Portsmouth, NH--(November 2009)--"This Thanksgiving, when you go over the river and through the woods, you can forgo grandmother's house and, instead, take her and the whole family to a villa resort," says Mike Thiel, Founder and President of Hideaways International, Inc. (www.Hideaways.com). "There, everyone can enjoy an elaborate turkey dinner and luxurious accommodations."
 Villa resorts are a unique and increasingly popular vacation option. This "hotel hybrid" combines all the amenities, services, and activities of a resort with all the space, privacy, and comforts of a vacation home. Villa resorts are especially ideal for the holidays, offering a more modern take on a time when families traditionally gather at home to celebrate.
"When you stay at a villa resort, the entire family can come together, watch the game on the big screen, gather around the dining room table, and enjoy a feast whipped up in the kitchen," says Mike. "The differences are, you don't have to cook the meal if you don't want to--most will cater it or supply a private chef--no one has to wash the dishes, and no one has to sleep on the couch."
Here are Mike's picks of top villa resorts for a family vacation at Thanksgiving, or any other time.
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 The Cloister (Sea Island, Georgia): This is an elegant place to relax and reconnect with loved ones, with a backdrop of endless activities, excellent service, and comfortable surroundings. One- to three-bedroom villas available; each is close to the beach, with an open kitchen.
- The Pines Lodge (Beaver Creek, Colorado): The pleasures of the natural surroundings are enhanced by a warm staff and its "nothing-is-too-much-trouble" efficiency. Two- to five-bedroom condos and townhomes available; each has a gourmet kitchen and a fireplace.
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 Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort (Labrelotte Bay, St. Lucia): This fortuitous blend of seclusion, sociability, and sports is immersed in St. Lucia's superb scenery. One- to four-bedroom villas available; some include a full-size pool and the services of a personal chef.
- St. James's Club & Villas (St. James, Antigua): Stretch out in one of the resort's roomy villas, with a huge private terrace offering turquoise glimpses of Maroma Bay. Two-bedroom "Luxury Villas" available; each has a full kitchen and separate dining and living areas.
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 Long Bay Beach Resort & Villas (Tortola, BVI): Enjoy the informality and beauty of the old Caribbean, where it's just you, your loved ones, and a mile-long beach. Two- and three-bedroom villas available; each has a full kitchen, outdoor dining area, and private pool.
- Covecastles (Shoal Bay West, Anguilla): Revel in the luxurious villa life, a secluded setting, and an upscale Caribbean island at your fingertips. Two- to six-bedroom villas and beach houses available; some are directly on a secluded beach with a pool and private sundeck.
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 Casa de Campo (La Romana, Dominican Republic): Whether your vacation lifestyle is fantasy or family, "fast-forward" or "pause," this oceanfront villa resort offers lots of recreational options. Three- to five-bedroom villas available; each has a whirlpool or pool, a touring cart to explore the vast grounds, and optional private chef service.
- Tryall Club (Montego Bay, Jamaica): Home to a country-club community of private villas available to rent, this Shangri-la has verdant hills and palm-fringed ocean frontage. One- to eight-bedroom villas available; each has its own style and a full staff, including cook.
- The Athenaeum (London, England): A delightful staff and the comforts and conveniences of home and then some--like a Child's Concierge--make this a perfect base from which to explore London. One- and two-bedroom flats available; many were designed for families.
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 Hotel Punta Islita (Guanacaste, Costa Rica): This elegantly casual resort is all about relaxation and rejuvenation, especially if you're cooling off in your villa's private pool. One- to three-bedroom villas available; some have a private terrace and hammock overlooking the sea.
"Enough room for the entire clan, a kitchen to prepare a grand feast, and housekeeping services to clean up the mess--now that's something to be thankful for," says Mike.
About Mike Thiel
Mike Thiel founded Hideaways International in 1979 and, over the last three decades, has become a sought-after guest on radio and television news and talk shows across the country.
To arrange an interview with Mike Thiel, contact Gail Richard at 603-430-4433, ext. 112, or pr@hideaways.com.
About Hideaways International
 Hideaways International, Inc., which operates the Hideaways Aficionado® Club, has been seeking the best-of-kind and the out-of-the-ordinary for its savvy, discerning, and well-traveled members for more than three decades. Members, who hail from around the world, range from notable celebrities, musicians, publishers, authors, captains of industry, and politicians to ordinary folks with extraordinary taste. All are part of this lively community with a passion for travel away from the madding crowds.
For more information, visit www.Hideaways.com or contact Gail Richard at 603-430-4433, ext. 112, or pr@hideaways.com. |