What are THIRDHOME members saying about their luxury home exchange trips to Scotland and South Africa this week?
An Cos | Torridon Highlands, Scotland
“An Cos”, meaning “The Hollow” in Gaelic, is a unique and wonderful getaway in the Scottish highlands. The home overlooks the village of Shieldaig with incredible views of the Isle of Lewis. An Cos is a cozy residence that features 5 bedrooms and under-floor heating throughout! Open log fires give a relaxing ambiance to the master bedroom, the main family room and study. You can even enjoy dinner with fellow guests out on the back patio and take in the beautiful views and surrounding greenery. If you’re interested in getting outside during your stay, kayaking, boat trips, fishing and cycling are all very popular. An Cos won’t disappoint on any level of majestic luxury!
THIRDHOME member Annie says, “We stayed a week at An Cos with our grown up children, their partners and baby grandson. The house is even more gorgeous than it appears in the photos, spacious, warm and comfortable, with a gratifyingly well-equipped kitchen.” Click here to read more of Annie’s review.
Magnificent Home in St. Francis Bay | St. Francis Bay, South Africa
This Magnificent Home in St. Francis Bay, South Africa is a luxury residence like no other! Resting on 8,000 square-feet, this one-of-a-kind villa looks out over shimmering ocean waters and the Humansdorp Mountains. With rustic, hardwood floors and other smooth wood finishes, the island-inspired interior will make you feel right at home. This home offers 4 large bedrooms all with lavish king-sized beds for pure relaxation at the end of each day. If you’re interested in visiting the town, plenty of delicious seafood restaurants are available as well as local shops. St. Francis Bay offers amazing views, cuisine and the ultimate South African holiday!
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THIRDHOME Exchange members have recently returned from Carlsbad, California and Vaalwater, South Africa. Keep reading to learn about their THIRDHOME experience.
Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara | Carlsbad, California
If you’re looking for poolside relaxation and resort amenities, look no further than the Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, in North San Diego County. These beautifully appointed residences can sleep up to 4 people and feature a full kitchen, breakfast bar, living area with fireplace and dining area. A short walk away you’ll find a variety of swimming options for both adults and children. Head down to the Driftwood Spa and experience three-uniquely designed treatment rooms to fully unwind during your stay. The resort concierge is at your beck and call and can help arrange beachside activities, golf outings, tennis matches and much more. But you won’t have to go far for great golf. Aviara Golf Club, designed by Arnold Palmer, was named one of the best courses in America by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine. You won’t want to miss this hidden Carlsbad gem during your next California holiday.
THIRDHOME member Lisa says, “Love this trip!!! To escape the Texas heat, I jumped at the chance to stay at the Four Season’s Residence Club. We stayed in the 1 bedroom premium villa for 2 back to back weeks! It is everything you would expect from a Four Seasons property.” click here to read more of Lisa’s review.
Tsheshepe Game Lodge | Vaalwater, South Africa
Venture to South Africa for the trip of a lifetime. Tsheshepe Big Five Game Lodge is located within the 7,500 acre Welgevonden Game Reserve. This reserve is famous for its first-class safari experience and the high likelihood of viewing members of the Big Five (Lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and water buffalo). The reserve is also a world-class birdwatching destination and features a rich assortment of indigenous flora. The safari lodge itself can sleep up to 10 people and features open living spaces, a pool, gym and several vantage points for wildlife spotting. Tsheshepe’s staff will escort you around the reserve in the specially converted 4×4 game viewing land cruiser. Tsheshepe Big Five Game Lodge is truly where luxury and the wild meet.
THIRDHOME member Renee says, “This was an epic trip for our family of 3 and some friends. We loved the experience at TSheshepe Lodge…If you ever have wanted to do a safari please come here…We were so sad to leave this amazing new set of friends we have made. Thank you, Steve, for putting this on THIRDHOME for a trip we will never forget.” click here to read more of Renee’s review.
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next THIRDHOME Exchange trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
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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.
WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO Virginia AND South Africa) THIS WEEK?
Luxury Mountain Home | Virginia
Enjoy a cozy mountain getaway on the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains with this Wintergreen Resort home. This property sits on 11,000 acres of resort property which features hiking trails, streams and serene forests. Wintergreen Resort is a top-notch four-season vacation destination, offering activities like skiing, golf, tennis, spa treatments, zip-lining, archery and mountain biking. With room for 8 people and a game room, this home is perfect for a family retreat. Virginia might be the next great ski destination you weren’t expecting!
THIRDHOME member Miwon says, “Loved Shawn and Janice’s lovely, inviting, warm and well-stocked home in Wintergreen…We spent everyday skiing during the day, then returning to a warm fire in the fireplace, and hours of friendly games with the family. The easy setup of this home made it possible for us to create many days and nights of lovely family memories that we will cherish.” click here to read more of Miwon’s review
Tsheshepe Game Lodge | South Africa
Welcome to 75,000 acres of game reserve in the heart of South Africa. Witness Big Five wildlife, like the rhino, lion, hippo and elephant, while staying in luxurious accommodations. The lodge’s fully staffed service will make your stay one to remember. Game drives are offered in the afternoon and evening, while meals are prepared for you back at the lodge. Spend the day sunbathing alongside the pool while admiring surrounding nature. The Tsheshepe Game Lodge can accommodate up to 10 guests, so be sure to bring some friends to witness all the excitement!
THIRDHOME member Sam says, “The Tsheshepe Lodge was amazing! We had the best time. The scenery could not have been more picturesque. Seeing baboons, monkeys, and an elephant from the deck was a treat. The staff at the lodge was so accommodating…It was a trip of a lifetime.” click here to read more of Sam’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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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:
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!
What are THIRDHOME members saying about their luxury home exchange trips (to South Africa and France) this week?
Cape Winelands Villa | Paarl, South Africa
Situated in the Franschhoek Valley, South Africa’s “Food & Wine Capital”, Cape Winelands Villa is a gorgeous 4-bedroom property with access to some of the finest dining in Africa. Only 30 minutes away from Cape Town, this operating wine estate offers privacy and proximity to some of South Africa’s greatest attractions. If you don’t have the spirit of a Sommelier, you might visit the local lion sanctuary or Simons Town’s coastal penguins. Brandy, cheese, and beer tastings are also common pastimes for visitors. If history is your calling, visit Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela was kept for 18 years. But with the gorgeous ensuite bedrooms, outdoor lounging area and pool, you might have trouble convincing yourself to leave.
THIRDHOME member Laura says, “The views of the vineyards are stunning! Security is top notch in this gated community. The only low on our trip was having to leave! We enjoyed our time in this special place and each of us hopes to return someday soon. I highly recommend reserving a week at this home if you want the best Cape Winelands region experience!” click here to read more of Laura’s review.
Le Fresnay | Cambremer, France
This 1560 manor and farmhouse in rural Normandy is a collision of fairytale-like scenery and French history. Set in the bucolic fields of Cambremer, these three buildings can accommodate up to 10 guests. The interior has maintained a great deal of the original stone and woodwork, but many rooms such as the kitchen have been updated with modern appliances, allowing you to be steeped in history while maintaining contemporary luxuries. Le Fresnay is only a few kilometers away from Normandy’s renowned Cheese Route and Cider Route. It is also the perfect launching point for history buffs looking to explore Omaha Beach and other Allied landing points during WWII.
THIRDHOME members Peter and Nancy say, “The massive structures with rough-hewn beams truly transported us in time to an era that predated anything we had experienced in the States. Being eight hearty New Englanders we were captivated by the somewhat primitive but bucolic setting that allowed us to experience Normandy’s countryside the way we felt it should be, without superficiality and artificial trappings…central to our positive experience was Le Fresnay.” click here to read more of Peter and Nancy’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