It’s no surprise that I’m a fan of villas, but there’s a reason why I love them (no, make that 10 reasons why I love them) and I think they can be better than any other type of group accommodation. So here are my top 10 reasons to stay in a villa (or chateau, or castle… basically anywhere that you can have to yourself).

They’re private!

Who wants to spend their vacation days surrounded by strangers, fighting for sun loungers by the pool or listening to your next door neighbors having a drinking session on their balcony? Vacations are for relaxing with the people you love, and staying in a villa means you have the entire place to yourself – your own kitchen, lounge space, pool, multiple bathrooms… need I go further?

They’re GREAT for social distancing!

I don’t know what the future holds, and we’re hoping 2021 will be the year we can actually hug people again – but at least you know you’re abiding by social distancing rules when you stay in a villa. Again, you’ve got the whole place to yourself, so it’s just you and your group. Most of the time, a villa is in a secluded location, has its own grounds at least – so you know you’re removed from the crowds. You’ll even have your own kitchen (often with top-notch alfresco dining spaces) so you don’t even have to go to out if you don’t want to.

Villas are often either placed in the depths of the countryside just a short distance from a small local town on a golf course or just a few steps from the beach. You’re smack in the middle of a region, and perfectly placed for an authentic vacation, whether that’s skiing down the slopes, hiking up mountains or hitting the local beach party.

They’re the perfect base for a more authentic vacation!

Villas are often either placed in the depths of the countryside just a short distance from a small local town on a golf course or just a few steps from the beach. You’re smack in the middle of a region, and perfectly placed for an authentic vacation, whether that’s skiing down the slopes, hiking up mountains or hitting the local beach party.

It’s a home-away-from-home!

A villa is a home. Your home, for however long you’re there. You can treat it as such (provided at home you’re not a wrecking ball or graffiti artist!), which means that you’ll instantly feel comfortable and at peace. Schedule housekeeping to service you at the most appropriate time, there are no evening curfews to contend with, or loud resort neighbors to keep you up. Just do what you want, when you want.

You may be able to bring your pet along !

Pet-friendly vacations are a growing travel trend, and it’s easy to see why. Why drop Grover off at a sad little kennel when they could be doggy paddling in the pool with you?! More and more properties are allowing people to bring their fur babies with them, because what’s a family vacation without the whole family?

They’re cost-effective!

People don’t usually realize this, but villas are actually really cost-effective. They often house a large number of people, meaning you can get the gang together and split the cost – and it’ll often times come up less per night than a hotel. Meaning more money for excursions, shopping and other fun stuff.

You can tailor it to your group!

Villas often have a bunch of added extras you can take advantage of – in fact, I actually have a team of absolute legends dedicated to these extras. Once you contact your concierge team, they can organize everything from private chefs, to a car service, should you choose.  A villa offers the convenience of a hotel in the privacy of your own home (breakfast, maid service etc). Some villas even have their own specific extras – like in-house spa treatments, speedboat trips, casino nights… the list goes on! Or you can say no thank you to all of that, and keep it simple.

They’re safe for families!

When you go on vacation, you want to actually be able to switch off, right? Some villas offer a peace of mind that you can’t get anywhere– you’re often in a rural location, on a private property, away from strangers. Some villas have even gone that step further for families and installed child-safe pools, have private fenced grounds, and can even baby-proof their properties ready for your arrival. Our collection is divided between those ideal for babies, kids, and teens so you can be sure your c crew is safe. 

They’re great for groups and celebrations!

If you want to get away for a birthday or even just fancy event, then where better than a huge villa/chateau/castle?! There are places that literally house over 30 people, so you can celebrate in style. BrieskiTravel has access to villas that are perfect! And since it’s basically your own home for however long you’re there, you can enjoy it without the disapproving looks from strangers or the hotel staff coming to tell you off for being too loud.

They’re more sustainable!

Sustainable travel is a hot topic, and it’s only going to continue to grow. Villas are instantly more sustainable than hotels or resorts as they’re not using half as much energy, and some villas are even putting their own green practices in place. We understand the importance of sustainability, which is why we can shout about those vacation homes that are leading the way in eco-friendly stays, whether that’s through solar power, sustainable produce or even planting their own trees to offset their emissions. 

Well, there you have it! My top 10 reasons to stay in a villa instead of a hotel or resort. Whether you’re a villa vacationing pro or had never considered one … Make 2021 the year of the villa vacation. Email me for assistance at: brieskitravel@gmail.com. LIKE|SHARE|FOLLOW BrieskiTravel for travel inspiration and insight.