Travel: How to land your dream summer villa holiday in 2024

Aerial drone view of swimming pool at a villa

Sun-kissed beaches, drinks by the pool or strolling in the sunshine, now that Easter is behind us, many of us have started dreaming of an ideal summer holiday.
Indeed, new research shows that as many as three-quarters of Brits are planning a holiday this year, with over two-thirds (67%) more likely to travel abroad compared to 2023. And while many holidaymakers might opt for their usual hotel stay, all-inclusive resort or apartment getaway, it seems that one type of accommodation has been gaining traction more than others in recent years.
Villas have been rapidly growing in popularity, likely a result of the pandemic when their self-contained nature was favourable. Articles highlight that villa holidays were booming last year, and they are also expected to continue to be popular in 2024 and beyond.
James Mannings, CEO and co-founder of luxury accommodation provider Top Villas, said: “Compared to hotels and smaller accommodation options, villas provide the essential amenities and much-loved comforts for people looking to explore new destinations around the globe, especially for big parties of friends or families. Villas blend privacy and seclusion with facilities that have been made to accommodate larger numbers, making holidays all the more possible for these groups.”
The company has over 20 years of experience in offering and arranging villa getaways across the world for large groups. And with reports highlighting that multi-generational holidays are on the rise and group travel has been trending, villa holidays may appear to be the more promising and appealing option for many.
In light of this, James has shared the essential knowledge that holidaymakers need to know to plan a villa getaway, as well as some villa options in Europe and beyond for those in need of inspiration this 2024.

Why You Should Book a Villa?
Compared to booking a hotel or resort stay, James shares that there are a host of benefits to choosing a villa getaway that many travellers may not have had the opportunity to consider.
Their increased space compared to hotel options is unmatched. Often offering several indoor and outdoor shared and private spaces – from living and dining rooms to patios and games rooms, they can comfortably accommodate parties of all sizes.
For large groups in particular, this offers freedom for people to have alone time to recharge their social batteries, as well as moments where everyone can socialise and congregate happily without having to be separated across several accommodations.
But, should you want several separate accommodations set together, many villa providers can often arrange homes that are next to each other, or side by side, for groups of families or friends.
Privacy
The increased privacy and security of a villa rental are also impressive, James explains, with much investment being funnelled into ensuring guests feel safe on their getaways. “You’ll often find that villas have their own high-grade security systems or that they’re situated in gated communities with security and surveillance on-site, allowing guests to have complete peace of mind whilst on their holidays.”
As a result of all of the above, villa rentals tend to offer better value for money compared to alternative accommodation options. Not to mention that almost all villa options are self-catering too, allowing guests to get even better value for money by saving considerably on dining out thanks to these facilities.

The booking process
According to James, the villa booking process “could not be simpler” in 2024. Many independent villa rental agencies offer a wide selection of properties to choose from in destinations across the globe.
Not to mention that you can also filter your search for a whole range of specific amenities and facilities, which James states “allows for every detail to be catered to what you would want during your stay.”
Should you need support during booking, select villa agencies have planners who are more than willing to share their expertise and support you in finding the best option for you and securing your stay. “Travel planning services are a special offering that select villa agencies have, with dedicated travel planners who can chat with you on the phone or via email to help you secure your villa getaway – we offer this here at Top Villas. It’s a service that we would recommend to all.”
You can book with your chosen villa rental agency via their websites to secure a stay. Alternatively, a more personal service like booking over the phone is offered by select agencies, including Top Villas.

TOP VILLAS TOP PICKS

When it comes to the secrets for how to have a good holiday, James Mannings of Top Villas has a number of tricks and tips.
Plan Far in Advance
Firstly, ensure that you plan your holiday as soon as possible, particularly if you’re going to be travelling during a peak time of the year, like summer and bank holiday periods. “The best properties are always booked up far in advance, so be sure that you’re securing your favourite accommodations at least three months before your intended date of arrival.”

Choose A Location Wisely
When you’re choosing a villa, there’s much more to it than just having the property that has everything you’ll need, as where it’s situated can make or break the experiences you have on your holiday. For example, families who want to keep children entertained will benefit from a villa in a resort with facilities like water parks, golf courses and kids clubs.
Make The Most of Your Kitchen
According to James, self-catered villas are great for saving on the cost of eating out all of the time, and cooking can make for a great activity to share the load between you and your party, or even entertain children by baking and making other delicious treats.

FACTFILE

For more info and to book, visit
www.thetopvillas.com