Destination Weddings

travelsense.org

Congratulations! You're getting married! Over the next year you will be making a million decisions about your wedding and honeymoon, and hopefully the process will be as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. One choice that many couples are making nowadays is foregoing the traditional idea of a wedding - a local ceremony in front of 300 family, friends and random strangers - for an intimate destination wedding.

A destination wedding, labeled by some as a "wedding moon," combines the wedding, reception and honeymoon together in one location. The destination wedding is held at a desirable site, sometimes tropical, other times exotic, allowing the guests to enjoy a relaxing, activity-filled vacation while spending more quality time with the wedding couple. The couple invites only their nearest and dearest to celebrate the union. All events occur over a long weekend, along with other wedding activities designed to bring the revelers together.

If it's hard to imagine what a destination wedding is like, picture this: you and your partner are in a warm, tropical setting, surrounded by friends and family toasting your success. The sounds of music and ocean waves peacefully blend together in the background, and a feast is prepared in your honor in the local traditions. Every single detail, from the setting of the service to the flowers, has been effortlessly arranged to suit your taste. And after the ceremony, you won't have to leave this breathtaking locale, for you'll have your honeymoon there as well.

To discover if a destination wedding is right for you, check out this advice from ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents). Some of the most travel-wise people in the world, ASTA travel agent members know that a special destination can make a special occasion extra special.

Reasons to Say, "I Do" to Destination Weddings

 

The Beauty of Package Deals - Tourism organizations, resorts and cruise lines offer wedding packages to keep a destinationwedding stress-free and simple. Some offer the complimentary services of their on-site wedding consultant to help coordinate the essentials, like your marriage license and an officiant. All you have to do is show up. Your travel agent can sometimes expand these package deals to include fun activities for you and your special guests, such as sightseeing excursions, snorkeling adventures or shopping trips.

Avoiding the Awkward Invites - Because destination weddings are generally intimate affairs attended by only your closest friends and dearest family members, you can avoid being forced into inviting cousin Matt with halitosis or your best friend Jenny's little brother you met once 10 years ago. You get to choose the level of intimacy you want for the ceremony and invite accordingly, or you can invite no one at all for a very romantic trip down the aisle.

No Reception with 250 People to Pay For - You do the math: 250 people, including co-workers and business contacts, at $75 a head equals too much money! A luxurious wedding weekend at a fabulous destination oftentimes costs less than a seated dinner at the local country club. Proper etiquette of a destination wedding calls for invited guests to pay their own airfare, while you'll pick up the tab for the lodging, food and beverages. You can add a few perks for your guests if feeling generous, such as gift certificates to nearby spas.

It's smart for a couple planning a destination wedding to contact a travel agent to negotiate a discounted rate for booking multiple rooms and group rates with airlines or cruise ships. If money is an issue, your travel agent can steer you toward domestic locations or countries with a favorable exchange rate.

No Extra Traveling Necessary - Destination weddings are perfect for couples with families and friends scattered around the country or even the world. If a good majority of your guests would have to travel to your hometown anyway, then getting married in a desirable vacation spot will make many of your guests happy.

Reasons to Think, "Maybe Not"

Long Distance Planning and Legal Red Tape

For those not getting married at a resort with a complimentary wedding consultant, you'll have to juggle all the small details yourself long distance. You might experience complications when trying to get a marriage license in a foreign country or even another state. Many places require marriage fees and residency requirements.

It's wise to hire a coordinator who specializes in destination weddings to help you navigate the twists and turns. A good wedding planner, like a good travel agent, can help keep costs in check by bargaining with vendors or utilizing professional relationships to obtain special discounts. The more exotic thelocale, the more necessary the wedding planner becomes. If at all possible, hire a local wedding planner who specializes in destination weddings, and let him or her work with an onsite planner. This usually does not translate into double fees, for the services of the local wedding planner are generally included in the overall price. 

Where's Granny? - While exotic locales are a great way to keep undesirables from attending your special event, it may also have the reverse effect with loved ones who may not be able to attend due to the expense, physical limitations or getting enough time off of work. Think about all the guests who are truly essential before deciding on the location. If money is an issue for your guests, simply tell them that their presence is the only wedding gift you need.

No Room for Impetuousness - With a destination wedding, advance warning and save-the-date cards are crucial. Send them off as early as possible, preferably at least eight months in advance, for your guests will need to work the trip into their budget and work schedules. Also, many guests, since they're suddenly planning to visit an exciting corner of the world, take vacations before or after the wedding. Fair warning gives them time to contact a travel agent and plan the perfect trip.

Crowded Honeymoon? - With your family around, will you be able to enjoy a private honeymoon with romantic alone time? If you want alone time, you'll have to schedule it. Arrive a few days before everyone else, which you may need to do anyway for marriage license requirements, or enjoy your honeymoon nearby on a different island or neighboring resort. If neither of these options is possible, plan fun activities, preferably of the all-day kind, to occupy your friends and family while you and your new spouse sneak away to a private beach or special restaurant.

I, Travel Agent, Take Thee (State Your Name) Anywhere You Want to Go

Once you decide a destination wedding is right for you, then say "I do" to a travel agent. Travel agents excel at making plans for multiple people from multiple locations, oftentimes at special, discounted group rates. Planning for the most important day of your life will be a wonderfully crazy time for you, so finding someone you trust to aid in your decision making will be a welcomed relief.

A good travel agent can save you money as well as time - two enormous factors for a couple planning their life together. Through their love of travel and reliable relationships with suppliers around the globe, travel agents specialize in providing personalized suggestions to suit both your dreams and your budget. Some travel agents can even set up a layaway plan, so you can make monthly payments for your special trip.

Wherever you decide to share your vows and spend your honeymoon, ASTA members want you to remember to pack a good attitude and simply enjoy your time together. With a little TravelSense, a few guidelines and some helpful tips, your destination wedding will lead to many, many destination anniversaries.

5 Things to Know About Renting a Car and Driving in Mexico

languagetrainers.co.uk/blog

Whether you’re headed to Mexico for business or pleasure, renting a car can definitely seem like a great way to see the sights on your own terms. But with different regulations and conditions, renting a car in Mexico becomes complicated. Before hitting the highways of Mexico, review our top five things to know for a smooth ride from Guadalupe to Guadalajara.



1. International agencies vs. local agencies. 

Mexico boasts the same rental car companies as found internationally: Hertz, Avis, and Alamo all offer their services alongside local car rental agencies. Prices vary between these international and local agencies, so be aware of each company’s costs. Local car rental agencies, such as Cactus and MTM, will cost between 5 to 7 USD per day for a compact, manual car. International agencies, however, will charge higher (8 to 10 USD) for a similar vehicle.

2. Mandatory insurance.

These seemingly cheaper rental costs come with, well, quite a high price tag. The culprit kicking up the costs? Insurance. Mandatory insurance can often double or triple prices and, by law, is something each driver must have. To ensure you don’t pay more than needed, request the 3 following insurances for your rental:

• Basic Personal Liability (covers injury or damage done to another driver)
• Supplemental Liability Insurance (not required, but recommended; at 13 USD per day you can be covered for basic fender benders)
• Personal Accident Insurance (at 4-7 USD per day, it covers you or your passengers in case of collision, but be sure to check with your health insurance to make sure they don’t already provide it)

3. Driving up to speed.

You’ve chosen your rental company and you know what insurance policies to add. Sounds like you’re ready to hit the streets! Before doing so, make yourself familiar with Mexico’s roads. Driving culture in Mexico differs drastically from most of the Western world, particularly when it comes to the difference in speed. Private vehicles, semis, and busses alike travel at neck-breaking velocities and, unlike in other highly-populated nations, police cars aren’t equipped with radars to control the limit. Also, it’s important to know that Mexico is one of the world leaders in speeding and drunk driving-related accidents –90% of which occur in the middle and low-income areas. Keep your own radar up while driving and pull over to the shoulder should you feel the need.

4. Getting pulled over.

Although your likelihood of getting pulled over by a cop is slim, there’s always a chance. At times, an officer may pull a foreigner over for no reason other than to threaten with a ticket – in hopes of receiving a bribe. Should it happen, know your options. Police officers are underpaid in Mexico and, for this reason, look for other ways to make up for their low salary. Always be sure to have some bills on hand – 20 – 30 USD should more than suffice.



5. Avoid the “newly discovered damage” scam.

Some rental companies may attempt to scam you for money. In some incidences, companies will charge renters for damages that the vehicle already had—be it a scratch on the bumper or a cigarette burn on a seat—just to charge the customer more.  The best way to avoid these scams is to rent from a verified agency and, should you notice damage upon arrival, take pictures of the car’s interior and exterior (with a time stamp on each photo) to have on record just in case the rental agency decides to pull a fast one.

Renting a car in Mexico can be tricky business, but arrive prepared and you’ll have no problem getting your hands on a decent vehicle during your stay. Understanding and speaking Spanish will allow you to easily analyze insurance contracts and review rental terms and conditions. Learn key phrases for your trip to communicate not only with rental companies, but also with police officers and locals as you travel through Mexico’s scenic routes.

10 Rules for Renting a Vacation Home

womansday.com

By Arricca Elin SanSone

Renting a vacation house is a family-friendly option for any budget. “With a whole house you get more amenities, such as a full kitchen, and more privacy than a hotel room,” says Alexis de Belloy, vice president of HomeAway.com. The biggest perk? A house rental is often 30 to 50 percent less expensive than a hotel.

 Add in the money you'll save by cooking for yourselves and having a private garage or driveway to park in, and it's a deal you shouldn't pass up. Plus, all that extra space will provide families with plenty of room to spread out and stay out of one another's hair—making for a very relaxing vacation. Whether you’re looking for beach, mountaintop or big-city accommodations, here’s everything you need to know before you rent.

1. Rent from a trustworthy source.

Check out established vacation home rental sites such as HomeAway.com,VRBO.com, VacationRentals.com and TripAdvisor.com, which offer homes rented directly through homeowners or professional property managers. Real estate companies in the area where you’re planning to vacation are another great resource; many located in large vacation rental markets offer seasonal rentals. You can also check a destination’s tourism website for links to realtors.

2. Start planning early. 

Many rental homes are booked months in advance, so it’s a good idea to pin down your dates as soon as possible to score the best location and amenities. Though “it’s really never too late to book, as you will find last-minute openings in many locations, the homes that families have visited before and loved or that have positive traveler reviews tend to book up quickly,” says Hank Hudepohl, director of vacation rentals for TripAdvisor. If you’re booking late, you can ask if there are any special deals. Some owners will offer discounts rather than let the home remain empty; you’ll typically have more leverage the closer it is to the arrival date. Photo: Shutterstock

3. Don’t be shy about asking questions. 

“Be as specific as possible,” says de Belloy. “For example, if the listing says the house is ‘close to beach,’ ask what that means. Do you cross the street or is it a mile away? Do you need a beach pass? Are there beach towels and chairs you can use?” Ask if linens are included; in some parts of the country they’re not a standard part of the rental. Find out how close you are to restaurants, grocery stores and drugstores. What’s the layout of bedrooms and how big are the beds? Do you need to bring your own crib? Is it OK to bring your dog (most rentals don’t accept cats), and is there a fee? Does the house have air conditioning? Finding out as much as you can beforehand will prevent unpleasant surprises once you arrive. Photo: Kindler, Andreas / Getty images

4. Ask for more photos. 

Most websites offer a few images of the exterior and interior, but it’s fine to ask for more. Request specific shots that show all bedrooms and bathrooms, the kitchen, seating areas and, if you're concerned about privacy, how close the home is to other houses. Focus on what’s important to you; if you want to spend lots of time outdoors, ask for photos of the yard and deck areas.Photo: iStockphoto

5. Look for traveler reviews. 

On many sites such as HomeAway.com and TripAdvisor.com, travelers who have rented a specific home can post reviews about their experiences (the rental period is verified by the website so not just anyone can write a review). “Traveler reviews are a good way to get additional feedback about a home and the overall rental experience,” says de Belloy. Owners are allowed to respond, but they can’t take down negative reviews, so you’ll get real renters’ perspectives. Photo: Stuart O'Sullivan / Getty Images

6. Do your own research. 

Look at lots of different properties so you can compare features and locations, then make a short list of your favorites. Talk to the home owner or property manager; they’re great resources for recommendations on restaurants, nearby attractions and day trips to help you decide if the home fits your needs. Finally, be sure to get the exact address before booking; you can check it out on a site such as Google Maps, which often has street and bird’s-eye views to give you another look at the house and its surroundings, says Hudepohl.

7. Understand the terms before committing. 

Most vacation rentals are rented by the week from Saturday to Saturday. But occasionally you’ll find weekend or daily rentals available in big cities, says Hudepohl. Also, some rental properties are discounted if you stay for more than one week. When you're ready to reserve the house, usually, you’ll place a deposit to hold the dates, then pay the balance 30 to 60 days before arrival. Refundable security deposits may also be required in case you damage the property; they range from $300 to $500. Most owners accept checks or PayPal for payment, with an increasing number now accepting credit cards. Cleaning fees (typically around $100 to $150 per stay), pet fees and local sales tax may also apply. Photo: Shutterstock

8. Ask for a rental agreement. 

“The contract should spell out specific details such as how much money is required to hold the reservation as well as how much the security deposit is and when and how it will be returned,” says de Belloy. You’ll also want to get a copy of the pet policy, if applicable, and the cancellation policy so you’ll know what to expect if you have to change your plans. Many owners offer a refund minus a small cancellation fee; some offer a full refund if they can find other renters for your original booking dates. Photo: Epoxydude / Getty Images

9. Consider insurance policies. 

Some websites, such as HomeAway.com and VRBO.com, offer property damage polices. Owners can choose to offer you the policy, which you purchase through the rental website for a small fee instead of having to put down a security deposit. The cost depends on total rental fee but runs approximately $50 on a $2,000 rental. There’s also a rental guarantee policy, starting at $39, which reimburses you if anything goes awry with the rental itself, such as the house is inadvertently double-booked or the owner wrongfully withholds your security deposit.

10. Plan ahead for unexpected circumstances. 

You’ll usually be greeted by the owner or property manager to receive the key. But make sure you have a contact number, too, for the remainder of your stay. “You want to know who can assist you if the kitchen sink clogs or you lock yourself out,” says Hudepohl. When you arrive, walk around and look at the property. If something is wrong, such as a broken window, call the owner or property manager immediately. Most owners are quick to respond because they want you to have the best possible vacation experience so you’ll book again next year. Photo: iStockphoto

9 Tips for Finding a Reliable Vacation Rental

By Christopher Elliott
Tribune Media ServicesJune 3, 2010


Renting a reliable vacation home isn't easy. 

And not just because there are a seemingly endless number of rental resources to turn to -- everything from local sites that list a few condos to big listing services like HomeAway or VRBO. 

For me, it's the politics. 

This summer, for example, I told my mother that I planned to rent a condo on the beach. Within two days, my sister and brother had invited themselves over, boosting our numbers from five to more than 30. 

A rental home can save you a lot of money when you're on vacation, as I pointed out in an earlier column. But this one would almost certainly cost me a lot more. 

There are an estimated 1 million vacation rentals in the United States, roughly half of which are available to the general public, according to numbers from The National Association of Realtors and FlipKey. A recent PhoCusWright study estimated vacation rentals were a $24.3 billion-a-year market, while a Ypartnership survey suggested interest in renting a home was on the rise, with 14% of leisure travelers saying they stayed in one in 2009, up from 11% a year earlier. 

Renting a home for 30 isn't like booking a hotel room, or even a vacation cottage for a family of five. 

"The consistent challenge we hear from travelers is predictability," says TJ Mahony, the chief executive of FlipKey, a vacation rental site owned by TripAdvisor. "People tend to know what they are going to get from a hotel, but can have anxiety over the quality of a vacation rental." 

I asked experts to identify the biggest challenges when renting a home. Here's what they told me: 

1. Knowing what you want. Prioritize your rental. That's the advice of Teresa Bell Kindred, a blogger and frequent home renter. "You are going to pay more for certain things. Decide what is really important to you," she says. Her family loves the ocean, so they don't mind paying more to be right on the beach. But if you don't mind being a few blocks away from the water, you can save money. Be sure you stay within your budget. "If you spend all your money on rental property and can't afford groceries you may get hungry before you get back home," she warns. 

2. Timing your purchase. If you're in town for a special event, like a sports tournament or festival, it's never too soon to book a vacation rental. "Vacation rentals are more scarce than hotels and great vacation properties are even scarcer," says Chris Brusznicki, the chief executive of GamedayHousing a site that specializes in rentals for sports events. But if there's no reason to be in town, you can run down the clock. One terrific new site that allows you to bid on "last-minute" vacation rentals is a site called PackLate. 

3. Finding out what you're renting. It probably goes without saying that you need to do your due diligence on a rental. "Do your homework," says Sylvia Guarino, who owns a rental home on Sanibel Island, Fla. (one of my favorite places) and a member of Second Porch, a Facebook application that connects vacation rental owners and vacation guests. "Vacation rental guests sometimes get too focused on getting a deal, and not focused enough on getting the information that they need, or authenticating the property. "How do you authenticate a property? Look at every piece of information available to you, including the owner's website, the vacation rental site, online reviews and what you find on social networking sites, like Facebook. Be sure the property is in good shape, is as represented and isn't in foreclosure. 

4. Finding out who you're renting from. "Research the owner, not just the home," says Kelly Hayes-Raitt, who owns a rental property in Santa Monica, Calif. She includes a link to her website and biography in every correspondence with potential guests, "not just so they realize they are supporting my work with refugees, but so they learn they are dealing with someone who has been active in her community for 30 years and not likely to cheat them," she says. Not every owner is as forthcoming as Hayes-Raitt, but if someone is reclusive, it might be a warning sign. 

5. Determining if the rental is part of an association or destination. That can make a big difference, according to Jon Ervin, a spokesman for the Cottage Rental Agency in Seaside, Fla. "Imagine you rent from Mr. and Mrs. Jones -- nice enough people, but what if your air conditioning quits or some other concern arises?" he asks. "You most likely are going to have to work through the issue for your entire stay." Not if your rental is part of an association. There's someone on call to help in situations like that. My family rented a home at the WaterColor Inn & Resort in nearby Santa Rosa Beach, Fla., during the Christmas holidays, and we found that to be good advice. 

6. Becoming a power user. For example, VRBO allows you to filter search results by area, bedrooms and the number of people it can sleep. That helped Kellie Pelletier find a vacation rental in Charleston, S.C., for her family. VRBO also shows which homes are available on your preferred dates. "So I didn't waste my time researching and contacting houses that were already booked for my week," she says. Pelletier knows a thing or two about being a power user. She used to work for Kayak, the booking site. "House rental sites are years, if not decades, behind other travel sites," she complains. "Please, won't somebody launch the Kayak of rental house sites?" 

7. Avoiding group-think. Extended families like mine should be broken up into smaller housing units, such as adjoining condos, as opposed to fitting them into one house. It gives everyone more privacy and is easier on the finances, because you don't have to argue over the bill at the end. "Sometimes a big house works for some families," says Carol White, who runs a website about road trips. "But not others." 

8. Reviewing the contract very carefully. You're not checking into a hotel; this is more like renting an apartment. Watch for contract language, such as cleaning options. Frank Discala, who owns a rental property in Nantucket Town, Mass., gives his tenants two options: either clean up after themselves, "Or they can leave the place without cleaning up and lose their $500 deposit," he says. "Ouch! No one has ever taken that option." (Discala knows about contracts; he's a lawyer.) 

9. Staying flexible. Remember, you're renting an apartment or house -- not a room in a hotel. "Some things may go wrong," warns Pauline Kenny, a vacation rental expert who runs a site called Slow Europe. "The plumbing may stop working, the kitchen stove runs out of gas. Some things may not be perfect -- you bump your head repeatedly on that low doorway, the couch is orange, the parking space is almost impossible to get into." That's life in a vacation rental. "Suck it up and live with it," she says. 

Needless to say, tenting a vacation has its challenges. "The process for finding a vacation rental home is more involved and sometimes even difficult," says Christine Karpinski, a director for HomeAway.com. "You have to not only search for the home, but you also have to e-mail to inquire whether or not it is available and for a full quote. Sometimes the process can take a couple hours and sometimes it can take a week of back-and-forth with the homeowners. But the reward at the end is wonderful." 

I hope she's right. I'll let you know what happens this summer.

Top 10 Vacation Rental Tips

abcnews.go.com

Sept. 18, 2008

By KAREN SCHALER

In this economy, most of us are trying to cut corners wherever possible. 

If you're planning a vacation, renting a luxury condo or house instead of staying in a hotel can save you big bucks. Plus, you'll have more space to relax and enjoy your home away from home. Renting a vacation home is an especially smart choice if you're traveling with a group of friend or with kids. 

You can find some of the best bargains on vacation home rentals online if you know what to ask about and how to protect yourself as a renter. 

Here are 10 tips to help you get the biggest bang for your buck. 

Condo Vacation Rental in Scottsdale, Ariz.; photo by Karen Schaler

 

1. Choose a popular rental destination.

 

If you're looking for sensational savings your best bet is to choose a destination where there are a lot of vacation rentals on the market, keeping prices competitive. Some top locations in the United States for vacation rentals include: Arizona, California, Nevada, Florida, North Carolina and Hawaii. 

For example, during the popular fall and winter months in Arizona, a hotel room can cost you more than $400 a night, but for the same price you can rent a two-bedroom vacation home for an entire week. When you get a vacation rental you also have your own kitchen, so you can cook some of your own meals, saving substantially. 

2. Comparison shop. 

 

Now it's easier than ever to comparison shop when you're looking to save on a vacation home rental. You can find some of the best rental home listings on the following four Internet sites. Always compare notes before signing any paperwork. 

Vacation Home Rental on Atlantic Beach, Crystal Coast, N.C.; Photo courtesy of Crystal Coast Tourism Authority 

 

3. Don't send money until you sign paperwork.

 

When renting a vacation home, never send anyone money until you've signed your rental paperwork. It's also a good idea to check out the person you are doing business with. Ask for references, and check out their Web site and their track record. 

Many homes are run by professional real estate agents, so the rental paperwork should include all the legal details you need. If you're renting from the homeowner there should still be a lease for you to sign. 

Read the fine print. Is there a cancellation policy if you have to leave early? Does it stipulate when you will get your deposit back? Spend the time up front checking things out so you won't have any hassles later. 

4. Know exactly what's included. 

 

Most rental homes will say "everything's included," but you want to double-check to be sure that there are no hidden surcharges. If utilities, Internet and cable are included, does this mean the property has WiFi and high-speed Internet? Is it basic cable or premium? If electricity is paid is there a cap? Many properties will say they include utilities, electricity and gas and then the fine print says it's included, up to the first $200. 

Arizona realtor David Van Omen says you can't ask too many questions.

"If you're renting a home with a pool, make sure the pool is actually heated and find out beforehand who pays to heat the pool, because that can get expensive in the winter months," he says. 

5. Have an emergency contact person.

Your rental contract should include who to call if your dishwasher breaks or there's some other problem with the property. It should also state a time frame for fixing any major problems. You don't want to rent a home and have the hot water heater conk out and end up with cold showers for two week. The information should also be posted in a contact book inside the property. Make sure you have a phone number and email address of the contact and if possible get a second person as a backup. 

6. Is the home family friendly?

 

If you're traveling with kids, make sure the property you rental is family friendly. Check the bed configurations. If you have three kids and the guest room only has a king-sized bed you could be in trouble. 

Also make sure you see pictures of the home. Do you really want to rent a place with a white couch and fancy décor if your 3-year-old still thinks it is fun to color on everything in sight? Make sure the home you're renting fits your family's needs so you're all comfortable. 

Brenda Collons, from Seattle, says with two young daughters it just makes sense to rent a home where the family can spread out and relax and save money at the same time. 

"We save a lot by eating meals at the rental home instead of eating spendy hotel food," Collons says. "This allows us to spend money on other things that are more important to us as a family." 

Condo Rentals in the Crystal Coast, N.C.; Photo courtesy of Bluewater GMAC Real Estate

7. Can you bring a pet?

 

Many vacation rentals accept pets, but they may have a size limit. If the limit is 20 pounds, don't even think about trying to sneak in your Great Dane because chances are the neighbors will rat you out. They usually know the homeowner and the real estate agent and keep a close eye on what's happening. 

John Kelly, the general manger of Bluewater GMAC Real Estate in North Carolina, says it doesn't hurt to ask if your pet can stay. 

"There are many options for pet owners and while it's typical only dogs are allowed you may be able to get permission for a cat, bird or other pet," he says. 

8. Is a refund available if you leave early? 

 

If you think you may want or need to leave early, check your contract to see if you're eligible for a partial refund. Most vacation rentals are for a specific time period and don't offer refunds because that leaves the homeowner in a lurch with no time to rent to someone else. Know going in what the rules are so there are no unpleasant surprises. 

9. Love the house you pick. 

 

Keep in mind when you're renting a vacation home you're renting a property that's individually owned. This isn't a hotel where if you don't like what you have you can get something else. Once you sign a lease for a specific property, that's the property you're getting, so make sure it's exactly what you want. Ask if reviews from other renters are available. Also remember you get what you pay for. While scoring a good deal is the goal, if it's too cheap there's probably a reason. 

Vacation Rentals at Hawks Cay, Florida Keys; Photo by Karen Schaler

10. Reserve early. 

 

Popular destinations like Arizona, California and Hawaii fill up fast, so reserve early to get the best deals. For favorite rental months like November, December and January, it's typical to rent as early as six months out.

 

Expert Vacation Rental Tips

 

 

By Ann Levin

Associated Press

 

Tips from the Better Business Bureau, travel experts and seasoned renters to ensure you are not cheated when you rent a home for your vacation:

• Get a written agreement spelling out terms and conditions. Never wire money or write personal checks. A credit card is the way to go because the card's issuer may offer some protection. If you can show that promised goods and services were not provided, you may be able to get a refund.

• Do not trust an owner who will communicate only via e-mail, and do not hesitate to pick up the phone to ask the owner/property manager detailed questions or even request more photos than those displayed in the online ad.

• Find out how you will get back your security deposit, if there is one, and what it covers.

• Ask friends for recommendations. If you decide on a house or condo belonging to a stranger, ask for references from others who have stayed there.

• If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. In most cases, you get what you pay for.

• Plug the property owner and address into a Web browser and see what comes up. You may discover complaints from previous renters. Make sure you are dealing with the real property owner. Scammers can steal information to create phony listings.

• Seasoned renters suggest negotiating with owners/managers on price if vacancy rates in the area are high. You also can inquire about perquisites to sweeten the deal, like free tickets or discounts to local activities.

• Be skeptical of glowing online reviews, especially if the reviewers are anonymous.

• Ask the owner/property manager to define nebulous terms like "oceanfront property" and "5-minute walk to the beach." Make sure you are clear on such things as how far the house is from the center of town.

• If the owner does not live in the area, find out if there is a local caretaker who can deal with problems like blown fuses or an overflowing toilet. Find out whom to contact in case of an emergency.

• If you have physical limitations, ask about handicap accommodations including elevator service. Everyone, with or without disabilities, is likely to want to know about noise levels, air conditioning and heating and mattresses.

• If your group plans big communal meals, make sure there are enough pots, pans, utensils and table service. Inquire about essentials like coffee makers, cutting boards and good knives.

• Ask what the cleaning fees will be, and try to determine whether any fees have gone unmentioned. Pauline Frommer of Pauline Frommer travel guides notes that in some European countries you may have to pay extra for electricity or other utilities. Ask about phone service, Internet and Wi-Fi.

• If possible, visit the property before renting it.

• If a property does not live up to its billing, document problems with pictures or videos. Complain immediately to the owner or property manager. Keep receipts. Compile a meticulous record of all transactions and what went wrong. If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, you may be able to seek recourse in court. Check your state's consumer protection laws to see what you may be entitled to and whether there are deadlines for filing.

Vacation Home Rental

From Teresa Plowright, former About.com Guide

travelwithkids.about.com

Vacation Home Rental - Photo courtesy of Hotpads.com.

Vacation home rentals are a popular type of family vacation: thanks to the internet, families can rent a place directly from its owners, see photos online, ask questions by email, etc.

Vacation home rentals are most common in beach areas and ski areas, but can be found just about everywhere and can even be a good option on Orlando when extended families want a large place to gather. Home rentals in Europe can be a practical choice for families, too (- see more, below.)

Advantages of Vacation Home Rentals Include:
 

• spacious homes can accommodate a reunion of family and friends
• convenience of kitchen and laundry, is great for families
• often homes have private pools, jacuzzis, large tv's, etc.
• price -- while higher than a hotel room- can be a good deal for families who can't fit into a single hotel room (compared to, say, the price of adjoining hotel rooms for a family with teens.) Price also gets attractive if shared among two families.
• friendly owners may give tips about what to enjoy in the area

 

Keep in Mind, Though:

 

• someone (could that be Mom?) will be probably spend time in the kitchen, cooking and cleaning up after meals.
• location of the vacation home may require a car rental.
• guests may need to pay a substantial deposit at the time a reservation is made.
• in some countries (Caribbean isles and Mexico, for instance), daily maid service may come with the vacation home; in others, not. Still, even in North America, service can probably be arranged for a fee.
• again depending on the country, smoking may be forbidden and can invoke a penalty. 

And bad news for dog owners: even though more and more hotels welcome Fido these days, few vacation homes in North America allow pets. 

Vacation home rentals, and vocabulary, can vary greatly by country. In England, for example, guests will typically find listings for cottages, "garden houses", and apartments, whereas in France and Italy, you may find "farmhouses." In North American, a vacation home rental might be a private home, townhouse, condo, or a place in a gated resort community.

In the Caribbean and Mexico, "villas" are stand-alone dwellings, either on a private lot or as part of a resort complex or community with shared facilities such as pool and semi-private beach. In other contexts -- such as Disney Vacation Club Villas -- "villa" is a suite in a multi-unit building.

Some condos, while owned by a private individual, are in a hotel-like building or even an actual hotel. Booking may be processed through hotel reservations and guests may scarcely be aware that they're staying in someone's privately-owned unit. In other cases, condos are rented out privately by owners through sites like vrbo.com.

Renting Homes In Mexico

Jan 13
escapeartist.com

MEXICO BEACH HOUSE RENTAL

 

Who Rents Homes In Mexico?

 

Renting homes in Mexico is easy to do and the inventory has become more plentiful and also more affordable in some instances depending on the region and time of year. However, that could be changing. Let’s explore several of the reasons why and who may be causing this to happen. In general terms the entire country of Mexico has been suffering from the negative press field day being held at every opportunity by the media regarding the drug wars in Mexico. In spite of this negative press Mexico is still experiencing positive economic growth overall as an emerging economy, while the USA economy is slipping.

 

By far the most compelling reason people rent Homes in Mexico is for vacationing families or friends that want to stay in a home style environment together to cook and party in the privacy of a strategically located beach pad. Another plus to Renting Homes in Mexico are the washers and dryers in these homes so you can wash clothes to avoid over packing and laundry costs. I have also come across some migrating Ex-pats from the USA and Canada who want to rent for six months or up to a year in the area they are considering to buy a home to retire in. If the area ultimately suits them they plan on buying after living in the community and getting a feel for the area and that is starting to affect some availability for certain rental property types.

 

 

Other reasons people are “renting homes in Mexico” is to travel to different regions for extended stays for two or three months at a time then move on to another region. Some of these folks are looking for a place to ultimately settle down while others may be taking in the culture of the region, taking art or cooking classes or Spanish and some move around for the best seasonal climate. Retirees who do not have time restraints are really gravitating to this method because they can shop for food on the local economy and cook meals in their temporary home and economize as well as to have home cooked meals they like. Another reason is to have friends and family join them from time to time on their trek across Mexico.

 

 

 

MEXICO BEACH HOUSE RENTAL

 

 

 

As you start investigating “Renting Homes in Mexico” there is certainly no lack of listings and by many authorized and honest real estate agents and home owners that run good businesses and you can rely on them to provide you with a clean abode that is well maintained as advertised. What many of the best rental property owners count on is return ability and referrals to keep their property booked in the peak tourist seasons and beyond.

 

Testimonials from happy customers are sometimes posted on the internet site advertising the property. If you feel a reference would help you make up your mind ask the agent or owner for a contact reference you can call or e-mail that has been there in the past 3 to 6 months.

 

Show Me The Money

 

The moment of commitment to secure your rental home will require a deposit payment in advance. Most of the property managers and owners have PayPal accounts to facilitate the financial

transaction. Though this is a safe way to send and receive money it is not 100% full proof that your deal is not going to be subject to some dispute as to your ultimate satisfaction of the home upon your arrival. By in large there are few disputes as these property owners are dependent on you to make their real estate investment pay off for them and therefore they are motivated to make the business transaction and customer satisfaction a priority.

 

The properties that are in highest demand during peak season are hard to get if you do not book very early and post your deposit. The owners and property managers prompt their return customers to reserve the home early for next years season so it is off the market in peak seasons. So if you find a place that fits your needs and you want to return next year offer to make a deposit early for a discount to assure you and the landlord you both have a solid deal for next season.

 

 

 

The Big O

PACK WELL PLAN WELL

 

 

 

If you are a first timer as far as “Renting Homes in Mexico” you need to prepare to set fourth on your adventure with a plan prior to leaving on your trip as it is much different than a resort hotel vacation and it requires planning in detail. The following suggestions may help you plan your BIG trip that is well “ORGANIZED” so you can spend your vacation time relaxing and enjoying the time with family and friends instead of running all over town looking for the things you could have brought from home. This will save you stress as well as money and time, but you have to be smart about the packing as extra bags cost money so what ever you pack has to justify the price of the bag charge and you must keep the weight of the bag within the weight allowed by the airline to avoid additional fees for excess weight. The extra bag that is used for the items you plan to eat while there can be used for souvenirs for the return trip.

 

 

• Plan the clothes you need by the number of days and events and share a suit case
• Kids beach toys fins, goggles and inflatable floats for small kids two bathing suits
• Canned or packaged foods, spices for cooking that special dish and some wine!
• Docking device for your music if a compatible one is not provided
• Your prescription meds, Sun blocker, insect repellant, antihistamines, EYE DROPS, aspirin, shampoo and conditioner and a hair dryer.
• Batteries, flashlight, small first aid kit, wall/car charger for your phone and gadgets
• Research day trips and print maps to your destinations before departing on vacation
• Spanish to English translation device or print version plus a good book to read
• Advise the people you are traveling with where you are going if you go separate ways
• Let a close family member or friend at home know your daily plans for your vacation