WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO THE UNITED KINGDOM AND NEW MEXICO) THIS WEEK?

 

Beautiful Brighton Beachfront | Brighton, United Kingdom

Brighton Beach is one of The United Kingdom’s most coveted holiday destinations. This refurbished property opens up directly onto the seafront, making for gorgeous views. Featuring a heated plunge pool, a sun terrace, hibachi grill and underfloor heating this property is perfect for a beach getaway any time of year. It is also in a private neighborhood so that you can enjoy the rolling ocean waves in peace and quiet. With room for 10 people, Brighton Beachfront is the perfect place to take your family and create everlasting memories.

THIRDHOME member Linda says, “We had a truly wonderful week at the beach house which is a beautiful property right on the beach near to Brighton (UK).We were fortunate to have incredible weather which enabled us to make full use of the stunning location. ” Click here to read more of Linda’s review. 

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La Casa de la Esquela | Santa Fe, New Mexico

Besides its amazing landscaping and furnishings, this property comes with an incredible history. This home used to be the schoolhouse used to teach children of Manhattan Project workers during the 1940’s. It was designed in 1942 by Chicago architect William Kneck and was eventually moved to this beautiful location overlooking the Rio Grande. This house comes with plenty of outdoor living space and can accommodate up to 14 people. Its history, vistas and immaculate landscaping make this one of THIRDHOME‘s most unique properties.

THIRDHOME member James says, “I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at La Casa de la Esquela. The location of this property affords stunning views, as well as a peaceful and quiet environment to relax, read, and enjoy nature. All in all, a most pleasant place to have called home for a week. Thank you for sharing with me!” Click here to read more of James’ 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.

Jeri and Michael Archuleta, who are Texas natives, have been THIRDHOME members for 6 years. The Archuleta family has been traveling non-stop ever since, averaging slightly over 1 booking a month. The Archuleta’s have a laissez-faire approach to travel; if they see a property they like, they book it! This carefree approach to travel has brought their family amazing experiences, new cultures and unique adventures. Get to know the Archuleta family below!

 

How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?

In 2011, THIRDHOME reached out to us to inquire about our VRBO property on Lake Travis in Austin. We were somewhat skeptical, but after meeting other THIRDHOME members and having our first stay in Bachelors Gulch, we were convinced THIRDHOME would be a fabulous opportunity!

 

Where are you based?

The beautiful Hill Country of Austin, Texas.

 

 

Who do you usually travel with?

We love to travel with our adult children when their busy schedules allow. It’s a treat to take extended family and friends also. We just took my niece to Paris. It was a dream come true for her. I love that the homes are big enough that we can have guests join us.

 

What do you do for a living?

Michael is an attorney. Jeri manages various investment properties.

 

 

What are your favorite travel hobbies?

We enjoy playing tennis, hiking, photography, walking and exploring. Our new found hobby is bicycling…with electric bikes!

 

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

Our first white Christmas, in Aspen, was magical! Being with family and sharing that experience with each other will always be cherished. The kids still talk about it. Making magical memories. Thank you, THIRDHOME.

 

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

So thrilled to take my 23-year-old son and his girlfriend to New York City this Thanksgiving. It will be such an experience for them and another memory maker. Thank you, Monica the owner in NYC, and THIRDHOME!

 

What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?

Allows us to enjoy the outdoors with cooler temperatures, beautiful scenery and a variety of outdoor activities.

 

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

Michael has run and completed five marathons.

 

How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?

We let THIRDHOME decide where our next adventure will take us. That makes the planning stages easier. It’s a mystery where our next adventure will be, but one thing we know, it will be magical. Having the opportunity to travel with family and friends has been very gratifying and being open to new places has been most rewarding. For instance, traveling to Argentina was not on our radar, but given the opportunity, we decided to be adventurous and go for it. Michael’s mother and sister joined us at the Estancia La Fortuna, about an hour outside of Buenos Aires. Michael and I spent a few days in Buenos Aires afterward and loved our experiences there, especially the food. It has been a treat for us to travel to parts of the world unknown to us and trust the owners and THIRDHOME that our stay will be delightful.

 

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

Staying healthy is a priority and having kitchens has allowed us to stay on track. We dine out less, saving money and saving calories!

 

How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?

A travel club that was expertly designed to provide opportunities for travel to fabulous places all over the world and stay at wonderful residences or hotels very economically.

 

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

So many! I will try to narrow it down: best breakfast, Le Bristol in Paris; best brunch, The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida; best lunch, Michael’s favorite is Mama’s Fish House, in Maui; best dinner, Daniel in NYC.

 

Any travel tips for fellow members?

Watch and check the THIRDHOME site daily. Upgrade your membership for all the added perks. Add to your “watch” properties regularly. Be adventurous and explore different places, that you never thought about. Use Trip Advisor, Yelp and our great THIRDHOME concierge, Liz, for travel tips.

 

Anything else you’d like to add?

We loved using the gift you sent for our phone/camera to take hands-free photos using the NanoHold.  Here is a photo we took using it, in St. Moritz. It shows the phone on the window and the result, our photo.  We had a blast using it and got some wonderful photos of the two of us that we would not have had otherwise.  Thank you so much for the very thoughtful gift!

 

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

 

Indramaya Villa | Bali, Indonesia

Experience the natural beauty of Bali from the hilltop view of this gorgeous villa. The property has room for 10 people not including the villa staff that will cater to your every need. Enjoy the view of Balinese gardens from one of the two pools at this property. Explore the many sites of Bali with the private car and driver that accompanies the villa. A trained in-house chef is also available to make your trip effortless. This property is located at the southern end of Bali, making the nearby beaches and surf spots highly accessible. If you haven’t experienced Bali luxury this is the perfect place to start.

THIRDHOME member Marina says,“It was our first time in Bali and our stay at Indramaya Villa has been better than a dream…We are very grateful to the owner, the villa’s staff and THIRDHOME for this amazing experience!” Click here to read more of Marina’s review. 

 

Nirvana North | Girdwood, Alaska

This sleek mountain retreat is located in the Chugach Moutain range of Alaska, adjacent to the Chugach National Forest. This property can sleep up to 10 people and features many large living areas. Just outside the property, you can hear the gurgling of glacial streams and waterfalls. Moose and bear sightings are not uncommon in this area, especially given the tasty wild blueberries that grow around the property. Alyeska Ski Resort is also just a 5-minute drive away. If you want to escape into nature without sacrificing comfort, Nirvana North is the property for you.

THIRDHOME member Michael says,“Our stay at Nirvana North was absolutely lovely. The house was a work of art itself, and yet very comfortable…Truly one of the most spectacularly beautiful areas on the planet.” Click here to read more of Michael’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 SWITZERLAND AND TEXAS) THIS WEEK?

 

Verbier | Switzerland

Escape to one of the world’s premier backcountry skiing resorts at Verbier, Switzerland. The Swiss Alps village is located in the southwestern region of the country and is known for its glacier views, skiing and classical musical festival. The Chalet des Marveilles is around 100-years old but was newly refurbished in 2016. It’s located in the quieter part of Verbier making for a peaceful mountain escape. An open floor plan makes this chalet wonderful for post-skiing socializing. The south side terrace is also a terrific perch for observing the peaks of the visible Swiss and French Alps. With 4-bedrooms the chalet can accommodate up to 7 people. Near the chalet are the mountain’s hot springs, where you can also find a variety of pools and saunas. Summer activities include mountain biking, hiking, rafting, paragliding, horse riding, golf and much more. Sweeping mountain vistas await you in the sleepy village of Verbier.

THIRDHOME member Pascal says, “We had a wonderful stay in Christophe’s chalet. The view of the valley is magnificent, and its position is ideal for short village walks”(translated from French) click here to read more of Pascal’s review. 

 

South Padre Island | Texas

Imagine the southernmost tip of Texas. On a map, the Texas border wraps up like the end of a jalapeno pepper into the Gulf of Mexico. If you look even closer, you’ll find a long stretch of paradise jutting out into the Gulf, this is South Padre Island. Practically in Mexico, this island has all of the luxuries and amenities of a Cabo-style resort. Experience South Padre Island from the 13th story of the gorgeous Sapphire Resort. With room for 8 people and sweeping views of Laguna Madre Bay, you’ll wonder how you hadn’t heard of this tropical paradise sooner. Take in a movie at Sapphire’s private movie theater, relax in their spa or go horseback riding down the beach. The island is home to a vibrant nightlife and variety of dining options. South Padre Island has everything you’re searching for in a Gulf Coast getaway.

THIRDHOME member Terry says, “We really enjoyed our stay at this well-stocked Ocean view condominium. Plenty of room for 7 of us and the beds and accommodations were 1st class…Hope to come back to this beautiful place.” click here to read more of Terry’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 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AND ITALY) THIS WEEK?

 

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. 

 

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. 

 

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

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!

 

WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO SWITZERLAND AND NEW YORK) THIS WEEK?

 

Zem Waldhus | Switzerland

At the base of Unterrothorn, near the Sunnaga ski run, sits the stylish Zem Waldhus residence. Shrouded by the local wood, but within walking distance of Zermatt’s lively dining and shopping scene, this property is the perfect mix of accessible and secluded. 24-hour access to the Sunnega lift is the only transportation you’ll need in this car-less town. The rest of the local attractions are only a few minutes away by foot. When you’re not exploring the natural beauty of the Alps, you’ll be enjoying the simple elegance of Zem Waldhus. Cozy up during Zermatt’s winter months with Zem Waldhus’ heated floors, fully-equipped kitchen and fireplace. But it would be sinful to tout only Zermatt’s winter when summering in the Alps is an equally gorgeous experience.

THIRDHOME member Daniel says, “Our family had a great stay at Zem Waldhus. The chalet is spacious, modern, fully stocked, and centrally located with views of the Matterhorn…Coming from Hong Kong it was plenty of fun to see snow at the top of Kleinmatterhorn…We would definitely like to come again in the future.” Click here to read more of Daniel’s review. 

 

Hendricks House | New York

On 29 acres of Upstate New York countryside sits the historic Hendricks House. Built in the 18th century, the home is rumored to have had George Washington as a guest. This home’s larger than life history is complimented by its spacious layout.Hendricks House is a very attractive property for large families and groups, with 7 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms and 10,000 square-feet of living space. The outdoor space features a covered BBQ, a heated pool, a 18th-century barn and plenty of room for entertaining. After a day of pool lounging, the antique barroom, with its 70” flat screen, makes an excellent place to retire. The winter sitting room is equally compelling with its huge 18th-century fireplace and plush seating. There’s no better way to experience the natural beauty and luxury of Upstate New York than the gorgeous Hendricks House.

THIRDHOME member Marcus says, “Having fallen in love with Hendricks House after seeing the photos on THIRDHOME, we sensibly dialed down our excitement levels and prepared ourselves for disappointment as we rounded the final corner of the lovely 1 km long driveway. As the house came into view, jaws dropped commensurately with the palpable rise in excitement. This is a stunningly beautiful property, just… STUNNING…So, please don’t book this place, don’t even think about it. It is clearly not for you because my family and I would very much like to return and, if it becomes too popular, it may be a very long time before we do.” Click here to read more of Marcus’ 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.

THIRDHOME analyzed over 300,000 words from member property reviews to determine the recipe for the 5-star review

 

Longtime members most likely know the feeling; that sense of pride when your property has been given the 5-star review, it’s almost intoxicating. It speaks to your style, decor, hospitality, and adds vital context to your own perception of that second home. It’s a validation in many ways and a shout of approval from your peers. Longtime members have probably also felt slighted by impetuous 4-star reviews with little suggestion for improvement- the kind that leaves you thinking, “Where did I go wrong?”

New members, on the other hand, may not have a firm grasp on the features that make for a 5-star review. It was a question of interest to the THIRDHOME team as well.

“What are the ingredients for a 5-star review?” we would ask, staring longingly into a database filled with thousands of rows of member feedback.

By analyzing 4,000+ rows of 5-star reviews left since March of 2010 and ending in July 2017 we were able to arrive at some semblance of an answer. Some words may not surprise you, but others may change the way you think about your property.

300,000+ words were run through textual analysis to determine frequency. Stop words (common words: the, about, it) were filtered out. Only lexical items are included. Frequencies range from 0.05% to 0.25%. 

Here are the Top 20 Words found in 5-star THIRDHOME property reviews:

20. Activities

Many reviews revolve around the activities that the guest participated in during their trip. Having access to unique local activities is a must for a top review. Some of the most popular are skiing, fishing, tennis and boating.

19. Stunning

Everyone wants a stunning and photogenic property. If you’re lucky, you have a beautiful view from your second home. But if the vistas leave something to be desired, maybe focus on the exterior design of the house itself. Guests want to be blown away as soon as they see the property.

18. Accommodating

Top reviews usually talk about the accommodations of the host. Was the host friendly? Was he/she helpful and knowledgeable of the area and property? As a host, go above and beyond to make sure that guests make the most of their time at your property. That extra human touch will definitely be remembered by your guest. You can learn more about being an outstanding host here. 

17. Beaches

This one is tough to control. Obviously, you can’t lift your property up from Montana and bring it to the coast. But water assets always draw higher praise as a rule. If you’re near a beach, fantastic. If not, focus on a local lake or river asset that might have some recreational use for your guest.

16. Gorgeous

Do your best to show off your home’s personal style and aesthetic. Landscaping is especially important. Feature flora on your property that guests might not be familiar with, and that compliments the style of the property. Gorgeous natural assets are a great accent to any home and will make a lot of distance towards that 5-star review.

15. Bedrooms

Let’s face it, there’s certainly a positive correlation between guest experience and number of bedrooms. We all value privacy in our stays, and the more room the better. There’s probably a point of diminishing returns (think the Biltmore Estate), but as a general rule more is better. The quality of bedroom is also huge.  En-suite bathrooms, bedroom views, Jacuzzis and other in-room amenities add a certain distinction to your property. Make sure that your guests wake up each morning in a bedroom that screams pure satisfaction. They will surely thank you.

14. RITZ

We’re proud to be partnered with the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club™. With a name that’s synonymous with high-quality customer service, it’s easy to see why the name would be featured frequently in reviews. As an individual property owner, you should strive to be the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club™ of your neighborhood. Aspiring to their gold standards of service will make you a shoo-in for a 5-star review.

13. Decorated

Designer, Juan Montoya, once said that a room, “-should never allow the eye to settle in one place. It should smile at you and create fantasy.” Your second-home is a new canvas for your interior design and decor. Your decor should be uninhibitedly creative and unapologetically you. When you project that sense of self into your property, guests are sure to respond. Think about what the decor in your second home communicates. Does it smile back at you?

12. Kids

Your second home could be the backdrop for a summer full of childhood memories. Ensuring that those memories are positive ones depends on how family-friendly your property and location are. See if there are any places of interest for children in your area such as an aquarium, water park or beach. Considering the experience of junior members can go a long way towards ensuring a great guest experience.

11. Equipped

In it’s most frequent context, equipped could usually be substituted for stocked. Most references are geared towards food and supplies that might be useful in relation to the property. Having a full pantry, cleaning supplies, toiletries and sundry items will make your property feel like an all-inclusive resort. These ready-to-go properties tend to have excellent ratings.

10. Relaxing

Such a broad and ambiguous term- how are you supposed to make sure your guest is relaxed? You probably purchased your second-home partially because you thought it was relaxing. What aspects were relaxing to you; the pool, sauna, on-call masseuse or the beach? Be sure to communicate all the aspects that you found relaxing about your second home, and make sure your guest has full access to them.

9. Stayed

Well, we should hope that your guests stayed! In all honesty, this word ranks high in frequency because most reviews begin with, “We stayed in X property.” If the phrase, “we shouldn’t have stayed” shows up in your review, you might be far from the coveted 5-stars.

8. Amenities

People love household and external amenities that they can’t access back home. So make sure that your listed amenities are ready for use upon a guest’s arrival. This should be thought of in the same sense as the ready-to-go house. Make sure the pool is clean and that all electronic features work hassle-free. Provide detailed instruction to any amenities that prove to be complicated to newcomers.

7. Fabulous

Fabulous…Gorgeous…Stunning. I’m sure you’re catching on to the pattern here. Make sure your property is as fabulous as it is gorgeous and stunning.

6. Spacious

Guests love an open concept home. Space for entertaining, dining and socializing is imperative to any successful stay. If your space is limited within your second-home, explore options for creating outdoor spaces for congregating. Spacious bedrooms and added privacy are also mentioned frequently in conjunction with this word. Don’t cramp your guests or their style!

5. Location

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Is your home accessible to natural assets, scenic views, entertainment and shopping? Is there public transit available and is the neighborhood economically sustainable? These are all questions you must ask yourself when listing your property for exchange. Focus on the strengths of your property’s location, and communicate how your property’s location is desirable to guests. Guests will appreciate the frame-of-reference and will use it to maximize the value of their trip. Leave maps, visitor bureau brochures and other informative materials for guest use.

4. Condo

The frequency of the word condo suggests a few things. One, that guests enjoy luxury condominiums just as much as they can enjoy standalone properties, and two, that guests have a great value for location. Highly rated condos tend to be in large metropolitan areas, and have immediate access to city amenities that more remote properties may not have.

3. Restaurants

It is no surprise that most THIRDHOME members are huge foodies. Members want access to unique dishes, talented chefs and full-service gastronomic experiences. Your property can play to almost all of the sense except for taste. Make sure your guests leave with a taste of their adventure at one of your favorite local restaurants. Leave a list of your favorites along with the visitor information at your property.

2. Villa

The condo may be popular in many contexts, but villa has a universal linguistic appeal. Once used to describe the country estates of Rome’s upper class, Villa now characterizes a number of home styles. They are generally very spacious, have gardens, water features, terraces, a gorgeous view and elegant furnishings. These properties tend to be in lower population density areas and offer luxury accommodations. Guests go nuts for a villa.

1. Enjoyed

 

Here’s the key to it all- enjoyment. Make sure your guests enjoy the property as much as you do, it’s as easy as that! With a bit of attention to detail, compassion, and hospitality you’re sure to get 5-star reviews every time you host. Because after all, enjoying yourself is what this club is all about, not stars. Although, the stars are nice.

Ever planned a wedding? It’s a seemingly never-ending gauntlet of picking linens and politely arguing with vendors. The honeymoon, in theory, should be a welcome reprieve from all the stresses of wedding planning, but travel planning can be just as demanding. That’s why THIRDHOME offers seamless happily-ever-afters through its Travel & Concierge department. THIRDHOME‘s Travel & Concierge department doesn’t just book your plane tickets and hotel, they book your entire honeymoon experience. Read more to find out what that full-package experience means.

Lauren Parks recently returned from her honeymoon in Maui. Check out what she had to say about her curated experience!

 

Liz (THIRDHOME‘s Director of Travel & Concierge Services) was AMAZING! Our honeymoon was AMAZING! Everything about our THIRDHOME Travel & Concierge service was AMAZING! 

Liz provided my husband and I with so many different food options, excursion options and shopping spots. We knew Maui wasn’t going to disappoint! We talked on the phone a few different times and she told us all the best places to hit during our week stay in Hawaii. She knew what to pass on and the places we just had to see!

She was so passionate about Maui and had been there a few times herself- she got us so excited! Liz sent us an organized list of a ton of different options that she recommended. From that list, all we had to do was tell her what we wanted to do and it was planned! I mean how easy (and we needed easy during wedding planning)!

She booked us a car for the week and it was so easy to pick up at the airport!

From the moment we checked into the Kea Lani Resort we were treated like royal guests!  Liz booked us the best room and we really felt at home the entire stay. We went snorkeling, went to dinner at the famous Old Lahaina Luau, went on a helicopter tour (our favorite), had dinner at Mama’s Fish House (a must) and drove the road to Hana.

It was an amazing week and we made memories that will last a lifetime!

Thank you, Liz, for everything you did. Get ready to help us plan our next trip!

– Lauren Parks

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With 28 years of travel planning experience, Liz Bates is a maestro of curating unforgettable experiences.

Click here to learn more about all the happily-ever-after concierge offerings.

To plan your honeymoon through THIRDHOME‘s Travel & Concierge program contact Liz at liz@thirdhome.com today!

What are THIRDHOME members saying about their luxury home exchange trips (to The Galapagos Islands AND Idaho) this week?

 

Galapagos Villa | The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

It’s no surprise why THIRDHOME members love Casa La Iguana Villa on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos. Exploration of these islands is on many members’ bucket lists. There’s no better way to cross that experience off your list than from the comfort of this 5-bedroom villa. Resident chef Mariana and villa concierge Alejandro will make sure that your stay is effortless. Alejandro is a Santa Cruz Island expert and will help you plan your expeditions.

THIRDHOME member Teresa says,“What an amazing journey with a fun group of girlfriends. The Galapagos Islands have been on my bucket list for years and thanks to Casa La Iguana it became a reality… I am so glad my first visit to Galapagos was at Casa La Iguana!” Click here to read more of Teresa’s review. 

 

Paradise Point at Bear Lake | Idaho

Welcome to southeastern Idaho’s best-kept secret. Bear Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the United States. With premier access to fishing, watersports and boating it’s no wonder why members decide to vacation at Bear Lake Chateau. This massive property can accommodate up to 32 guests and is perfect for large family reunions. Year-round outdoor recreation such as water skiing, golf, snowboarding and paddle boarding makes this the perfect destination for groups who love to stay active. The Reserve at Bear Lake offers extra amenities including pool and hot tub access, a club house, game rooms and tennis courts.

THIRDHOME member Allison says,“We LOVED staying at Paradise Point at Bear Lake. Upon arrival from Salt Lake City, we were staring at the stunning blue lake in such awe, we almost missed our turn into the neighborhood…We are excited for future guests to experience their first views of the crystal blue waters of Bear Lake and the peaceful space of Paradise Point.” Click here to read more of Allison’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.

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Linda & John Ridgeon are avid THIRDHOME travelers and have been members since 2011. The Ridgeons have managed to visit 17 properties within 6 years, by way of their two properties in Southern Spain. Formerly in the music education business, the Ridgeons are now retired and spend their time sailing, practicing photography and exploring the world. Read below to find out what makes Linda & John Ridgeon such exemplary THIRDHOME members.

How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?

We joined THIRDHOME in 2011 after researching companies which would allow us to do home exchanges with our second home in Spain. We loved the flexible arrangement of the Keys which THIRDHOME offers (rather than relying on direct exchanges) as well as the exceptional quality of homes in the portfolio. We have visited 17 properties in 6 years and have genuinely loved every one. We have another 4 trips already booked! We have greatly appreciated the changes that THIRDHOME has introduced over the years, particularly the seasonal Key values and the huge increase of properties in Europe.

Where are you based?

We live in the UK in (the original) Rochester which is in Kent, 25 miles east of London. However, we spend around 4 months of the year (in month blocks) in our beloved second home in Andalusia, Southern Spain.

Who do you usually travel with?

We normally travel as a couple. Our adult children are in their 20’s (no grandchildren as yet!) and have limited time for holidays at the moment. One or more of them have joined us for a few trips and we sometimes travel with another couple who are close friends and also live in Rochester.

What do you do for a living?

We retired in 2011 having sold our music training business, Access to Music, the day after John’s 65th birthday. We had 10 centres around England (plus partnerships with 10 colleges) and provided government-funded training in contemporary music for young people and adults. Many of our students have gone on to achieve success in the music industry, the most notable being Ed Sheeran, who is now a Patron of the Company.

What are your favorite travel hobbies?

There is very little that we don’t enjoy doing and we welcome the variety that we have experienced through our THIRDHOME vacations. We love being on or near the water (we were previous boat owners), walking or driving through the mountains and visiting historic cities, spending time in museums and galleries and going to concerts.

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

It is almost impossible to single out one favourite destination but our week in Guadeloupe on the TradeWinds flagship catamaran, New Beginnings, is right up there. We loved it so much we became TradeWinds members and have just completed our fourth voyage with them in Greece. We have really appreciated the continued increase in European properties as living in the UK these are more accessible to us and we have been pleasantly surprised at how many opportunities there have been to visit European cities through THIRDHOME. So far we have visited Paris, Madrid, Rome, Vienna, Lisbon (from Estoril) and in December we are going to Prague. We have even visited London on three separate occasions! Even though we live less than an hour away, the opportunity to spend a week living right in the heart of the capital within walking distance of all that the city has to offer cannot be beat. Plus, our children all live in or close to London so we have had opportunities to come together as a family in the most amazing homes.

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

We already have trips planned to Brighton, England (later this month), Prague (December) and Antigua (February) – to tie in with another TradeWinds cruise. We are hoping to find somewhere in Florida or the Bahamas for November/December 2018 to tie in with a TradeWinds cruise in the Abacos.

What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?

We actually have two properties with THIRDHOME. Our 5-bedroom villa in Andalusia is 30 minutes from Malaga airport and a great base for a beach holiday with family or an opportunity to visit some of the wonderful historic Spanish cities such as Malaga, Granada, Ronda and even Seville. The house is relatively new (2010) but has been designed and furnished in a traditional Andalucian style with lots of Moroccan features and an internal patio with a wonderful marble fountain to cool the house in summer. It is well equipped for large families with plenty to do: a large salt-water heated pool, cinema room, gym, sauna, table tennis, pool table and community tennis courts. We are very proud of our many 5-star ratings. Our second property is a house which forms part of the highly rated La Villa Marbella boutique hotel in the heart of the old town in Marbella. We have two, two-bedroom suites both sleeping 4 with availability from November-March (excluding Christmas and Easter weeks).

How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?

We tend to avoid staying in hotels now whenever possible and we often plan where want to go according to what is available on THIRDHOME! We are very flexible now that we are retired and prefer to travel out of high-season when possible. Because we rent our properties out, they are professionally managed and equipped for visitors and we have found that the same applies to the properties we have visited. This is so much safer than a traditional home swap where there is no way of knowing how well-organized and equipped the property you are visiting might be.

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

We once stayed at a beautiful, architect-designed, riverfront property in Fowey, Cornwall (the village where my grandparents lived and where I spent many childhood holidays). The house was right on the river and had its own mooring and boat which we were permitted to use.

How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?

THIRDHOME is a unique and affordable concept which allows you to deposit down time in your own second home in exchange for keys which you can use flexibly to stay in other high-quality properties around the world at a time to suit you.

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

Not a restaurant (there have been so many), but our most memorable meal was when we stayed at Brunello Villa in Italy (our first THIRDHOME trip). The owner, Lucia, gave us a cookery lesson using produce from the estate and we ate the meal we prepared in her beautiful garden with her and her sommelier daughter, Alina, who selected a wonderful local wine to accompany it.

Any travel tips for fellow members?

Be flexible and have an open mind about where THIRDHOME can take you.

 

Check out some of the Ridgeon’s beautiful photography below.

 

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!

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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!

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

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.