WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO France AND Costa Rica) THIS WEEK?
Located in Southeastern France, Annecy Lake Lodge is a combination of early 19th-century architecture and newly renovated and contemporary interiors. This home can sleep up to 14 people and is designed for experiencing the surrounding natural beauty to the fullest. Outdoor living spaces open up onto Annecy Lake, widely considered “Europe’s cleanest lake” due to strict environmental protections. This pristine lake, surrounded by the French Alps, is the perfect place for outdoor recreation. Paragliding is a favorite pastime for many who visit the area. Escape to the serenity of Annecy Lake with this lakefront property on your next European adventure.
ThirdHome member James says, “The location was perfect right on Lake Annecy, we had our evening drinks on the deck right on the lake. The villa was so comfortable and great for entertaining. We had two sets of friends and my wife’s sisters. All had a great time and want to come back.” click here to read more of James’ review
The Palms at Playa Flamingo | Costa Rica
The Palms at Playa Flamingo is located on the Northwestern coast of Costa Rica, facing the Pacific Ocean. This resort property features elegant architectural design and panoramic Pacific views. These 2 bedroom residences are perfect for a romantic beach retreat. Lounge on the beach or take advantage of The Palm’s spa pool, infinity pool and watersport gear. Discover some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and exclusive coastline at The Palms at Playa Flamingo on your next tropical adventure.
ThirdHome member Janet says, “We had the most amazing time. The Palms is a very special place where you feel like home in your villa…the service is by far the best…and the property is perfect in every way. The beach is just footsteps away and the pool is absolutely beautiful!” click here to read more of Janet’s review
Click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our luxury home exchange club? Click here to learn more about ThirdHome.
Just before the holidays, ThirdHome held a launch party in Sydney, Australia, to announce its expansion in the market to fellow members, partners and interested parties. See how the event went below.
ThirdHome Founder, CEO and Chairman, Wade Shealy, and Partner and President of Europe, Asia and Oceania, Giles Adams, made a special appearance in Sydney to discuss the Australian launch.
The launch party was held at Australia’s oldest established jeweler, Fairfax & Roberts, making for an elegant backdrop to the festivities. Fairfax & Roberts also provided the chance to win special edition ThirdHome Key necklaces to select attendees who signed up for the club, pictured below.
Special thanks to Tokonoma, one of Sydney’s most unique restaurants, for catering a beautiful spread of modern Japanese cuisine for the event.
The work of John Maitland, one of Australia’s most exciting artists, was featured at the event. His skillful use of oil and acrylic paint make for some delightful compositions.
Other special guests included ThirdHome member Bridget Ramey and The Best Job On The Planet 2017 winner and Sydney native, Sorelle Amore, who made a guest appearance to discuss her experiences at 12 different ThirdHome properties.
Keep scrolling to see more pictures from the event…
Thank you to everyone who attended ThirdHome’s Australian launch party! Extra special thanks to Fairfax & Roberts, Tokonoma and John Maitland for bringing this event to life with their respective crafts.
As ThirdHome’s footprint Down Under continues to expand, be sure to stay up to date with new properties in the Australian market.
Click here to see all available properties in Australia.
WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO Italy AND Jamaica) THIS WEEK?
Concierge Local Experiences | Italy
ThirdHome members have the option to add-on to their stays by using the club’s Travel & Concierge service. In Italy, for instance, members can embark on gastronomic tours of the city, discover hidden art scenes and book local sommeliers for tastings. This particular local experience was based out of the historic Palazzo 1619 Burano in Venice. If you want truly authentic experiences with your ThirdHome trips be sure to give the Travel & Concierge service a try.
ThirdHome member David says, “Liz, we just wanted to share with you that we’re having a great time and have really enjoyed all of our guided experiences you arranged for us in Venice. This was our first stay booked with ThirdHome at the charming Palazzo 1619 Burano residence in the Venetian isle…thank you for planning the amazing artisan tours and private art-religious-culinary experiences…Each and every tour, including all the guides, were just out of this world. Thank you!” click here to read more of David’s review
Nestled in idyllic Sandy Bay, this Tryall Private Club property is perfect for experiencing the white sands of Jamaica. The property itself has an open floor plan, designed to let the tropical landscape into the bright living spaces. Visit the private white sand beach for a swim or take one of the complimentary sea kayaks for a spin. When you’re not sunbathing on the beach enjoy the resort’s world-class par 72 golf course. This property also includes a full-service staff. Be sure to check out the Tryall Wheelhouse for your next Jamaican getaway.
ThirdHome member Douglas and Kimberly say, “What a wonderful week we had at the Wheelhouse! The Villa is beautiful and the views are spectacular. We started off with a few days of rain, but the staff, especially Gavin came up with all kinds of fun things for our kids to do!” click here to read more of Douglas and Kimberly’s review
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our luxury home exchange club? Click here to learn more about ThirdHome.
The late Sir Winston Churchill once said “We shape our buildings thereafter they shape us.” It’s no secret that a house and its architecture are often a reflection of those who call it home. Architecture can say a lot about societal values, history, art and culture. The most important question to ask when evaluating the architectural style of a home is this; does the home serve form or function? In other words, how much am I willing to sacrifice for home aesthetic versus home utility and vice versa. These are things to consider not only when buying a new home, but when experiencing someone else’s home…
Architectural style can have a major impact on your experience. Which one is right for you?
As connoisseurs of second homes we at ThirdHome will walk you through architectural styles and movements using homes from our extensive and luxurious portfolio of member properties. Find your style below by exploring some of the styles you’re sure to encounter when browsing for your next home purchase, home exchange or rental trip.
Classical
For reference, Villa Blanca, pictured above, has many Classical features. Western architecture is heavily influenced by the classical civilizations, Rome and Greece. Roman architect Vitruvius set forth three principles of great architecture that would go on to influence the Classical style: durability, utility, and beauty. Classical architects prioritized form and function equally, while their durability can still be seen in structures like The Coliseum. Classical architects thought they could achieve beauty through math and symmetry (i.e. The Golden Ratio). The home above has many classical features including columns (though not classical) supporting a simple entablature, symmetrical layout, materials like marble or stone and a facade with a decorative pediment. A home like this may seem to achieve both form and function in equal measure, but other schools of architecture have posed alternatives. Nevertheless, a house like this is sure to make you feel like a Roman Emporer.
Contemporary
This New Zealand Lake House is a wonderful example of Contemporary architecture. Simply put, contemporary architecture is the architecture of today (not to be confused with modernism). It has no predetermined rules or guidelines, although it has tended to favor the use of straight lines and unique building materials. This does not mean that any building built today is considered contemporary. A new home could be built with another architectural movement in mind. Contemporary architecture strives to buck the tradition of older movements and create something new. The property pictured above primarily uses straight lines to achieve creative living spaces and harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. Large and unique windows are also regularly found in contemporary houses. The next time you book a stay at a home with contemporary features take notice of the asymmetrical patters, building materials and natural lighting.
Critical Regionalism
A style of architecture that was formulated as a response to the lack of character found in modernist styles (not to be confused with contemporary), critical regionalism sought to incorporate the context of culture, landscape and history into its buildings. Seeing as this style is dependent on location and context, no two buildings look alike. Pictured above, is a home in Iceland that was built with the Northern Lights in mind. Floor to ceiling windows, a crescent-shaped layout and outdoor space that eases into the natural landscape make for a home that lends itself to spectating natural wonders. If it were located anywhere else in the world it might just be considered a contemporary home. But its attention to regional context puts it into the exclusive club of critical regionalism.
Expressionist (post-modernist)
Expressionism can be traced back to architects living in the first few decades of the 20th century. This is a style that favors form over function (although both can be accomplished). The primary features of an expressionist home is a distortion of form to achieve an emotional response, a proclivity toward symbolic models over pragmatic design and a unification of building materials to create the impression of a monolith. The Sydney Opera House is one of the most famous examples of this type of architecture. It’s sparsely used in residential design, but when done with creativity in mind, a home such as the Bavarian Chateau above can appear to be from a different world. If you want an escape from reality book an expressionist home.
Farm style
A farmhouse or country house label speaks more to the function of the house than the form. Farmhouses tend to emphasize the simplicities of rural lifestyles and the nature that surround them. Symmetry, efficient use of space, horizontal siding, a fireplace and plenty of porch space are the characteristics of a farmhouse. Pictured above is an abnormal farmhouse, but a farmhouse all the same. In lieu of an extended porch and a flared roof, this home incorporates the functionality of the porch into the midsection of the home. You will notice that American styles were influenced greatly by readily available resources and classical ideas of architecture. Note the widely pitched timber roof and the pediment it forms. The beauty of the great outdoors comes directly to your doorstep in farm and country-style homes.
Georgian
Named for King George I, II and III who all reigned over the English colonies where this style of home became popularized, this style of home is known for its classical features and heavily ornamented interiors. They were a common style of home for the wealthy denizens of London during the 18th century. Interiors usually feature vaulted ceilings, window pediments and even more columns. Georgian style differs from place to place, but most maintain these central features and a propensity for overdecorated interiors. If you want to feel like Barry Lyndon, look no further than an opulent Georgian spectacle like the Balbirnie House pictured above.
International
This was a style was adopted post-World War II to help maximize space in rapidly growing cities. Its flat rectangular features transcended location and were often criticized by architects who valued regionalism (spurning an offshoot of the post-modern movement that birthed Critical Regionalism). But International design did have its appeal. It favored flat planes, open spaces and glass and steel. Ornamentation is sparse in International style, but it could be argued that the clean geometric design lent to a beauty all its own. If you enjoy clean open concept living consider International style, like White Villa pictured above, for your next homestay.
Italianate
Another brief return to classical styles (but with less rigidity in design), Italianate architecture was a 19th-century modernization of Italian Renaissance architecture. These homes feature the facade symmetry and columns of classical styles and also favor a low-pitch or flat roof. Although the front of the house by appearance his very symmetrical, the actual layout of the house can be an “L” or “U” layout. The inviting facade of the house has pediments in the doors and windows, bay windows, wide eaves supported by corbels and balconies. They share many features with Georgian style homes but are less heavily ornamented. Italianate was popularized in the UK and the East Coast of the United States. If you want to feel like you’re staying in a Tuscan countryside villa with the comforts of an updated home, consider an Italianate house for your next stay.
Log cabin
The modern log cabin style came into fashion after Swedish immigrants settled the American West in the late 19th century. Frontier cabins were sparse and incredibly utilitarian, but the modernized version of these cabins have become much more pleasing to the eye, as seen in the Tahoe Nevada Log Home above. Timber and stone are the mainstays of this architectural style. Although they are typically very functional they adhere to form and beauty more than the American Farmhouse style. Wood carved interiors, timber frames, high-pitched roofs and plenty of outdoor space make for homes that seem to be an embodiment of surrounding mountains.
Mediterranean
Influenced by early Spanish, Italian and Portuguese styles, Mediterranean style homes are easily identifiable. Red tiled roofs, stucco exteriors, curved parapets, decorative tile and ironwork, archways, terraces and balconies are all notable features of the Mediterranean style. It’s very likely that you’ve stayed at a Mediterranean style home given their popularity in vacation destinations and warmer climates. They often have low and wide roofs with far-spread eaves to offer shade in sunny locations. If you stay in a Mediterranean home like the one featured above, you may feel like a Spanish viceroy given the style’s Old World feel and delightful rusticity.
Modernist
Remember International Style? Flat planes, open spaces, the simplicity of form and no ornamentation are also features of the Modernist style. International style was the global adoption and adaptation of the original German Modernist style that was conceived in the 1920’s. After the Nazi regime condemned the Modernist style, the thought leaders behind the sleek style traveled to the United States. The “Tower House” pictured above was inspired by a late modernist, Tadao Ando, who was a Japanese architect that integrated both Eastern and Western styles into his buildings. This home is vertical by design, unlike the more horizontal International style, but still, features many of the core components of Modernism. Try booking a stay at a Modernist property, like the Tower House above, to buck your perception of the traditional home layout.
Neoclassical (Beaux Arts)
You’ll see this return to the classical style in many buildings in Chicago, given its popularity during the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Featuring heavy surface ornamentation, symmetrical design, flat roofs, a raised first story and a hierarchy of space, Beaux Arts style was the classical response to the rise of International and Modernist styles in the early 20th century. Identifying a Beaux Arts style from other classical styles can be tricky, but try looking for excessive embellishment in plasterwork, decorative mascarons and ornate scrollwork. Sculptures and other artwork are typically incorporated into the architecture to lend a unique personality to each and every building. In the home above, you’ll notice a great amount of detail in the cornices, entablature, molding and sculpture work. If the modernist style doesn’t resonate with you then maybe a neoclassical approach will.
Pueblo style
Pueblo revival spawned from the cultural recesses of New Mexico and Arizona in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Emulating the styles of the Puebloan tribe, specifically the city of Taos, New Mexico, the pueblo revival featured rugged earth tones and rounded designs that integrated into the surrounding desert landscapes. These houses typically have flat roofs, stucco walls, exposed beams, oddly shaped parapets and decorated corbels. More modern interpretations, as shown above, share the spirit of cultural regionalism while updating the functional aspects of the home. The next time you’re exploring the American Southwest, explore the regions culture by staying in a Pueblo revival home.
Sustainable
Also known as eco-friendly architecture, this style has no set boundaries and is lumped in with the uncategorized masses of contemporary architecture. These homes emphasize leaving small ecological footprints by way of creative use of building materials, energy efficient design and incorporation of eco-friendly fixtures such as solar panels or rain collection devices. Villa Punto Vista pictured above, and recently featured in The Best Job on the Planet, was designed by ThirdHome member David Konwiser. His website says the following about his eye toward sustainability, “Once the structure was completed we then incorporated as many recycled and locally-sourced building materials as possible. Recycled glass was utilized on the villa’s exterior and innovative roofing tiles made from recycled plastic bags were selected. Only sustainably-harvested teak wood was sourced for every artisan-crafted wood element and detail throughout, as was locally quarried rose-sandstone.” If ecological preservation is important to you then try booking a sustainably designed home on your next trip.
Victorian
And one last trip to classical revival styles! Following the reign of Georgian architecture, Victorian arrived with a more of a Gothic twist. They’re especially known for their wrap-around porches, towers and turrets. Unlike the uniform facade design of Georgian homes, Victorian homes, like The White House pictured above, favored asymmetrical design and unique roof lines. You’ll also find decorative roof trimming and corbels on the facade, making for an elaborate entrance. Extravagance was key to this architectural style but it features less overt structural ornamentation than Beaux Arts or Georgian styles, relying more on uniqueness in layout to build its personality. If you want to visit a house where each room is a character in itself, try booking a Victorian home.
There are far too many architectural styles to cover in one blog post and the list continues to grow. As architecture evolves, creating innumerable style choices, one or two are bound to fit any personality. So, what is your style? A little classical with a hint of post 20th century modern? Contemporary through and through? You can only own so many homes and styles in a lifetime, but with a second home you can visit countless examples of moments in architectural history by way of a ThirdHome.
Click here to see all the architectural styles available for your next trip.
Based out of Park City, Utah, for the past 20 years, the Mazonne’s know a thing or two about luxury homes. Mike works in real estate in Park City, and through his relationships in the industry learned about ThirdHome. Now the Mazzone family have the ability to trade their world-class ski weeks for stays around the globe. Get to know ThirdHome members, Mike and Robin Mazzone!
Who do you usually travel with?
I usually travel with immediate family.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
My favorite travel hobbies are playing golf and diving.
In your past travels with ThirdHome, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
My favorite destination was St. Maarten, through a TradeWinds yacht experience.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with ThirdHome?
I want to visit Cabo San Lucas in April.
Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?
Time with our 12 and 15-year-old boys is priceless.
How has ThirdHome changed the way you travel?
There is excitement in just knowing we can visit all these amazing places. Wandering the website is a stress relief!
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a ThirdHome property?
Walking out to a beautiful surf beach in Punta Mita.
How would you describe ThirdHome to a friend?
It is an incredible opportunity.
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Tuna Blanca in Punta de Mita
What makes a ThirdHome stay so special?
The people.
How is staying in a ThirdHome different than other types of accommodations?
You have room to roam.
“We’re willing to waive the initiation fee, right now, for everyone in Australia.”- Wade Shealy
Wade Shealy, Founder and CEO of ThirdHome, and Bridget Ramey, of Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty Austin, were featured on a Sky News real estate segment to discuss ThirdHome’s focus on expansion in Australia.
“ThirdHome has become my travel agent and travel guru.”- Bridget Ramey
As ThirdHome continues to grow and develop its relationships in Australia, more properties are sure to emerge for members. If you’ve ever been interested in a trip to Australia, now is a great time to be a ThirdHome member. Keep track of the latest properties Down Under by clicking on the link below!
Click here to see all available ThirdHome properties in Australia.
We’re proud to announce that our partner, Luggage Forward, will be sponsoring ThirdHome’s Inner Circle Member Appreciation event in April 2018.
Get to know the world’s most trusted door-to-door luggage shipping service, Luggage Forward
In May 2008, American Airlines announced checked-bag fees, to the displeasure of frequent travelers. Other major carriers followed suit and checked luggage, on any flight, became a luxury. This news was especially distressing to travelers who frequently checked cumbersome items such as skis, golf clubs and bikes. Luckily, these consumer woes had been answered 4 years prior when a company called Luggage Forward was founded in Boston, Massachusetts.
Luxury travel isn’t just about the destination. It’s, unsurprisingly, also about the travel. And there’s nothing worse (or less luxurious) than lugging heavy bags to the airport and back.
Not to mention how the airlines treat your luggage after check-in.
With Luggage Forward, all you have to do is pack your bags and book a shipment online or by phone 24/7. They’ll pick up your bags and notify you via text, email or phone when they’ve arrived safely, leaving you to travel hands-free.
Worried they won’t be able to ship to your next exotic retreat? Don’t worry. Luggage Forward can deliver to over 200 countries! And they’re experts at international shipping, utilizing their global network of carriers to navigate customs and other barriers to shipping. They can also get your luggage aboard your next cruise, or delivered to a remote ski chalet or favorite golf clubhouse.
Luggage Forward is so confident in their service that they even offer full refunds on delayed luggage and up to $500 in reimbursement for any related expenses. Plus, the site’s a breeze to use. Just type in your pick-up location, destination and luggage information.
Click here to visit Luggage Forward’s website. ThirdHome members receive up to 15% off luggage delivery when using Luggage Forward for their traveling needs!
WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO Croatia AND Colorado) THIS WEEK?
Villa Akuna by the Sea | Croatia
Gaze out over the impossibly blue Adriatic Sea from Villa Akuna, a luxury property on the island of Brac, Croatia. Contemporary interior design, the open concept layout and spacious living areas make Villa Akuna feel like a work of art that doesn’t compromise on comfort. With room for up to 10 people, this home runs the gambit in home entertainment options. Swim in the pool, watch a film in the media room, relax in the infrared sauna, get an in-home massage or relax in the Jacuzzi overlooking the sea. When you’re not relaxing at Villa Akuna, the island of Brac has plenty to offer to foodies and sommeliers.
Best Job On The Planet winner, Sorelle Amore, just recently explored Brac, Croatia. Let her give you a tour of the island.
ThirdHome member Anoushka says, “This is truly a wow factor home. It is jaw dropping from the moment you step inside. The wonderful views, beautiful high spec design details, location, amenities, a wonderful housekeeper… the list is endless…It is a piece of heaven; unspoiled, far from the madding crowds, private and a wonderful place to holiday as a family or group of friends.” click here to read more of Anoushka’s review
Explore the grand natural beauty of Estes Park, Colorado from this 6 bedroom and 7 bathroom home. This property is fantastic for large groups wanting to escape the city hustle and unwind in rustic luxury. Watch a movie in the theater room, play a round of foosball or relax in the hot tub. When you’re not hunkered down at Grace Manor discover Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park via horseback, 4-wheeler or hiking trail. Find tranquility in Colorado with this spacious and comfortable home.
ThirdHome member Sam says, “My sisters and I had the pleasure of staying in this beautiful home…Our expectations were exceeded in every way! We were amazed at the Elk and deer that wander around.The memories we made will always be at the top of our sister trips.” click here to read more of Sam’s review
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our luxury home exchange club? Click here to learn more about ThirdHome.
Members in ThirdHome’s Inner Circle recently returned from a river cruise down the Amazon River.
Inner Circle members went on a Peruvian Amazon Voyage aboard the elegant Zafiro riverboat to discover Earth’s Greatest Wilderness. They voyaged deep into the pristine Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, a 5-million-acre labyrinth of flooded forests, lagoons and peaceful creeks; traveled upriver from the inland port of Iquitos aboard the Zafiro to experience extraordinary wildlife, flora and fauna.
See what these ThirdHome members had to say:
“The Inner Circle Amazon Voyage was an incredible, unforgettable experience. We would ride down the river and see the wildlife in their natural habitat and I was thinking, ‘I can’t believe I’m here!’ The staff and all involved in our Amazon trip made it all so enjoyable. From piranha fishing to visiting the village was all laced with a special touch. Even our last night expedition included a glass of champagne and toasting to a great cruise while sitting on the skiffs in the middle of the Amazon river at sunset! It was all absolutely fabulous!! Thank you ThirdHome!”- Rick and Vikki Desoto
“We would categorize The Inner Circle Amazon Voyage as a unique lifetime experience. To sample a slice of life on the Peruvian Amazon River, aboard the luxurious Zafiro River Boat, was truly a highlight of our forty year travel career. The boat’s amenities, staff, food and service were first quality. The International Expedition team coordinators and naturalists were indispensable in the full educational adventure. Our favorite day was visiting the small village and sharing school supplies with a dozen sweet elementary school-aged children. We can highly recommend this trip to anyone who has (n)ever thought about such an adventure.”- Sherry and Andy Harris
“I’ve just returned from the Amazon trip on board the Zafiro. It was wonderful…Everything and everyone was terrific. I am inspired to go on more trips with my family and the ThirdHome family. Please keep me in the loop. Thank you! The Zafiro exceeded my expectations, as did the experience of being on the Amazon River. All the sights, the birds, the animals were thrilling. I had no idea what to expect. In addition, the other guests on board were all interesting, well-traveled, and fun to share such a unique experience with. I had such a fantastic time and looking forward to the next Inner Circle trip!”- Ronne Fisher
“The ThirdHome Amazon trip was terrific—not only an excellent travel experience with all details planned to perfection, it was an opportunity to spend time with a great group of other ThirdHome members with similar interests. Every experience was enhanced by being with a fun group to share it with. I highly recommend this new ThirdHome travel program to anyone that enjoys unique travel opportunities.”- Stan Brading
MJ and Dee Jennings, Texas natives, have been members of ThirdHome since 2011. In that time, they have racked up 31 trips. That’s a little over 5 trips a year! The Jennings family are true jet-setters. Get to know MJ and Dee Jennings, and how they travel with ThirdHome, below.
How did you get involved with ThirdHome?
I received a phone call from someone at ThirdHome that was interested in my condo on Lake Travis in Austin TX in late 2011.
Where are you based?
Dallas, TX
Who do you usually travel with?
Husband, girlfriends, as well as brother and sisters family.
What do you do for a living?
Fundraising.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Exploring the area, active fitness activities, tasting the local foods, taking pics and walking everywhere I can.
In your past travels with ThirdHome, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
I just booked my 32nd trip. My favorite was a Malibu Beach home because it was insanely luxurious on Malibu Cove, a close second was Iceland as it was such an amazing adventure, and my repeat favorite is Turks and Caicos where I go as often as possible – the most beautiful beach in the world.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with ThirdHome?
I want to find a ThirdHome to stay in South Africa before I venture off on a safari!
What do you love most about your property with ThirdHome?
Every single guest takes care of it as if it was there own. In fact, because they are so pleasant it only wants me to make their stay so much more enjoyable.
Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?
Because of ThirdHome and the money we have saved, we splurge on adventure activities such as taking a helicopter to the top of a glacier and hiking the glacier tunnel, hiking the mountains of Malibu, swimming with sharks in Turks and Caicos, sliding down a mile long slide in Costa Rica, and even sent 2 family members on their honeymoons!
How has ThirdHome changed the way you travel?
Completely! I always look online to see what I WOULD have paid for a ThirdHome should I have actually paid more than a small exchange fee and some (or no) Keys. I am almost embarrassed to share, but I bet I am close to saving $200,000 since 2012. I plan a year in advance watching properties that I really want, or, if I have a free month I always take advantage of the 30-day Keyless properties.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a ThirdHome property?
A 50-foot yacht in Miami for free.
How would you describe ThirdHome to a friend?
For only $495, you can stay at a 2.5 million dollar home for a week anywhere in the world. All you have to do is give up one week at your second home.
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Probably a local Icelandic one – a tiny little house with the most unbelievable fish soup I have ever tasted.
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Be active on the site, save your favorite properties so they pop up in your email when something comes available and check the site for the newest properties.
What makes a ThirdHome stay so special?
The properties are hands down top of the notch luxury or if not, it is all about location, location, location!
How is staying in a ThirdHome different than other types of accommodations?
For so many of the properties, the owners seem to always make sure we have everything we need – almost like a personal butler!
WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO Thailand AND Iceland) THIS WEEK?
Baan Saleah Phuket Villa | Thailand
Experience beautiful Kate Beach in Thailand from this fully-staffed beachfront villa. This property features 4 ensuite bedrooms and a large infinity pool which overlooks the beach. The uniformed staff will be at your beck and call throughout your trip to ensure that you and your guests can fully relax. Stunning views and 5-star service await you at this modern villa designed by Baan Saleah.
ThirdHome member Tom says, “Our party of seven including an eight and nine-year-old had the most amazing time at this beautiful villa. Awesome was a word often used and well deserved. The villa is stunning and tastefully decorated with every luxury at hand.The location is perfect for both visits to town and the short walk to the beach.” click here to read more of Tom’s review
Located by Laugardalur Valley, Nordic Cottage is right in the middle of Reykjavik. The accessible downtown and recreational areas make this property the perfect jumping off point for your northern adventure. Sleep up to 6 people in this home while exploring all of Iceland’s hidden wonders including Laugar Spa, Grotta Lighthouse, Blue Lagoon and Harpa Concert Hall. Of course, the Northern Lights are a must-see if you’re staying in this beautiful home.
ThirdHome member Sylvia says, “This home is warm, inviting, comfortable and well cared for…The house is an easy walk to the downtown core of Reykjavik. There’s so much to do and see in Iceland, you will need at least a week. After day-long tours, we were happy to rest in such a beautiful home… I hope to go back someday soon, as Iceland has touched my heart.” click here to read more of Sylvia’s review
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our luxury home exchange club? Click here to learn more about ThirdHome.
Ski season is here and ski properties are already booking at black diamond speeds. Check out your favorite ski resort opening dates below so you can start planning your trip today.
Book a ski week before it’s too late! See ski resort 2017-2018 opening dates below.
Mid Atlantic USA
New York
Buffalo Ski Club Ski Area 12/25
Catamount 12/15
Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort 11/24
Pennsylvania
Seven Springs Ski Resort 11/25
Click to see properties in this region.
Mid West USA
Wisconsin
Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort 12/9
Click to see properties in this region.
North East USA
Connecticut
Mohawk Mountain Ski Area 12/16
Massachusetts
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort 11/24
Vermont
Jackson Gore Ski Area 11/24
Okemo Ski Resort 11/22
Click to see properties in this region.
Pacific USA
California
Homewood Mountain Resort 12/8
Ritz Northstar 11/17
Squaw Valley 11/17
Big Bear Mountain Ski Resort 11/24
Mammoth Ski Mountain 11/19
Nevada
Heavenly Ski Resort 11/17
Oregon
Mt. Bachelor 11/24
Click to see properties in this region.
Rocky Mountains USA
Colorado
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area 10/13
Vail Ski area 11/17
Aspen/Snowmass 11/23
Breckenridge 11/10
Beaver Creek Ski and Snowboard Area 11/22
Copper Mountain 11/10
Keystone Ski Resort 11/10
Steamboat Ski Area 11/23
Telluride Ski Mountain 11/23
Purgatory 11/18
Monarch Mountain Ski Resort 11/22
Idaho
Schweitzer Ski Resort 12/1
Sun Valley Ski Resort 11/23
Mt. Baldy Ski Resort 12/2
Montana
Whitefish Mountain Resort 12/7
Utah
Beaver Mountain Ski Resort 12/14
Big Sky Ski Resort 11/23
Deer Valley Resort 11/17
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South East USA
North Carolina
Sapphire Valley Ski Area 12/16
Sugar Mountain Ski Resort 11/20
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South West USA
New Mexico
Taos Ski Valley 11/23
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Canada
Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort 11/23
Mont Saint-Sauveur 11/22
Ski Mont Gabriel 12/5
Whistler 11/23
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France
Chamonix Mont-Blanc 11/25
Flaine Ski Resort 12/9
Meribel Ski Resort 12/9
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Switzerland
Grindelwald-Wengen Ski Resort 11/11
Verbier Ski Resort 11/25
Villars-Gyron Ski Resort 12/16
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Ski week properties fly fast. Be sure to start booking your winter wonderland soon! And remember to use our partner Ski Butlers to bring your ski gear straight to your door!
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