On-the-Go Planning Tips for a Memorable Vacation

Many vacation planners like to have every last detail of their trip perfectly mapped out before they arrive at their destination.

Many vacation planners like to have every last detail of their trip mapped out before they arrive at their destination. Activities for every day, restaurant reservations made and golden stretches of sand chosen are only a few of the specifics you already have in your itinerary - some may call it OCD, you call it being organized. Whatever the case may be, forgetting even the smallest detail can be nerve wracking. 

Before you do panic, here are some common issues or hiccups that arise when you first arrive at your Caribbean villas, and tips on how to handle them:

Tipping: How Much?
Most luxury vacation rentals provide a daily housekeeping service (amazing, right?) that changes your towels, cleans the bathrooms, changes the sheets and tends to whatever other areas of your villa need a little freshening up. This service adds to your fully pampered getaway and is a perk, for sure, but what should you give them in return? You might worry that, because you didn't consult with anyone before your trip, that you won't provide enough - or will give too much - for their appreciated cleaning services. While there isn't a set fee, certain rules of etiquette do apply. If a villa just has maid service, then typically $10 per day is an appropriate tip. For villas with a full staff (butler, maid, laundress, chef, etc), then an appropriate tip is 10 percent of the villa cost in high season and 15 percent of the villa cost in low season, according to our team of experts. If you're still unsure, the best way to determine a fair price is to chat with a villa specialist, even during your trip.

Bored on the Beach
When you travel with kids, you never know what's going to happen. If it's your child's first experience on the beach, you might - sadly - find them crying within seconds of touching the sand, leaving you torn on what to do. You still want to enjoy the exotic weather but can't bear to see your young one upset for the majority of your vacation. This is when you and your spouse have to band together and create the best situation for the whole family. One option is to take turns in the sun while the other keeps the little one entertained, whether under the shade of a tropical tree or in the comfort of your vacation rental. You can also plan an adventure excursion fit for the whole family, like swimming with dolphins or taking a boat ride out to a nearby island. With a little trial and error, you'll eventually find a way to keep everyone smiling.

Time Flies
It's day 7 of your trip and you realize that those three extra days your villa reservation specialist encouraged you to reserve would actually be a dream come true right about now. While it doesn't always work out seamlessly, it doesn't hurt to talk to an agent and discuss options for extending your stay. Just remember - next time you're deciding between a long or short stay, you know which one to choose.

Are you interested in luxury vacation rentals? Contact Villas of Distinction today at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits your lifestyle.