Written by Alex Ruelase

Privacy and safety

This might be a bit obvious, but waking up in the morning to find yourself in your own tropical hideaway is hard to beat. Private villas’ core offer is just that: privacy – having no one to bother you and absolutely nothing to worry about. Do what you want and enjoy that unspoiled Caribbean bliss.

Further, in times like these, it is hard to over-emphasize the importance of staying safe. A vacation rental is a controlled environment, a safe space for you and your loved ones. And of course, there is no reason you can’t go out and explore the most popular spots of the destination. But do so knowing that you have a completely safe and private place to return to.

Choose the perfect neighborhood

While hotels are usually located close to popular tourist areas, vacation rentals offer a much broader range of possibilities. And even though some travelers might want to be close to the hippest bars and restaurants, others, especially when on a family trip, might appreciate the peace and safety of a residential neighborhood. 

It is not hard to find a villa in an upscale area or even a gated community that offers a wholesome family atmosphere. Every destination in the Riviera Maya, from Cancún to Tulum, has neighborhoods where locals are respectful of other’s personal space and keep the streets nice and tidy. Insider tip: These quiet parts often have the best beaches, too. 

Bring everyone together. And give them space

When you go on a family holiday, you want some quality time together. And vacation rentals are ideal places to find it. Aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, well, everyone can have a great time going to the beach, spending time by the pool, and gathering around the BBQ.

However, when it is time to rest and find some privacy, everyone should have that, too. Holiday residences can create a homely atmosphere and, at the same time, provide everyone with the right amount of personal space. Bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms –and often gorgeous bathtubs– can become peaceful shrines even with a full house. And with enough beds for the whole family, everyone can stay together and still get the repairing holiday they are craving. 

Customize your services

Every group is different. Actually, everyone within a group is different. So, it is crucial to have services that can adapt to individual wants and needs. 

Services within villas are highly varied and customizable. Having a private chef, for instance, radically opens up the menu to accommodate all tastes and all ages. It is also handy to have an Experience Host always ready to help you with anything. Whether someone needs an in-villa massage or a surfing lesson for the children, they will make it possible. 

Enjoy a wide range of activities

Talking about a fully personalizable holiday, staying in a private villa allows you to tailor your itinerary to include everyone’s wishes. That is the job of your Experience Host, who will put together a travel plan that suits your group perfectly.

Through them, you have access to countless activities. If you have come to relax, you might be looking for a day at the spa and then maybe going shopping for a bit. If you feel active and adventurous, why not visit an archeological site, go on a snorkeling tour, or explore the jungle on ATVs. And children will no doubt enjoy going to a water park with exciting slides and fun zip lines. Maybe you want to do all of it and still get some time to enjoy the beach. The point is, after this bespoke travel experience, everyone will go home more than happy.