Summer is over and the results are in.
These non-Affiliate properties in the THIRDHOME portfolio received the most 5-star reviews from June to September of 2018.
Some were especially popular due to their location and others more-so for their interiors. There were several that captured the beauty of both worlds, bringing form and function to the table. Did you stay at one of the properties below?
Portland, Oregon | The World is your Oyster, You are the Pearl
Featured reviews:
“This beautiful condo is in the perfect location to visit Portland. The views from this one bedroom unit are gorgeous.”-Maynard & Judy
“This condo is perfectly situated in the famous pearl District of Portland… Accommodations were beautiful and looking forward to a return visit.”-Ernie & Gena
“The apartment is beautiful with incredible views over Portland. Walking distance from stores and great dining it was a perfect base for a relaxing week exploring the area.”-David & Tanya
Number of Summer 2018 5-star reviews: 4
Cordillera, Colorado | Luxury Vail Villa Estate in Cordillera
Featured reviews:
“What a fabulous home with breathtaking views! We enjoyed Vail’s farmers market, hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, golf and live music plus great restaurants. We loved cooking in the fantastic kitchen too because we didn’t usually want to leave!”- Jennifer
“We were taken aback by the sheer majesty of this estate, atop the exclusive Cordillera Ranch Club. The home is decked out in every conceivable way and afforded us the utmost in comfort and relaxation.”-Michael
“Holy Cow!!!!!!!!!!! This place is off the hook! Thanks again! Wow!”-David
Number of Summer 2018 5-star reviews: 4
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica | Casa Alegria
Featured reviews:
“We absolutely loved the home. We will miss the monkeys on the balcony and the view. We can’t wait to return.”- Kristin & David
“Fabulous home with extraordinary views and abundant wild life-Capuchin monkeys, toucans ,sloths, howler monkeys ,iguanas and multiple birds.”- John & Nancy
“Beautiful house right in the rainforest. We felt one with nature seeing toucans and monkeys right outside the house while sipping coffee. So cool!”-Michael
Number of Summer 2018 5-star reviews: 4
Chicago, Illinois | Downtown Chicago, Lake Shore East Property
Featured reviews:
“This condo was everything it described and more! This was our second year in the unit. Very clean and loaded with everything to make you feel right at home. The location you cannot beat, minutes from fantastic restaurants, attractions, shopping, and a very nice grocery store. The amenities at the building are first class.”-Matt
“Nice property is a quiet area downtown. Great spot to stay for a visit and easy to catch the L or Uber.”- Jonathan
Number of Summer 2018 5-star reviews: 5
Verbier, Switzerland | Chalet de Merveilles
Featured reviews:
“It just doesn’t get any better then sitting on the terrace in the cool dry alpine air gazing at snow covered Swiss Alps in the summertime.”-Suzi
“It was our first time to Switzerland and we stayed here for two weeks…We had a great time.”- Michael
“Chalet des Merveillles really did exceed our expectations as we weren’t sure what to expect of the Swiss mountains in the summer. Christophe the owner couldn’t have been more inviting and Carla the chalet manager was friendly and wonderfully helpful. Verbier in the summer is wonderful with walking, hiking, climbing, cycling and in the most gorgeous surroundings.”- John
Number of Summer 2018 5-star reviews: 6
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic | Villa las Palmas
Featured reviews:
“Tropical is a great word for this gorgeous home. We loved it here and been here a few times.”- Michael
“This is a beautiful property owned and managed by attentive friendly people. The location is fantastic. Jump at any chance to use this property in the future.”- Paul
“This property was wonderful. The staff was great. Some of the best golf in the world.”- Stewart
Number of Summer 2018 5-star reviews: 9
There you have it. These were the top-rated non-Affiliate THIRDHOME Exchange properties of Summer 2018. Always remember to review your trips to help other members find amazing stays! Click here to browse through THIRDHOME properties in the order of those that have the most 5-star reviews.
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 Francisco
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Welcome to Villa Punto da Vista in the beautiful rich jungle of Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica. Architecturally speaking, this may be one of the most beautiful, if not THE most beautiful place I’ve ever stayed in.
This was the very first project of architect David Konwiser. Usually some may shy away from showcasing their firsts; however in this case, it’s a masterpiece even for the advanced architects.
Every detail within the home has been well thought through. The intention of the villa was to combine elements of a 5-star hotel through the service, elegance, sophistication and ambience, but provide a private space for an intimate experience. And the blend of these two worlds is done flawlessly.
Besides the outstanding staff, the architectural genius is reflected in the awards this villa has collected over the past 8 years. The villa’s location will wow you, it is in close proximity to all the best activities Costa Rica has on offer including ATV, horse riding, waterfall exploration, whale watching, surfing and more.
Not only are you lucky enough to be enjoying your daily freshly-cooked breakfasts overlooking one of the most stunning views within Costa Rica, but also you’re surrounded by dense jungle, just minutes away from the beach.
The property itself has been erected upwards, covering only 7% of the 2.5 acres of private rainforest land, meaning there is more space for native friends to be staring at you from their trees just a few feet away. I’m talking about the sloths, the three different types of monkeys (including the endangered squirrel monkey which is only in Manuel Antonio – where the villa is located), the toucan birds, the iguanas and other stunning wildlife Costa Rica is known for.
Villa Punto de Vista in Costa Rica was created with entertainment in mind. Every room has surround sound operated through a wireless iPad for you to access whatever online source you desire, huge open spaces on the roof deck and the first floor to dance the night away, large projector screens to watch your favourite films on or football matches (must be done when in Costa Rica), a stunning infinity pool which is practically part of the jungle as it’s surrounded by the most dense trees, the multiple bars within the home, a large professional grade kitchen if you would like to arrange a chef to entertain your palette, the 5th story Jacuzzi which is above the tree tops and hammocks all throughout.
As a side perk, ensure you book a yoga instructor and masseuse to come to the villa. I did my first headstand in my private yoga session (it was actually surprisingly easy and I’m a beginner at yoga), and the massage that followed was one of a kind as it was during sunset and when an intense thunderstorm was happening. I was listening to heavy sound of pouring rain and thunder as my body was attended to.
The villa has everything you could possibly desire within one space.
It’s a perfect place for weddings, corporate retreats, groups or family escapes. There is no place that can match the experience at this villa.
The greatest part of my stay within the villa was the warmth and the care received by the staff. Within days the staff felt like family, attending to my every need and desperately wanting to ensure I have the greatest experience possible in their country.
Whether it was suggesting or organising the best local tours or restaurants, or driving the 4wd ATV down to the beach so I could swim in the warmest ocean I have ever been in, I was in the best hands.
Another beautiful aspect of the villa was the green, sustainable factor of this breathtaking residence.
Much of the electricity within the home is created naturally through solar roof panels and the building itself was heavily created from recycled materials – such as the tiles created from recycled plastic.
A truly remarkable, thoughtful and conscious residence which is like no other. All the elements mentioned and the endless other aspects which I could write about for hours will guarantee you one of the best weeks of your life.
-Sorelle Amore
During her trip to Costa Rica, Sorelle stayed at Villa Punto de Vista. Click here to view all THIRDHOME properties in Costa Rica.
Sorelle Amore won THIRDHOME‘s “Best Job On The Planet,” which garnered more than 17,000 applications from around the world. In her position as a Luxury Travel Connoisseur for THIRDHOME, she is traveling the world, staying in 12 luxury homes.
THIRDHOME is the exclusive luxury property and travel club that enables second home owners to exchange time in their home for stays in spectacular destinations around the world. Click here for more information on how to become a member.
Sorelle Amore, THIRDHOME‘s Best Job On The Planet winner, provides a tour of Rainforest Meets the Sea (Villa Punto de Vista) in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
Members, want to visit Costa Rica? Click here to browse THIRDHOME properties in Costa Rica.
Click here to learn more about joining our luxury travel club.
Sorelle Amore, THIRDHOME‘s Best Job On The Planet winner, explores Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica and shows off some of the best activities and attractions to put on your list for a trip to the area. She stayed in an incredible 10-bedroom home.
Members, want to visit Costa Rica? Click here to browse THIRDHOME properties in Costa Rica.
Click here to learn more about joining our luxury travel club.
A visit to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, means living in the jungle surrounded by amazing exotic animals that swing through the trees.
Manuel Antonio is a jungle. Literally a jungle. Speaking to all the locals and foreigners about Costa Rica, I quickly found out this is one of the best places in Costa Rica to visit.
This ecologically diverse area is home to one of the largest variety of flora and fauna in the world.
If you want to guarantee seeing animals such as the sloth, a range of different species of monkeys, racoons and overwhelming amount of birds, you must check out Manuel Antonio National Park. Although the park is small, it’s filled to the brim with these occupants of the land. Be sure to join a professional tour with a guide during your visit as they will disclose some of the most interesting facts about the wildlife and Costa Rica. Having the tour guide find the animals for you in the jungle is priceless.
Within the park, you will also find one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. They filmed parts of Jurassic Park here and it’s no guesses why. The jungle trees’ hugging the ocean shoreline is a sight that must be witnesses.
Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica may be a tourist town, however it’s a very quiet tourist town. People that visit this area of the country are interested in relaxation, surfing, wildlife watching, dining, lounging at the beach and live music.
The perks of being a tourist village however is that there are many activities to occupy you if you want some adventure in your day.
From zip lining through the tree canopies, riding an ATV through the jungle and rivers, swimming underneath waterfalls, hiking, catamaraning next humpback whales and their calf (during the right season), abseiling from waterfalls, tasting freshly made chocolate or real vanilla beans at the local Vanilla Spice farm, fishing, horse riding, water rafting or jet skiing – there’s always going to be something for you to do.
My visit to Costa Rica occurred during the rainy season and a common misconception is that the rain never stops. This is very far from the truth. The rain always started in the late afternoon for about 3 hours and that was it.
The result – luscious greenery everywhere, perfect temperatures, less tourists around and beautiful rain pouring whilst you’re enjoying your dinners.
So whether you’re looking to go during the dry or wet season, you’ll be guaranteed a memorable time in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
To all of you that already have Manuel Antonio on your list of places to visit, you’ve got the right idea.
-Sorelle Amore
During her trip to Costa Rica, Sorelle stayed at this beautiful home, Villa Punto de Vista, in Manuel Antonio. Click here to view all THIRDHOME properties in Costa Rica.
Sorelle Amore won THIRDHOME‘s “Best Job On The Planet,” which garnered more than 17,000 applications from around the world. In her position as a Luxury Travel Connoisseur for THIRDHOME, she is traveling the world, staying in 12 luxury homes.
THIRDHOME is the exclusive luxury property and travel club that enables second home owners to exchange time in their home for stays in spectacular destinations around the world. Click here for more information on how to become a member.