What are THIRDHOME members saying about their luxury home exchange trips to Texas and Virginia?
THIRDHOME Exchange members recently returned from Spicewood, Texas and Moneta, Virginia. Keep reading to learn more about their relaxing luxury outdoor getaways!
Firesong Ranch and Glamping | Spicewood, Texas
Resting peacefully on 16 rolling acres, Firesong Ranch is a truly unique Texas Hill Country gem just outside of Austin, Texas. With 1800 square feet of living space, this ranch includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a gorgeous kitchen, large common spaces, and unbelievable outdoor patio views. Take glamping to the next level and enjoy one-of-a-kind rustic luxury.
THIRDHOME member James says, “The pictures are great, but both Ndotto and the Casita look even better in real life! The property is immaculately maintained and beautifully appointed. If you are looking for a wonderful, luxurious, private getaway that is above and beyond your expectations, this is the place to stay. We now consider (hosts) Dawn and Jim friends and are grateful to be connected to them via ThirdHome.” Click here to read more of James’ review.
Smith Mountain Lake | Moneta, Virginia
Escape into this charming lakefront residence surrounded by trees and panoramic views of Smith Mountain Lake. The home can easily accommodate from 10-12 guests, making this stay the perfect relaxing family getaway. Enjoy outdoor activities within this residence and its location, including a hot tub, kayaks, paddle boards, fishing rods, swimming, and more.
THIRDHOME member Rishi says, “We enjoyed every moment of our family vacation in this home. The home was comfortable and welcoming and the hosts very available for any questions/concerns. The lake was excellent, with this quiet cove perfectly suited to families for swimming, lounging, fishing, and motorized & non-motorized sport. We would love to stay here again!” Click here to read more of Rishi’s review.
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What are THIRDHOME members saying about their luxury home exchange trips to Austin, Texas, and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico?
Arrive – Playground Estate | Austin, TX
The Playground Estate is one of the best entertaining residences in all of Austin! This gorgeous five-bedroom home offers complete luxury and a wonderfully serene location close to the heart of the city. Resting on 3,500 square-feet and boasting stunning luxury furnishings, this home is surrounded by a bright green oasis that allows you to unwind and relax. There are endless games and excitement throughout the property. The whole family can relax poolside, kick around on the soccer field or shoot hoops on the court! Each and every guest will be entertained their entire stay.
THIRDHOME member Margaret says, “This lovely home was the star of our family reunion. The yard was the icing on the cake. Our grandson, happily enjoyed the pool slide, played basketball, evening soccer practice on the turfed field, immediately followed by jumps on the trampoline. The well stocked kitchen was my person favorite, but the lush bedding & plush towels ran a close second.” Click here to read more of Margaret’s review.
Casa Arrecifes | Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Casa Arrecifes is your own private oasis located on a private peninsula. With panoramic views overlooking the turquoise-blue, Pacific Ocean, this home offers 4 bedrooms for guests to enjoy. The natural rock formation along the beach serves to break the waves and provides a constantly changing perspective of the sea. Your astonishing private beach lies just beyond the floor to ceiling windows! Casa Arrecifes is any beach goer’s dream home.
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next THIRHOME Exchange trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
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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
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!
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 SWITZERLAND AND TEXAS) THIS WEEK?
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.
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.
Welcome to the land of slow-blowing tumbleweeds, legendary gunslingers, notorious outlaws and big steer. Welcome to the American West; soaked in history since before the days of Lewis & Clark, the American West has emerged into the 21st-Century as one of the country’s richest cultural regions. THIRDHOME‘s Travel & Concierge department has crafted stays for properties in Arizona, Texas and New Mexico. Each property is paired with special events, cultural discoveries and optional outings, all catered to your traveling preferences.
GIDDY-UP AND RIDE WEST WITH THESE EXCLUSIVE STAYS IN ARIZONA, TEXAS AND NEW MEXICO
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA- SPIRIT OF THE WEST
Start your Arizona adventure from the comfort of this Southwest-style luxury home located in the Dester Mountain community of Scottsdale. This 4-bedroom property excels in outdoor space. The pool, hot tub and fire pit are a natural draw for guests, especially under Arizona’s unobstructed night sky.
Visit this exhibition of equestrian majesty at the Arabian National Breeder Finals Horseshow. Watch world-class stallions breeders compete for grand prizes in their class while taking in the beauty of the WestWorld Scottsdale facility.
After taking in the beauty of Arabian horses, you have the option of going to The Western Spirit of Scottsdale Museum, which will be exhibiting The Rennard Strickland Collection of Western Film History. This collection features historic Western film posters, lobby cards and other film related memorabilia dating back to the 19th-Century. Osage and Cherokee art is also featured in this wide assortment of Western art.
Finish out your Exclusive Stay in Arizona’s great natural beauty by enjoying some outdoor recreation. Go hiking, mountain climbing, explore ancient adobe dwellings or go on a desert jeep tour. The options are limitless and catered to your traveling preferences. This Exclusive Stay is during the week of September 8-15, 2017.
Click here to book your Spirit of the West Exclusive Stay.
AUSTIN, TEXAS- HOOK-EM HORNS Y’ALL
Stay at this gorgeous Texas Villa while visiting Austin, one of Travel+Leisure‘s 2017 top cities in the United States. This property comes with ample amenities and features three pools, a full-service spa, restaurants and a bar, access to 5 golf courses and boat rentals at the Lakeway Marina. This property can sleep up to 8 Texas Longhorn fans at a time.
You’ll get to watch the Longhorns pummel the San Jose Spartans from the 45-yard line, at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on September 9! With four seats on the 32nd row, you’ll get to witness all the excitement up close.
Cool off with special access to Lakeway Marina’s boat rentals. With a wide selection of jet skis, party barges, pontoons, ski boats, runabouts, paddle boards and kayaks you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make the most of your lakefront property.
Finish out your Austin vacation with a Swedish massage at Lakeaway Resort & Spa. The Travel & Concierge department can also arrange Texas BBQ outings, brewery tours, wine tasting trips and night excursions. Don’t just travel to Austin, travel to an Austin that’s hand tailored to you. This Exclusive Stay is during the week of September 8-15, 2017.
Click here to book your Hook-Em Horns Austin Exclusive Stay.
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO- INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FESTIVAL
Travel + Leisure just named Santa Fe one of the World’s Top 15 Cities for its pueblo-style architecture, local culture and old-world aesthetic. You’ll be stepping into the past with this 1920s adobe-style bungalow in Santa Fe’s Historic Eastside while experiencing one of the most beautiful aerial spectacles in the world.
Inflate your imagination at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The event lasts all week with morning and evening options for attendance. Watch lasers dance across the sky during the laser light show followed by the mass ascension of balloons into the New Mexico sky. With Rainbow Ryders balloon company, you’ll have the opportunity to fly in one of these spectacular balloons. You will also have Rail Runner tickets and shuttle service coordinated for your trip to Albuquerque through your travel concierge.
When you’re not flying over the New Mexico landscape, you’ll be observing its beauty from street level. Established in 1610, Santa Fe is the country’s oldest state capital. The city has done a tremendous job at preserving the structures that create its colonial appeal. Shop for Native American jewelry and pottery along the Palace of the Governors, or visit Santa Fe’s Museum of Fine Arts to see a collection on par with the New York Met. Between all the art downtown and the entire district of Museum Hill you’ll have many chances to take in some of the country’s best artwork and culture.
As always, there’s so much more that can be booked through the Travel & Concierge department. Hot springs soaking at one of Santa Fe’s all-natural luxury Spas is a wonderful way to experience the rugged beauty of New Mexico’s countryside. You can also visit the cliff dwellings of the Pueblo Native Americans, golf, take private yoga sessions, join a food tour or take an authentic local cooking class. This Exclusive Stay is during the week of October 7-14, 2017.
Click here to book your Santa Fe Balloon Fiesta Exclusive Stay.