John and Suzi Gilmore, North Carolina natives, have been THIRDHOME members since 2014. Since then they’ve taken 14 trips by using their property at Deer Valley Club. And now they’re planning to spend 2 months traveling Europe, using their Keys. Get to know THIRDHOME members John and Suzi Gilmore!
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
Through our ownership at The Deer Valley Club in Deer Valley, Utah.
Where are you based?
Raleigh, NC, USA
Who do you usually travel with?
Usually with each other and we sometimes we have our son John Jr. with us.
What do you do for a living?
I have just retired from 23 years in sales management with Merck & Co., Inc. John is a retired Entrepreneur.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Skiing, yoga, cultural events, riding John’s Goldwing, sporting events, spa, shopping, visiting friends.
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
That is a very difficult question because we have had so many wonderful stays! The UK and Europe are always at the top of our list, but we’ve also had terrific vacations in the US and Caribbean. What we love most about our THIRDHOME travels is getting a chance to stay ‘as a native’ and immerse ourselves in the local culture. Staying in a fantastic residence just enhances our experience!
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
We’re spending 2 months in Europe this summer so we’re hoping to use our Keys for maybe Italy, Paris, London, etc.
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
It’s easy! We decide when we want to be at our propriety in Deer Valley and we submit our other weeks to THIRDHOME and they do the rest!
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
We’ve stayed in some amazing places that we likely would not have been able to do so easily. Now that we’re both retired, we’ll be able to take even greater advantage of last minute travel opportunities (no Keys) and plan for more travel overall.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
Staying at Mr. DeVere’s charming Cotswold cottage and to absorb the history in pure comfort made it the best trip to this part of England that I’ve ever had and I’ve been regularly traveling to the UK since I was a child.
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
Being able to stay in high-end luxury properties all over the world and to enjoy the local scene!
How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?
Much more like home. It makes traveling easier when you know you’ll have what you need available at your fingertips.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
If you want to expand your travel experiences and stay in some amazing places, do it through THIRDHOME!
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
John always loves The River Cafe in London and we have our favorite Indian restaurant there too. We were also recently in Sonoma for the holidays and had some memorable meals in Sonoma and Napa.
Any travel tips for fellow members?
We always pick up a Christmas ornament on our travels so we have a wonderful tree of memories!
Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other THIRDHOME members?
So far, nothing compares to the ease of use, quality of the properties and the overall value with THIRDHOME.
THIRDHOME members since 2015, Scott and Carlene Leier learned about the club through a close friend. Their gorgeous property in San Jose del Cabo has garnered rave reviews from guests seeking an oceanside paradise. But as much as the Leier’s love their second home in Mexico, they’ve decided to use the club to seek out colder weather. Park City, Utah, and Vail, Colorado have been their destinations of choice. Learn more about the Leier family and their ski adventures below!
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
We were referred by a dear friend.
Where are you based?
Scottsdale, Canada, and San Jose del Cabo
Who do you usually travel with?
Our family.
What do you do for a living?
Scott is a hotelier and I’m a busy mom of four.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Skiing, golf, dining, and beach time!
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
Deer Valley Lodge, [because] the prime location of the accommodations. Having small kids it was a dream to have ski-in and ski-out service daily. There were amazing restaurants in the area and lots to see and do.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
We currently don’t have anything booked but we’re hoping to hit the slopes again this year!
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
[We love the] location and view! We are in a gated community with an amazing view of the city and ocean. The best beaches are just minutes away. We also take great pride in our amazing staff that will take care of all our guests’ needs when they visit!
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
Due to the fact that we have four kids, traveling to well-known destinations could be pricey! We would require multiple hotel rooms, and would not be able to all stay in the same room. THIRDHOME has allowed our large family to take vacations and our family can be comfortable together in first-class accommodations.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
[The] ski-in and ski-out [access] and the staff at The Deer Valley Club.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
An opportunity to travel in a way that is safe and unique. You never have to worry about having a bad guest as everyone is more or less used to traveling at the same level and has their own home in the pot!
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
The Jean George’s restaurant in the St Regis Hotel [Deer Valley, Utah].
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Be certain to ask all the questions as to what is included with your home!
The Chateaux Deer Valley, a THIRDHOME Affiliate since 2013, is one of Park City, Utah’s most beautiful mountain properties. Located within steps of the world-renowned Deer Valley Resort, The Chateaux Deer Valley offers luxurious accommodations with premier access to Deer Valley’s coveted ski slopes. Not only is skiing easily accessible (a 3-minute walk away), the historic mining town of Park City is only a short 3 miles away. Make The Chateaux Deer Valley a part of your winter vacation plans.
Find out why members love playing and staying at The Chateaux Deer Valley.
The Chateaux Deer Valley sits in one of Utah’s top tourist destinations, Park City. Many members already know the city for its impeccable skiing, but fewer know that Park City is home to the Sundance Film Festival. Moreover, the area is home to plenty of outdoor recreation besides skiing. Nearby hot springs, hiking trails and biking trails keep travelers visiting year-round. And what better place to take on the wonders of Park City than the illustrious The Chateaux Deer Valley?
Upon entering the grand lobby of The Chateaux Deer Valley, guests are assisted by thoughtful and well-experienced front desk staff. Their role, as well as the role of the entire staff, is to ensure that each guest has a uniquely luxurious stay at The Chateaux Deer Valley.
The only thing warmer than the crackling hearths found in each suite and the lobby, are the smiles you’ll receive from each The Chateaux Deer Valley staff member. There’s nothing quite as welcoming as the intimate embers and beaming faces you’ll find during your Park City stay.
The 4-bedroom luxury suites are perfect for large families, groups or business retreats. With 2,700 square feet of space, there’s plenty of room to spread out, make yourself at home and store your gear. Chateaux Deer Valley offers ski storage (winter season) and bike storage (summer season) to help maximize your living space.
Each bedroom has its very own bathroom, gas fireplace, flat screen television and king bed. Each suite also has a queen murphy bed or sofa bed for extra sleeping space. Each suite can accommodate up to 12 people.
Don’t have ski gear? Not a problem, get outfitted for your skiing excursion at The Chateaux Deer Valley’s onsite retail shop, Ski ‘N See. Carrying your gear is a breeze with staffed concierge and bell service (winter season only). Take a shuttle, or walk the short distance to the nearest ski lifts to start your day. Don’t sweat the difficult parts of ski travel, The Chateaux Deer Valley has you covered, so you can spend more time careening down the face of Bald Mountain.
In summer or winter, you’ll be able to relax in the comfort of The Chateaux Deer Valley’s outdoor hot tubs and heated pool. A full-service spa is also available to work out any of that post-ski leg strain. Le Spa Chateaux offers a variety of skin treatments, deep tissue massage options and nail care options. You will, undoubtedly, be relaxing as much as you play during your Deer Valley adventure.
The Chateaux Deer Valley is also home to the award-winning Cena Ristorante & Lounge, featuring Italian cuisine and stunning views of Deer Valley. Start with the Mushroom Ragout Bruschetta, ease into the Cioppino & Cappellini, and finish with the scrumptious gelato. Each dish is a discovery at Cena Ristorante & Lounge.
Breakfast buffets are also served daily from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Remember, if you ski enough, the calories don’t count.
Whether it be for a romantic getaway, a family ski trip, a group cycling trip or a mixture of any of the aforementioned, The Chateaux Deer Valley has all of the amenities you’ll need to make your stay an unforgettable experience. Between the adventure, relaxation and fine dining you’ll see why THIRDHOME members love staying with The Chateaux Deer Valley.
Click here to browse available weeks at The Chateaux Deer Valley.