LUXGetaway » Vacation Clubs

Jetsetter Launches Vacation Rental Homes

Michael — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:02:48 +0000

Among the many accommodation options afforded the world’s luxury travellers are the dedicated vacation homes offered by tourist companies. Yet researching and booking one of these homes can be a time-consuming hassle that travellers don’t need. That’s why Jetsetter, a leading online platform dedicated to helping luxury travellers book their trips, is proud to launch a brand-new service focused squarely on vacation homes. Company officials say that Jetsetter does all of the research and legwork for you, then presents you with only the finest homes for rent around the world.

Currently the collection features more than 200 homes that have been inspected, curated, and photographed for Jetsetter members. Jetsetter curators have even travelled the world to personally inspect and hand select all of the homes added to the collection. They also negotiated special rates for just Jetsetter members. When it comes time to search and book, you’ll have access to all the information from the curator along with photos – and even 360° photographic tours. By the time you get ready to select the home of your choice, you’ll be confident that you have all the necessary information.

Jetsetter is once again leading the way in bringing new innovation to the luxury travel sector. You can bet they’ll continue adding homes to their collection and negotiating great rates for their members. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home in the Caribbean, France or Italy, Mexico, or the American West Coast, Jet setter has it covered.

www.jetsetter.com/homes

Exclusive Interview With Timbers Resorts CEO David Burden

Michael — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 09:28:32 +0000

Timbers Resorts, the developer and operator of boutique, private resorts and residence clubs have been impressing guests with breathtaking properties since 1999. The Timbers Resorts have 9 popular luxury destinations across the globe (see destinations).

We recently caught up with CEO of Timbers Resorts, David Burden. In our interview, we asked what the vision of Timbers Resorts was when it launched, as well as what the future vision of the company is. Enjoy!

LUXGetaway: What other destinations are on your radar?
David: We continue to keep our options open for other partially developed or completed opportunities in what we think are enduring established destinations, but that need a re-positioning, capital, etc. Additionally we are working on a site along the Mexican Punta de Mita coast. We are hoping to find a property in New York, Hawaii, another in the Napa/Sonoma area, south of France, London, Paris …

LUX: In 1999 when Timbers Resorts opened the first resort how many resorts were envisioned? 1?10? 20? 100?
David:1

LUX: What is your favorite resort personally and why?
David: My home, since it seems that I’m always trying to get back there. I like each of our destinations in particular for different reasons and each from my own perspective, which is different than someone else. Overall there is not a location within the Timbers’ portfolio that has not personally appealed to me as a great place to be. I couldn’t imagine developing or operating in a place that I didn’t really like personally. I could live at any of them and consider it a dream come true.

LUX: Is there one thing that differentiates you from your competitors?
David: The assembled team that is passionate, intelligent and focused on the objectives.

LUX: Your product is NOT a timeshare, but we’re curious how the old perception of what a timeshare is has affected your business?
David: Not sure – I haven’t paused to worry about it so we just keep going forward and try to not be defensive if it comes up.

LUX: Timbers Resorts properties are such hidden treasures, how do your customers find out about Timbers Resorts?
David: We have a great marketing team and our PR partner, Murphy O’Brien. We always think that we can communicate better and better, but actually it seems to be very good these days with an excellent database of folks that have expressed interest in Timbers Resorts over the years and seem to follow what we are doing. Referrals from existing owners are active while we have expanded for sure.

LUX: What other luxury travel brands do you look up to?
David: American Express, Sentient, Avantair, Butterfield and Robinson, Abercrombie and Kent, Singapore Air, Virgin and more I’m sure.

LUX: How has the luxury travel market changed in the last 10 years?
David: Ease of researching and booking. Everything is at your fingertips.

LUX: Castello di Casole is an exciting property garnering a lot of buzz and excitement. What makes Castello di Casole so unique?
David: First and foremost it is in Tuscany and embodies most of what we dream about Tuscany… It is truly authentic and provides its fortunate owners and guests a means to experience the true Tuscan lifestyle while having all of the comforts of Timbers’ attention and service.

LUX: Can you elaborate on the recent sales success at Castello di Casole?
David: Every sale is flattering that folks get what we are doing or better yet we get what they seek. The sales have been great at Castello di Casole as we tap a broad almost worldwide market. One day a new owner from Ohio, another day a couple from the U.K., then one from Singapore or the Netherlands or California, etc.

LUX: We hear you are considering New York City as one of your next destinations. Can you tell us about this project? Will it be in “ The Sebastian” family? New York City seems different than the resort towns that you have chosen to partner with on the current Timbers Resorts projects?
David: So far I can only hope and pursue the options there – – and yes hopefully a Sebastian, but could be with another brand – we’re open to partnerships with those that do certain aspects better than we do so far or are in a unique situation.

For more information on Timbers Resorts, visit their website, www.timbersresorts.com. For news on Timbers Resort, visit their newly released blog, www.timbersresorts.com/blog/.

Napa Valley’s Hidden Gem: The Carneros Inn Luxury Resort

The Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail: Destination Club & Private Residences

Michael — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 03:16:38 +0000

The Ritz-Carlton has opened its 10th Destination Club, with Private Residences in Vail, Colorado. Vail is well known for its world-class skiing and now becomes home to a new level of luxury with The Rtiz-Carlton.

The Bavarian-style architecture houses 71 private residences and 45 fractional residences. The Ritz-Carlton Vail is located at the base of Vail Mountain on the banks of Gore Creek and is walking distance from the famous dining and shopping at LionsHead.

When you pull into The Ritz-Carlton Vail you will quickly be greeted with their 5-Star valet service and then be escorted into their lobby where you can quickly access the Great Room, which has a beautiful fireplace and a view of the mountain. The Great Room also has a bar with a light menu available for snacks throughout the day. It’s the perfect multi-use space; guests and private residents often use this space for grabbing a drink with friends and family, relaxing with a book, or even working.

Don’t expect your typical hotel room with this property, as units start at 2 bedrooms and increase in size to a 6-bedroom penthouse. Everything you can expect from a luxury home you will find inside the Ritz Carlton Vail units, including top of the line kitchen appliances, an entertainment center, walk-in closets, and more. No corners were cut in the quality of this project. All of the furniture, appliances, and finishes are top notch.

There are several luxurious amenities at the The Ritz-Carlton Vail, including concierge services, a fitness center, an outdoor heated pool and hot tubs, ski valet, and a library. The Ritz is not just for adults; it is family friend and accommodates children. The Ritz kids program includes a teen room with cable TV access, bell service, and high-speed Internet.

Fractional ownership is selling for $125K for a 1/12 interest, or 21 days per year, and annual dues currently range from $14,700 – $18,300 depending on the size of the unit.

LUX Tip: The Ritz has a special inside Ski Valet area where guests can put on their ski & snowboard gear, and prepare to take the free shuttle to the mountain.

The Rtiz-Carlton Vail
728 West Lionshead Circle,
Vail, Colorado 81657

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Four Seasons Resort Vail Features True Mountain Luxury

lea — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 11:14:14 +0000

The Four Seasons Resort Vail is a luxurious mountain retreat in the Colorado Rockies. Located in Vail Village, the resort is only steps away from restaurants, shopping, and the slopes; this ski resort offers 5-star service and amenities. The Four Seasons Resort Vail recently opened in late 2010 and is already gaining a reputation for its grand alpine features and first-class service.

The most intriguing part of the resort’s main floor is the vast display of stunning art on display. Modern paintings hang on the walls, and vase sculptures crafted of bold colors are displayed throughout. The natural wood and limestone interior design, 75-foot lighted pool and 2 whirlpools, and a grand outdoor fireplace make this 10-story, 121-room hotel feel like a lavish mountain lodge.

Skiers and snowboarders will be pleased to know that the resort has its own Ski Concierge at the base of the Vista Bahn chairlift, which makes getting your equipment to and from the mountain effortless. Ski Concierge will store and clean your equipment nightly.

Hidden on the bottom floor of The Four Seasons Resort Vail is one of the most luxurious spas in the country. It features 13 treatment rooms and over 14,000 square feet of relaxation space. A visit to this spa is a must! Be sure to try their signature treatment, the ‘Spirit of the Rockies.’

A favorite place to relax with the family or enjoy a cocktail après ski is in the Fireside Lounge. With views of the mountain through the tall glass windows, and oversized sofas to sink into, the lounge is equipped with reading material, games, and all-day dining. For breakfast or a heavier dinner visit Flame (http://www.fourseasons.com/vail/dining/flame/), a fine-dining restaurant serving up hearty mountain fare, highlighted by beef, game, seafood, and more.

A unique part of The Four Season Resort Vail is the Private Residence Rentals. If you’re looking for a temporary living space, with the service and luxury of the Four Seasons brand, a 2, 3, or 4-bedroom residence, complete with a kitchen, dining room, laundry room, and maybe even a den, is your perfect place. After a week in a Private Residence Rental, you may wish you could stay forever; well, you’re in luck. The Four Seasons Resort Vail also offers Private Residence ownership. Starting at $2.7 million, residences for purchase range in size from 1,573 square feet to 5,743 square feet.

Vail is an enjoyable place to visit year round, and The Four Seasons Resort Vail offers superb mountainside luxury.

Rates start at just over $600 per night.

LUX Tip: After a great day of skiing enjoy a dip into one of the several outdoor hot tubs, followed by a complimentary freshly made brownie.

Four Seasons Resort Vail
www.fourseasons.com/vail/
One Vail Road, Vail, Colorado, 81657
(970) 477-8600

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Inspirato Combines Convenient Villa Rentals With Private Vacation Club Services

Carmen — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 07:47:09 +0000

The convenience of enjoying independent luxury villa rental properties no longer requires a significant upfront cost as Inspirato has combined the advantages of the luxury vacation rental market with specialized amenities and personalized services of private vacation clubs. This combination gives more consumers access to the luxury vacation rental market and streamlines the reservation and membership requirements. With a $9,500 introductory price, market-based rental rates, and a $2,500 annual club fee, Inspirato is the first of its kind to combine this type of exclusive member service with such a large international luxury rental portfolio at rates well below comparable market prices.

With its expert staff of Personal Vacation Advisors and Destination Concierges, Inspirato is dedicated to offering excellent service throughout each member’s vacation. Concierges give expert advice for each rental site and are able to help with nearly every request imaginable. Setting spa times and making golf and restaurant reservations are as easy as a phone call away. Private arrangements with chefs and on-site transport coordination as well as making sure groceries are pre-stocked are just some of the hundreds of requests that the team of experts can fulfill. If you need recommendations for planning activities or even just simple daily housekeeping, this can be provided at no additional cost.

With more than 40 luxury residences located around the world’s premier vacation spots, the $24 billion luxury vacation industry has been forever transformed by a company whose very name means “inspired” in Italian. From the beginning of the reservation process to the end of every stay, Inspirato is setting the bar higher than ever within the luxury villa rental industry.

The club is less than a month old and has already signed-up 60 members to join the club.

Luxe Home Swap Is Changing The Home Exchange Industry

Carmen — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 21:16:29 +0000

The recently launched web site for Luxe Home Swap is driven by its members and lets customers negotiate their deals in their own way. Membership costs $159 per year, which may seem expensive at first for such a website, but your membership includes the ability to list as many houses as you want while swapping with other members as many times as wish. Also, if you haven’t completed a swap in your first year of membership, you get your second year absolutely free.

Luxe Home Swap helps members avoid problems other similar websites tend to have which may even lead to offers to swap the wrong size home, wrong setting, and even in the wrong country. There are already 500 members that have joined the website and some have listed multiple homes. Each week, more homes are added as roll-out into various key markets continues. Moscow, Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, and Brisbane are just a few of the homes they have listed from around the world with more added daily.

Advanced searching within the listings allow members to filter the homes they are interested in swapping according to where they are located. If there are any questions, there is a helpful concierge team which is run by members. Similar to online dating, members screen potential swaps and then finalize their deals after exchanging secure messages which help solidify the details of the swap. Once ready, there is even a digital contract available in order to legally secure the exchange. One interesting trend the members are seeing take place are “asymmetrical” swaps such as 12 days in a city condo in exchange for 8 nights in a beach home.

Luxe Home Swap
www.luxehomeswap.com/

Jetsetter Launches Vacation Rental Homes

Napa Valley’s Hidden Gem: The Carneros Inn Luxury Resort

Carmen — Thu, 27 May 2010 04:53:41 +0000

The Carneros Inn, a PlumpJack Resort, is a place for romantic couples. This attractive resort is located at the most beautiful atmosphere and stunning surroundings. It is in the middle of 27 acres of endless rows of grape vines, bucolic Napa farmland and local countryside. The luxury resort is inspired by local countryside yet has stylish and modern interior to fulfill the needs of guests.

The unique Carneros Inn offers 86 attractive individual cottages and 10 suites. Finest facilities and services are available for an extremely comfortable stay. In most cottages there are outdoor private gardens and patios with gas-fired heaters. Choose the indoor bathroom under the garden-side window or an option is available for a romantic shower outdoors. Napa Valley cottages are 450 square feet indoor living space as well as private patios and landscaped courtyards. Two cottages are combined and joined by extended deck and garden.

There are great facilities at the luxury resort including three full service restaurants, a signature Hilltop pool for adults only where they can enjoy the Carneros countryside, views of vineyards, horses and cows. Another pool is designed for families and children. All pools have full food and beverage services available. The Spa at the Carneros Inn is one of the top 55 Spas in North America. It features 9 indoor and 5 outdoor treatment rooms. All these facilities are available to the guests. Other amenities include a local post office, market, clothing boutique, fitness classes and many more.

‘The Orchard‘ at The Carneros Inn is a private residence club that provides benefits of owning a vacation home without the expense of sole ownership. Each owner buys an undivided deeded interest in all of the cottages, land and common areas. Vacation homes can be used as often as the owners want.

Owners have access to five star services, and amenities of The Carneros Inn which include preferred dining reservations at the hotels, savings on Spa treatments, savings on purchases at the market, and PlumpJack sports. Another benefit of owning a vacation home at The Orchard is that the owners have opportunity to visit Timbers Resorts destinations worldwide through the Timbers Reciprocity Program.

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Four Seasons Residence Club Vail – Now Open

Carmen — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 05:23:24 +0000

Four Seasons Residence Club Vail was opened in Vail, Colorado on April 8, 2010. It is an all season resort located at gateway of Vail Village, where Vail Mountain is viewable by all the 19 fractional ownership homes. It is one of the most beautiful locations where Residence Club guests enjoy their luxury hotel facilities.

There are 5 different residence types, ranging from 1,835 to 3,500 square feet. Each home is luxuriously furnished from fully appointed kitchen, wireless internet, gas fireplace with stone surround, flat screen television with surround sound to premium noise-reducing doors and windows. Every detail is created with luxurious and extreme comfort in mind.

In the Vail Residence Club, you’ll enjoy the stay whole year long. Winter will leave some fabulous memories at ski concierge, where you can enjoy alipine, and Nordic skiing, snowboarding, sleigh riding, and ice climbing. If you visit Vail in summer, you’ll find it most beautiful place on earth. Enjoy outdoor activities like fly fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, rock climbing, and golf.

Don’t worry if you feel tired and exhausted after all these activities. At the alipine spa you can relax your mind and bodies and regain your energy in one of the 13 treatment rooms, whirlpool, sauna or steam rooms.

Other features of Resort Vail include courtyard with 75-foot pool All-season pool, fine dining restaurant, retail shopping, children’s activity center, business center etc.

The price of Residence club Vail rangers from $299,900 for two bedrooms to $528,900 for four bedrooms residences.

1 Vail Road
Vail Village, CO
81657

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Cabo San Lucas Luxury Villas at Esperanza Resort

Carmen — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 07:57:11 +0000

What better place to spend a honeymoon this summer than the beautiful tranquility of the Esperanza Resort in Cabo San Lucas. The Mexican layout combined with the beauty of the Sea of Cortez can make for the most memorable vacation or honeymoon of one’s entire life. Love the resort? Partial ownership (Priviate Residence Club) or whole ownerships are also available.

With 60 villas, this is a paradise unlike any you could have dreamed of. As you walk along the private beach, you find yourself dreaming and wishing you could live there forever, which is why it has such frequent return guests. Whether your pleasure is indulging at the spa, or wandering among the wonderful talent displayed at the Art and Sculpture gallery, or even playing online thorugh the wireless internet that is offered, your desires can be fulfilled at one of the most magical and tranquil resorts to ever grace existence.

Owned by the professional and accommodating Timbers Resorts, Esperanza allows its guests to feel pampered and indulged, to feel young at heart and to feel like the most special person in the world. The scene of several weddings, many honeymoons and anniversaries, even business meetings, the Esperanza Resort allows for people of all ages and walks of life to feel at one with nature and success.

If you are wise enough to choose the Esperanza Resort, make sure you feast upon the cuisine available at El Restaurante, with a lovely view of the Sea of Cortez. The Mediterranean style cooking will leave you raving for months afterwards as you picture in your mind your next trip to the Esperanza Resort. The best wines from all over the world are served, perhaps even making you aware that you have it in you to become a wine connoisseur.

Opening in 2006, Esperanza quickly became one of the most frequented spa resorts ever. A trip to the beautiful seaside tranquil haven will tell you why.

Summer is almost here. Whether you are planning a dream wedding or simply want a vacation spot unlike any you have ever seen, travel down to the Esperanza Resort by the Sea of Cortez. Indulge yourself in the early morning hours as you sit out on your deck in a bikini or a pair of capris. Celebrate the memory of the day you had under the stars as you and your lover share a bottle of wine while taking in the sights and sounds of the water on the beach and the music from the resort bar.

Prices for nightly stays are priced at over $600 a night.

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Own a Piece of Florence: Palazzo Tornabuoni Resort

Carmen — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 05:45:15 +0000

Palazzo Tornabuoni, an independent private residence club is managed by Four Seasons Hotel and Resorts. It is the Florence’s first Private Residence Club. Florence is the capital of Tuscany which is famously known for its history, art, architecture, and cuisine. Visitors come from all over the world to view its beauty.

The history goes back to 15th century when Palazzo Tornabuoni was a home to a future pope, later it was restored and reopened as a residence club that is offered only to its maximum 288 members, who receive a transferable and willable membership in the club.

The Luxury Palace Residence is located within walking distance to some of the precious sights such as Ponte Veccho, Uffizi and the Duomo. There are thirty-six units of Palazzo Tornabuoni; each has its own charm. You will be amazed by the art, antiques and marble fireplaces. The interior design of every residence is stylish and provides quality and comfort.

The amazing Palazzo Tornabuoni Residences have Private Club Room, Library, Cigar Room, Spa & Fitness Center, and Wine Cellar. These are only to name a few. You’ll find lots of comforts and activities at the place. The residences have one, two or three bedrooms each 750 to 2,300 square feet space.

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