a luxurious countryside retreat at this simply stunning eight-bedroom luxury family home just west of Bordeaux. Made for family escapades, it’s perfectly positioned between the seashore, pine forests and world-famous vineyards, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Global Luxury Villas provides luxury vacation homes in some of the most romantic settings in the world. Coupled with outstanding service, it provides all the trappings of a five-star hotel, in the privacy of your own villa.

EUROPE IN AUGUST – A ROUNDUP OF THE BEST BEACH DESTINATIONS

Wednesday, June 27th, 2018

Vast and varied, alluring and inspiring – Europe has it all. From vineyards in Bordeaux to historic sites in Germany, from the blissful chill of Ibiza to sailing in the French Riviera. With more than 50 countries to choose from, it may be hard to know where to start your European get-away with a luxury villa rental. Despite it being peak season, August is a great time to visit with many destinations welcoming families, and soaring summer temperatures, perfect for a trip to the beach!

To help select the perfect get-away, we’ve selected four of our favorite European destinations for beach lovers this summer…

Women Overlooking Mykonos

Mykonos

This Greek island might be best known for its luxury villa rentals, however it’s also home to some hidden gems of beaches. Lined with pine trees, covered in golden sand and with plenty of sun beds to hire, Paraga Beach is one of the most popular. It’s also one of the more livelier beaches – expect to hear distant mutterings of Greek music blasting from the local beach bars and cafes! Note – the nearby glamorous ‘Scorpio’ restaurant is the place to see and be seen. For a quieter affair ‘Myrsini’ beach in the north of the island is small and unspoiled, providing the perfect backdrop for soaking up the sun.

Beach Path

Ibiza

The magical island of ‘Evissia’ provides rave and refuge in equal measures. Here, beaches are transformed in to day clubs, with the Blue Marlin and Ushuaia attracting a rambunctious glamorous crowd enjoying the Balearic beats! It’s best enjoyed with your very own Ibiza villa rental to return to, for the ultimate in five-star dwelling. Of course, not all beaches are about the party and the idyllic island of Formentera (accessible by ferry) is a desirable haven with its crystal-clear waters, sand dunes and pine trees.

Beach Promenade French Riviera

French Riviera

Attracting the rich and famous, the French Riviera brings a certain ‘oh la la’ to sunbathing! In Cannes you can expect five-star service at the private Carlton Beach with sky high prices for the privilege while Plage du Midi, just a little further down, offers a more casual family vibe. For an A-list experience though, Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers exclusivity and privacy, alongside its Chanel-clad clientele!

Puerto Banus Marbella

Marbella

Like your sunbathing with a side of summer tunes and sangria? Then head to Bounty beach and Nikki beach, attracting a young hip crowd. But why stop there when there’s 27kms of coastline to choose from. One of the many outstanding blue-flag beaches to enjoy is Cabo Pinto, or if it’s exclusivity you’re after then Playa Nagueles is a beauty spot worth visiting, best coupled with an exclusive Marbella luxury villa to complete your trip!

So, there you have it, three of the most seductive, exclusive and charming beaches for when you want to escape the city.

Global Luxury Villas provides luxury vacation homes within reach of some of the best beaches around the globe.

THE INTERVIEW SERIES – DAVID SIAUVAUD – OPERATIONS DIRECTOR, VILLAZZO

Thursday, June 21st, 2018
David Siauvaud

In our ongoing series of interviews, we exclusively speak to David Siauvaud, Operations Director at Villazzo. With more than seven years experience in the hospitality trade, David worked for a number of leading hotel brands before joining Villazzo four years ago.

Here we exclusively catch up with David about this role at Villazzo and the importance of customer service.

Q: You’ve studied in Ireland, worked as a head waiter in hotels in France, been a product manager in Mexico, and now head up operations for Villazzo in Miami. Tell us how you made the leap – both in terms of the role and location!?

I’ve always loved to travel and my studies have taken me far. I’ve found that working in several countries has excelled my career. It has given me a wealth of experience and the opportunity to discover other cultures and their approach to hospitality for a well-rounded view.

Q: Tell us a little about your day-to-day role.

As with all things Villazzo, good customer service runs through the company. As such, my role centers around bringing all the departments together to make sure they run smoothly, and customers remain at the heart of what we do. Maintaining a consistently high service worldwide is integral to this role. Overseeing the company financials is part of the day-to-day running of the business, to ensure budgets are managed too.

Q: From your time in hospitality, you witnessed first-hand the importance of good customer service. How do you deliver this to an online audience?

In the digital time we find ourselves in, immediacy is everything. Being able to respond quickly and helpfully is very important to our customers, and being reachable is key to the industry.

Q: What does Villazzo offer that a five-star hotel doesn’t?

When customers book a luxury vacation home with us, they can enjoy all the trappings of a five-star hotel, with the added benefit of complete privacy and a totally tailored experience. Everything is arranged as the guest desires, and that makes us special.

Q: You’re extremely well-travelled with a love of luxury – how does this help you in your role?

It’s a great advantage to understand guests, both on a cultural level and in their language. It allows us to connect more easily with customers and help anticipate their needs.

Q: What is the most challenging part of your job?

Ah yes, last minute requests are always fun! But it gets the adrenalin rushing and our team are brilliant at rising to the challenge – never failing to please. As mentioned before, I’m always ‘on’ and available, which means the business must always come first, but that’s not a problem as I’m passionate about what I do!

Villazzo Team

Q: What makes Villazzo stand-out from its competitors?

We have a really dedicated and passionate team that live and breathe hospitality. We share a common love for welcoming guests to our own houses, so it’s a pleasure to welcome guests to the beautiful luxury vacation homes we offer. It’s an extension of what we do!

Q: If you had to pick a destination for unrivalled luxury, where would you choose?

Dubai does luxury like nowhere else! They have an innate understanding of how to treat customers, offering everything they could desire, and then some! Personal helipads, private chefs, gold-drenched four poster beds – no request is too ambitious.

Q: Do you have any insider tips for online rental bookings? (e.g. specific requests, days that are cheaper than others?)

Surprisingly, the longer you stay the more affordable the trip. And don’t be afraid to make requests prior to your stay. After all, we’re here to deliver a five-star experience and want you to have the best vacation.