Bobby Flaig has been a member of THIRDHOME since 2014, but only recently started exploring all the club has to offer on the West Coast. With trips to Balboa Island and Truckee under his belt, he’s looking to explore even more properties in 2018. Get to know THIRDHOME member Bobby Flaig!

 

How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?

I joined THIRDHOME about 3 years ago but didn’t get really active until last year when I made my first stay at the Newport Beach Vacation Club property through THIRDHOME. I was happily surprised that the process went very smooth and everyone at THIRDHOME was super friendly and helpful.

Where are you based?

Huntington Beach, CA, USA

Bobby flaig

Who do you usually travel with?

My longtime girlfriend Angelique Ives is my travel partner.

What do you do for a living?

I own a beverage company.

What are your favorite travel hobbies?

Love to fish, when in Cabo San Lucas for Dorado “Mahi Mahi”, hike, swim in the ocean and enjoy the local cuisines.

In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it? 

Stayed for a week at a house in Newport Beach on Balboa Island. Loved that we could walk downtown and to the Ferry to the see the ocean. The owners of the house left us cookies and let us use their bikes and boogie boards. Plus, they met us at the house when we checked in! They were very helpful.

What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
 Love that I can exchange a week or two at my property for really nice properties throughout the world. The selection and variety keep getting better every day.

 

Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other THIRDHOME members?

I am in another program, which I do like, but the quality of the properties at THIRDHOME are much nicer. Plus, there is more interaction with the actual owners of the properties at THIRDHOME.

Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?

We love to travel and THIRDHOME has made it much easier to do so and to plan ahead for exciting adventures.

How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?

Lets us stay in wonderful homes with friendly owners to help show us the ropes for the communities that they live in.

Bobby flaig

What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?

Free cookies and use of bikes to ride around town at Newport Beach Balboa Island House.

What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?

The employees at THIRDHOME care about their owners. Kristine and Sammy are awesome to deal with!

How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?

The personal service. Actual people, I know that I can talk to at THIRDHOME who know me. Excellent Customer Service!

How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?

THIRDHOME lets you experience really nice homes in locations all over the world with similar people. The homes are immaculately put together and the customer service at THIRDHOME is top notch!

bobby flaig

What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?

Captain Jack’s in Huntington Beach had the best crab and fish I have ever eaten.

Any travel tips for fellow members?

Get as many Keys from THIRDHOME as you can so that you can plan a wonderful adventure to far away places and stay in magnificent homes.

What are THIRDHOME members saying about their luxury home exchange trips (to Brazil and California) this week?

 

Brazil California

Palacio Copa Luxury Villa | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

This palatial home is located in Copacabana, one of Rio’s most popular barrios. With room for up to 21 guests, there’s sure to be no shortage of space during a stay. A total of 4-stories wraps around a central atrium, giving the home a communal feel. Enjoy the outdoor pool, rooftop garden and the variety of caged tropical birds that call the villa home. THIRDHOME member, Gopal, was lucky enough to book Palacio Copa Luxury Villa during Carnival!

THIRDHOME member Gopal says, “As [the] name suggests [this property] looks like a palace. We can’t praise the owner, property manager and staff enough. Their hospitality was beyond words. They made our stay memorable; arranging tickets for the Carnival, cooking and letting us feel like we are at home and comfortable.” click here to read more of Gopal’s review

 

California

Lauberge del Norte | Del Mar, California

This modern villa is located on Camino del Mar, only 30 minutes north of San Diego. This property is comprised of four buildings connected via glass sky bridges. With 4 bedrooms and lots of living space, Lauberge del Norte is the perfect place for a luxurious coastal escape. The home includes a pool table, ping-pong, a Jacuzzi, sauna, pool and a gourmet kitchen. The master bedroom features unobstructed views of the coast. Keep an eye on this property for your next trip to Southern California.

THIRDHOME member Alex says, “The house was just as described only the location was even better…Walking distance to so many restaurants and the beach. June the owner lives nearby and was very helpful with recommendations. She has thought of everything for the home and has given me ideas for the home I am building.” click here to read more of Alex’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.

Best known by THIRDHOME members for their interior design work at The Mandala House, Design 4 Corners has made a name for themselves working on extraordinary residences around the globe.

Design 4 Corners, an interior design firm based out of Encinitas, California, is sharing their tips for achieving three distinct looks for your second home.

 

No matter where your home is located, one of these looks is sure to dazzle. Bring exterior natural landscapes inside to play with the Urban Jungle Villa look.  Is your home on the beach? Throw out the seashell decor and try out Design 4 Corner’s refreshed Beach House Look. Finally, for the mountain dwellers, some tips on achieving a cozy yet modern ski chalet look.

Design 4 Corners


Design 4 Corners


Design 4 Corners

 

Use these tips to help take your second home to the next level and really wow your guests! Which look do you think you’ll try? Interested in more design inspiration from Design 4 Corners? Click the link below to check out their other residential projects.

Check out Design 4 Corners’ portfolio of residential design work here.

Amex Travel’s Trend forecast for 2018 has some classics and some newcomers in the realm of international travel; Bali, Costa Rica, Dubai and Vietnam to name a few. But how do the industry-wide trends line up with THIRDHOME users in 2018? It’s looking to be a strong year for cultural immersion trips paired with luxury experiences.

Several of these destinations come as no surprise. Costa Rican properties have been increasingly popular in the club as have Bali homes. The “United States Hot Spots” are longtime favorites of THIRDHOME members. But what sticks out within THIRDHOME’s membership for 2018?

Of our member bookings for 2018, here are THIRDHOME‘s Top 10 Destinations of 2018:

 

10. “United States Hot Spots”: Florida, California, Aspen, Park City, Vail, Truckee, San FranciscoTop 10 destinations 2018

It’s not difficult to guess why over 16% of 2018 bookings end up concentrating near the Rockies and West Coast. World-class ski resorts and mountain homes with stunning views are the main attractions. But year-round outdoor recreation opportunities make Western U.S. Hot Spot cities even more attractive for active travelers. Southeast bookings have unsurprisingly been dominated by Florida stays around the Gulf. These U.S. destinations are definitely worth a Saved Search, given how quickly and often they’re booked. If being more outdoorsy was one of your resolutions for the New Year, consider making a trip out West.

Click here to see available properties in the United States.


9. Mexico: Cabo San Lucas

Top 10 destinations of 2018

Great weather, beautiful beaches and amazing golf. Mexico, particularly the Baja del Sur region, seems to have it all. With all the Affiliate resort properties available, making a trip to Mexico is just so easy. And even if you aren’t looking for a coastal resort town there are so many cultural experiences to be had in cities like San Miguel de Allende. Taking an estimated 11% of 2018 bookings, Mexico is very popular with many THIRDHOME users.

Click here to see available properties in Mexico.


8. France: Paris, French Alps and Provence

Top 10 destinations 2018

Who doesn’t dream of flying away to Paris for a week of relaxation and cultural immersion? Centrally located Parisian properties have always been popular for club members, but a few new French destinations are gaining popularity. The French Alps are drawing more adventurous skiers this year. Also, more members are exploring Provence and other pastoral Southern regions. Yes, landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport and not leaving Paris makes for a wonderful trip, but don’t be afraid to explore new areas of the French countryside, mountains and coast in 2018.

Click here to see available properties in France.


7. Costa Rica: Playa Flamingo and Manuel Antonio

Top 10 destinations 2018

Costa Rica has emerged as a must-go eco-travel destination over the last few years. With an abundance of luxurious villas available in gorgeous areas like Playa Flamingo and the Manuel Antonio Rainforest, it would be criminal not to make a quick stop in Costa Rica in 2018. Most destinations are easily accessible, usually only requiring one transfer flight when flying from the United States.

Click here to see available properties in Costa Rica.


6. The United Kingdom: London

Top 10 Destinations 2018

Similar to Paris, a trip to London is an easy European adventure. The city is filled with endless activities and experiences, making the city one of our top destinations of 2018. But more members are also venturing out to different U.K. locales. Naturally, more golf enthusiasts have been booking properties in Scotland while others are venturing to smaller towns, such as Cornwall.

Click here to see available properties in The United Kingdom.


5. Italy: Rome and Venice

Top 10 destinations 2018

Holidays in Rome and Venice have remained fairly popular in the club. Historic properties with central access to attractions have kept bookings up in Italy for 2018. A wide range of rural Tuscan properties have also been popular. Smaller coastal cities like Trieste are making for a slightly different Italian experience, more akin to a Croatian holiday. The Italian Alps are also drawing more and more skiers into cozy mountainside chalets. Be sure to explore Italy’s diverse range of destinations this year.

Click here to see available properties in Italy.


4. Canada: Mont-Tremblant

Top 10 destinations 2018

2017 was a big year for Canadian travel and 2018 will probably see even more bookings in the great North. With urban centers like Quebec and Toronto anchoring huge swaths of national parkland, Canada has the best of city living and natural wonder. Not to mention some of the world’s best skiing at Mont-Tremblant and Whistler. Cozying up by the fire in a timber ski chalet alongside Lac Tremblant is something everyone should experience.

Click here to see available properties in Canada.


3. South Africa: Cape Town and Plettenberg

Top 10 destinations 2018

With a diversity of landscapes only paralleled by New Zealand, South Africa is a one-stop shop for coastal wonder, safari adventure and serene wine country. THIRDHOME members are mostly booking stays along the coastline in places like Cape Town and Plettenberg Bay. In a country like South Africa, it’s easy to stay on the coast and make day trips to the Franschhoek Winelands or the safari lands alongside the Zimbabwe and Mozambique borders. Or, just play with the penguins at Table Mountain National Park in Boulders Beach. South Africa is filled with out-of-this-world experiences.

Click here to see available properties in South Africa.


2. Spain: Marbella

top 10 destinations 2018

Surprisingly, large urban centers like Madrid and Barcelona aren’t topping THIRDHOME‘s charts. Spain’s booking numbers are led largely by Marbella properties and other Costa del Sol homes. The Andalusia region’s rich history, Moorish influence and warm weather make Costa del Sol a prime location for a summer vacation with cultural immersion built-in. The luxurious private property selection in Costa del Sol is an attraction in itself. Some of these villas are to die for. If you haven’t already explored the land of Don Quixote, do yourself a favor in 2018 and book an Andalusian property.

Click here to see available properties in Spain.


1. The U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Thomas

Top 10 destinations 2018

Demand for the U.S. Virgin Islands was hardly diminished despite Hurricane Irma. Private homes and resort properties, mostly The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club St. Thomas, have seen healthy bookings for 2018. Luckily, the Virgin Islands have rebounded from Hurricane season and have been tourist operational since this past November. St. Thomas has always been a THIRDHOME favorite and will most-likely make the Top 10 list for years to come.

Click here to see available properties in The U.S. Virgin Islands.


THIRDHOME’s Top 10 Destinations 2018

2018 should be a fresh year of discovery for members. So, we recommend trying something new. Whether it’s ecological exploration, cultural discovery or new outdoor recreation experiences, make 2018 a year to remember.

Now that you’ve seen what fellow club members are booking for 2018, where will you go? Click here to browse through all available properties. Remember, you must be logged in to see availability. 

 

EOY THIRDHOME Booking data 2017: Top 10 Destinations 2018 accounts for 45% of 2018 bookings.

In September of 2017, Founder, CEO and Chairman Wade Shealy and THIRDHOME members Miles Healey and Frank Maiorano set out on a motorcycle adventure across the American West. Read how their journey inspired an upcoming motorcycle tour through Europe. The route that they will embark on is considered one of the top routes for motorcycle enthusiasts in the world!

“Miles and Frank have been doing a similar route for the last seven years. They invited me last year and I said, ‘why not!'”-Wade Shealy

Motorcycle adventure

Wade Shealy found himself in Whitefish, Montana in early September 2017 with a bag, a bike and some close friends. He’d shipped his Harley Davidson Screaming Eagle Road King to Whitefish after being invited on the trip of a lifetime by his longtime friends, Miles and Frank. Wade had been riding since he was 16 but a ride like this had always been a bucket list item. Who didn’t want to make this trip after Easy Rider? There’s nothing quite like skirting the coast on a Harley.  

motorcycle adventure

Left to right: Miles Healey, Wade Shealy and Frank Maiorano in Montana

 

From Whitefish, Montana, the trio rode up I-90 W to Coeur de’Alene, Idaho, cutting West towards the Columbia River. They stayed at The Columbia Cliff Villas in Hood River before riding through the scenic Willamette Valley, through Portland and ending up at Lincoln City on the West Coast.

Motorcycle adventure

The trio cruised down the 101 and eventually hit Bandon, Oregon, for their next THIRDHOME stay at Bandon Cottage. The following day they crossed the California border and soon found themselves riding through the great Redwood Forest.

motorcycle adventure

The tall ancient trees soon gave way to coastal views and before long they were in Mendocino. Shortly after, the group ended up in Sea Ranch where they lodged at Prado del Mar. At night, the crashing of the waves lulled them to sleep before the next ride.

Motorcycle adventure

Miles and Wade on the West Coast

The next leg took them through the Bay Area, past San Fransisco. The non-stop scenery, the wind blowing past them, the thrill of the engine beneath; it was a sensory experience like no other. This fuel burn in parallel to the Pacific seemed to be the closest thing to freedom any of them had felt in a long time. After they passed San Jose, they were rumbling through California’s interior, the horizon painted with distant mountains.

motorcycle adventure

Wade, Frank and Miles taking a break in California

 

They rode straight through Santa Barbara and into Los Angeles, where their trip would come to a close. They were exhausted but happy to have taken part in something so special together. The thought of this amazing experience coming to an end was disheartening, to say the least. So they had an idea. Why not share an experience like this with other members? Moreover, why not take this motorcycle adventure to the next level?

motorcycle adventure

Now you can join Wade, Miles and Frank on a motorcycle journey through the European Alps along with other Inner Circle members, witnessing some of the world’s most beautiful country and mountainsides.

motorcycle adventure

Ride through France, Germany, Austria and Switzerland on a 7-day exploration of Alpine Europe.

Experience Level Required:  Intermediate to Advanced Riders

motorcycle adventure

See some of Europe’s most historic castles and landscapes while staying at luxury hotels along the way. All while riding one of Edelweiss Bike Travel’s various motorcycle models. Many of the bikes offer two seats, so bring along your friend or significant other for this extraordinary trip.

Motorcycle adventure

When is this motorcycle adventure?

The trip takes place on August 12-20, 2018. But don’t wait to sign up! The deadline to put down your deposit is on January 31st, 2018! If you’re interested in joining this majestic mountain ride, contact our Director of Travel & Concierge, Liz Bates soon before availability runs out!

Check out the bike models and pricing below!

motorcycle adventure

For more information regarding the upcoming Inner Circle Alpine Best of Europe Motorcycle Adventure click here

WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO Brazil and California) THIS WEEK?

 

brazil

Villa Nandie | Brazil

Travel to one of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches at this gorgeous beachfront villa. The home was built using native style coconut farm architecture and has a total of 12,000 sq. ft. of space. You can sleep up to 20 people in this villa! Plus, the beach is completely secluded. Eat locally sourced seafood and produce while lounging by the private pool. All the while, you’ll be surrounded by 1.1 million sq. ft. of rare botanical species and a stellar view of Brazil’s coral reef, Costa dos Corais.

THIRDHOME member Leandro says, “Vila Nandie is a very special place. It is a wonderful and big property with stunning decoration and breathtaking views of the ocean. The beach is ranked number 5 in Brazil for a reason, there are few places in the world you can see this colors in the ocean…Our family had an unforgettable week, we truly recommend it !” click here to read more of Leandro’s review

 

Lake Tahoe Brazil

Lake Tahoe Gem | California

There’s nothing cozier than a cabin in beautiful Lake Tahoe. This property is equipped with a chef’s kitchen, a hot tub and plenty of in-house games and entertainment. Sleep up to 12 guests in this rustic home and enjoy the year-round outdoor recreation that Lake Tahoe has to offer. This home is only minutes away from Squaw Valley, Northstar and Alpine Meadows ski resorts. Besides world-class skiing, you’ll be nearby some amazing golf courses like Old Brockway.

THIRDHOME member Susan says, “This home was perfect for our family reunion. We were three couples and we each had our own bedroom suites with a bathroom…Needless to say, we had fun playing games at home and enjoying the outdoors together. The owners were gracious, opening their lovely home to us.” click here to read more of Susan’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.

Hit the fresh powder with these THIRDHOME Exclusive Stay ski weeks. Each exclusive stay pairs a THIRDHOME property, a ski resort, and rental services from Ski Butlers. Between their amazing customer service and the help of your personal concierge, your next vacation will be a breeze.

What can you expect from Ski Butlers? You will never lug around your ski gear again with Ski Butler rentals. They’ll fit you at your property, deliver the gear, and pick it up when you’re done from wherever you are. Operating in 37 North American ski resorts, Ski Butlers is available at your favorite ski destinations. Even better, book your Ski Butler service through THIRDHOME and get 10% off the price of your rentals.

 

Our Travel Concierge is ready to make your dream ski vacation a reality with these exclusive trips

 

ski california

Heavenly Hideaway | California

 

Get cozy around the fireplace at this elegant Lake Tahoe treehouse. From this amazing property, you’re only 8 blocks away from The Heavenly lift. With room to sleep 6 people, 3 and a half baths and 2,200 square feet, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy your trip to Lake Tahoe. Get your gear fitted and delivered directly to the treehouse through Ski Butlers, and hit the slopes in no time. You can also arrange lift tickets, sleigh rides, snowmobile adventures, in-home private dinners, spa reservations and paddle-wheeler boat dinner on Lake Tahoe through your travel concierge. Click here to learn more about the Heavenly Hideaway Experience.


ski utah

Park City Powder | Utah

 

Settle into one of the largest homes in Park City’s Old Town during your exclusive ski trip. This 4,400 square-foot home can easily host a party of 12 and can be your home base for an epic day on the slopes. It’s even located in the neighborhood that the stars call home during the Sundance Film Festival. The home features a gourmet kitchen, a Jacuzzi, game systems for the kids and easy access to all that Main Street has to offer. Within walking distance of Park City Mountain Resort, you’ll have no trouble getting to your favorite slopes from here. As always, Ski Butlers can show up right to your house to have you outfitted for the slopes. Your travel concierge can arrange lift tickets, sleigh rides, spa reservations, private dinners and much more for your Park City Powder adventure. Click here to learn more about the Park City Powder Experience.


ski aspen

Aspen Wonderland | Colorado

 

Shred Snowmass Mountain by day and stay at this Stunning Mountain Home by night. Within 10 minutes of all four Aspen ski mountains, this mountain home is perfect for skiing pros. This house can sleep 10 people, has four fireplaces, a gourmet kitchen, four master suites and a bunk room. There’s no reason to leave the house (besides skiing) when your gear can be delivered by Ski Butlers and your dinners and massages can be provided in-home. Spoil yourself with this decadent Snowmass Village getaway this ski season. Your travel concierge can arrange spa reservations, dinner reservations, dog sledding adventures, sleigh rides and so much more at your request. Click here to learn more about the Aspen Wonderland Experience. 


ski california

Squaw Valley Views | California

 

Schuss like an Olympian at The Resort at Squaw Valley, site of the 1960 Winter Olympics. This AAA Four-Diamond resort overlooks the Sierra Nevada Mountains and offers access to both Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows slopes. The residence can accommodate up to 4 people and is perfect for small family trips. The resort is also ski-in/ski out making for seamless transitions from skiing to relaxation. Again, you’ll never have to worry about your gear when you use Ski Butlers for your rental needs. Your travel concierge can arrange lift tickets, sleigh rides, dogsledding, in-home massages therapy, spa reservations and so much more. Book a hand-tailored ski trip for your family at Squaw Valley today. Click here to learn more about the Squaw Valley Views Experience. 

Dr. Charles Stoopack, a clinical instructor at UC San Diego and a former practicing OBGYN, has a second home in Vail, Colorado. He combines his love for skiing and adventure with THIRDHOME ski properties across the globe. He also loves discovering new cultures and attending musical events in Vail. He highly recommends catching a George Balanchine ballet (either Swan Lake or Serenade) if you ever get the chance. Meet THIRDHOME member Dr. Charles Stoopack!

 

Charles Stoopack

Left to Right: Dr. Stoopack, his wife Judy, daughter and daughter’s fiancé Tyler

 

How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?

I saw an article in a travel section of the Sunday paper. This was back in the fall of 2014. It just sounded like such a unique concept. The article showed all these places you could go, and it looked amazing. What happened at that point, I either called or emailed THIRDHOME in October, and we had a couple of conversations and I ended up joining around Christmas.

 

Charles Stoopack

Dr. Stoopack and Judy in Ireland

 

Where are you based?

I’m based out of Carlsbad, California, which is North of San Diego. I grew up in New York and moved here when I was 25 for my residency at UC San Diego, and I just fell in love with the place.

 

Charles Stoopack

Dr. Stoopack hiking through Grouse Creek Trail in Vail

 

What do you do for a living?

I originally practiced as an OBGYN. At this point in time, I’m a professor at UC San Diego. I used to be in clinical practice for 23 years, but I had to have some orthopedic surgeries and stopped practicing and transferred to education. It’s wonderful teaching. I’m doing a lot of good. You try to mold young physicians into caring doctors, try to teach them what we call the “Art of Medicine,” how to appropriately care for patients to make them feel valued. The gain as a physician is that your practice will be more fun and be rewarding if you have that sort of relationship with your patients.

 

Charles Stoopack

Dr. Stoopack with the staff of Bon Vivant Barbados

 

Who do you usually travel with?

My wife and my daughters. Now they’re both engaged, so we’ve got two weddings coming up this year. We travel with other couples as well. The idea behind joining THIRDHOME was that the properties were large and we could bring groups of friends or family.

 

charles stoopack

Left to Right: Family friend Martha and Judy Stoopack at Villa Celeste

 

What are your favorite travel hobbies?

I like skiing. I also like beach holidays with a beautiful beach that has nice sand and warm water. I like traveling where it involves culture, fine dining and fine wining as well. Not like whining, but wining!

 

Charles Stoopack

Dr. Stoopack with his brother, Peter, and his best friend Knut

 

In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it? 

I wrote down the whole list so I could think about it. I would say Barbados. We stayed in a 9 bedroom and 9 bathroom villa that was fully staffed. The whole experience was very spoiling. The staff felt like your family after a day or two. They prepared all the meals. We paid for food and staff, of course. We had access to a private beach club at Sandy Lane which is one of the premier beach clubs in the world. It’s where Tiger Woods got married. The whole thing, the island, the people the staff, the access to the beach, it was just wonderful. We brought 13 people with us, and there was plenty of room for everyone. The food was incredible. We’d come home from wherever we were and there would be pitchers of margaritas and hor d’oeuvres waiting for us. We’d be sitting at a long dining table and it felt like we were in an old fashion movie. It was just spectacular.

 

Charles Stoopack

Dr. Stoopack and Judy with friends and family in Doolin, Ireland  pub

 

What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?

I’m going to Kenya next, to two different THIRDHOME properties. We’re going to Hippo Point and then to Cottars Mara Private Homestead. They look incredible. There was only one week available at Cottars, and it’s our 30th wedding anniversary and after several weeks of talking with the owner, with the help of Liz Bates, THIRDHOME‘s Director of Travel and Concierge Services, the owner agreed to give us that week. We’re very excited! The other property [Hippo Point] was featured on the cover of Architectural Digest as well. It has a gorgeous tower. I recall reading that Brad and Angelina had stayed there once, too.

 

Charles Stoopack

Ski trip to Whistler

 

What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?

The skiing in Vail. It’s the best skiing mountain in North America because it’s not terribly cold (Whistler members would argue with that). You get sunny days, which is much different than Whistler, where it was very dark. Vail’s got the back bowls, which if you don’t ski are these large open areas, they call them the legendary back bowls. The condo is extremely well located. It’s about 5 minutes from the gondola, if you don’t want to walk to the bus stops out front too. Our building went under a $10 million remodel so everything is updated and upgraded. The location is wonderful, 3 nice bedrooms, and 1800 sq ft. It’s very spacious. You can go there with other couples or two families and not feel on top of each other. I used to bring our daughters along with their friends for ski trips. We still go every summer for the annual dance festival. Something that’s unique to Vail is the summers. There is a BRAVO music fest that goes through July for 6 weeks or more, then a dance fest, then a jazz fest around Labor Day. There are a lot of cultural experiences that are just delightful. During the day you can hike or golf, then at night you go to the performances. These are world-class performances. The saying is that people go to Vail for the winter and then move there for the summers.

 

Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?

Both of my daughters are engaged now so we have a busy year ahead of us. Their fiancés are great guys. We also have our 30th wedding anniversary coming up.

 

How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?

It allowed me to visit places that we probably would not have gone to and has allowed me to have accommodations for many people.

Charles Stoopack

Left to Right: Dr. Stoopack’s daughters their friend at Bon Vivant

 

Anything else you think members should know?

I think the staff [of THIRDHOME] is wonderful. The concierge and member services are very helpful: Liz, Kristine, Amy Jo, Kelly. I hope I didn’t leave out anyone. I got a friend to join, and he booked a trip to San Juan Island. Actually, I’ve had two people that joined and two others thinking about it. And the Chairman’s Club, I’d thought about it for a while and when I finally did it, I loved it. It’s definitely worth it.

 

Charles Stoopack

Dr. Stoopack and friend Jon at Villa Azul Celeste

“Woman to build house out of 747,” read a BBC headline in April of 2006. It’s been 11 years, and the saga of Francie Rehwald’s famous Malibu Wing House continues. Francie joined THIRDHOME in 2013 after a friend told her about the club. Since joining she’s hosted 14 guests through the program. Each stay is accompanied by a glowing review of both Francie and her unique property.

“Anyone seeking a restorative aesthetic experience with luxurious amenities will not be disappointed.”-Andrew 5 stars

“This is one very special home … a site to behold, an engineering masterpiece, something only a few may get to be a part of … but what a special week.”-Frank 5 stars

“I have nothing but the very best things to say about the incredible wing house and the welcome we received from Francie”-Chris 5 stars

THIRDHOME had the opportunity to speak with Francie after she offered a week to be used for a special Curated Journey featuring the Los Angeles Food and Wine Festival.  Read below to hear what Francie Rehwald loves about The Malibu Wing House and why you’ll love it too.

 

What was the inspiration for the Wing House?

Using a 747 was David Hertz’s idea (the architect). I’ve always considered myself experimental, Avante-Garde and into contemporary architecture. And I really loved the idea of recycling to help build my home.

 

What do you love most about the Wing House?

I’m just so grateful to be here. I have such an appreciation for the natural environment found in the hills and the architecture. The wings [of the 747] became the roof structure and ceiling. Every night when I’m in the pool or Jacuzzi and I look up and see that 135-foot swoop, it’s phenomenal and so beautiful. Every day I’m in awe….I feel gobsmacked! That’s how I feel! The mountain range is spectacular it’s like something you’d see in South America.

 

Do you have any neighbors?

The property is on 55 acres and it’s about a 5-minute drive to the closest neighbor. You can see houses from here, but they’re far off in the distance. It’s very peaceful and private up here.

 

For members that might be considering attending the LA Wine and Art Festival, and staying at The Wing House, what are some of the must-visit locations in the area?

One of my favorite restaurants is south from here at the beach. It’s called Sunset. You need to go on Tuesday when it’s not so crowded. Lots of locals go there. Malibu Farm Restaurant on Malibu Pier is delicious and has a great view. Each Saturday morning, I go to Thorne Family Farms to get fresh fruits and vegetables. From here you’re only 45 minutes from Ojai which is a cute little town, and you’re also an hour from Santa Barbara.

 

Any memorable comments from guests?

I get people all the time that say, “I had plans to go to the museum and do this and do that,  but I just couldn’t leave!” others do make it out to all the attractions and say they couldn’t wait to be back home [to the Wing House].

Once I had a film executive who told me, “Every day I’m going to be gone for meetings.” When I followed up, he told me that he’d held all of his meetings at The Wing House instead because he just didn’t want to leave!

 

What are some of your favorite amenities?

The house has a regulation size bocce ball court, a 60 ft pool and chickens!

 

The Curated Journey to The Wing House- featuring the LA Food and Wine Festival will also feature a friend of yours, Edward Goldman. Can you tell us about him?

Oh yes, Edward is a very well-known art critic in the area. He’s hosted the show, Art Talk on KCRW for as long as I can remember (Goldman started in 1988). He used to work for the famous Hermitage Art Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia. A mutual friend said we should meet, and so we met at a Pasta and Poetry party. He wanted to see the architecture of the house so I invited him out.

 

Any local wine recommendations for first timers to the area? 

I just had a tasty Rosé from Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards.

 

Anything else you’d like members to know about?

Yes, The Wing House is having a fundraiser on the 14th of October for Liberty Canyon Wildlife Crossing. They partner with the local park service to help pumas and mountain lions. Natural habitats have been blocked off by freeways and their genetic profile is being shrunk. It’s a wonderful cause that ties into what I love about The Wing House- its natural beauty and preserving it.

 

Francie Rehwald

francie rehwald

francie rehwald

francie rehwald

francie rehwald

francie rehwald

Take a girls trip with to one of these gorgeous destinations

 

There are many great choices in the THIRDHOME portfolio when it comes to planning a girls trip, so long as having fun, recharging and disconnecting from the stress of daily life is at the forefront! Whether you want to enjoy an evening cooking at home, sip margaritas by the pool or try something new together, these destinations will be perfect for your next girls trip. Plus with interesting shopping and luxurious spas nearby, these THIRDHOME properties were made for your next getaway with the gals.

cabo luxury second home girls trip

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Nothing says “girls trip” quite like a trip to Cabo San Lucas. One of the prettiest spots in Mexico, Cabo San Lucas has warm temperatures, a lively local culture and the best beach activities around. Think swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and private yacht tours. Diamante Resort Club is nestled on 1,500 acres of stunning coastline, with a private beach and has world-class customer service. Recharge at one of the club’s comfort stations with complimentary cocktails and gourmet small plates, relax along the sparkling 10-acre lagoon, or take a horseback ride along a private beach.

beach dream girls trip

Dillon Beach, California

Tucked away on the coast, this California Beach Dream can sleep 12 guests and has 2,200 square feet overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Located on the coveted Kailua Way, this expansive THIRDHOME property is an idyllic base from which to explore the area with your girlfriends. This home is equipped with multiple sunrooms, an outside deck and beach access.

girls trip bahamas

George Town, Bahamas

If you’ve never been to the Bahamas before, you’re in for a treat. At Grand Isle Resort Luxury Villa, you will enjoy a luxurious pool with views of the Greg Norman designed championship golf course and the crystal blue ocean. If you and your girlfriends are off-the-beaten-path travelers, you’ll find hiking trails, windsurfing, and authentic local culture nearby.

You and your girlfriends have earned some serious R&R – so book your trip with THIRDHOME today!

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