Mike and Sue Challenger have been members of the Club since 2021. Keep reading to hear about their extraordinary South African safari experience by THIRDHOME Adventures & Custom Travel.
Read their full testimonial below:
Whoever said, “You can’t teach old dogs new tricks,” hasn’t been on a THIRDHOME Adventure, arranged by Liz Bates, Director Adventures & Custom Travel. At 70+, we had never been on a 4-wheeler (quad as they call them) in our lives, but that all changed at Leobo Private Reserve, the first leg of our three segments Adventure in South Africa.
Late Tuesday afternoon, Heidi, co-manager with her husband, Chris, took three of us out for our first ride around the upper savannah, and animal activity at that hour was prolific. Giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, kudos, warthogs, springbok, and impalas were everywhere. We loved every minute and looked forward to our next ride, which came on Thursday afternoon when we went for a 17 km ride down the rugged road to the hippo pond. And we did all of that just hours before our helicopter ride around the entire property to get an up-close aerial view of all the animals.
We experienced lunch out in the bush and dinner under the stars. We were busy from morning to night every day with more new things to do than we ever had done in one week. We would say our favorite experiences here were the quads and the helicopter ride witnessing all the many animals from above, and the sweeping river views. This experience at Leobo could not have been accomplished without Heidi and Chris and their excellent support staff. They spent many long hours making sure everything was perfect and that we were all having a fabulous time.
The second leg of our trip was to Cape Town and Table Mountain, the Wine Country, Cape Hope, and the South African Penguins. Everything was perfect, from meals and accommodations to our tour guide, Luci, and everything in between. The views from Table Mountain and Cape Hope were extraordinary, the wine countryside was beautiful, and the wines were delicious. Of course, our favorite experience here was the penguins, which were beyond adorable. Liz once again outdid herself on accommodations, activities, and lunches.
For our third and final segment, we went to Camdeboo Lodge. Wow, the adventures just keep continuing; nonstop action of early morning game drives to a shortcut over and down the mountain that literally had us on the edge of our seats and the edge of the road while returning to the lodge in the evening. On the first day, we encountered the Lions—that was a WOW moment for us! It was good to know they were not there to eat us but leisurely enjoy the day. The female cheetah, however, was not to be outdone. We slowly walked over to the bush with our guides, where she had her cubs. We didn’t see the cubs, but the cheetah was sitting there regally posing and letting us soak up her beauty. The second day was just as extraordinary. We had close encounters with elephants, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, vervet monkeys, and much more. We were so excited to see more of the Big Five. The staff and guides at Camdeboo were wonderful.
Lastly, to add to this once-in-a-lifetime trip and all its memories were the extraordinary new friends we made on this Adventure! Wade and Debbi were absolutely perfect hosts. We can’t wait for everyone to get together again for a reunion and experience more. We are all hooked on travel and are always looking for the next new experience and WOW moment. This Safari Adventure definitely gets a 5++. We feel it was definitely over the top and our favorite trip from all the places we have visited all over the world.
Seeking a personally curated South African safari experience for your own private group of family and friends? Collaborate with Liz Bates.
What are other members saying about this incredible South African safari experience?
“We had such an amazing time with the group in South Africa! The entire trip was AWESOME!! We loved the trip! Our favorite Leobo experience was the helicopter ride! Absolutely beautiful and thrilling at the same time! Ruth’s WOW moment was capturing the video of giraffe running with the helicopter so close she felt like she could touch their ears! Favorite Cape Town experience was the coastal drive to the Cape of Good Hope. Views were breathtaking and the hike by the lighthouse was fantastic! We would rate the safari experience at a 5, actually higher!! And YES, we would like a reunion experience with the same group. Everybody, including us had so much fun. And we have made new friends–including with Wade and Debbi!! We all became friends very quickly and enjoyed our time together!“
– Frank V. Member since 2021.
“I must say I really wasn’t sure exactly what to expect on our trip to South Africa but what I can say it was beyond my expectations!!! It was an unbelievable trip with several amazing experiences that makes it hard to pick just one. We have traveled with groups before where we didn’t know most of the other people but this group we met on this trip were all amazing and wonderful and everyone got along so well. I really feel that all of us from this group will continue to stay in touch with each other and try to meet each other again whenever possible. It was so nice to see people helping each other if some could not keep up and everyone was very encouraging to help people try new things! This trip was so well organized with never a lack of something to do. If anyone asks what kind of trips Thirdhome organizes I would be very happy to say only the very best!“
– Ruth V. Member since 2021.
“WOW WOW WOW!!!! I can’t say enough about the fabulous trip at Leobo Private Reserve. From the moment we landed in South Africa, we had a smile on our faces. Leobo was beyond impressive…the adventures were unique, the food was scrumptious, the accommodations and views were breathtaking and of course, the company was extraordinary! This was the most memorable trip Milt & I have ever been on. We look forward to experiencing more THIRDHOME Adventures in the future.“
– Dee and Milt W. Members since 2015.
“If life is a tapestry made of our experiences and memories, we would like to thank the Thirdhome family for adding bold colors and golden threads to our fabric. The trip to South Africa put together by Debbi, Wade, and Liz was a dream come true, full of unforgettable people and events. We can’t wait for the next Thirdhome Adventure!!!
– Neal and Jamie H. Members since 2015.
“We are traveling more, and consequently, enjoying life even more.”
Petronio Nogueira joined
Get to know THIRD HOME member, Petronio Nogueira, and how he uses The Club to Stay Worldly!
How did you get involved with
Where are you based?
Currently, we are living in London, United Kingdom.
Who do you usually travel with?
My wife and when it is possible, my son, my daughter and her husband. Sometimes we also invite friends.
What do you do for a living?
Enjoy life, among other less important things!
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Hiking, going to the beach, dining, sight-seeing.
What do you love most about your property with
Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other
Hosting THIRDHOME members has been a fantastic experience.
Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?
My wife and I have expanded our horizons as we have been traveling more and to new and interesting places.
How has
It has definitely changed the way we plan our trips for three main reasons: First, we’re thrilled by the idea of staying in a beautiful house with family and friends. My wife and I have discovered the joy of staying for a full week in one place. Finally, and more importantly, we’re traveling more, and consequently, enjoying life even more.
How would you describe
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Restaurant Le Gabriel in Paris.
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Go beyond and enjoy life!
Renu has been a THIRDHOME member since 2015. Since then she’s stayed at 15 THIRDHOME properties by leveraging her beautiful South Padre Island, Texas getaway. That’s about 5 trips a year!
Get to know THIRDHOME member, Renu Bonner and how she uses The Club to help her Stay Worldly.
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
My friend Margaret introduced me to THIRDHOME. I joined in early 2015.
Where is your primary residence?
Houston, Texas
Who do you usually travel with?
Half my trips are with couples, half with girlfriends.
What do you do for a living?
Self-employed.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Hiking, sight-seeing, and relaxing.
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
Since joining, I have been on 15 THIRDHOME trips. Some with my account and some I’ve been invited to join my friend and THIRDHOME member, Margaret. If I had to pick one (favorite destination), it would be the The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club in Aspen. I went for two weeks in July 2017. Then I went back in September 2018 for the fall colors. Everything was so fabulous both times, the accommodations, the service offered by the The Ritz-Carlton staff, the weather and the scenery.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club in St. Thomas.
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
I love knowing that others owners that will be staying in my condo will be treating it like I would.
Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other THIRDHOME members?
I never planned to rent (or exchange) my second home before joining THIRDHOME. I have been very happy to have the opportunity to use my place in a different way to enjoy traveling to more places.
Any personal achievements you’d like to share?
Jokingly I said at the beginning of 2018, 52 trips in 52 weeks! So far as of September 23rd, I will have traveled part (or all) of 30 weeks. PLUS 8 more trips before December 31 scheduled. Not all through THIRDHOME, but almost 1/3 of them.
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
I travel more! Many of the times, the THIRDHOME becomes the destination. I love just hanging out and fully enjoying the home. I love the variety of homes I stay at. I now always have to have a kitchen! I look at THIRDHOME‘s website first.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
The twice daily maid service at the The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club in Aspen. The customized and personal service that is provided.
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
I love the way I feel when staying at a THIRDHOME, just like I do at home, totally comfortable.
How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?
I enjoy the personal relationship I build with the homeowners when I stay at their place and those that stay at my place.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
Great way to travel and get more value out of my second home. Best deal ever! I would not be able to or even want to (financially) stay at the homes I have stayed at.
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Both trips to Cancun, dined many times at El Fish Fritanga (not 100% sure of name). The fresh seafood platter was AMAZING- the variety, the cost, and amount of food and dining with your toes in the sand made it totally memorable! Last trip, went 3 nights!
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Stay flexible and open minded about when and where.
Lily Grove has been a THIRDHOME member for the past 2 years! Based out of California, Lily has been able to use her Lake Tahoe properties to travel with her husband on a bucket list tour of Europe. From Southern France to Italy to Switzerland, Lily’s seen it all! Get to know THIRDHOME member Lily Grove!
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
A good friend referred us.
Where are you based?
Folsom, California
Who do you usually travel with?
My husband.
What do you do for a living?
I’m an insurance broker.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Museums, cruising, hiking, sightseeing and most of all, socializing with locals.
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
Switzerland as far as scenery. We stayed at a small ski village called Grindelwald and the scene is breathtaking, trains galore to the highest Europe mountains. Ireland as far as people. Kind, gentle and friendly locals.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
Currently on a Europe tour just finished staying at 2 different THIRDHOME properties and we are currently staying at another THIRDHOME in France. Next THIRDHOME booking is in Rome.
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
The luxury quality and booking reliability.
Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other THIRDHOME members?
Very good.
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
Ease of mind that there will be a luxury place to stay and the lodging quality is always a guarantee.
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
Beautiful homes in the best neighborhoods.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
Amazing and exceptional list of homes all over the world.
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Chateau St Pierre Serjac hotel restaurant in Puissalicon, France.
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Book all your lodgings with THIRDHOME, no regrets.
Bobby Flaig has been a member of THIRDHOME since 2014, but only recently started exploring all the club has to offer on the West Coast. With trips to Balboa Island and Truckee under his belt, he’s looking to explore even more properties in 2018. Get to know THIRDHOME member Bobby Flaig!
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
I joined THIRDHOME about 3 years ago but didn’t get really active until last year when I made my first stay at the Newport Beach Vacation Club property through THIRDHOME. I was happily surprised that the process went very smooth and everyone at THIRDHOME was super friendly and helpful.
Where are you based?
Huntington Beach, CA, USA
Who do you usually travel with?
My longtime girlfriend Angelique Ives is my travel partner.
What do you do for a living?
I own a beverage company.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Love to fish, when in Cabo San Lucas for Dorado “Mahi Mahi”, hike, swim in the ocean and enjoy the local cuisines.
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
Stayed for a week at a house in Newport Beach on Balboa Island. Loved that we could walk downtown and to the Ferry to the see the ocean. The owners of the house left us cookies and let us use their bikes and boogie boards. Plus, they met us at the house when we checked in! They were very helpful.
Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other THIRDHOME members?
I am in another program, which I do like, but the quality of the properties at THIRDHOME are much nicer. Plus, there is more interaction with the actual owners of the properties at THIRDHOME.
Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?
We love to travel and THIRDHOME has made it much easier to do so and to plan ahead for exciting adventures.
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
Lets us stay in wonderful homes with friendly owners to help show us the ropes for the communities that they live in.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
Free cookies and use of bikes to ride around town at Newport Beach Balboa Island House.
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
The employees at THIRDHOME care about their owners. Kristine and Sammy are awesome to deal with!
How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?
The personal service. Actual people, I know that I can talk to at THIRDHOME who know me. Excellent Customer Service!
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
THIRDHOME lets you experience really nice homes in locations all over the world with similar people. The homes are immaculately put together and the customer service at THIRDHOME is top notch!
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Captain Jack’s in Huntington Beach had the best crab and fish I have ever eaten.
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Get as many Keys from THIRDHOME as you can so that you can plan a wonderful adventure to far away places and stay in magnificent homes.
Tom and Pam Bernhardt have been THIRDHOME members since 2011. In the past 6 years, they’ve managed to travel to some amazing places. From Jamaica to Umbria and beyond, the Bernhardt’s have leveraged their Austin homes to take 18 trips with THIRDHOME, with more slated for 2018.
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
We joined in 2006 when THIRDHOME reached via a phone call.
Where are you based?
Austin, TX.
Pam with her son and daughter
Who do you usually travel with?
We travel as a couple frequently and at least once a year with all five grown children.
What do you do for a living?
Pam is a real estate agent in Austin. Tom is retired for the fourth time.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Hiking, walking, beach going, swimming, boating, tennis
Tom and Pam hiking in Aspen
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
I would have to say, Aspen. We went for three weeks during the summer and hiked daily. We go there every summer and know the town well.
Pam hunting for truffles in Umbria
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
France. We are traveling to Cap Benat which is on the ocean near St. Tropez. La Radieuse is the name of the villa.
The Bernhardt’s Austin Clarksville Home
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
We have two and soon to be three. The two that we currently have (Austin Bungalow and Austin Clarksville Home) are located downtown, so walking to morning coffee shop or going to listen to music at neighborhood pub after dinner are fun things to do. You can walk everywhere including the three-mile trail along Town Lake.
Girls trip to Aspen
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
It has allowed us to travel much more than we use to. I also can now take multiple girl trips. This summer my husband is doing the motorcycle trip in Europe. This will truly be a first for him.
Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?
My husband Tom was named Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst and Young in 2000.
Family trip to the Carribean
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
The people. When people own a second home they tend to keep your home like they want others to keep their home. All good.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
It is like entertaining friends. Much different than the general population.
Christmas trip to Times Square, NYC
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Jean Georges in NYC.
Trip to Westhampton at Westhampton Estate
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Look very carefully at the location and condition of each home. This is what can make your trip very special.
Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other THIRDHOME members?
I have had all positive experiences and have met some very interesting people.
More pictures from the Bernhardt’s travels
“On the veranda of her stunning family home in Barbados, Sarah-Jane Gaselee soaks up her breathtaking surroundings as the warm breeze brings the sweet smell of frangipani.”-Sally Morgan
So begins an exclusive “Hello Mag” interview and photo shoot of THIRDHOME member and bridesmaid to Princess Diana, Sarah-Jane Gaselee.
Sarah-Jane and her partner, Paul Andrews have been THIRDHOME members since 2011. But the story of their home began in 2004 when they took on the home renovation project of a lifetime with a 300-year old sugar plantation in Barbados.
Ruby, Paul and Ashley
Although the property was in rough shape when they found it, Sarah knew it was the perfect home for them, “When I first met Paul he whisked me to Barbados to show it to me and I fell for it straight away.” Renovations began soon thereafter.
During the renovation period, the couple had two beautiful children, Ruby and Ashley. Now the whole family gets to enjoy Bellevue and all it has to offer, including 8 bedrooms with King beds and uninterrupted ocean views.
Sarah was also keen to bring a bit of home to Barbados, “Once a month we put on an 18th-century garden party. Guests dress in traditional period costume, dine on cream teas and watch a polo match in the afternoon.”
Knowing that Prince Harry is also an avid Polo player, she’s recently extended an invitation to him and Meghan Markle to have their honeymoon at Bellevue.
Sarah-Jane at Princess Diana’s wedding, 1981
“I’m sure Diana would be very happy that her son Prince Harry is marrying Meghan Markle. She seems like a great girl and such a warm person, and I’m really looking forward to watching their wedding,” said Sarah, briefly after recalling her young relationship with the late Princess Diana.
Check out the full Hello Mag article here.
Click here to visit Bellevue’s property page. Members, make sure to set a “watch” alert on this fantastic property!
John and Suzi Gilmore, North Carolina natives, have been THIRDHOME members since 2014. Since then they’ve taken 14 trips by using their property at Deer Valley Club. And now they’re planning to spend 2 months traveling Europe, using their Keys. Get to know THIRDHOME members John and Suzi Gilmore!
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
Through our ownership at The Deer Valley Club in Deer Valley, Utah.
Where are you based?
Raleigh, NC, USA
Who do you usually travel with?
Usually with each other and we sometimes we have our son John Jr. with us.
What do you do for a living?
I have just retired from 23 years in sales management with Merck & Co., Inc. John is a retired Entrepreneur.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Skiing, yoga, cultural events, riding John’s Goldwing, sporting events, spa, shopping, visiting friends.
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
That is a very difficult question because we have had so many wonderful stays! The UK and Europe are always at the top of our list, but we’ve also had terrific vacations in the US and Caribbean. What we love most about our THIRDHOME travels is getting a chance to stay ‘as a native’ and immerse ourselves in the local culture. Staying in a fantastic residence just enhances our experience!
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
We’re spending 2 months in Europe this summer so we’re hoping to use our Keys for maybe Italy, Paris, London, etc.
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
It’s easy! We decide when we want to be at our propriety in Deer Valley and we submit our other weeks to THIRDHOME and they do the rest!
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
We’ve stayed in some amazing places that we likely would not have been able to do so easily. Now that we’re both retired, we’ll be able to take even greater advantage of last minute travel opportunities (no Keys) and plan for more travel overall.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
Staying at Mr. DeVere’s charming Cotswold cottage and to absorb the history in pure comfort made it the best trip to this part of England that I’ve ever had and I’ve been regularly traveling to the UK since I was a child.
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
Being able to stay in high-end luxury properties all over the world and to enjoy the local scene!
How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?
Much more like home. It makes traveling easier when you know you’ll have what you need available at your fingertips.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
If you want to expand your travel experiences and stay in some amazing places, do it through THIRDHOME!
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
John always loves The River Cafe in London and we have our favorite Indian restaurant there too. We were also recently in Sonoma for the holidays and had some memorable meals in Sonoma and Napa.
Any travel tips for fellow members?
We always pick up a Christmas ornament on our travels so we have a wonderful tree of memories!
Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other THIRDHOME members?
So far, nothing compares to the ease of use, quality of the properties and the overall value with THIRDHOME.
Based out of Dublin, Ireland, Michael Johnson and Jane Forman love using THIRDHOME to travel the world. Their coastal South Africa home has taken them to New Zealand and Australia. Learn how Michael and Jane use THIRDHOME to enhance their travel lifestyle.
Waipapa, Golf Course North Island, NZ
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
We were recommended by members of THIRDHOME based in Canada.
Where are you based?
Dublin, Ireland
Who do you usually travel with?
We like to travel together as a couple.
What do you do for a living?
I am now retired.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Local Cultures, sightseeing, foodies and golf.
Queenstown, South Island, NZ
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
New Zealand and Australia were very special, we planned a long trip and stayed in a range of THIRDHOME member properties over a period of 3 months – this was the trip of a lifetime made possible in part by other THIRDHOME members.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
We have a number of trips already booked in the system, Arabella in South Africa, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Marabella in Spain.
Waipapa, Golf Course North Island, NZ
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
We know we have a lovely home in a great location that is very popular with members who enjoy what we have and that gives us a really good feeling.
Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other THIRDHOME members?
We get the type of guests who respect our home and are generally experienced in travel and protocols, we have never had a problem with THIRDHOME members as they are just like us!!
Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?
Being able to retire early enough to enjoy long trips and visit exotic places has been a real achievement.
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
It lets us stay in wonderful homes in super locations, we can visit places that otherwise may never have been on our radar and brings us luxury travel at affordable levels.
Janet on a helicopter tour to see the Great Barrier Reef
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
We have stayed in some truly spectacular properties that have everything you could ever want and one in particular in New Zealand had a wonderful master suite.
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
Luxury is generally how we describe our experiences – properties live up to our expectations or exceed them, and the vetting and assistance from THIRDHOME staff is fantastic.
Michael and Janet’s view of The Great Barrier Reef
How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?
It’s home away from home, and the standards are very high and locations are special, we have not found that consistently elsewhere.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
If you have a high-quality property that you wish to use for the purpose of traveling to similar quality properties in great locations, THIRDHOME is the best possible option.
Abel Tasman, South Island, NZ
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Mudbrick Restaurant and Vinyard on Waiheke Island in Auckland, New Zealand. The food and ambiance was just fantastic.
Any travel tips for fellow members?
We found that building a “war chest of credits [Keys]” allowed us to stay in THIRDHOME properties on a road trip type basis and this is a great way to assist organizing complex itineraries.
Pelican Point, Western Australia. 6 iron, 158 yards.
Members since 2013, Wendy and Yaron Yaniv have used THIRDHOME to go on several trips around the world. Their most memorable, to date, is a two-week expedition through South Africa. Keep reading to see why the Yaniv’s love traveling through THIRDHOME and for pictures of their South African safari trip!
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
I’m an investor.
Where are you based?
Atlanta / Tel Aviv
Who do you usually travel with?
Family / Friends
What do you do for a living?
Real Estate / Consulting with Start-Up Companies
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
International travel, diving, biking
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
South Africa – Tsheshepe safari lodge Welgevonden Reserve.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
Jamaica – with other THIRDHOME friends.
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
The entire experience: the staff, the surroundings, the service, the lodging.
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
We do look at THIRDHOME options when choosing our travels, especially as we are much more flexible with our travel. We enjoy being able to invite friends to share these travel experiences with us.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
Full staff at the property.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
I describe it as the “Sotheby’s” of private, exclusive rentals [home exchanges] in the world.
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Nelson’s Eye – best steak restaurant in Cape Town (casual but an icon in Cape Town)
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Go! Don’t wait!
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
We know that we will be staying at a well-cared for home and the owners have been very pleasant to work with.
Check out pictures from the Yaniv’s safari below:
Based out of Park City, Utah, for the past 20 years, the Mazonne’s know a thing or two about luxury homes. Mike works in real estate in Park City, and through his relationships in the industry learned about THIRDHOME. Now the Mazzone family have the ability to trade their world-class ski weeks for stays around the globe. Get to know THIRDHOME members, Mike and Robin Mazzone!
Who do you usually travel with?
I usually travel with immediate family.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
My favorite travel hobbies are playing golf and diving.
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
My favorite destination was St. Maarten, through a TradeWinds yacht experience.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
I want to visit Cabo San Lucas in April.
Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?
Time with our 12 and 15-year-old boys is priceless.
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
There is excitement in just knowing we can visit all these amazing places. Wandering the website is a stress relief!
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
Walking out to a beautiful surf beach in Punta Mita.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
It is an incredible opportunity.
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Tuna Blanca in Punta de Mita
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
The people.
How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?
You have room to roam.
MJ and Dee Jennings, Texas natives, have been members of THIRDHOME since 2011. In that time, they have racked up 31 trips. That’s a little over 5 trips a year! The Jennings family are true jet-setters. Get to know MJ and Dee Jennings, and how they travel with THIRDHOME, below.
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
I received a phone call from someone at THIRDHOME that was interested in my condo on Lake Travis in Austin TX in late 2011.
Where are you based?
Dallas, TX
Who do you usually travel with?
Husband, girlfriends, as well as brother and sisters family.
What do you do for a living?
Fundraising.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Exploring the area, active fitness activities, tasting the local foods, taking pics and walking everywhere I can.
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
I just booked my 32nd trip. My favorite was a Malibu Beach home because it was insanely luxurious on Malibu Cove, a close second was Iceland as it was such an amazing adventure, and my repeat favorite is Turks and Caicos where I go as often as possible – the most beautiful beach in the world.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
I want to find a THIRDHOME to stay in South Africa before I venture off on a safari!
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
Every single guest takes care of it as if it was there own. In fact, because they are so pleasant it only wants me to make their stay so much more enjoyable.
Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?
Because of THIRDHOME and the money we have saved, we splurge on adventure activities such as taking a helicopter to the top of a glacier and hiking the glacier tunnel, hiking the mountains of Malibu, swimming with sharks in Turks and Caicos, sliding down a mile long slide in Costa Rica, and even sent 2 family members on their honeymoons!
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
Completely! I always look online to see what I WOULD have paid for a THIRDHOME should I have actually paid more than a small exchange fee and some (or no) Keys. I am almost embarrassed to share, but I bet I am close to saving $200,000 since 2012. I plan a year in advance watching properties that I really want, or, if I have a free month I always take advantage of the 30-day Keyless properties.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
A 50-foot yacht in Miami for free.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
For only $495, you can stay at a 2.5 million dollar home for a week anywhere in the world. All you have to do is give up one week at your second home.
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Probably a local Icelandic one – a tiny little house with the most unbelievable fish soup I have ever tasted.
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Be active on the site, save your favorite properties so they pop up in your email when something comes available and check the site for the newest properties.
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
The properties are hands down top of the notch luxury or if not, it is all about location, location, location!
How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?
For so many of the properties, the owners seem to always make sure we have everything we need – almost like a personal butler!