These pads are so swanky you'll want to move in.
Airbnb is no longer the sole domain of locals offering up a room in their humble abode. From a Provencal farmhouse with a heliport to an entire lodge in South Africa, here are just some of the toniest properties up for rent.
For a true Moroccan experience, stay at the 10-bedroom Riad Farnatchi located in the Medina, a maze of souks and a glimpse into an older way of life. Guests enjoy round-the-clock concierge service, breakfast, a rooftop terrace, and, wait for it — a full-service spa, complete with massage rooms and a marble hammam. The entire riad goes for as much as $4,000 a night, but did we mention the spa?
Koh (also Ko) Samui is the poster child for Thailand tourism, and its white sand beaches, dazzling turquoise waters and palm-tree kissed island are home to some of the most exclusive properties. What sets this villa apart, besides the private beach, are the six bedrooms surrounding a meandering swimming pool. Other highlights include outdoor dining with meals cooked by your own private chef. Rates trend upwards of $2,800 a night, but divide it by 12 and it’s pretty reasonable.
Sure, France is loaded with castles, but how often do you get a chance to stay at a Provencal farmhouse? The eight-bedroom Ulysse, as it’s called, covers all the bases: Home theater? Got it. Grand piano? Of course. And let’s not forget the heated swimming pool, pool house, tennis court and landscaped gardens. The $10,000 a night stone manse is situated just outside the ancient village of Gordes in Southern France. In case you’re concerned that it’s too remote, the onsite heliport should allay those fears.
This breathtaking villa overlooks one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and reportedly belonged to the famed Medici family in the 15th century. The $3,500 a night price tag includes a butler, buffet breakfast, pool and solarium. Villa staff can even arrange yoga and cooking classes, horseback riding and more. Dreaming of throwing a destination wedding? In that case, the ornate property can accommodate up to 25 people and host up to 120 guests.
Saint Barthélemy, commonly known as St. Barts, has long been a favorite of the jet set, and offers no shortage of $10,000-a-night listings on Airbnb. However, the insane ocean views throughout are a differentiator in this 7,000-square-foot space, including from all six bedrooms. Other highlights include an infinity pool that appears to extend into the Caribbean, and a fitness room filled with a stationary bike, treadmill and weightlifting equipment. While there’s no direct beach access, a sandy path winds down to a horseshoe-shaped cove. This pad can be rented for as little as $3,330 a night during the low season, but prepare to shell out about $19,000 a night if you and your squad want to work on your tan during the winter holidays.
Consider this glass-faced retreat a next-level ski chalet. The ski-in, ski-out estate in a gated community provides all the needed luxuries for a ski trip, from a hot tub and heated garage to a fire pit and wine cellar. There’s even a concierge service so you don’t have to be bothered with renting ski equipment or shopping for groceries to make in the gourmet kitchen. If you’re lucky enough to attend the Sundance Film Festival in January, rates push $8,695 a night.
Santorini’s iconic white Cycladic architecture is an endless draw for honeymooners and high society. Escape the crowds in the capital city of Fira by holing up at the Nafsika Estate in Megalochori, a seaside village dating back to the 17th century. The five-bedroom property boasts a swimming pool with a front-row view of the Aegean Sea, a clean minimal aesthetic, and an outdoor kitchen. It rents for as much as $9,255 a night, but sadly that doesn’t include a private chef or poolside massage and yoga classes (which can be arranged). If it helps, the price does include a private helipad.
If you’re going to splurge on an African safari, you might as well go all out by renting an entire lodge with five others for about $4,500 a night. The upscale Izingwe Lodge is tucked away in Limpopo, South Africa, on the Welgevonden Game Reserve, a malaria-free zone that includes the Big Five (lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards and buffalo). Odds of spotting wildlife are helped by twice-a-day game rides, which are led by an experienced safari guide. Although don’t rule out spotting the Big Five at other times, since even elephants have been known to wander onto the property. Speaking of the latter, the lodge includes a full-time staff from a chef to housekeeping, while onsite amenities encompass a fitness center, infinity pool, soaking tubs and outdoor rain showers.
Pretend you’re a celebrity by staying with your entourage at this nine-bedroom estate in Bel Air. A commercial kitchen, enormous pool and, yes, a vineyard are just some of the over-the-top features you’ll find here. Inside, expect to be dazzled by museum-worthy works of art and a wine cellar. This rental averages $10,000 a night, but goes up to $14,500 on holidays and weekends.
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