But more frequentlky these days, the word is used for a detached house that a person can rent (a vacation rental) when on holidays.

Is there a difference between a villa, a vacation rental, a holiday rental, a gite, a chalet, a cottage, a holiday cottage, a self-catering home, a vacation home and a holiday home?

For practical purposes, no, consider them the same. To be sure, a chalet or cottage definitely implies a rustic lodging way out in the country, and maybe even up in the hills, but not on a suburban street.

“Holiday” is how British folks refer to what American folks refer to as “vacation”. So a holiday home is really just a vacation home with a Monty Python voice-over. And “self-catering” is how the British and Australians (g’day) refer to any vacation rental that you have to arrange your own dining, and that is true across villas, chalets, etc.

And if you vacation in France, you can call them all “gites” – although more specifically, a gite is supposed to be a rural cottage or a barn conversion, and the word is sometimes used to refer to youth hostels – just to confuse the unsuspecting traveler.

A villa, as used in today’s vacation rental marketplace, is typically a somewhat upscale suburban house. For example, a Costa Brava villa might be a sumptiously appointed two-story house in Girona or Figueres, and it might be equipped with a swimming pool or even a spa.

A Costa Blanca villa might be a recently build brick bungalow, also with a swimming pool of course, in a recently built neighborhood of Alicante.

Of course, the word “villa” could refer to any detached vacation rental home, so “caveat emptor” – read the description and review photos to make sure you know what “villa” means in this case.

For instance, although most villas come with a full kitchen, watch for the word “kitchenette”. It is the “ette” that makes the difference, and it most likely means a counter with a full or half-sized stove – perhaps just a microwave for heating dinner and a smaller-than-normal fridge (maybe even a bar-sized fridge). Don’t expect a full dining room, either, if you read “kitchenette” in the description.

What does it mean when they say “sleeps ten”? Well, we own a five-person tent. One person fits in with no trouble. Two people fit in with no trouble. A third person can squeeze in. Persons four and five can lie across the first three bodies (careful to make sure not to get kicked in the face at night).

Same idea with villas. Find out how many bedrooms, how many beds and what else they are counting (Two people on a sofa bed? Two single-person folding cots?)

Often you will read “just steps from the beach”. Some of those villas will be 22 steps from the beach. Other villas will be 2020 steps from the beach. Find out which one yours is, before you decide to rent it.

What is the difference between “private pool” and “pool access”. Honestly, if you can’t figure out the difference for yourself, you probably deserve to get stuck with “pool access”. Consider it a learning experience.

There are plenty of other words related to villa rentals, but these will get you started and avoid the most common confusions that people often have.

Given that it was you who made the decision, you already know that vacationing in a private vacation villa is much different than staying in a hotel. Most vacation homes are outfitted much like your home and you will most likely have access to a washing machine and dryer. This will help cut down the amount of luggage you need to bring, because if you are like me, you always pack too much.

Let’s look at what you really need to pack for a stay in your vacation villa for this year’s holidays, with some tips from our friends at “Location Maison Espagne” …

DOCUMENTATION You will definitely want to pack your plane tickets and directions to your your private vacation villa with you. Oh and don’t forget your passport either. It is also a good idea to make photocopies of all your documents, including passports, birth certificates, ID, plane tickets, itinerary and travel insurance.

TOWELS – Most vacation villas will supply towels for both indoor use and outdoor use for the pool and beaches. Contact the vacation rental owner to see what they offer. Beach towels can usually be purchased relatively cheap, so unless you have room for towels don’t bother packing them.

MEDICATION – This should go without saying, but it is paramount to pack your medication when travelling. You’ll need to plan for any delays if something goes wrong with your scheduled flight and you have to wait a few extra days to return home. Make sure you not only pack all essential medications for you and your family, but also any allergy medications like Epi-Pens. You might also want to pack the repeat prescription forms. Pack your medication with the bags you bring on-board with you, as packing it with your checked baggage could result in disaster.

OUTFITS – As mentioned, your vacation rental may come complete with a washer and dryer, so you might have the pleasure of packing light. It is always advisable before you pack to check with the owner of the vacation villa first to ensure that these facilities are available. The amount and type of clothing you pack will depend upon where you are traveling and what activities you are planning on doing while there, but remember, you’re a tourist after all and expectations are not going to be really that high, so pack for comfort, not for fashion.

TOILETRIES – A great way to save room in your luggage is to leave all non-essential toiletries behind. There is little need to drag bottles of shampoo, conditioner, hair spray, body wash and such half-way around the globe. The area you are visiting has plenty of places where you can purchase such items as soap, toothpaste, shampoo, and whatever other needs you require. If you have allergies to products and have your own specific brands you prefer, then of course bring them along. There is nothing worse than being on a family vacation and breaking out in a rash from harsh soaps that you are not used to.

HAIR DRYERS – Some people can’t live without their hair dryers. When it comes to a family vacation a hair dryer is not essential, and your hair dryer might not even work in the country you are travelling to without an adapter. Most villa rentals will supply hair dryers so just contact the villa owner before you begin packing to ensure that they do.

MUNCHIES – Many countries have strict requirements when it comes to bringing food across the border.. Most things will not be allowed in to the country, so save the space in your luggage and leave your favourite treats behind.

CASH – It’s a good idea to pack some local currency and coins in your carry-on luggage. After you get off the plane you and the kids may be hungry or thirsty and having some local currency in small dominations will help you refuel before you head off to your private villa.

EARBUDS Most airlines charge a few dollars to purchase their earbuds to be able to watch the in-flight televisions and movies. Although they are usually no more than $5 it is advisable to bring along your own if you have them.

ENTERTAINMENT – Some flights can be very long and boring if you have nothing to occupy yourself and your kids with. Some vacations can be like that, too – especially if it rains and you can relax in the comfort of your vacation villa. Pack some books, puzzles, cards, travel sized board games and handheld devices. Not only will it make your flight much more enjoyable, but it will also allow for some down-time relaxing in your villa.

Just remember, whether your plans are at Costa Blanca Villa Location or elsewhere, you are only going away for a small amount of time, so try not to over pack. As the semi-famous saying goes, pack light enough to travel.

1.Listen particularly closely if you travel in groups, such as a family of four or five, or a group of friends, or even a couple families traveling together. Do you really want to rent a “room”? Would you all sleep together in a room, or even in two rooms at home? A villa is a house. It has rooms, which is plenty more room than just a room. Got that?

2. It’s not just the roominess that makes a vacation villa superior for groups. You also share costs. Whereas a group of six would likely rent two rooms in a hotel (three people squished uncomfortably into each), a vacation rental would come with 2 – 4 rberooms, plus a living room, plus a kitchen, plus some other rooms. Yes, a villa is a house. It’s actually big enough for you to all fit in comfortably at a lower cost. Kind of a no-brainer.

3. But the savings don’t end there. Have you ever calculated the cost of eating at restaurants. There is usually at least one meal for four that weighs in around $100 when tip and tax is added in. Plus breakfast. Plus lunch. Plus snacks. (Yeah, you get hungry between meals, too.) Well, it all adds up, doesn’t it? Or a you can spend more reasonable $50 a day on groceries made to your own taste, where you know they are made nutritious, where you know you won’t get food poisoning and where you can relax in privacy.

4. Did somebody mention privacy? Yes, there is much more privacy in a villa rental than in a tiny hotel room squished between two other rooms, where people knock on the door and sing in the hall, where the maid comes in and you just don’t know where to hide your purse or other valuables. A vacation villa is as private as your house.

5. The flip side of privacy is freedom. There is nobody blaring music until 3:00 am…unless you want there to be. Go ahead, you won’t be disturbing anybody. Just make sure the windows are all shut and play the TV, the stereo, the video games. Turn up the volume. Sing at the top of your voice. Cheer for your team, or shout “You bum” if it makes you feel better.

6. Yes, I did say stereo and I did say TV and I did say video games, and I might have mentioned the private pool and maybe even a pool table. No hotel room comes with as many amenities as the typical vacation rental. That fight over who gets to use the hotel room bathroom last summer? The one that left you with a permanent limp? Let bygones be bygones – this year you can just use the other bathroom in your much-better-equipped vacation villa.

Pocket the savings…or re-invest them at another week of relaxation in your Villa Costa Brava getaway. Ah, the pure luxury of a villa rental makes a hotel look downright…barbaric.

So, as the saying goes, if you have champagne taste on a beer budget, let’s get going.
We’ll explore a few techniques on how you can enjoy luxury travel on a budget.

A laid out plan will be the most important aspect of obtaining hot travel deal and accommodations without spending any more money than a lower rated resort. Travel in style with the following strategies.

Technique #1. Find Affinity And Loyalty Programs.

Capitalize on the flexibility and leverage you have in the competitive travel industry. Many companies want your business and offer lots of incentives to compete for your travel funds and to keep you as a customer.

For example, if you provide a service, you typically look out for your best customers and give extra perks to keep them coming back. These companies reward travelers who remain loyal to them with unadvertised specials and extras. This is the general idea behind frequent traveler programs and such.

Technique #2. Select The Right Travel Specialists To Work With.

As you’re researching destinations and comparing pricing online, note that all online travel companies aren’t equal. Lots of agencies have preferred status with suppliers who can in turn pass on these air travel deal to you.

Again, this is just like we talked about earlier, only this time, the companies and suppliers are getting the cheap vacation deals to pass on to you.

Technique #3. Turn Problems Into Opportunities.

Choose a few top-notch companies that you would like to use over and over again so that you can obtain loyalty bonuses and discounts. If they make an error, take advantage of the occasion in a professional manner, but don’t take advantage of the condition .

These companies desire to maintain consistent levels of quality and rely on their customers to provide constructive feedback and satisfaction/dissatisfaction. If a representative is not willing to work with you, ask around to realize someone who will.

Technique #4. Just Ask.

One of the easiest and simplest techniques you can do is to just ask. All they can say is no. Sometimes a special occasion may be enough to get you an unexpected surprise. Simply do it and don’t be afraid to ask.

You can simply ask for an upgraded vehicle, accommodation, or airline seat. It doesn hurt and youe no worse off than you were before you asked. In other words, you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

Technique #5. Timing Is Everything.

Keep this in mind that travel is at it’s the most expensive during holidays and other peak times of the year. However, if the time of year to travel is important to you, such as a special event you’ll be attending, traveling during major holidays or school vacations, and if you desire to get luxury travel for the best value you want, try to book as time in advance as possible.

Don’t forget the power of the internet. It can be one of your most effective tools in researching destinations, while getting luxury travel at bargain prices.

Have fun and happy travels!

You, too, can enjoy this popular location by renting your own Costa Brava villa

Costa Brava means rugged or wild coast. It occupies the north-eastern region of Catalonia, Spain, and stretches from the French border almost all the way to Barcelona. Fit for all ages, Costa Brava contains a variety of coastal scenery, lush beaches, family fun and historical places of interest.

The following are the 12 of the more popular things to see and do when staying at your very own villa Costa Brava:

1)National Park De L’Emporda

One of the Northern Spain’s largest national parks and nature reserves, De L’Emporda National Park is famous for its many species of birds.

2) Castell de Pubol

Castell de Pubol was the residence of the wife of Dali, one of the most famous Spanish artists during the 20th century.

3) Water World

This isn’t a Kevin Costner movie, but one of Europe’s biggest family water parks, which includes a 250-metre long rubber raft rides.

4) Lloret de Mar Beach

Lloret de Mar’s main white sand beach stretches a staggering 1,630 metres long and is consistently awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness. Lots of beach to enjoy.

5) Modernist Cemetery

The Modernist Cemetery was designed at the end of the 19th century. A short tour through this little piece of history offers a rare and amazing look into funerary art of the period.

6) The Municipal Museum

People enjoy the many works of art by artists that frequented the area in the 1930s at thos museum.

7) Sant Antoni de Calonge

Sant Antoni de Calonge is a small village of 8.200 inhabitants, which is comprised of the village of Calonge and the coastal centre of St. Antoni. Some of the attractions are the Medieval Tower, an 18th century Baroque style church and some amazing beaches.

The Ruins of Empúries

Empúries were founded in 575 BC by Greek colonists and was later occupied by the Romans. In the Early Middle Ages the town was abandoned and the ruins are still there just between the Costa Brava town of L’Escala and the village of Sant Martí.

9) Castell de Sant Joan

This medieval castle was constructed in 11th century. Today only the castle’s tower remains, but you will enjoy an excellent view of the surrounding area from the turret..

10) Parish Church of Sant Roma

The Parish Church of Sant Roma is a gothic church that was built 1522 and in the early 20th century it was converted into a spectacular building with Byzantine, Muslim, Renaissance and Modernist influences.

11) Puig de Castellet Iberian Settlement
This walled settlement, was occupied between 250-210 BC, is situated on the north-west side of a hill with a amazing a view of the entire coastline, yet it is completely invisible from the sea. A great little getaway when you don’t feel like hanging around the villa.

12) Marimurtra Botanical Gardens

The Marimurtra Botanical Garden overlooks the southernmost cliffs of the Costa Brava. A unique aspect of the gardens is the two week flowering and leaf colour changing cycle, which makes each visit a new experience.

OK, ready now? Find a Costa Brava villa.

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Property in is a great buy if you are looking for relaxing time. Seafront apartments in Fuengirola have great ocean views but there are also a wide variety of properties in Fuengirola ranging from studios, 1 bedroom apartments and even villas in Fuengirola, [/spin[spin] Restaurants and bars are close by and Fuengirola is ideal for families with many schools in the area. There is a good rental market as Fuengirola is a very popular destination.

There are many Hotels in the area of Fuengirola includingGardenia Park * Las Rampas * Pyr Fuengirola

When looking to buy a property in Spain you need to find a good agent to deal with they should offer you the complete package from flight, hotel booking as well as airport pick up, this is very important as your stay in Spain needs to be comfortable and easy. If its an apartment in Fuengirola you are looking for I recommend apartments for sale in fuengirola

Malaga airport is going through some big changes to be much more modern.
Málaga-Pablo Ruiz Picasso international airport is 8km from Málaga City and 5km from Torremolinos.

When it comes to planning a trip, some people rely on travel agents, who make almost everything for their clients transfers hotel bookings and tickets for trips etc. Others prefer to rent a car and travel around themselves forgetting about fixed hours or arranged tours.

If you choose to rent a car you will find a great number of car rental companies in major tourist destinations in Málaga Province.

All types of vehicle are available from compact to large SUV’s you can even hire a car chauffeur driven.

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For the Best Holiday Lettings in Costa Blanca

Location
World Region: Europe
Country: Spain
Region: Costa Blanca North
Area: Orba
Property Name: Villa Rosa
Details
Property Type: Villa
Bedrooms: 3 Bedrooms (Sleeps 6)

Arrival Time: 15:00
Vacating Time: 10:00
Changeover Day: Flexible

Car Required?: Yes
Area Description
Orba is a typical Spanish country village with a total population of around 1,600 located in the northern part of the Costa Blanca.

It is approximately 20km inland from the popular coastal resorts of Javea and Denia, and a little over a 1 hour drive from the airports of Valencia and Alicante (both served by many of our lower cost airlines).

If you are looking for a quiet break away from it all, Orba has all the facilities required to support your holiday, including a small supermarket, bakery, greengrocer, several banks, fishmonger, newsagent and tobacconists, off licence, post office, a pharmacy, a 24 hour medical, optician and dental surgeries and various small shops plus many bar/restaurants.

Orba is around 20km inland from the coastal resorts of Javea and Denia which were originally old fishing ports, but have now become popular holiday destinations for both Spanish and foreign visitors. Javea is the larger town, but Denia has the best beaches with extensive golden sands which are easily accessible. There are many beach-front bars, cafes, and restaurants, as you would expect of thriving holiday resorts. Alternatively, you can find smaller coves and beaches, particularly in the area around Cabo de la Nao.

Local markets can be found in one or other of the local villages on every day of the week. They vary in size from the simple street market found in Orba itself (great for fruit, vegetables and cheap holiday clothing), to large scale tourist markets in the big towns.

Local attractions include the historic town of Guadalest and the cooling waterfalls at Fonts de l’Algar, caves, go-karting. and a zoo.

Benidorm is around 60 Km awaywith the major attractions of the Aqualandia Water Park, Mundomar Marine Animal park the recently opened Terra Mitica Theme Park and the Benidorm Palace.

Holiday Activities
› Cycling
› Diving
› Golf
› Horse Riding
› Mountaineering
› Swimming
› Tennis
› Walking
Nearby Transport
Airport Alicante & Valencia 120 km
Supermarket Charters 1 km
Train Denia 20 km
Beach Denia & Javea 20 km
Description
Villa Rosa is situated in its own terraced grounds on a west facing hillside with spectacular views across the valley town of Orba to the Vall de Laguart Hills. Sleeps 6 adults in comfort. Discounts given for groups of 1-2, Long let discount also available.

The Residents Swimming pool and restaurant is just 300 metres from the villa (free entry to guests of Villa Rosa)

There are about 15 steps leading up to the villa, but once the accommodation level has been reached, the covered patio, the main living accommodation and the sunbathing terrace are all on one level. This entire area can be locked so that small children cannot wander off.

Accommodation on one level comprises : 1 King/Twin, 1 double and 1 twin bedroom, bathroom, separate cloakroom, lounge/diner, well equipped kitchen, covered patio and large sunbathing terrace. Large integral garage.

Facilities include Wi-Fi + local calls, Satellite TV, DVD, VCR, CD, washing machine & dishwasher.

Ceiling fans in all bedrooms and lounge, electric heaters in all bedrooms and bathroom, built in gas fire in lounge.

Wide selection of video tapes, DVDs, CDs and books.

Orba is a typical Spanish country village with a total population of around 1,600 located in the northern part of the Costa Blanca.

It is approximately 20km inland from the popular coastal resorts of Javea and Denia, and a little over a 1 hour drive from the airports of Valencia and Alicante (both served by many of our lower cost airlines).

If you are looking for a quiet break away from it all, Orba has all the facilities required to support your holiday, including a small supermarket, bakery, greengrocer, several banks, fishmonger, newsagent and tobacconists, off licence, post office, a pharmacy, a 24 hour medical, optician and dental surgeries and various small shops plus many bar/restaurants.

A short walk or drive from the town centre brings one to the local sports ground and the Piscina Bar/Restaurant which serves pizzas and Italian food.

Renal rates range from £250 to £570 pw (for 6 people) for the villa including Wi-Fi + local calls, electricity, gas, pre visit villa clean, bed linen, cot-package, pool ticket, towels and weekly linen change.

All guests receive a complimentary ‘Welcome Pack’ on their arrival at the villa.

The villa is supported by our local manager, and is cleaned between lets, with a weekly linen and towel change.

Appliances
Wi-fi
Phone – free local calls
Satellite and terrestrial TV
DVD, VCR and CD Players
Washing Machine
Dishwasher
Fridge/Freezer
Gas Oven and Hob
Kettle,
Toaster,
Coffee Maker
Iron and Ironing board
Hair Dryer
Ceiling Fans fitted in all accommodation rooms
Gas Inset Fire in lounge
Electric wall heaters in bedrooms,
Heated Towel rails in bathroom and cloakroom
Electric heater in bathroom

Linen Supplied: Yes
Towels Supplied: No

Cots Available: 1 (Cot Package : Cot, Highchair and Pushchair Free if 6 guests or less but £50 per week if the baby is the 7th person)
Suitability
This property is suitable for…

Children: Yes
Pets: No
Smokers: No
Wheelchair Users: No
Elderly/Infirm: No

Planning Sun Holiday Accomodation[spin]Costa Blanca
For the Best Holiday lettings in Costa Blanca

Location
World Region: Europe
Country: Spain
Region: costa blanca
Area: la marina
Property Name: villa verde
Details
Property Type: Villa
Bedrooms: 1 Bedrooms (Sleeps 3)

Arrival Time: 00:00
Vacating Time: 00:00
Changeover Day: Flexible

Car Required?: Advisable
Area Description

BEACH
A pleasant 10 minute stroll through a pine wood, or can be accessed by road , or why not hire a bicycle locally. A beach bar is set up in summer , or a year round beach bar is a 10 minute walk along the beach.

TRADITIONAL TOWNS AND VILLAGES
Are within a short distance where local culture can be experienced.Also within easy driving distance are the towns of Torrevieja, Santa Pola, La Marina, Alicante, and Benidorm .Buenavista is a short car or bus ride from Guardamar Del Segura where there are parks, shops, restaurants, funfairs , and a nice promenade.
There are also street markets in many local towns where bargains are to be had.

THEME PARK / WATERPARKS AND SPORTS
The Terra Mitica Theme park is near Benidorm ( about an hours drive on the motorway) and is a great day out !
There are also waterparks, funfairs, watersports boats for hire, Go Karts and golf all within easy driving distance.

There is a Swimming Pool and Tennis Court, on site for which a small charge is levied.

Also childrens playground, football pitch/ basketball pitch, and a petanque pitch.

Next to the pool is a bar that has dancing on a Friday and Saturday evening.

Within walking distance is a high class camping site that has a very large pool complex, 3 bars , 2 restaurants, a gym , games area , childrens play area
Holiday Activities
› City Breaks
› Cycling
› Diving
› Fishing
› Golf
› Mountain Biking
› Paragliding
› Sailing
› Swimming
› Tennis
› Walking
› Water Skiing
› Wind-Surfing
Nearby Transport
Airport alicante 20 km
Supermarket yes 1 km
Train alicante 25 km
Beach la marina 0.5 km
Description
Well equipped 1 bedroom attached Villa in a lovely area 10 minutes walk to a superb beach.

Down stairs is a Lounge area with a sofabed that seats 3 ,fold away dining table and 4 chairs.Ceiling fan

There is a well equipped kitchen with washing machine , microwave, kettle , fridge, cooker ,etc

TV – German and some English TV

Upstairs is a bedroom with a twin beds , wardrobes, bedside tables and a balcony. Ceiling Fan

Bathroom with shower over bath,washbasin,WC.

Prices based on 2 adults + 1 Child , surcharge for 3 adults

BEACH
A pleasant 10 minute stroll through a pine wood, or can be accessed by road , or why not hire a bicycle locally. A beach bar is set up in summer , or a year round beach bar is a 10 minute walk along the beach.

TRADITIONAL TOWNS AND VILLAGES
Are within a short distance where local culture can be experienced.Also within easy driving distance are the towns of Torrevieja, Santa Pola, La Marina, Alicante, and Benidorm .Buenavista is a short car or bus ride from Guardamar Del Segura where there are parks, shops, restaurants, funfairs , and a nice promenade.
There are also street markets in many local towns where bargains are to be had.

THEME PARK / WATERPARKS AND SPORTS
The Terra Mitica Theme park is near Benidorm ( about an hours drive on the motorway) and is a great day out !
There are also waterparks, funfairs, watersports boats for hire, Go Karts and golf all within easy driving distance

There is a Swimming Pool and Tennis Court, on site for which a small charge is levied.

Also childrens playground, football pitch/ basketball pitch, and a petanque pitch

Next to the pool is a bar that has dancing on a Friday and Saturday evening

Within walking distance is a high class camping site that has a very large pool complex, 3 bars , 2 restaurants, a gym , games area , childrens play area
Appliances
cooker/hob , fridge freezer , washing machine , bath/shower

Linen Supplied: Yes
Towels Supplied: Yes

Cots Available: 0
Suitability
This property is suitable for…

Children: Yes
Pets: No
Smokers: No
Wheelchair Users: No
Elderly/Infirm: No

For the Best Holidays In Costa Blanca visit cosyholidayrentals.co.uk

Get practical advice in the sphere of vacation home – please read the web page. The time has come when concise info is truly only one click away, use this opportunity.