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. 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! |
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. |
Archive for the ‘Luxury Travel’ Category
THE INTERVIEW SERIES:
CHRISTIAN JAGODZINSKI – CEO, VILLAZZO
Tuesday, December 25th, 2018
THE BEST VILLAS FOR HONEYMOONERS IN EUROPE
Tuesday, December 4th, 2018
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. |
Relaxing GreeceGreece 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. |
A-list ItalyJoin 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. |
Magical IbizaIt’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. |
Breath-taking FranceAlways a contender for romance and respite, the French Riviera will add a chic touch to your honeymoon. |
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
Thursday, November 22nd, 2018
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. |
Blissful BordeauxKnown 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. |
Sun-drenched Saint-TropezFurther 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. |
Soak Up FlorenceThere’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. |
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. |
THE INTERVIEW SERIES
ALEKS ALEKSANDROVA
SALES AND OPERATIONS ASSISTANT, VILLAZZO
Thursday, November 15th, 2018
|
||
During my travels throughout Europe, I’ve learnt to understand different values, something I apply to my work every day when dealing with international clients. Above all, my humble beginnings taught me to be kind to everyone, something I still hold dear today. |
||
Q: You work both in sales and operations, how do you bring both of these roles together?Both parts of the business complement each other well. The one shared goal is to create an amazing unforgettable experience for our guests. Every part of my job involves creating or selling that dream, and ensuring that the whole process runs smoothly for everyone. |
||
Q: What is a typical working day like for you?It’s a real mix – no two days are the same. On the sales side I spend a lot of time in the office responding to clients, scheduling showings and reviewing the beautiful properties on offer. When working in operations it’s more ‘front line’ with a real buzz about it. From dealing with reservations to adding personal touches for clients, to visiting properties and ensuring everything is in pristine condition. We take a lot of pride in the way we present our properties, to ensure every need is met – attention to detail is crucial. |
||
Q: What trends are you seeing in the travel industry at the moment?There continues to be lots of competition in the vacation rental market, with travelers looking for next level luxury. However, there’s nothing that rivals Villazzo and the five-star service we offer, we’re in a class of our own – it’s one of the reasons I love working for the company! |
||
Q: What requests do you most enjoy from clients?I really enjoy organizing and planning special events for our guests. Anniversaries, birthdays, graduations… even engagements! It’s humbling to think that I could play a role in someone’s special day, and make it even more memorable for them and their loved ones. |
||
Q: What is the most challenging part of your job?Multi-tasking comes with its challenges. Dealing with requests from homeowners to staff, as well as customers at the same time requires a certain kind of organization and forward planning. |
||
Q: What makes Villazzo stand-out from its competitors?Undoubtedly our five-star customer service and commitment to providing only the best for our guests. There is no other brand offering what we do – gorgeous homes in the lap of luxury, at the best prices available. |
||
Q: What is the key to successful customer service?It goes back to my humble beginnings again – being kind. Also, always doing my best. At the end of the day, I can take pride knowing I’ve done the best job possible. |
||
Q: If you had to pick a destination for unrivalled luxury, where would you choose?I have a real affinity for Indonesia, specifically Bali. The people are just wonderful, the customer service is outstanding, and the culture is so different to America that I find it wholly fascinating. It’s a fabulous place to visit. |
||
Q: What’s your top tip for someone looking to book a vacation rental with Villazzo?Don’t think twice – just do it! You won’t regret it. |
ITALY VS SPAIN… WHERE TO GO THIS SUMMER?
Wednesday, October 24th, 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 FoodBoth countries have a great love of food, both benefitting from their beautiful climate creating delicious tasting local produce and wines. 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. 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. |
Soak up the CultureNeither 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. |
Bliss out on the BeachGlorious 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.
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!?
Thursday, October 18th, 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… |
Marvelous MarbellaFlashy 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. |
Majestic MallorcaA 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. |
Magnificent MykonosThe 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!
Wednesday, October 10th, 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… |
For Dreamy Days and Cozy NightsSophisticated 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. |
For Great Food and WineKnown 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! |
For HoneymoonersSet 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. |
For Impressing Someone SpecialWhisk 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. |
For French SophisticationIt’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. |
For Stylish PamperingPorto 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. |
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! |
For Falling in LoveFall 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. |
Find your Happy PlaceSpend 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. |
For Family FunTake 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
Tuesday, September 11th, 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… |
MykonosThis 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. |
IbizaThe 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. |
French RivieraAttracting 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! |
MarbellaLike 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. |