As vaccine distribution is underway in many countries, we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel for travel restrictions. We consider ourselves experts at planning getaways that are not just memorable, but also put your safety first. If you’re excited to book your post-pandemic trip in 2021 or 2022, but want to limit contact with people outside your group, consider a private villa! It’s one of the most COVID-safe ways to travel and experience a fantastic destination.
Why are villa vacations one of the safest forms of travel right now?
Not only are private villas perfect for families and groups, but you’ll also be able to limit your contact with others outside your own household. There’ll be no sharing of facilities and you’ll be completely secluded, allowing you to relax in total safety and comfort. Booking a private villa is different from a standard vacation rental (like an Airbnb) because most villas come with a whole host of other benefits such as delicious catered meals and once-in-a-lifetime activities.
From properties that can accommodate your entire family in the stunning Serengeti to luxury houses set among peaceful rice paddies in Bali, here is our pick of the best private villas around the world.
1 Laragai House, Kenya
Perched on the edge of the Borana Ranch Conservancy in the very heart of Kenya, Laragai House is a dreamy destination set within 32 acres of bushland.
As well as luxurious interiors and eight individual bedrooms that can comfortably sleep up to 16 guests, Laragai House offers you complete exclusivity for the duration of your stay. You’ll have full use of the extensive grounds, including an incredible infinity pool and full-size tennis courts, and the property’s friendly staff.
A range of amazing activities is available for visitors at Laragai House too. Go on a private game drive to spot the Big Five animals, take a guided walk through the bush or make use of the villa’s riding stables. Passionate about animal welfare? There are also opportunities to tag along with the local anti-poaching unit to track rhinos!
2 Villa Shinta Dewi, Bali
If you’ve had Indonesia on your travel bucket list for a while now, there are few better places to stay than Ubud. Set at the very center of beautiful Bali, it’s a true oasis surrounded on all sides by lush paddy fields. It has long been the cultural epicenter of the island, as well as the home of its royal family.
Why not stay in a property fit for a king at the Villa Shinta Dewi Ubud? Located just north of the town and right on the edge of gorgeous green fields, it’s a real-life paradise perfect for family vacations. The house itself is supremely spacious, stylishly decorated, and able to sleep up to 11 people across four plush bedrooms.
When you’re not exploring Ubud’s rich arts and crafts scene, touring majestic Hindu temples, or soaking up breathtaking scenery, you can lounge around your private pool fringed by tropical flora and fauna and enjoy mouth-watering meals cooked by a personal chef.
3 Spice Coast Cruises, Kerala, India
India is a dream destination for many and home to dozens of wonderful private villas! For something extra special, why not consider staying aboard a private boat in the glorious Kerala region?
Spice Coast Cruises allow you to stay on beautiful wooden boats and glide across the serene waters around the Vembanad Lake in Alleppey. Once described as the ‘Venice of the East’, the ancient town is crisscrossed with canals and flanked by pristine white sand beaches.
When it comes to your accommodation, you’ll sleep and travel on traditional houseboats known as Kettuvalams. They’ve been navigating Kerala’s waterways for centuries and are luxuriously updated to suit modern living. The interiors feature comfortable sleeping cabins with handcrafted furnishings, plus cozy living areas where you can dine on fresh fish dishes cooked by local boatmen.
4 Horathapola, Sri Lanka
Hidden away in one of the most serene regions of Sri Lanka, a stay at the Horathapola Estate is ideal for those after tranquility and authentic local culture.
The grand building dates back to 1922 and sits within 50 acres of grounds, including an organic farm brimming with coconut trees, rice fields, herb gardens, and fruit and vegetable patches. Horathapola’s history is evident in every corner, including in the exquisite antique furnishings spread across all five of its ensuite bedrooms.
Choose between the larger bungalow or book into the smaller two-bedroom annex ideal for smaller groups. You can spend your days strolling down nature trails, cycling between paddy fields, or sunning yourself by the pool. Horathapola’s cuisine options are also impressive – request bespoke menus to suit your dietary needs or let your taste buds pop with delicious local dishes.
5 Singita Serengeti House, Tanzania
Another great option for animal lovers is this private villa within Tanzania’s Grumeti Game Reserve. Singita Serengeti House sits in Central Serengeti – a region famed for its epic diversity of wildlife.
As well as enjoying safari excursions to witness the Great Migration across the Grumeti River (note that this only occurs between May and July), you’ll have close encounters with nature from the luxurious lodge itself. The crowning glory of Singita Serengeti House is its outdoor terrace which features various relaxing seating areas, a fire pit, and an infinity pool overlooking the Serengeti plains.
Indoors, snooze in one of four impeccably designed suites in the main house or adjoining garden rooms. In addition to all the typical mod-cons, you’ll have mouth-watering meals prepared by an in-house chef and benefit from your own Field Guide. Enjoy private access to the game reserve, visit vibrant local communities, or take a trip to the nearby anti-poaching observation post.
Like the sound of staying in a high-end holiday rental? Chat to our experts about the safest forms of travel in 2021 and start making your dream vacation a reality.
