Vrbo exec says travelers have new 'confidence,' defends coronavirus refund policy
Vrbo is fitting the bill for customers who are looking for close-by getaways during the coronavirus pandemic as restrictions ease.That's why the short-term rental service is fitting the bill for customers who are looking for close-by getaways, Vrbo president Jeff Hurst told USA TODAY in an interview. Summer travel plans might have involved longer flights or trips to island destinations. But now families feel stuck where they live and are looking to take a break and are hesitant to take longer trips.
TurnKey is different from vacation rentals like Airbnb and HomeAway in one unique way. Instead of dealing directly with the homeowners once you book, TurnKey operates as The more than 350,000 properties are allow travelers authentic and affordable private accommodations, and the site is
Here are the best vacation rental companies, plus some of the best places to visit in the US. Airbnb is one of the most widely recognized and used sites for booking vacation homes. Every listing is also run by Turnkey ' s management company as opposed to just the owners, which means guests
When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. Learn more.
© Turnkey Turnkey - Travelers are increasingly choosing home-sharing platforms to book vacation home rentals given their relative safety over hotels since you can minimize contact with others.
- Among the many platforms available in the marketplace, such as Vrbo or Airbnb, TurnKey Vacation Rentals stands out for its large, well-appointed homes with thousands of listings in top US destinations.
- Here's everything you need to know about how TurnKey works, what makes it different from other platforms, how to book, cancellation policies, and more.
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Many Americans have returned to travel in some measure as the pandemic continues, though the methods they're selecting may be different than in the past. Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb have reported an uptick in booking private vacation home rentals when compared to this time last year.
11 Charming Houseboat Rentals for a Social-Distance Summer Trip
Planning your next trip is smooth sailing with these floating getaways on Airbnb and Vrbo.
(Unlike those dubious apartment listings .) More options, more locations. However hip it may be with millennials, Airbnb is a little late to the luxury rental Onefinestay has also offered luxury properties since 2009, with the added benefit of vetting these properties in person to ensure that guests walk
And while the vacation rental industry has been around for way longer than Airbnb has been in existence, distribution channels such as Airbnb , Booking and VRBO have made it that much easier for travelers to book these In turn, travelers today expect more than ever from these types of stays, too.
The trend is largely due to the fact that private homes can be safer than hotels given the absence of encounters with other people, which eliminates the virus's primary mode of transmission. Indeed, infectious disease experts agree it's the safer choice.
And the options to consider are plentiful. Airbnb, Vrbo (which now includes HomeAway), and Marriott Homes & Villas are just a few of the popular outfits to book vacation homes. It's important to identify the platform right for your individual preferences and concerns before booking.
For those seeking a higher-end stay — and who are prepared to splurge on it in some cases — that platform might be TurnKey Vacation Rentals.
TurnKey lists thousands of homes in popular US travel destinations and — unlike many other platforms — vets each of these properties to ensure a hotel-like experience and standard.
How safe are Airbnb and Vrbo vacation rentals right now?
A road trip to an extended stay offers a chance to get a change of scenery, give the kids space to run around, and have some semblance of a summer while continuing to avoid crowds. But, we asked Airbnb and Vrbo how safe it is to book a vacation rental right now.What are the rental companies doing? © Provided by CNN Riverfront Getaway in Cle Elum, Washington
All are top-rated Airbnb and Vrbo listings located throughout the Outer Banks with a review score of 4.6 or higher. Each property has a variety of appealing Rentals near the beach are generally more expensive and homes often come with minimum stays and cleaning and service fees, which are not
See why Airbnb ( and other vacation rental websites) suck for everyone but themselves. Safer, cheaper, more ethical short- and long-term rental sites. What to do if you’re a neighbor, tourist discriminated against, long-term Sites like Airbnb don’t require their rentals to be like legal hotels .
Here's what you need to know about TurnKey, why it might be right for your next trip, and how to go about booking.
What is TurnKey Vacation Rentals?
Founded in 2012 and based in Austin, Texas, TurnKey Vacation Rentals is a full-service vacation rental property management company for premium and luxury-level rental homes in top travel destinations across the country.
The idea is to offer more of a hotel-like experience for guests, as well as full-service management, and a marketing platform for hosts.
Unlike Airbnb or Vrbo, TurnKey offers only pre-vetted listings. It also handles management details centrally, using a standardized set of tech tools. That means users can expect a higher baseline for customer service, cleanliness, and quality than from other sites that lack this pre-approval process.
"We manage premium and luxury vacation rental properties in top destinations across the US, and we inspect them and manage them ourselves to make sure they meet our high standards for cleanliness, comfort, and service," says TJ Clark, TurnKey president and co-founder, explaining the vetting process. "When evaluating a property for our program, we consider the comfort and design of the home, as well as the unique amenities and locations that make the home highly desirable to travelers."
6 safer, expert-backed ways to take a vacation during the pandemic, from road trips to private vacation homes and remote campsites
If you're seeking a safer vacation choice during COVID, we rounded up every idea we've covered for close to home options based on expert advice.With summer in full swing and many states easing restrictions around the novel coronavirus, US travelers are eager to get out of their homes and hit the road — safely.
The insurance is what I am the most confused about. Short term tenants are way more likely to damage the property , and all it takes is the insurance company googling the address to know it was being rented out on Airbnb as a hotel , and thus not covered ( hotel insurance is expensive as fuck).
Direct — versus more than 300 on Airbnb , the largest home-sharing site with over seven million “The real question is scale and can these other folks compete with Airbnb and Vrbo on a booking The vetting process for listings includes an actual or a virtual walk-through by Golightly staffers to
The platform lists approximately about 5,500 homes around the country in 55 destinations and is fast growing, adding about 200 properties each month.
On the host side, this makes it the second-largest property management company in the US (after Vacasa), providing the listing platform and marketing as well as guest support and home care.
On the guest side, visitors can contact the company directly for support. There are local teams in every market to ensure properties' readiness, standards, and provide quick attention to guests' needs.
TurnKey is also a partner of Homes & Villas by Marriott International — which means select TurnKey properties can be listed on the Marriott site, which in turn allows Marriott Bonvoy members to earn or redeem points when booking a vacation rental. Though, this is not true of every property. If you're interested in staying in a Marriott home or villa, you may read our explainer of the platform here.
© Turnkey Turnkey How is TurnKey different from other home-sharing platforms?
In addition to only featuring pre-vetted homes, TurnKey also distinguishes itself in the marketplace by guaranteeing tech-enabled homes as a way to provide a more consistent and reliable guest — and host — experience.
Everything to know about vacation rentals, including the best booking platforms, COVID-19 safety info, and the best places to go in the US
Home vacation rentals may offer a safer travel alternative than traditional hotels since you can book entire homes. Here are the best vacation rental companies, plus some of the best places to visit in the US.The novel coronavirus has disrupted travel plans across the globe. Even as some states and countries lift restrictions and continue phased reopenings, other states are experiencing spikes and seeing the highest number of cases yet. Not to mention the recent EU ban on US travelers entering.
Renting through a local vacation rental gives you zero protections - even less than VRBO . If the owner cancels on you, then you are the ones on the hook Any company other than HomeAway, VRBO and Expedia would be companies like FlipKey/TripAdvisor Rentals or AirBnb . In my experience , these
Here you can find some information on how to setup your listings on Airbnb on another Quora answer I posted. This is why I use a property management company (Pillow Homes, hey Kelly!) that specializes in managing short-term vacation rentals on Airbnb and other major booking sites.
The company's proprietary smart home technology includes time-coded digital locks, in-home tablets, noise decibel monitors, automated scheduling of housekeeping, and more.
Clark explains that TurnKey invests more than $5,000 in each home that joins the program to add these features. "These are TurnKey services provided at our own expense."
For example, TurnKey's digital lock is installed on every TurnKey home with codes that are generated automatically and sent via SMS to guests, cleaners, and service providers. This also allows for a contactless, socially distant check-in process.
The noise monitors detect excessive decibel levels and will trigger a text to the guest or to local TurnKey staff, who will dispatch to the home to make sure homeowners avoid damage and neighbors are undisturbed.
Also, for hosts, Wi-Fi log-on monitoring notes when guest log-ons exceed the guest's agreed-upon number of occupants, triggering a text to the guests or staff as well.
In addition to these key tech differences, TurnKey also enacts a singular cancellation policy and cleaning protocol enforcements across all homes. Typically, these differ from listing to listing on other platforms without a universal expectation. On Airbnb, for example, it's up to the host to decide and implement their own cancellation and cleaning policies, and resulting fees, which can vary dramatically from home to home.
Everything you need to know about staying at an Airbnb right now
Airbnb has grown tremendously since its inception in 2008. What started as a couple of roommates renting out air mattresses in their apartment has transformed into a major force in the travel industry with over 7 million homes and rooms available for rent around the globe. Unlike chain hotels that have pretty set brand standards, …Unlike chain hotels that have pretty set brand standards, your experiences with Airbnbs can vary wildly from place to place. Aside from the differences in types of accommodations and amenities, you’ll notice variations in booking and cancellation policies, check-in protocols, cleanliness standards, customer service and more.
"TurnKey is a company founded on the belief that there's a smarter way to manage vacation rentals for both guests and homeowners," Clark says. "Guests should expect a consistent, fine-hotel experience in every home, every stay, every time. And owners should expect high standards for care without paying exorbitant commission rates. So we've developed our own smart technologies that integrate with our exceptional local and national team members."
How do I book through TurnKey Home Rentals?
TurnKey properties are available to book directly on the platform's website. They also are marketed across more than 50 vacation rental sites and may appear on sites such as Expedia, Vrbo, Airbnb, Booking.com, FlipKey, and more, making them easy to find and identify for most travelers online.
On their own website, prospective travelers can search directly for properties in their desired location. Similar to other platforms, TurnKey's site allows travelers to refine their searches using filters such as location, date range, and the number of guests. Additionally, more nuanced filters for pet-friendliness and other specific amenities are available.
Like most other platforms, TurnKey offers travelers the chance to read reviews written by past guests, which are accompanied by rankings on a scale up to five stars. On TurnKey, 90 percent of guest reviews are four to five stars.
© Turnkey Turnkey What is the average cost of a TurnKey property?
As with all home-sharing platforms, home rates on TurnKey vary widely by a number of factors including the season, home size, amenities, and location.
These Tiny Cabins Outside of Laurel, Mississippi, are Officially on Our Bucket List
These cabins are worth getting off the couch for, even when a Home Town marathon is on. © Provided by Southern Living airbnb.com Tucked away just 20-minutes from downtown Laurel, the secluded property is surrounded by acres of Southern pines and well-manicured grounds. The four on-site cabins named “Home Sweet Home,” “Hey Y’all,” “Lakeside Pines,” and “Bless Your Heart” sleep 6, 8, or 10 people in upscale yet rustic “glamping” fashion.
Consider some examples in popular destinations. This Palm Springs desert area listing includes a four-bedroom main home as well as two casitas, a waterfall pool, and a putting green for a total resort-like experience fit for large groups. The compound starts at $950 per night.
Or this ultra-hip smart home in Venice beach that looks and feels like a hotel, with chic furnishings, four bedrooms, and more than 3,500 square feet of living space. It starts at $825.
While those tricked-out examples are pricey, they're geared towards groups, which actually often offers more value than booking multiple accommodations.
TurnKey also offers properties in a range of price categories. Consider this ocean-view one-bedroom getaway fit for a couple, or this modern two-bedroom beach condo, both starting around $200 and located on Maui, where real estate and lodging are notoriously expensive. That rate is likely less than what you'll pay for a smaller hotel room.
What are TurnKey's cancellation policies?
As mentioned, the TurnKey cancellation policy is a blanket one that applies to all bookings.
If a guest books more than 30 days in advance of check-in, TurnKey requires a 10 percent down payment to reserve the home. All bookings made more than 10 days in advance are fully refundable if the guest cancels the booking within 72 hours of the time of booking.
After this cancellation period expires, all guest payments are non-refundable. As it's a small window, guests may purchase travel insurance, including "cancel for any reason" policies in order to mitigate risk.
Unlike other platforms on which the cancellation policy varies by host, TurnKey offers this as a standard policy.
However, it should be noted that because TurnKey markets its properties across more than 50 listing sites, another site may require TurnKey to choose one of its existing cancellation policies. In these cases, the platform selects the one that most closely resembles its standard cancellation policy. So, if you have your heart set on a TurnKey home, but need flexibility in your plans, it might help to shop around to see if you spot it elsewhere.
10 Best Hawaii Airbnbs From Honolulu to Kona
Bookmark these magical Airbnbs for your next trip to Hawaii.There are plenty of beautiful resorts to book across the island chain. But if you’re traveling with a large family or desire more privacy, renting an Airbnb is key for a comfortable and relaxing trip. Although most islands have slightly different laws about where vacation rentals can operate and require owners to obtain a permit to operate, renting an Airbnb in Hawaii is legal. (But it’s best to stick to properties that include a license number in the listing to be sure.
© Turnkey Turnkey Where is TurnKey available?
TurnKey operates in more than 80 US destinations, including beach, mountain, urban, desert, and leisure areas. Many are within a few hours' drive of major metropolitan areas.
These markets include California, Colorado, Florida, and Texas. Additional markets dot other states such as Alabama, Arizona, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
What are TurnKey's COVID-19 policies?
TurnKey photo-verifies homes are professionally cleaned with products approved by the EPA for use against COVID-19. This happens through its GuestWorks system, which requires professional housekeepers to follow a stringent set of cleaning standards, customized for each home.
In response to the novel coronavirus, TurnKey rolled out enhancements to this system, including updated checklists with more rigorous requirements for cleaning high-traffic areas and high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, handles, and light switches. Every home on the platform enforces these policies.
In addition to the enhanced cleaning protocols and photo-verification practice, TurnKey also implemented a temporary 24-hour hold between guest stays on bookings in May and June for an added level of safety.
TurnKey's tech-based system has always allowed for contact-free entry through keyless access codes, a notable safety feature amid the coronavirus crisis.
As a COVID enhancement to that practice, TurnKey promises neither its team members nor vendors will visit the property when either a guest or owner is present in it during the pandemic.
Everything else you need to know about booking safe vacations during COVID-19
- Everything to know about vacation rentals, including the best booking platforms, COVID-19 safety info, and the best places to go in the US
- Is travel safe? We interviewed experts on risks associated with flying, booking hotels or Airbnbs, renting cars, and more, plus ideas on safe vacations during COVID-19
- Are Airbnbs safe? We spoke to experts, a company representative, and an Airbnb host to share everything you should know before booking someone's home
- Everything to know about Airbnb Plus, including how listings are vetted, if they cost more, and if it's worth it
- Airbnb announced vigorous new cleaning protocols for hosts in response to COVID-19. Here's how to know if the listing you're considering is participating — or not.
- Which is safer: Airbnb or hotels? Here's what doctors say
- Airbnb vs. Vrbo vs. HomeAway: Here's how each vacation home rental service works, plus their cancellation and coronavirus policies
- Everything to know about home rental site Vrbo, including how it works and what makes it different from Airbnb
- Marriott Bonvoy also includes private vacation home rentals through its Homes & Villas platform — here's how it works plus top rentals available to book in the US
- 4 safer summer travel ideas based on expert advice — public charters over commercial flights, private home rentals over crowded resorts, and much more
- Expert tips for taking a safe, socially distanced road trip
Read the original article on Business Insider
Gallery: Marriott Bonvoy also includes private vacation home rentals through its Homes & Villas platform — here's how it works plus top rentals available to book in the US (Business Insider)
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Marriott Bonvoy also includes private vacation home rentals through its Homes & Villas platform — here's how it works plus top rentals available to book in the US
When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. Learn more.
- As travel resumes following the pandemic, many travelers are booking vacation rentals, which have seen a surge since April, and make it easy to practice social distancing.
- For those seeking a hotel-like experience in a private home, Marriott Bonvoy's Homes & Villas by Marriott International includes over 2,000 homes in over 100 destinations worldwide.
- All homes are professionally managed and must pass certain standards of quality, service, and design with 24/7 customer support, professional cleaning, and desirable amenities.
- Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and redeem points on all Homes & Villas by Marriott International reservations.
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Marriott Bonvoy is renowned for its robust portfolio of hotels that includes breathtaking properties around the world from luxury brands such as St. Regis, The Ritz-Carlton, and Edition, as well as familiar and trusted names like Renaissance, Westin, Sheraton, Courtyard, and many others.
However, you may be less familiar with their home rental platform, Homes & Villas by Marriott International, which is their entry into the short-term rental space, operating thousands of homes in over 100 destinations around the world.
And it's certainly a good time to get to know the platform. As restrictions around the country start to lift following COVID-19, and travel cautiously resumes, many travelers are looking for domestic accommodations that follow proper social distancing. Vacation rentals, in particular, are especially attractive for this reason and experienced a recent surge in demand this spring. This is likely because medical and hospitality experts generally consider private home rentals to be a safe bet (safer than hotels, in fact) because there is generally less direct person-to-person contact. Of course, without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee on safety, and it's crucial to follow guidelines from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, wear a mask, wash your hands, and maintain social distancing.
Marriott's home rentals blend the comfort of a traditional hotel stay with all the amenities of a private home, unlike platforms such as Vrbo or Airbnb, which are traditionally someone's personal home or guest house that is rented out from time to time.
All Marriott homes are professionally managed to ensure they meet Marriott's standards of quality, design, and service. Expect design-forward and impeccable lodgings like waterfront bungalows, luxury villas, cozy cabins, and sleek penthouses.
I tried Homes & Villas by Marriott International for the first time during the pandemic when my girlfriends and I needed a change of scenery during quarantine. As a travel writer, I normally prefer hotels over home rentals simply because I like being able to request extra shampoo on a whim, ask the concierge for local advice, and mingle with other travelers in common areas. However, given the current state of travel, I too felt that staying in a private home rental came with less risk.
My friends and I shared a Los Angeles home I found on the Homes & Villas by Marriott website that was a 3,615 square foot, 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom property near Point Dume in Malibu. The reservation was comped for review, however, the rate for our weekend dates was $930 per night. While expensive, when split between multiple people, it actually offers surprising value. Here's everything you need to know before you decide to book, too.
What is Homes & Villas by Marriott International?
Homes & Villas by Marriott started in 2018 as a pilot program in Europe under the brand name Tribute Portfolio Homes, intended to speak to the evolving needs of travelers that like to travel together and prefer to stay in a home with multiple bedrooms for more than three nights.
According to Marriott, over three-quarters of travelers who used the platform during the pilot program were traveling for leisure with friends and family. In May 2019, the company launched in the US. Today, it operates in over 100 destinations worldwide. The portfolio focuses on premium and luxury tier homes that are generally owned by a frequent traveler, and primarily used as a vacation home.
The homes listed are all vetted by Marriott's trusted property management partners that include national, regional, and local companies selected for their expertise. These companies work directly with homeowners to ensure the homes are up to Marriott's standards of quality, design and service. Some of these property management companies include AvantStay, Turnkey Vacation Rentals, LaCure, London Residents Club as well as existing hotel operators like Mainsail Lodging, CPG, and Reserva Conchal.
Homes that are selected to be part of Homes & Villas by Marriott International include the likes of waterfront bungalows, luxury villas, cozy cabins and penthouses. The homes are thoughtfully curated to with amenities such as in-home games, a wood-fire pizza oven, a private pool, or a children's playroom with a climbing wall. They each have their own unique features that are well-suited for group gatherings.
Check-in is usually contactless and done through a lockbox code, which is provided in an email after you've booked your reservation. The email will also include a house manual to help navigate home amenities and features like lighting, washer and dryer, and Wi-Fi.
Every listing on Homes & Villas by Marriott International is guaranteed to include the following:
- 24/7 support provided by Marriott's carefully selected property management companies
- 24-hour check-in either in-person or through a touch key-pad
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Television
- Kitchen essentials (cookware, utensils, microwave)
- In-unit washer
- Premium linens and towels, all expertly laundered
- Bathroom amenities (toilet paper, shampoo, conditioner, soap)
- Hair dryer
- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors where fuel-burning appliances are present
- Professional cleaning pre- and post-stay
- Child-friendly items upon request, such as high chairs and travel cribs
I found check-in to be super easy and convenient. I couldn't access the Wi-Fi network with the password provided, but management was quick to reply and replace it with a new password that worked. I also recommend checking with the property manager for certain kitchen utensils you might anticipate needing. For example, tea bags were available in the home I stayed in, but there was no kettle to boil hot water. I contacted management and they delivered one the next morning. Pantry basics (i.e. olive oil and ground pepper) were also not included in the home I booked, which meant having to make a supermarket run. Listings only mention kitchen essentials, which can be subjective, so it's best to confirm with the property manager if you have specific requests.
Where is Homes & Villas by Marriott International available?
Homes & Villas by Marriott International currently has 2,000 highly-curated, luxury homes and villas and operates in over 100 destinations in the United States, Europe, Caribbean, Middle East, and Latin America.
Locations have been selected to represent areas where Marriott Hotels doesn't have a major presence, such as small ski towns like Big Bear and Aspen, remote islands like Anguilla and Turks and Caicos, and European regions that aren't heavily commercialized, like Lake Como or the Amalfi Coast.
Over one-third of the markets are new destinations to Marriott's portfolio, so if a Marriott hotel is not present in the area, a private home rental under the Marriott brand may soon be available.
How do I book and can I use and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points?
Anyone can book a Homes Villas by Marriott International directly from their website, however, reservations can't be made through Marriott.com, which is still primarily reserved for hotel bookings.
Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and redeem points at all of the properties within Homes & Villas by Marriott International, which is a nice perk that most other home rental sites don't offer. Bonvoy members earn five points for every qualifying $1 USD spent. You can filter listings by Bonvoy points, price, number of guests or bedrooms, and home features like a pool, building elevator, and pet policy.
Once you book a property, you'll receive a confirmation email from Homes & Villas by Marriott International with the assigned property management company and contact information, payment details, and the cancellation policy. You'll receive a separate email with home details and the property address.
What is the average cost of a private home rental?
The average cost for booking a vacation home on Homes & Villas by Marriott International depends on the location and specific property. However, all homes listed require a three-night minimum and the average length of stay is five nights for an average price of about $2,000 per reservation.
Because these homes tend to be large, upscale, and luxury-leaning, with multiple bedrooms, the price reflects that tier of accommodation. Therefore, it might prove too costly for couples or solo travelers who require a more intimate space.
How does Homes & Villas by Marriott International differ from other home rental sites?
There are many different home rental options available to travelers looking to book a vacation home including Vrbo, HomeAway, and Airbnb among others. Homes & Villas by Marriott International is backed by a well-known, global hotel brand, which is one of the main differentiating factors that make it stand out to travelers who might feel otherwise hesitant to stay in a private home.
A few of the other differentiators between Homes & Villas by Marriott International and other home rental sites include:
- While there isn't a place to write or read past reviews, the homes are highly-curated and vetted by professional management companies. Only entire premium and luxury homes are listed (no guest bedrooms, or partial house listings, etc.).
- The luxury lean of the collection means these homes are typically quite large and more expensive than other home rentals, however, there are some budget-friendly options, depending on the location.
- Homes are professionally managed by an experienced property management partner rather than the homeowners themselves. Some already operate Marriott hotels and provide 24/7 support, a professionally cleaned home, high-speed Wi-Fi, premium linens and amenities, and other items on request.
- Unlike other platforms, Marriott Bonvoy members may earn and redeem loyalty points.
What are the COVID-19 policies?
Each property listing shares details of their cleaning protocols, and additional updates regarding the Homes and Villas by Marriott International COVID-19 policies have been shared on the website.
Overall, the company has increased sanitization between reservations using hospital-grade solutions and provides all staff with personal protective equipment. Marriott is ramping up three main areas:
- Education: Training and equipping partners with proper disinfection protocols
- Enhanced standards: Providing partners with revised cleaning standards
- Equipment: Partnering with vendors to provide state-of-the-art equipment to clean homes
Marriott also created a Marriott Cleanliness Council to redefine cleaning standards across Marriott hotels and homes. However, since each home is managed by a separate property management company, there is no real way to ensure consistency across the board.
What are the cancellation policies?
Homes & Villas by Marriott announced updated cancellation policies to offer additional flexibility in response to COVID-19.
For reservations made after May 6, 2020, with arrival dates on or before August 31, 2020, guests may cancel up to 10 days before arrival and receive a refund in their original form of payment. However, a $75 credit card processing fee will be deducted (this does not apply to redemption bookings).
In order to qualify for the refund, reservations must meet the following criteria:
- Guests must notify management of cancellation 10+ days prior to arrival.
- Length of the stay must be less than 15 days.
- The home has a 14, 30, or 60-day cancellation policy (90-day cancellation homes are excluded).
- Select homes may be excluded - see the home listing to confirm.
Guests must contact the property management company listed on their confirmation email to initiate the cancellation.
For reservations made prior to May 6, 2020, the standard cancellation policies apply, which vary for each home and are outlined in each individual listing. These are determined by individual properties and management companies.
Would I book it again?
As someone who normally prefers a hotel over a home rental for the convenience of on-site customer support, amenities, and higher cleaning standards, I really enjoyed my stay with Homes & Villas by Marriott International and would definitely book another home in the future. The home looked just like it did in the photos and any issue or question I had was immediately resolved, and management was quick to respond.
While Homes & Villas by Marriott International does require a minimum stay and rates are on the higher end compared to other rental sites like Airbnb, I still prefer Homes & Villas by Marriott because I can earn Marriott Bonvoy points, which is a huge benefit.
I also like that I didn't have to coordinate a meet up with the host to check-in as a lockbox code provided. While some travelers prefer the more personal interaction provided by an Airbnb Host, I prefer a more discreet experience where I don't see the owner's personal belongings in sight and still feel like I'm staying at a hotel.
With Homes & Villas by Marriott International, any request or issue is handled by a professional management company available 24/7, and the large accommodations make it a great fit for families and groups, though options for couples may be more limited or expensive.
These are some of the top Homes & Villas by Marriott International in the US right now
According to Marriott, the most popular homes in the US to book right now are located in the Hamptons, Florida, Carolina beaches, mountain escapes in Tennessee and North Carolina, and coastal hideaways in California. Here's a closer look at some standout properties, available to book now.
Read the original article on Business Insider
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Book this Hilton Head, SC home starting at $286 per night
A newly remodeled home with vaulted ceilings, brand new appliances, and a chic living area, this laidback, snug home is part of the Sea Pines Resort, which grants guests access to the beach and the Sea Pines Beach Club. The resort also has three golf courses less than 5 miles away. Though, there's plenty within the confines of the home itself such as a lovely pool, hot tub, and secluded backyard with outdoor dining, a hammock, and chaise lounges.
This home sleeps up to 14 guests between three bedrooms and two sleeper sofas. The home has availability to book starting in August throughout the rest of the year.
Pros: There is a complimentary trolley that will take you to the beach and/or Sea Pines attractions.
Cons: The home doesn't have any games or added features like some of the other homes listed on Homes & Villas by Marriott, and gate/vehicle passes are required to gain access to Sea Pines Plantation and are available for purchase for $10 daily or $22 weekly.
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Book this Montauk, NY home starting at $526 per night
This tranquil oasis in Montauk is the quintessential beach house in the Hamptons with ocean views from every room and a stunning pool area. The two-story, Nantucket-style home boasts high-ceilings and tons of windows for natural sunlight flanked by a 2,200 square-foot deck. Dip in the pool, make a meal in the chef's kitchen, or simply read a book on the hammock at this rustic, casual home that offers a ton of privacy.
The home is booked up for the rest of the summer, but availability opens up starting in the early fall.
Pros: Beautiful ocean views and a prime location near Montauk beaches and shops in downtown Montauk. The home is equipped with an art studio, a movie theater, and a pool.
Cons: Pets are not allowed. The home is excluded from the flexible cancellation policy and has a 60-day cancellation policy in order to receive a full refund.
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Book this Paso Robles, CA home starting at $623 per night
The best part of this home might just be the massive backyard filled with games like a sand volleyball court, shuffleboard, bocce ball, and a swim-up bar. Though, the views of the nearby vineyards are pretty spectacular, too. Be sure to try some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon that Paso Robles is known for.
Dubbed "The Mermaid," inside, this quirky home includes five bedrooms under high ceilings, a full bar area, statement lighting fixtures, arcade games, and a centerpiece fish tank designed by the team behind the HGTV show, "Tanked."
The management company notes they are taking extra care to follow CDC and WHO guidelines for travel during the pandemic, and availability is intermittent for summer, with wider available beginning in the fall.
Pros: The home is located on a slightly elevated mountain, which offers spectacular views during sunset. Wineries and restaurants are just a short 10-minute drive away.
Cons: The pool and hot tub are not heated and incur an extra charge to do so.
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Book this Gatlinburg, TN home starting at $731 per night
This magnificent three-story estate is comprised of over 6,000 square-feet with seven bedrooms (six master suites), two full kitchens, five balconies, three decks, a pool table, and three fireplaces. High wood-beamed soaring ceilings and plush furnishings can comfortably fit up to 25 guests.
Tucked into the mountainside, it's like staying a dreamy log cabin, if your idea of a cabin includes top-tier luxury. The home is certainly sprawling but the lush grounds are spread across a generous 1.61 acres and include a pond, gazebo, and firepit with views of Mount Le Conte.
While booking is limited in July, it opens up beginning in August.
Pros: A good choice for large groups traveling together, reunions, or special occasions.
Cons: The home is massive and multi-level so it wouldn't be a fit for smaller groups who want a more intimate home.
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Book this Santa Rosa Beach, FL home starting at $848 per night
This cozy home is surrounded by nature and features a private pool, outdoor kitchen and fireplace, and is walking distance to white sand beaches.
With four bedrooms, the home can sleep 12 guests, and also provides access to the nearby WaterColor Beach Club, which includes a family swimming pool, kids' pool, sun deck, and open-air bar.
This home is widely available to book from August onwards.
Pros: Guests have access to the nearby WaterColor Beach Club, and the home is walking distance to town and beaches.
Cons: The private backyard offers privacy but lacks views.
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Book this Malibu, CA home starting at $998 per night
This is the five-bedroom home I booked, which was a quaint hideaway with ample room for a large group or family. The home was made for entertaining with an open-kitchen design, and plenty of outdoor seating areas to enjoy the lush surroundings.
I was drawn to this particular house because of the location, outdoor terrace, and firepit that overlooked the Pacific Ocean. I also appreciated the open kitchen since I knew we would spend a lot of time cooking.
This home currently is fully available to book.
Pros: There are a lot of indoor and outdoor seating options for large groups including a private terrace as well as an outdoor firepit. The home also has a bocce ball court and pool table.
Cons: Basic kitchenware and cooking supplies like a tea kettle, olive oil, and ground pepper were not included. The landscaping could have been better manicured and overall, the house can use some upkeep. The home is also located on the busy Pacific Coast Highway which made it hard to find and you do hear some traffic inside the house.
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Book this San Diego, CA home starting at $1,011 per night
While expensive, this stunning waterfront home sleeps 12 with four bedrooms and includes standout features such as retractable windows for indoor-outdoor living and alfresco dining.
The beach and boardwalk are both a short walk, and the home provides beach goodies such as boogie boards and a kayak in addition to indoor games and activities like a foosball and ping-pong table, outdoor bar, barbecue grill, and fire pit.
The management company notes they are taking extra care to follow CDC and WHO guidelines for travel during the pandemic, and bookings are widely available beginning in August.
Pros: Ideal for families with kids or large groups who love to stay active, or want to be near the beach. Bedrooms offer idyllic views overlooking the bay.
Cons: The downtown Gaslamp Quarter with restaurants and shops is a 20-minute drive away. The home is excluded from the flexible cancellation policy.
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10 Best Hawaii Airbnbs From Honolulu to Kona .
Bookmark these magical Airbnbs for your next trip to Hawaii.There are plenty of beautiful resorts to book across the island chain. But if you’re traveling with a large family or desire more privacy, renting an Airbnb is key for a comfortable and relaxing trip. Although most islands have slightly different laws about where vacation rentals can operate and require owners to obtain a permit to operate, renting an Airbnb in Hawaii is legal. (But it’s best to stick to properties that include a license number in the listing to be sure.
Vrbo is fitting the bill for customers who are looking for close-by getaways during the coronavirus pandemic as restrictions ease.That's why the short-term rental service is fitting the bill for customers who are looking for close-by getaways, Vrbo president Jeff Hurst told USA TODAY in an interview. Summer travel plans might have involved longer flights or trips to island destinations. But now families feel stuck where they live and are looking to take a break and are hesitant to take longer trips. 
Planning your next trip is smooth sailing with these floating getaways on Airbnb and Vrbo. 
A road trip to an extended stay offers a chance to get a change of scenery, give the kids space to run around, and have some semblance of a summer while continuing to avoid crowds. But, we asked Airbnb and Vrbo how safe it is to book a vacation rental right now.What are the rental companies doing? © Provided by CNN Riverfront Getaway in Cle Elum, Washington 
If you're seeking a safer vacation choice during COVID, we rounded up every idea we've covered for close to home options based on expert advice.With summer in full swing and many states easing restrictions around the novel coronavirus, US travelers are eager to get out of their homes and hit the road — safely. 
Home vacation rentals may offer a safer travel alternative than traditional hotels since you can book entire homes. Here are the best vacation rental companies, plus some of the best places to visit in the US.The novel coronavirus has disrupted travel plans across the globe. Even as some states and countries lift restrictions and continue phased reopenings, other states are experiencing spikes and seeing the highest number of cases yet. Not to mention the recent EU ban on US travelers entering. 
Airbnb has grown tremendously since its inception in 2008. What started as a couple of roommates renting out air mattresses in their apartment has transformed into a major force in the travel industry with over 7 million homes and rooms available for rent around the globe. Unlike chain hotels that have pretty set brand standards, …Unlike chain hotels that have pretty set brand standards, your experiences with Airbnbs can vary wildly from place to place. Aside from the differences in types of accommodations and amenities, you’ll notice variations in booking and cancellation policies, check-in protocols, cleanliness standards, customer service and more. 
These cabins are worth getting off the couch for, even when a Home Town marathon is on. © Provided by Southern Living airbnb.com Tucked away just 20-minutes from downtown Laurel, the secluded property is surrounded by acres of Southern pines and well-manicured grounds. The four on-site cabins named “Home Sweet Home,” “Hey Y’all,” “Lakeside Pines,” and “Bless Your Heart” sleep 6, 8, or 10 people in upscale yet rustic “glamping” fashion. 
Bookmark these magical Airbnbs for your next trip to Hawaii.There are plenty of beautiful resorts to book across the island chain. But if you’re traveling with a large family or desire more privacy, renting an Airbnb is key for a comfortable and relaxing trip. Although most islands have slightly different laws about where vacation rentals can operate and require owners to obtain a permit to operate, renting an Airbnb in Hawaii is legal. (But it’s best to stick to properties that include a license number in the listing to be sure. 
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