[View of Matajagui, a luxury villa in St. Barths, Caribbean] If the walls of the home are the bread of a luxury villa rental, amenities are the butter that serves to complete the place, and knowing what they are and what each is for can help you make the most of your vacation. Here are some of the most common amenities found in luxury villas and some guidelines on their enjoyment.
Air Conditioning: Much more common than not, air conditioning is essentially a standard feature in villa rentals that helps to adjust the temperature if it’s not quite comfortable for you. However, particularly in places like the Caribbean, the air conditioning may never truly become necessary. Locales such as St. Barths villas are often constructed to take advantage of natural cooling winds that serve to make the heat of the islands much more bearable. For a true Caribbean experience, you may find it better to leave the Air Conditioning off… but if circumstances are such that you need it, chances are it will be there for you. Audio Systems: Also a fairly common component of villa rentals, audio systems allow you to play music throughout the house, usually via CDs or iPods. If you’re missing the comfort of home, this can be a great way to connect with something familiar, or you can use it to play mood music to enhance a romantic dinner or simply provide a gentle background song for your stay. Fitness Facilities: These are somewhat common; it’s normal to find them, but not surprising if you don’t. Fitness facilities are generally smaller rooms (some may be larger) with exercise equipment that can help you keep in shape even on a villa vacation. If you’re concerned about staying fit while on vacation, access to one of these is a convenient way to set your worries aside. Television: Most villas have this in some form, but what you can actually watch will vary by location. Some villas have cable, others have satellite, and some may play only local-language stations. If there’s a television channel you just can’t do without, consider inquiring to see if the villa you’re interested in offers that channel. Additional Amenities: Villas boast a truly impressive diversity of features, and may have amenities that are uncommon or even completely unique, based on the destination itself. It’s almost always worth checking out any additional things your villa may provide, though you should be on the lookout for extra costs that may be associated with them. They’ve got to keep a Wine Cellar stocked somehow, after all. Labels: Blogging, Travel, Vacation |