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Restored Italian farmhouses, eclectic Scottish castles, Mexican haciendas brought back to their former glory, refurbished Caribbean villas right on the beach… enjoy the best modern comforts all the while keeping historic or location-specific character by staying at these splendid recently renovated luxury vacation homes.

Hacienda Tacubaya – Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

On the market only since March 1st, years of extensive renovations has converted this four-suite fully staffed hacienda, located near the Celestun Biosphere Reserve, into one of the hottest new offerings in the Yucatan.

Rescued from ruins, the stunning 19th-century property was brilliantly restored by award-winning Mexican architects who have succeeded in maintaining its historic beauty while incorporating modern facilities and design elements. It features four deluxe suites, original nineteenth century hand-painted stencils in the main house and an impressive pool amidst vast gardens.

Tacubaya has a dedicated staff consisting of a concierge, maids, butlers and Maya cooks that will undoubtedly exceed your expectations. The hacienda is situated 45 minutes from the charming city of Merida and next to the exceptional Celestun Biosphere Reserve, a 146,000 acre park famous for its thousands of pink flamingos and home to over 300 other bird species.

Be one of the first to holiday at this enchanting historic hacienda by contacting Catherwood Travels here.

Chateau Royaume – Provence, France

Bring friends and family together this summer at this stunning 18th-century château in one of France’s most coveted vacation spots. Completely renovated to the highest standards, the castle is found south of the Alpilles Mountains, a mere 10-minute drive from picture postcard Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, 30 minutes from Avignon and 50 minutes from Marseille Provence Airport.

The estate offers the quintessential provencal lifestyle experience in 15,000 square feet of living areas spread over three levels and with beautiful views of the estate’s gardens, vineyards and the countryside beyond. It is decorated with classy contemporary furniture with antique touches like historic paintings, gilded mirrors and crystal chandeliers.

The ground floor includes three dining rooms, a sublime ceremonial hall and a comfortable lounge bar, creating the perfect spaces for a celebrating a special occasion. The common rooms extend to the first floor with a grand VIP lounge, games room, library with billiards and a conference room. Here you’ll also find three of the bedrooms, all with queen beds, two with en-suite baths and one with a private living room, terrace and en-suite bathroom.

The second floor is home to the rest of the bedrooms, among which are the master room with king size bed, dressing, separate toilets and bathroom with shower and a bath, a family suite with two bedrooms, dressing, toilets and en-suite bathroom and one bedroom with access for disabled persons. The gym, hammam and cinema room are also on this floor.

Enjoy a treasured holiday in Provence with In Villas Veritas at this link.

High Breeze – Barbados

Nestled along the breathtaking Holders Polo Ridge overlooking the stunning turquoise waters of the West Coast of Barbados, the recently renovated five-bedroom High Breeze is new to the portfolio of our experts at Blue Sky Luxury as well as being relatively new to the rental market.

The renovations were of the highest standards while maintaining the home’s traditional Barbadian architecture and classic old world elegance. These included a brand new chef’s kitchen, a state-of-the-art gym under the pool with amazing unobstructed coastal views, an office-loft in the living room and a gorgeous dining pavilion located in the tropical garden with views of the coast.

In addition to these improvements, guests will be in awe at the main house’s impressive foyer and formal living room with double height ceiling, vaulted beams, beautiful coral stone interiors and a blend of modern and antique Caribbean furnishings. Hours can be spent relaxing on the spacious covered verandah which benefits from cooling breezes and sparkling sea views. Meals can be enjoyed in the elegant dining nook or in the new, more formal pavilion with seating for up to 14. The pool and sun terrace have a privileged, raised position on the ridge providing exceptional views of the coastline below.

The main house has three tastefully decorated en-suite bedrooms with walk in closets, high ceilings and large windows. An addition two en-suite bedrooms are located in the guest cottage which has a private outdoor patio overlooking the verdant gardens and towards the polo field.

High Breeze is idyllically located along a peaceful, private ridge, however, the hustle and bustle of the coastal towns is only a few minute’s drive away. Some of Barbados’ best known restaurants are also within a 15 minutes drive.

Take in a sunny Barbadian vacation with Blue Sky Luxury here.

Villa F  – Venice, Italy

Featuring incredible views over the San Marco basin and Santa Maria della Salute, this exclusive 16th-century villa, has been entirely renovated.

It includes 11 spacious, self-contained suites which have all been individually decorated in stylish furnishings. These have original wall frescoes, Italian and Venetian ‘Terrazzo’ floors, and modern luxurious amenities like designer pure linen and silk fabrics by Rubelli, Donghia & Jesurum and kitchens with wine cabinets by Brummel.

When not relaxing in their private sitting rooms, guests can stroll the graceful three acres of gardens with a meditation pool or take in the awe-inspiring views of Venice. All rentals include access to the facilities of the nearby Palladio Hotel & Spa and transport to the Bauer Palazzo Hotel and De Pisis Restaurant.

Experience the marvelous world of aristocratic Venice at the refined Villa F at this link.

Paz del Mar Condo – Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica

This three suites and three and a half bathroom condo has 2800 sq ft of indoor space and another 750 sq ft of private terraces on Costa Rica’s gorgeous Papagayo Peninsula.

Recently completely gutted and rebuilt, the condo features an all new kitchen and new architectural detailing to the interior walls and ceilings. Highlights include the locally sourced and designed artwork and custom wooden pieces made from Costa Rican exotic wood.

With families in mind, the guest suite has a custom designed double bunk bed, with a queen bed on the bottom, twin beds up top.  From many vantage points it has fabulous views either of the ocean, out to the Papagayo Marina, over the Four Seasons managed Arnold Palmer course and the lush jungle.

Create a heavenly family getaway to Costa Rica with Papagayo Luxury here.

The Marlborough Lodge – Marlborough, New Zealand

Located in the heart of the famous Marlborough wine region, this refurbished grand country estate is nestled within 16 acres of secluded parklands, providing the ultimate retreat to indulge in New Zealand’s gourmet province. With 10 elegant contemporary suites, gourmet local cuisine, beautiful grounds and attentive staff on hand 24 hours a day, luxury is second nature at The Marlborough Lodge.

Opened in late 2016, this former Victorian-style convent, built in 1901, underwent vast renovations to create a refreshing contemporary vibe whilst retaining the home’s timeless, welcoming quality. Downstairs, a new commercial kitchen is home to a team of chefs who create delicious breakfasts to give you a great start to the day, appetising canapés prepared in the demonstration kitchen-style to help you wind down at the end next to the outdoor fireplace or in the library, leading on to a divine three-course dinner accompanied by local and international wine.

The lodge is the perfect base for exploring the stunning Marlborough region, the idyllic setting and the secluded haven creates time for you to reflect on as much – or as little – as you desire.

Plan the perfect luxurious gourmet getaway to New Zealand with Touch of Spice here.

St Andrews Mansion – Fife, Scotland

Described as one of the finest contemporary homes in Scotland, this exceptional 15th-century mansion has been impeccably restored with a harmonious balance of modern and antique. Set amidst a vast estate only six miles from St Andrews and one hour from Edinburgh airport, it is an idyllic, fully staffed holiday home for golfers or those seeking a peaceful and elegant escape in Scotland’s stunning countryside.

There is accommodation for up to 12 guests in the main house with its six king-size bedrooms with private bathrooms. The Guest Lodge has an additional two king size bedrooms with two bathrooms for up to five guests. The interiors are filled with a range of Dutch master paintings, Japanese and Chinese antiquities and works by contemporary British artists like Grayson Perry and Emily Young.

Guest can enjoy meandering through the estate’s extensive woodland, known for its waterfalls and rare native bluebells which pop out in spring. In summer, cast your line in the Eden River, which borders the grounds.

A medieval walled garden can be directly accessed from the house. It provides a fabulous entertaining space and is the ideal spot for relaxing with a cup of tea and a game of croquet. It is also abundant in fresh edibles during the warmer months, including berries, Italian lemons, apples, and vegetables. The estate harvests 350 bottles of special reserve apple juice from its 100-year-old trees, which guests can sample along with homemade berry jams and fresh honeycombs directly from well-kept beehives.

Treat yourself to the best of Scotland with Loyd & Townsend Rose at this link.

Villa Ganesh – Saint Barthélemy

Located right on beautiful Flamands Beach, this newly renovated villa is the perfect Caribbean villa for families where kids can choose from being steps away from the fun pool or the warm waters of the aquamarine sea.

A spacious open floor plan features a well-equipped kitchen and comfortable living and dining areas decorated in a fresh, modern style. The master suite is found on an upper level offering privacy, a king bed, en-suite with a luxurious bathtub and a terrace with a stunning view. The children will have fun camping out in the bunk room that sleeps four, plus there is a third bedroom (with a king bed) across the hall, both with en-suites.

The pool is surrounded by a large deck providing a fabulous outdoor living, dining, and playing space. It was designed to optimize the gorgeous views of the sparkling water and neighboring islands. When not playing in the water, on the beach or in the pool, hours of entertainment can be had on the ping pong table. Due to its central location, a short stroll along the beach leads to a variety of restaurants or enjoy home-cooked meals al fresco on the covered dining portico.

Start planning your perfect family trip to the Caribbean with Saint Barth Properties here.

Rancioli – Tuscany, Italy

In the heart of the picturesque Val d’Orcia, this spacious Tuscan farmhouse has been completely renovated and launched onto the rental market for 2017. Guest can enjoy a perfectly private and idyllic location while savoring the culinary, natural and cultural delights of Tuscany.

Once occupied by two large farming families, the crumbling home was originally restored in 1991. It has just undergone a thorough updating and reconfiguration to meet the tastes and requirements of the modern villa vacation. Today it combines the classic beauty of Tuscan architecture and materials with chic contemporary design brought by its Rome-based, art-gallery owner.

The ground floor features a living/dining room with a dining area for 12+ and a lounge area with working fireplace, a library and a cafe room. There is also a superb cook’s kitchen with Carrara counters, where on-site classes can be arranged with the amazing Rossa, the villa’s chef and concierge. The six en-suite double bedrooms are spread across the ground and first floors. Their quantity and distribution works well for adult couples who can travel in gorgeous May and September as well as sprawling family groups in the summer.

Its beautiful, relaxed grounds include vast lawns with alfresco dining for eight to 12 under a spreading ‘querce’ tree with stunning views to Monte Cetona, a dining pergola for six to eight under the grape arbor, other seating areas and an 8 x 17 meter pool.

The villa is a 30-minute walk to San Casciano dei Bagni, a lovely Medieval hilltop village and home to the luxurious Fonteverde Spa. Its location makes it the perfect base for exploring many of the cultural treasures of the region, like Siena, Montepulciano or Monticchiell, all within a 30 to 45 minute drive from the property.

Create your perfect Tuscan holiday with Homebase Abroad at this link.

Villa Melissa – Antiparos, Greece

Located on the exclusive lesser known Greek Island of Antiparos, this sprawling, recently renovated 11-bedroom Mediterranean-style villa offers guests extreme privacy and stunning views of the sea and nearby islands.

Its white-washed silhouette basks in the sun on a 12,000 square-meter elevated seafront plot which creates a fabulously calm setting. Its size and location are enhanced by spectacular views, graceful indoor and outdoor living, a sublime infinity pool area and access to a semi-private beach with a pergola and sunloungers.

The bedrooms, sleeping 18 to 21 guests, are ideally spread out over the complex of buildings and most include en-suite baths as well as private entrances. Four are found in a guest cottage.

The large swimming pool is surrounded by daybeds and a lounge area which includes a bar and external shower. The various buildings are encircled and linked by arched courtyards and lovely terraces with seating areas and a dining area equipped with a barbecue.

Enjoy a gorgeous Greek island getaway with White Key villas here.

Villa Paolo – Lake Como, Italy

This gorgeous historic villa, available through Carpe Diem Luxury Travel, has recently undergone extensive renovations making it the most sought after villa on sophisticated Lake Como.

It has been in the current owner’s family of industrialists since the 1900s and has always a private home. As such, the house has a wonderful art collection, furniture, objets d’art and old-world charm, there is even a museum located on the second floor. Twenty guests can be accommodated in 10 bedrooms spread over over three floors.

It sits on seven hectares of land sloping down to the lake. The graceful grounds include a botanical garden with a large collection of exotic plants. There is a simple three bedroom/one bathroom staff-house which can be used. There is one big boat-dock in the garden as well as one smaller one which has a direct access from the house.

Learn more about this exceptional Lake Como property through Carpe Diem Luxury Travel here.

One of the most dreamt of wedding destinations is certainly a fairytale castle, an enchanting and especially romantic venue to seal the bond of a couple’s love. Castle weddings are not merely in storybooks; you too can waltz like a princess in a glamorous ballroom, sip champagne on a terrace overlooking vineyards, dine on the finest gastronomy in a gilded grand salon or enjoy luxurious surroundings fit for a king – and queen! Make your wedding dreams come true at one of these breathtaking castles in France, Spain, England, Ireland and the Czech Republic.

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Lake Como
The seaside beaches of Europe are among the most beautiful in the world, attracting millions of sun seekers during the summer months. Consequently, it’s hard to avoid crowded coastlines, that come with endless rows of lounge chairs, bumper-to-bumper traffic along narrow roads and long queues at bars and restaurants. Our advice? Leave behind the masses and enjoy the delights of summer at these stunning lakes found in Europe’s sublime Lake Districts.

Excellence Villas Lake Como 2

Lake Como – Italy

For centuries, the Italian Lake District has been one of the most sought-after vacation spots in Europe. Surrounded by the rolling forests of the foothills of the Alps, its gentle waters are dotted with scenic villages and lavish villas. There are eight main lakes, but Gaia de Bueger of Trust&Travel and excellence.villas doesn’t hesitate one moment in choosing her favorite: Lake Como.

“The romantic poet Shelley correctly stated that it ‘exceeds anything I ever beheld in beauty.’ The best way to discover the lake is definitively by cruising on a slow ferry floating past villas and small villages clinging to the water’s edge. You can stop in Varenna, a small village on the eastern shore of Lake Como.

“Here you can lunch at Cavallino: La Trattoria Dei Pescatori, a delightful place serving great fish dishes. Then, from the dock, stroll south to Villa Monastero, a former monastery and noble residence that today draws visitors to its lakeside gardens. On the opposite shore, you can visit another jewel of Como, Villa Carlotta, a former marquis’s mansion dating from the late 17th century and its romantic Italian gardens. In the city of Como, a favorite restaurant is Market Place, which is a sophisticated venue in the city center with only 12 seats.”

A perfect base from which to discover Lake Como is the sophisticated Villa dell’Imperatrice. The neoclassical villa is virtually suspended over the water on a beautifully manicured 7-acre park. It sleeps 12 guests in six double bedrooms, four with ensuite bathrooms and two with their own private bathrooms across the corridor large windows. The decor is a stylish mix of classic antiques and comfortable modern furniture. It has lovely French doors, a spacious terrace, a balcony, a private boat deck as well as a panoramic swimming pool with phenomenal views over the lake.

For more information about the Villa dell’Imperatrice or their other magnificent luxury villas on Lake Como, contact Trust&Travel and excellence.villas here.

palazzo facade & lake

Lake Garda – Italy

Though it’s often overshadowed by its neighbor, Lake Como, many similar pleasures and beauty can be enjoyed on Lake Garda, a favorite of Marina Gratsos from Carpe Diem Luxury Travel.

“There are plenty of picturesque towns on the lake,” says Marina. “Like the lovely historic town of Salò, dating back to Roman times. Visit on a Saturday to catch its excellent morning market, admire the city center’s Renaissance palazzos and take a stroll along its promenade (the longest on Lake Garda) before having lunch of traditional local dishes at the refine Hotel Laurin.

“While vacationing on the lake you can also visit Il Vittoriale, the fascinating, bizarre and exotic house of the great Italian poet, eccentric and proto-fascist Gabriele d’Annunzio. Lastly, book a table at the gorgeous hotel Villa Feltrinelli for a delicious meal at its Michelin-starred restaurant.”

Nearby Salò is arguably the finest private property on Lake Garda: this early 16th-century lakefront palazzo that has been in the owner’s family since its foundation. The palazzo has a beautiful garden, three little beaches on the lake, a private dock, six bedrooms and six bathrooms and comes with staffing. There is no pool, but guests generally swim in the lake from the house, or take out the boats and do day trips or water sports on the lake.

To reserve your stay at this beautiful villa or learn about other options in the Italy Lake District contact Carpe Diem Luxury Travel at this link.

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Lake Attersee – Austria

With its 76 lakes, the Austrian Lake District of Salzkammergut, is one of Europe’s finest. Once the playground of Austria’s aristocracy, including the Emperor himself, the area boasts crystal clear blue lakes, green pre-alpine mountains, quaint villages and elegant lakeside villas.

Highlights of the area include the towns of Mondsee and UNESCO World Cultural certified Hallstatt. However, according to our local expert Monika Mayr-Melnhof at Schloss Kogl Castle, Lake Attersee combines the best attributes of the region. The largest lake in Salzkammergut, Attersee was the retreat for many artists, musicians and intellectuals like Gustav Klimt, Gustav Mahler and Johannes Brahms.

Spend some time communing with its spectacular nature by hiking through peaceful forests or by enjoying the lake’s many watersports such as swimming, sailing, water-skiing or diving. Monika also recommends attending a chamber concert at the Pfarrkirche Sankt Georgen Church. Afterward sample some of the region’s best wiener schnitzel at the elegant restaurant Bräugasthof Aichingerin Nussdorf.

In the nearby countryside is the refined Schloss Kogl Castle. Built in 1750, it has been owned by the Barons of Mayr-Melnhof since 1872. The baroque castle was entirely renovated in 2000 and is furnished in an elegant fin-du-siècle style. When you’re not exploring the area’s many splendors you can sit by the fireplace in the library, lounge by the pool in the garden, meander the graceful grounds or strike out on their historic bowling lane.

Join the Mayr-Melnhof family at their luxurious castle by contacting Schloss Kogl here.

castle loch ness scotland

Loch Ness – Scotland

The British Isles have several Lake Districts, but Andrew Loyd, director of Loyd & Townsend Rose, takes us north to Scotland and in particular to Loch Ness. Certainly the country’s most famous lake – thanks to its legendary monster – Loch Ness is also the country’s largest.

“Undoubtedly, one of the most popular things to do on the lake is a boat cruise in search of ”Nessie,” says Andrew. “However, there are many other excellent local attractions like the Culloden Battlefield, an important site of the religious civil war, historic Cawdor Castle and the ruins of Castle Urquhart.

“The area is also ideal for hill walking, bicycling and horseback riding. Hunting fans can take their hand at archery, falconry and clay & game shooting. Golfers may want to journey a little further north to tee off at the Royal Dornoch Golf Club. Make sure to have a meal at the quaint Dores Inn. Located right on the loch, its friendly staff serve up modern dishes and traditional Scottish cuisine, like their famous Stuart Grant Haggis with Neeps & tatties, mustard cream sauce.”

Enjoy the best of Scottish country life by staying at the exceptional Baronial Castle. Found on the banks of the lake, this authentic Highland Estate is the only habitable castle on Loch Ness. The classically furnished castle sleeps 28 in its meticulously restored luxurious state bedrooms. Have a moment to yourself in its opulent drawing room and library, or pick up a cue in the billiards room. The 500-acre estate features formal gardens, woodland and a private marina from which to embark onto the loch.

You can enquire about this castle or many other exquisite properties in the United Kingdom and Ireland by contacting Loyd & Townsend Rose at this link.

Considered the shoulder season in many destinations around the world, the month of May can be a traveler’s delight. Fewer tourists and great deals, the cusp of the rainy season or the joys of spring, it’s still not too late to enjoy our favorite places to visit in May.

Glenapp Castle Scotland

Scotland

May is an excellent time to holiday to Scotland, the days are almost at their longest, wildflowers and rhododendrons are popping out in the countryside, plus statistically you have the best chance of the whole year of getting dry weather.

“The Glenapp Castle is a great place to go in spring,” highlights Andrew Loyd, one of our UK experts of Loyd & Townsend Rose. “It’s truly ideal for garden lovers.”

The impressive 19th-century castle, built for the Earl of Inchcape, is located close to the coast in the southwest of the country. Opened to guests since 2000, its 17 rooms, sophisticated drawing room and library evoke the utmost of Victorian splendour. Outside, the elegance is carried over in its historic Italian gardens and 36 acre private grounds.

Garden aficionados should roam beyond the castle walls to several noteworthy gardens in the vicinity. Andrew recommends exploring the clifftop Culzean Castle and its gorgeous 600 acres of park and woods where you can seek out the spring blossoms along the marked paths through meadows, forests and around secluded ponds. There’s also Castle Kennedy Gardens, an important historic garden as well as the famous Logan Botanic Garden, considered the country’s most exotic garden.

Whereas over at our other UK expert, Warren de Long of Blandings, recommends going to the coast of Fife, where they have some fabulous properties to base yourself for exploring the area.

“So much of the press for Scotland is about the Highlands and the Western Isles – but I think this part of Scotland is every bit as beautiful and full of charm.

“The obvious place to start, of course, is St Andrews, it’s historic university and the world-class golf should be enough to tempt anyone, but to my mind there is so much more. There is a glorious coastal path that is best between St Monans and Crail—beautiful coastline and great villages, as well as excellent fish & chips in the villages near Anstruther. If you are a bit more adventurous, there is the Elie Chain Walk (between Elie & Leven) where there is a bracing, otter-spotting trail over the cliffs where you can do a 2-to-3 hour scramble. It’s challenging but not as scary as it sounds!

“For those who would rather sit than walk, it is worth going to the nearby coastal village of Elie where The Ship Inn not only has great food, but also hosts beach cricket (only when it is low tide!) starting in May and going on throughout the Summer. Pittenweem is another great spot on the beautiful East Neuk coastline, and in August each year they host the Pittenweem Arts Festival—which is great fun for families, and growing in popularity each year. Nature-lovers have plenty to see too, as there are regular ferries from Anstruther to the Isle of May which is known for its puffins, seals, porpoise, dolphin and even the occasional whale!”

To experience some of this yourselves and make the most of springtime in Scotland, you can reach out to these UK experts at Loyd & Townsend Rose and Blandings at this link.

House On A Dune Pamela Murdock

Bahamas 

“May is one of my favorite months to be in the Bahamas, in particular Harbour Island,” says our our Bahamas expert Pamela Murdock. “The air temperature ranges from about 70 – 85 degrees and the water is about 80 degrees. It’s simply perfect. Though it’s the beginning of the rainy season, the weather is generally beautiful. While this idyllic small island remains a wildly popular destination year round, by May the sun worshippers have been joined by those who love fishing and diving.”

We are in luck because Pamela was just on Harbour Island a week ago scouting out some new luxury properties to add to her already extensive portfolio and gave us these insider tips:

“Of course I made time to do some of my favorite things like snorkeling with Jeff of Ocean Fox and shopping for chic clothes at the Blue Rooster and just around the corner at the island’s newest store, Drake. We also had an fantastic lunch at Ocean Talley. Once a best-kept secret, this little jewel is getting more and more popular so definitely make a reservation, especially on weekends,” advises Pamela wisely. “It’s located in a lighthouse on Whale Point, Eleuthera which is about a 10-minute boat trip from Harbour Island. Definitely try their Tequila Shrimp as a first course – It’s so good you may want to have it for your main as well! It really is the perfect way to spend a Bahamian afternoon.”

We couldn’t agree more! A big thank you to Pamela for sharing this valuable local insight. You can learn more about Pamela’s offerings on beautiful Harbour Island at here.

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Costa Rica

One of our Costa Rica experts, Jane Moore of Papagayo, confirmed that May is a wonderful time to visit the country. Her luxury villas are located in the most upscale area of Costa Rica, home to the Four Seasons and an Arnold Palmer Golf Course. However, the area is still not overly developed so it feels very private.

“May is the beginning of the green season,” explains Jane. “We’re located in a tropical dry forest so when it rains, even just a little, everything becomes greener. Plus temperatures have started  cooling down from April’s extreme heat. In addition, since it’s the fringe season, just after spring break and before summer school holidays, it’s a good time to visit for couples. It’s like you have the place all to yourself.”

It’s also perfect timing because Papagayo has a fantastic last minute deal of up to 50% savings on certain villas for stays through June 01, 2016. Jane has sweetened the deal even further by running a flash sale which extends this deal for rental up to Nov 1 for bookings made by April 30, 2016.

Find out more about Papagayo and scoop up this amazing deal here. Or peruse the equally exceptional properties of our other Costa Rica expert Mead Brown at this link.

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Morocco

May is the most wonderful time of the year to travel to Morocco and Marrakech in particular,” says David Schneuwly one of our Morocco experts at Villanovo, who have some fabulous villas in Marrakech and Essaouira evoking the traditional spirit of Morocco coupled with modern luxury.

“During the day you can enjoy blossoming gardens under clear blue skies and in the evening al fresco dining in all our villas,” he tempts us further. “Golfing at its best, plus i’s also a wonderful time to trek in the Atlas mountains. We  can organize superb lunch parties in the Agafay desert located one hour from Marrakech.”

To arrange your perfect stay in Morocco, you can contact Villanovo or our other Morocco experts, Kensington Finest Properties Marrakech, here.

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Bali, Indonesia

May can be a great month to go to Bali, in part for similar reasons to Costa Rica above: it’s still relatively dry and slightly less humid then the rainy season, plus it’s just before the high season in summer making it less crowded and giving the island a more authentic, laid-back feel.

Our Bali experts at Luna2 have a fantastic May Getaway package. Named one of “the world’s top 10 hottest hotels” by Tatler Asia, Luna2 is a private hotel located in Seminyak, Bali’s ultimate beachfront holiday destination. You have exclusive-use of 5 bedrooms (4 doubles, 1 twin) for up to 10 adults. Their additional services include VIP ‘fast-track’ with complimentary airport pick-up/drop-off, daily sunset canapés, 24-hour use of 1 “Lunamobile,” with driver, complimentary kids’ coordinator/babysitting services.

Their May Getaway package is available for any bookings made from now until May 31, 2016 for stays between May 1 and August 31. They are also providing a special exclusive offer for UltraVilla readers, who will also receive a 5-course degustation dinner at the Chef’s table, for up to 10 guests, with the uninterrupted sunset and ocean views.

Learn more about Luna2 here or the exclusive properties of our other Indonesia experts, Global Nomad, who are all booked by for May, but the autumn is also a nice time to go to Indonesia.

Happy travels and we hope to see you at some of these wonderful destinations!