What are ThirdHome members saying about their luxury home exchange trips to Italy and New York?

ThirdHome Exchange members recently returned from Pietralunga, Italy and Southampton, New York. Keep reading to learn about their ThirdHome travel experiences!

Villa Cavagnetti | Pietralunga, Italy

Situated in the green heartland of Umbria, Villa Cavagnetti is a stunning luxury private villa. Tranquil yet not isolated, it is the perfect Italian getaway. This home is positioned on a hilltop with panoramic views stretching across the Umbrian countryside. With eight bedrooms and expansive living areas, gather and unwind comfortably with a large group.

ThirdHome member Bill says, “Beautiful setting in the Umbria hills – quite well appointed, in a personal way, with quality pillows and linens. The fireflies each night after watching the sunset and wine was amazing!” Click here to read more of Bill’s review.

Southampton Relaxed Retreat|Southampton, New York

Escape to a quintessential Americana vacation drenched in history and nostalgia. This picturesque residence is filled with local charm, and includes five bedrooms, large common areas, and a beautiful pool. Located only six minutes from Southampton village and 12 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean beaches, the area offers a vast array of year-round activities to enjoy.

ThirdHome member Patricia says, “The pool was lovely and the house was fully equipped with anything we might need. Southhampton is a great spot for doing daily exploring of all the Hamptons. We would love to return and would highly recommend this home and terrific owner.” Click here to read more of Patricia’s review.

Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome Exchange trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.

Want more information about our Exchange Club? Click here to learn more about ThirdHome.

Imagine spending a week or two at a beautiful home while walking the steps of history. There are plenty of magnificent properties within the ThirdHome portfolio, and quite a few have a historical background that will make your stay awe-worthy.

Keep reading to discover the intriguing and historic homes within the ThirdHome Rentals and Exchange portfolio!

Eastry Court, United Kingdom, England

Eastry Court | Eastry, United Kingdom

Step inside one of England’s oldest palaces! Eastry Court claims to be the first recorded house in English history. It’s thought to have been the palace of King Egbert of Kent beginning in 665 AD. Ever since then, the palace has been inhabited by many English aristocrats. Eastry Court was passed from the kings of Kent to the religious establishment at Canterbury in the Anglo-Saxon period. In 1164 AD, Archbishop Thomas Becket hid within the walls of the palace from King Henry II. Only about 70 miles from bustling London, this English getaway is sure to captivate any traveler’s mind.

Click here to view on ThirdHome Exchange.

King Edward VIII’s Beach Estate | Nassau, Bahamas

A former king’s island residence could be your next holiday destination. This beautiful estate in Nassau, Bahamas belonged to King Edward VIII while he served as governor of the Bahamas. He lived here for the first year of his governing with his wife, American socialite, Wallis Simpson. Edward VIII abdicated the throne in 1936 to marry Simpson and they moved to the Nassau estate in 1940. British aviation pioneer, Mr. Sigrist, built the home in the mid-1920s and it was featured in the early “James Bond” movies!

Click here to view on ThirdHome Exchange.

Italy, Florence, Wine, Vineyards

Villa la Querce | Impruneta, Italy

Built in the hills and vineyards of Impruneta is a historic Italian masterpiece. Villa la Querce is an elegant villa located in the hills of Florentine Chianti and is not only known for its quality of wine and olive oil, but is also known for its historical significance. The main architectural feature of the villa, a prominent and stately tower, dates back to the 1300s. Furthermore, there were reports of a sale in the area of a “house with land and vineyards” dated back to 1042. During World War II, the villa was occupied by German soldiers at one point.

Click here to view on ThirdHome Rentals.

Galway, Ireland, Boathouse

The Boathouse | Galway, Ireland

A 200-year-old coast guard station on the coast of the Irish Ardfry Peninsula awaits your arrival. This renovated 19th-century building now offers 5 bedrooms, incredible green scenery, and uninterrupted ocean views. Located right on the water and surrounded by walled gardens, there couldn’t be a more relaxing or wonderful place to experience alongside family. This seafront residence is tucked away off a country road on the grounds of the 18th century Ardfry castle ruins and is only 9 miles from the city of Galway.

Click here to view on ThirdHome Exchange.

France, Chateau, King Louis

Chateau de Lalande | Crozon-sur-Vauvre, France

A quintessential chateau nestled in the heart of France could be your next magical destination. Chateau de Lalande was built in the 16th century and once belonged to King Louis XIV’s cousin, La Grande Mademoiselle. The romantically-structured chateau is built to accommodate up to 22 guests. Standing amongst nature in the small town of Crozon-sur-Vauvre, there is plenty to explore and see in the French countryside. You can even visit the nearby town of Nohant to visit the home of French novelist, George Sand, where she hosted many famous artists such as Frederick Chopin, with whom she had a relationship. 

Click here to view on ThirdHome Rentals.

Italy, Tuscany. Villa, Wine

Villa Scopetello | Sinalunga, Italy

One of the most renowned villas in the heart of Tuscany is calling your name. Historical documents show that the first owner of Villa Scopetello was recorded in the 13th century! Pope Pio II’s family owned the villa until 1873. Whether you’re swimming in the lavish pool or playing tennis on the private court, there is much to see and do around the 700-year-old villa. Built amongst the small, quiet village of Sinalunga, Villa Scopetello will welcome you with unparalleled beauty.

Click here to view on ThirdHome Exchange.

If these historic homes intrigue you and you’d like to learn more about  ThirdHomeplease click here.

Rick and Cheryl Acheson have been ThirdHome members since 2016. So far they have enjoyed 3 homes with their membership. They eagerly anticipate their upcoming Curated Journey to Costa Rica! Learn how Rick and Cheryl use ThirdHome as their home away from home and as their on-the-go-headquarters as travel writers.   

From an exquisite villa in Tuscany to an upcoming turtle hatching season in Central America, the Acheson’s make the most of ThirdHome!

Acheson
Rick and Cheryl in Zion National Park, 2017

How did you get involved with ThirdHome?
Deer Valley Resorts offered a sweet deal with ThirdHome membership and we jumped on it. So far we have enjoyed ThirdHome stays in San Diego, Mendocino and Tuscany.
                     AchesonThirdHome trip to Mendocino
Where are you based?
Northern California, Utah and on the road.

Where do you usually travel?
The Americas, Europe and Japan
Acheson
On our ThirdHome San Diego visit, we saw the Pandas at the Zoo.

What do you do for a living?
We share our adventures on travelisbeautiful.com with photography, history and suggestions about what and where to go in this beautiful world.

What are your favorite tra
vel hobbies?
Cheryl enjoys planning and logistics almost as much as the trip! Rick is a professional photographer and cycling nut. Where ever we go, he usually manages to find a bike and explore on 2 wheels. We delight in sharing our adventures on our blog. Creating content is a creative and intellectual challenge. We appreciate knowing our work inspires readers to “go see the world” and that readers enjoy our story. For example, receiving positive comments from Turkish locals about Istanbul energizes us to continue. Read about Istanbul – Where Continents & Culture Converge hereMost of all, we love meeting new people in far away places, sharing a meal or cup of tea and learning about their world.
Acheson
Acheson
View from our Tuscan ThirdHome Villa
In your past travels with ThirdHome, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it? 
Tuscany. This summer we spent a week with 3 other couples at a fabulous villa in the hills overlooking Florence. Our group cooked dinners together in the chef’s kitchen, dined outdoors under the pergola, danced by the light of the moon, swam in the pool and hiked the olive groves and vineyards that surrounded the property. Oops, almost forgot, Florence was only a 15-minute drive away so we went to town a couple times!
Acheson

You can read more about Rick and Cheryl’s adventures at 
travelisbeautiful.com. Be on the lookout for the adventures at the Tuscan Villa!

ThirdHome members have recently returned from Marrakech, Morocco, and Impruneta, Italy. Keep reading to learn about their ThirdHome Experience.

Morocco

Dar Zitouna | Marrakech, Morocco

Just outside Marrakech, you’ll find Dar Zitouna, a chic desert oasis with contemporary interiors. With room for 10 people, you won’t have trouble finding space for family and fellow travelers. Enjoy the well-appointed garden terrace, swimming pool and surrounding citrus trees, as you gaze at the towering Atlas Mountains in the distance. Spend the day in the colorful markets of Marrakech, but be sure to make it back before tea time. Traditional Moroccan tea, housekeeping and breakfast are available at Dar Zitouna, to make your stay as seamless as possible.

ThirdHome member Phillip says, “Dar Zitouna is a beautiful villa set outside Marrakech in a very private olive grove. Our family was fortunate to have the opportunity to stay at the villa while enjoying Marrakech and the surrounding Atlas Mountains…Dar Zitouna has been a unique and wonderful experience. We are sad to leave. ” click here to read more of Phillip’s review

Morocco

Historic Tuscan Villa | Impruneta, Italy

With sections of the house dating back to the 1300’s, this property comes packing some serious history. This Pre-Renaissance villa and vineyard is located in a region of Tuscany with viticulture dating as far back as 1042 A.D.! That’s some well-aged wine. But that doesn’t mean that this spacious 7-bedroom home is outdated. Gorgeously appointed rooms and amenities like the gym, sauna, pool and service staff will make you feel more than comfortable while exploring the rolling hills of Chianti. Florence is also right around the corner, making this property a perfect launching point for a full-on tour of the Tuscan countryside.

ThirdHome members Mark and Ana say, “Our group had a FANTASTIC stay at Villa La Querce. No photos can show how beautiful this villa truly is. We were all so excited and happy upon our arrival. They greeted us with appetizers and wine!… Many of the guests will return to rent this villa, it is well worth it!” click here to read more of Mark and Ana’s review

Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome Exchange 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.

What are ThirdHome members saying about their luxury home exchange trips (to Rome and London Fashion Week) this week?

Rome

Spanish Steps Via Della Mercede | Rome, Italy

Looking for style and accessibility? Try booking a stay at this property on Rome’s Spanish Steps. You’ll be within walking distance of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and many other popular attractions. Discover the ancient history of Rome all from the not-so-ancient comforts of a modern and well-appointed 2-bedroom residence.

ThirdHome member Emma says, “This is by far the best property we have had the pleasure of booking. Everything about this apartment is perfect – the location, the spaciousness, the amenities, the thoughtfulness of the owners – welcome wine, charcuterie, bread and water. We have been to Rome many times but this was one of the best visits we’ve ever made to the Eternal City…” click here to read more of Emma’s review

Rome London

Designer Townhouse, London Fashion Week | London, U.K.

Imagine being smack dab in the middle of trendy Islington during London Fashion Week 2018. This was the case for ThirdHome member Abdallah when he and his wife booked an Exclusive Stay Experience in London in February. This exciting week was filled with non-stop catwalks, VIP events and the latest trends in haute-couture. Complementing this flurry of fashion was one of London’s most fashionable townhomes, which sleeps up to 7 people. A sleek interior, outdoor living space and clean modern lines throughout make this home the obvious choice for a London stay, fashion week or not.

ThirdHome member Abdallah says, “My wife and I had truly a remarkable week at this wonderful London house, everything was well prepared and organized for our arrival, the housekeeping we requested kept the house impeccably serviced on a daily basis, we left as if we were in a luxury 5-star hotel!!!” click here to read more of Abdallah’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.

WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO LONDON AND THE ITALIAN ALPS) THIS WEEK?

Italian Alps

The Garden View Flat | London, U.K.

Located in Knightsbridge, one of London’s most affluent neighborhoods, The Garden View Flat is a stylish and well-appointed West London home. With room to sleep up to 4 people, this residence is the perfect jumping-off point for a London escape. Just minutes from Hyde Park, Harrods and the Royal Albert Hall you won’t find a property more conveniently located than this (unless you’ve found a stay in Buckingham Palace).

ThirdHome member Alex says, “This serene, sublime penthouse represents the best of the ThirdHome experience. The flat is a calm, light-filled, [and is] overlooking a classic, block-long London garden. The floor-to-ceiling window wall in the living room offers a spectacular view – on New Year’s Eve I was able to watch a rousing display of fireworks all along the Thames.” click here to read more of Alex’s review

Italian Alps

Chalet Piccolo Sogno | Breuil-Cervinia, Italian Alps

Escape to Italy’s scenic Aosta Valley with Chalet Picco Sogno (Little Dream Chalet in English). Under the shadow of the Matterhorn and near the border to Zermatt, Switzerland, this property is located in prime Italian Alps ski territory. With a warmly appointed interior and space to sleep up to 8 people, this cozy mountain chalet is the ideal escape for a small ski group. Due to the height of the region, you’ll find that ski season lasts slightly longer, generally from November to April.

ThirdHome member Chantelle says, “We had an awesome stay at Piccolo Sogno. My two boys, my wife and I stayed for a week and thoroughly enjoyed everything…The skiing was incredible…I definitely recommend this chalet if you have the chance to stay. ” click here to read more of Chantelle’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.

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.

WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO Italy AND Jamaica) THIS WEEK?

Italy Jamaica

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

Italy Jamaica

Tryall Wheelhouse | Jamaica

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.

We’ve narrowed down 1,052 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to 5 must-visit destinations

For some, a trip isn’t complete without a margarita and a beachside sunset. Some just come for the spa. Others like to play anthropologist on their journeys and discover common threads of world heritage and culture in their chosen destinations. This list is for the latter, those adventurers with wonder in their eyes who seek out the greatest accomplishments of both nature and man. Including sites in Argentina, Australia, Ecuador, Italy, and the United States, you’re sure to find a site that will make your jaw drop in awe.

Check out our World Heritage Site picks below:

Los Glaciares National Park

world heritage glaciares

One of the last relics of the Quaternary glaciation cycles, Los Glaciares National Park is a snapshot of a long-lost ice age. These great ice behemoths once determined the very existence of species around the world. At the end of the Pleistocene Epoch (roughly 11,000 years ago), mass extinctions took place as the glaciers covering the Great Lakes moved south, driving North American camels and cheetahs to extinction.  Though past their prime, these Argentinian cousins of the long receded North American glaciers are still a sight to behold, covering half of the 600,000 hectares that are designated to Los Glaciares National Park. One of the most famous of 48 glaciers that compose the Southern Patagonian Ice Field is El Perito Moreno Glacier, which has been slowly pushing into Lake Argentina since the end of the last glaciation period. Cacophonous ruptures of ice are a coveted site by the tourists that make the trek out to El Perito Moreno. Argentina’s trekking capital is a small town called El Chaltén which lies within Los Glaciares National Park. El Chaltén is also home to Aoni Yenu, one of ThirdHome’s eco-friendly properties with room for 8 adventure-seekers.

Click here to learn more about Aoni Yenu.

Great Barrier Reef

world heritage great barrier

The largest living structure in the world, The Great Barrier Reef is so vast it can be seen from space. Composed of 2,900 coral fields these tiny organisms make a huge impact. Most existing coral structures are between 5 and 10 thousand years old. Reefs survive via a symbiotic relationship with algae that resides within the coral’s tissue, which provides energy for future skeletal growth of coral by photosynthesis. The coral skeleton, made of calcium carbonate, in return offers protection from larger predators. The limestone framework of The Great Barrier Reef is teeming with rich varieties of ocean life, including 1,500 species of fish. The Great Barrier Reef by itself employs 70,000 Australians who work in tourism, preservation and research related activities. Unfortunately, a slight rise in ocean temperatures has killed off large sections of the reef. North of the city of Cairns, some sections have lost 47% to 83% of their coral. Visit this natural wonder before it’s too late. ThirdHome has two properties, a penthouse and a beach house, that lie between Carns and Mackay. This region’s coral has been in better health, and hope still remains for preserving sections of this World Heritage Site.

Click here to learn more about The Great Barrier Reef Penthouse. 

Click here to learn more about The Great Barrier Beach House.

Galapagos Islands

world heritage galapagos

If you couldn’t tell from our Curated Journey blog on the Galapagos, ThirdHome is absolutely in love with these 19 islands. The Galapagos Islands sit at the confluence of three ocean currents making for what UNESCO dubs a “melting pot of marine species.”  The species that live here have been extremely isolated since the islands’ formation. This has led to evolutionary developments that have created species endemic to the Galapagos. More fascinating than the extreme uniqueness of these critters, including the land iguana and giant tortoise, is their complete lack of fear of humans. Since Darwin’s visit in 1835, there has been a limited human impact on the island. From our Galapagos Villa, you’ll be just 10 minutes by boat away from the famous Loberia Islet, the land of sea lions. A 20-minute walk inland will take you to a deep water natural swimming pool. For nature lovers and animal lovers, this World Heritage Site is a must.

Click here to learn more about Galapagos Villa.

Venice and its Lagoon

world heritage venice

Founded as a Roman refuge from invading Huns and Visigoths, Venice stands as a lasting monument to human adaptability and persistence. Venice was founded in the 5th Century and grew among a collection of 118 small islands covering 50,000 square kilometers of lagoon. The city soon became an important strategic position in the northern remains of the  Roman Empire and newly founded Byzantine Empire. In 810 A.D. Charlemagne, King of the Franks, sent his son to lay siege on Venice, but after 6 months of disease brought on by the swamp, the siege was deemed a failure. Charlemagne’s son died as a result of the ill-fated attack. Venice’s lagoon had once again saved its population by its own natural properties, mirroring the military impenetrability of Russian winter. By 814 A.D., Charlemagne had recognized Venice as a Byzantine territory and allowed trade along the Adriatic Coast. This seeded Venice’s place as one of Italy’s most successful trading centers, and for the rise of the Venetian Republic. Venice and its Lagoon is a feat of both human engineering and natural happenstance. It’s seething with historical significance making it a must for the knowledge seeking traveler. In the context of history, ThirdHome’s Palazzo Burano, is a relatively new property having been built in 1619.

Click here to learn more about Palazzo Burano.

Click here to learn more about The Grand Canal property.

Yellowstone National Park

world heritage yellowstone

Visit Sorelle Amore’s vlog of Yellowstone National Park here!

No other World Heritage Site can lay claim to the title of world’s first national park, making it ThirdHome’s top pick. It was also recently visited by Sorelle Amore, winner of the Best Job on The Planet competition. Yellowstone National Park is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined and is covered in many natural wonders. The park sits atop an active supervolcano, which was hit by 450 earthquakes a few months ago, in June 2017. But no need to worry, the chances of this super volcano going off is 1 in 730,000 for 2018. More likely to go off are the park’s 500 active geysers (more than half of the world’s geyser count). At Yellowstone, you’ll find hundreds of wildlife species, thousands of plant species, and historical ties to 26 Native American Tribes. The wild and natural features of Yellowstone were so surreal that most American’s thought the land to be a myth until the Folsom Party conducted a detailed expedition in 1869. Come visit the mythic land of Yellowstone National Park while staying at Island Park Lodge, a 10 guest lakefront house minutes away from the geysers. This is one World Heritage Site that everyone should visit if given the opportunity.

To learn more about the Island Park Lodge click here.

WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AND ITALY) THIS WEEK?

dominican republic

Villa Las Palmas | Dominican Republic

This stunning villa was recently visited by the Best Job on The Planet winner, Sorelle Amore. It’s no surprise why members can’t get enough of this property. With room for 8 people, this villa is perfect for a group golf vacation or a family trip to the beach. The resort golf course, La Cana, was declared by Golf magazine as “Number One course in the Caribbean.” This property also comes with staff, making this stay exceptionally easy. Resort amenities are also available to guests including access to The Six Senses Spa. Escape to the tropics of Punta Cana in this stylish and spacious villa.

ThirdHome member Gaelle says, “We spent 2 weeks in this villa and we have had such a great time. The resort is great and everything is within 10 min golf cart ride…The staff at the villa made our stay very special (Miguelina & Vincente) cutting fresh fruits every morning and bringing us fresh coconuts to hydrate us during the day.” Click here to read more of Gaelle’s review. 

Italy dominican republic

Residence at Portopiccolo | Italy

A city of mixed identities, Trieste is a marine town on the Adriatic coast near the Slovenian border. Years of rule under the Austrians and Italians have left this city with a melding of cultures without allegiance to any particular nation. This destination truly feels like a world all its own. Inside Trieste is the environmentally sustainable Residence at Portopiccolo, which boasts a world-class marina, boutiques, a luxury spa and delicious restaurants. Feel the wind roll off the Adriatic as you relax at the Beach Club or dine by the harbor. After your time in Trieste, you’ll have trouble putting your finger on what made it so special, but like a siren, it will call you back for more.

ThirdHome member Catherine says, “Portopiccolo is a gated community with nary a stone out of place. It is like being in a beautiful bubble…We especially enjoyed the ample terrace – the first time I have seen a lawn on a balcony! Highly recommended.” Click here to read more of Catherine’s review. 

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