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Unique - Legit Luxury Vacation Rental Estate in the Orlando Area

July 29th, 2010 by Mark

One of the newest homes to our network is also one of the finest accommodations we’ve seen to offer families and friends legitimate luxuriousness during their trip to Disney/Orlando.

In a destination known for discounted neighborhood pool home rentals, this home called Shannon Serene gives guests the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the Disney area to a peaceful, serene lakeside setting with all of the luxurious comforts that discerning travelers crave.  Located in Winter Park, Florida, just a quick 25 minute drive from Disney World, Shannon Serene is a favorite among guests in the know.

Winter Park, Florida is known by local residents as “Little Europe”.  Guests will find high-end shopping, museum, exclusive dining and eateries lining Park Avenue and a tree-shaded Central Park.  Olde Winter Park houses many celebrities, financiers and professional athletes.

The home itself is nestled right on Lake Killarney with private beach and lake access offering activities including bass fishing, water skiing, and boating along 300 acres.  The lake serves as an eco-preserve for bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, and otters.

Key Home Features:

  • 5,100 sq ft
  • 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom
  • Completely renovated in 2008
  • Home theatre system with 54″ LCD
  • Lakefront master suite
  • Unique New England coastal style architecture
  • Custom library with 1000 book titles

Proximities:

  • 4 min drive to Dubsdread Golf Club
  • 5 min drive to Winter Park town
  • 25 min drive to Disney World
  • 50 min drive to Daytona Beach

Traveler Testimonial - Perfect Family Weekend!

“We just returned home from staying at this property. Our daughter was playing in a tennis tournament nearby and we wanted to have the feeling of home instead of a hotel room. One word…WOW! The home is absolutely beautiful and the location is perfect! The photos with the listing are just a sample of the incredible decor and architectural details in the home. After each morning match, we couldn’t wait to get back to enjoy all of the fun the location offered. Our family had a great time fishing, playing the piano and enjoying board games together. And my husband found a home away from home watching World Cup soccer on the flatscreen in the library! And as they say in real estate, location, location, location! The location was perfect. We love Winter Park and enjoyed an afternoon in the Park Avenue area. With the home located near the interstate, we drove to the tournament in 15 minutes, Millenia Mall in 20 minutes and Universal Studios in 30 minutes. It’s a convenient location. The owners went the extra mile to ensure we had a wonderful stay by providing great recommendations for the area and full amenties were at our disposal. They had compiled a list of restaurants in advance so we could make reservations. Dinner at Houston’s at sunset was spectacular! We would highly recommend this property to friends, family or anyone looking to stay in the Orlando-area. We definitely plan to rent again!”

   

Sandhurst Estate: Captiva Island’s Most Famous Estate

December 31st, 2009 by Mark

Captiva Island is a unique setting off the west coast of Florida. Located adjacent to the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Captiva has been the destination of choice for those who desire a laid-back Florida of the early 20th century sans traffic, congestion and chain restaurants. A destination which truly defines relaxed. This semi-tropical paradise is where the famous 20th century artist Robert Rauschenberg set up his studio and painted during the later years of his career enjoying the unique light and the diversity of year-round scenery.

Sandhurst Estate gained notoriety as the centerpiece of MTV’s Summer Beach House (2004), yet the owners have since rectified the situation as the estate has also been featured on HGTV’s Vacation Living Show as the Ultimate Dream Vacation Home and in Martha Stewart Living Magazine’s Leaf Print Fabrics article.

Sandhurst Estate captures the luxury of yesteryear while embracing the modern era. The bayfront Estate on Roosevelt Channel (the Gold Coast of Captiva Island) is Colonial West Indies style reminiscent of the colonial homes of the Caribbean.  When guests first enter the grounds, the estate is often mistaken for a resort. The multi-level estate with its pink/salmon hue and white trim recalls the mansions of Palm Beach. As was tradition of the mansions of the era, public rooms are expansive and private chambers denoted by name and each individually furnished.

The eight (8) bedrooms sleep 20 in supreme luxury; the biggest dilemma for guests is to choose which chamber would be most to their tastes. Each bedroom is individually designed including furnishings and accessories from Sanderson, Ralph Lauren, Ken Done, Brunschwig & Fils, and Sandhurst embroidered Frette & Peacock Alley Bathrobes.

THE MASTER RETREAT:  Is known for its custom queen bed and access to a private veranda and beautiful views. Guests will embrace the exquisite granite tile, Baldwin brass fixtures, the jetted tub and when enjoying morning coffee on the verandah, signature Sandhurst snuggly robes.

THE PINEAPPLE SUITE: The symbol of hospitality worldwide offers its guests a 4-poster queen bed and a one-of-a-kind water view from the 20’ x 20’ verandah. The en suite bathroom was set with European tile and offers a handicap-accessible shower and toilet.

THE BIG BAMBOO RETREAT: Is aptly named due to the unique and one-of-a-kind hand-crafted Indonesian bamboo 4-poster queen bed, en suite bathroom and a private veranda and water views.

   

Holidays in a vacation rental, making it memorable

November 4th, 2009 by Joseph

One of the many advantages of a vacation rental during the December holidays is the opportunity to make your lodging “personal and memorable”. From the Rocky Mountain West to the beaches of Mexico, Florida and the Caribbean, celebrating the holidays infused with generations of tradition (or make some new ones) in your vacation residence can provide memories to last a lifetime. We interviewed a few of our partners who offered some ideas:

Ski Holiday: A mountain vacation in the mountains during December guarantees a “White Christmas”. Our mountain managers suggest the following:

Holiday Décor: Request a Christmas Tree. The tree can be delivered and decorated prior to arrival. To keep the family traditions, consider shipping a small selection of ornaments to the management company prior to your trip. When you arrive, you and your family can place the “finishing touches” on the tree. Few destinations during the holidays rival our Ski Safari Chalet in Beaver Creek, CO. Families will enjoy the spacious 4 bedrooms which sleeps 10 in luxury. Even though true ski-in/out, we suggest apres-ski in the village with a hot cocoa and gelato just a short walk from the chalet.

Gifts: Consider having your gifts shipped to your vacation home rental. Imagine opening gifts by the fireplace watching the falling snow and the twinkling lights of the town. Or, if you desire a forested setting with evergreen trees covered in snow, consider our 3 bedroom condo in West Vail which accommodates 14, just minutes from the slopes yet set within a beautiful valley of mature aspens and evergreen trees, the finest mountain setting for the holidays and beyond.When its time to return home, have the larger gifts shipped.

Skis/Boards: Anyone on your gift list receiving new skis, boots or boards? If yes, ask the managing agent which retailer they prefer and order the equipment to be delivered to the vacation residence. Concerning boots, be sure to use a reputable retailer with a boot-fitting specialist. Bows and gift-wrapping are optional.

Christmas Dinner: The finest restaurants will be booked for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the weekend that follows. If you do not wish to cook, consider a private caterer or chef. Full formal meals can be delivered and re-heated or prepared on-site and professionally served, the choice is yours. Having a holiday party, have TheSociety.com assist you in securing a Butler for your event.

   

Southbound for Deals

October 22nd, 2009 by Joseph

According to a recent article in the Travel section of The New York Times, those looking for bargain travel deals between now and the holidays should act soon. The article states travel from business centers including New York and Chicago is increasing leading to higher airline ticket costs.  While bargains continue, prices seem to have bottomed-out and are now on the up-swing as the holidays approach and the economy continues to strengthen.

Winter destinations including Florida, the Caribbean, Arizona, Mexico and Hawaii are embracing increased booking volumes for the upcoming holiday season. However, if you are willing to travel before the high season, opportunities are still available at wallet friendly rates.

   

Florida vacation home rental opportunities

October 21st, 2009 by Joseph

Florida is considered a “suburb” of the Northeast and Midwest, the perennial favorite for snowbirds has become a bargain paradise. Tourism during the 2nd quarter of 2009 dropped almost 10% when compared to the previous year. Translation, incredible rates and opportunities from airfare to lodging to activities. Tourism is a major economic generator for Florida and the opportunities available at present will soon be a memory, do not miss the opportunity to vacation like a “King on a Pauper’s Budget”.

Take a look at the Sandhurst Estate on Captiva Island, a secluded getaway ideal for weddings, corporate retreats or large groups.

   

Captiva Island, Florida, Always in Style No Matter the Season

October 13th, 2009 by Joseph

Many famous houses in Florida boast of their provenance or their heritage. We guarantee The Sandhurst Estate, a private compound on almost two acres has a unique provenance one does not encounter often. The compound was featured as 2004 MTV’s Summer Beach House with Usher, as the Ultimate Dream Vacation Home on HGTV’s Vacation Living Show and in Martha Stewart’s Living Magazine. Sandhurst Estate is the perfect option for a relaxing vacation home, family reunion, corporate (discreet) retreat, special event or destination wedding.

The waterfront estate captures the architecture of Florida and the Caribbean in its Colonial West Indies style with 8 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms accommodating 20 guests in opulent yet laid-back comfort and style. On the estate grounds, guests enjoy the oversized heated pool with poolside bar and keg cooer, a tennis court, and boat dock (kayaks included). Of course, for the beach experience, just use the private access to one of the finest beaches on the Gulf of Mexico.  Additional island pastimes include golf, boating, kayaking, snorkeling, nature walks, shelling, biking, parasailing and fishing.

While we may suggest employing the services of the private chef, you are just a short distance from the village of Captiva. This secluded unspoiled tropical village offers guests gourmet restaurants, outdoor cafes, boutiques and art galleries (the late artist Robert Rauschenberg kept a home and studio on the island).

Leave the madras and Lilly Pulitzer attire in Palm Beach, when visiting Captiva Island its all about relaxation, rejuvenation and restoration, all within luxury surroundings found few places on this earth.

   

The Luxury Fractional Guide

July 20th, 2009 by Joseph

As the fractional ownership market continues to expand, we at The Society thought you, our clients may be interested in the Top Ten for this week according to the Luxury Fractional Guide. What does the list mean for you, read between the lines and access based on popularity and demand and the fact that owners of fractional’s are entering the rental marketplace to generate income.

Once known as “time-shares” with one of two fixed weeks of use, the new generation of fractional’s offer their owners inherent flexibility concerning use and many more nights of ownership. It is not uncommon to see fractional’s in 1/8th, 1/4th, and 1/3rd shares, most notably with super-luxury properties. (links are included for in-depth review):

#1 - The Bermuda House (Emerald Isle, NC)
#2 - Gulf Winds (Hernando Beach, FL)
#3 - Villa Bonair (La Jolla, CA)
#4 - Beach Club at Siesta Key* (Siesta Key, FL)
#5 - Crane Residence Club (Barbados)
#6 - Poet’s Cove Resort (Pender Island, BC, Canada)
#7 - Woodhaven Country Club Condo (Palm Desert, CA)
#8 - Santa Barbara Beach Club (Santa Barbara, CA)
#9 - Serenity Cove (Soda Springs/Lake Tahoe, CA)
#10 - Waikoloa Beach Resort Villa (Waikoloa, HI)

   

The Urban/City Summer Vacation can be most cost-effective for families when using the many opportunities available via The Society

April 21st, 2009 by Joseph

Our cities are some of the most enjoyable places to vacation. I am hearing of families who are considering summer vacations in cities to explore history, ancestry and in many situations supplement their children’s education. May we suggest the following:

Washington DC: The nations capitol, always popular, consider an urban vacation and add a few days in the countryside or waterfront of Maryland or Virginia. Even better, head down to Colonial Williamsburg and immerse yourself in history. Please call for inventory and availability.

New York City: One of the most popular destinations year-round. Stay in one of our apartments in midtown or downtown, and then consider a retreat to the beach or the country.

Denver: The ultimate cosmopolitan city known as the “Queen of the Plains”. Spend a few days in Denver and then travel west to the majestic Rockies, the towns of Breckenridge, Vail, Aspen and Steamboat are all within 3.5 hours of downtown Denver.

Miami: In summer, are we nuts? No, less crowds, off-season pricing, the same ocean, vibrant art scene and day trips to the Keys for some fresh-caught seafood.

Boston: Where history comes alive. Spend some time in Boston and then head north into New England and enjoy the spectacular landscapes and enchanting evenings.

vacation rental photo
San Francisco: While no one can definitively attest Mark Twain ever said: “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.”, be prepared for cool foggy days off the bay. For some sunshine, take a bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge into Marin County, the sun will take the chill away immediately.

   

Spring Break Rental Deals - Sun Destinations

March 16th, 2009 by Mark

Spring Break Society Style

Sun or snow, what’s your go?

The Society has numerous rentals still available for last minute, Spring Break bookings. For as little as $40/person/night, you can spend your break in a luxurious and private vacation rental estate or villa. Destinations including Oahu, San Diego, Ft. Lauderdale, Orlando, Venice Beach, Mayan Riviera, Whistler, Vail, Aspen, and Sun Valley are awaiting your inquiries.

Below are a few of our highlighted discounts in “Sun” destinations.  View rentals in “Snow” destinations.

**Note: Some rentals are not currently listed on The Society, and thus do not include profile links. Please inquire if you are planning a trip, and we will provide additional details upon request.

Ft. Lauderdale Estate: Super Spring Break Rate.

Ft. Lauderdale
6,000 sq ft waterfront estate.
5 bedrooms. 10 person capacity.
Available Weeks of 3/21, 3/28 and 4/4
Retail: $9,500/week.
Special 20% off! Only $109/nt per person.

See More Details. Inquire Now.

Orlando Luxury Must-See: Close to Disney.

Orlando
Award winning, riverfront home.
4 bedrooms. 8 person capacity.
Available Weeks of 3/21, 3/28 and 4/4
Retail: $5,000/week.
Special 20% off! Only $72/nt per person.

See More Details. Inquire Now.

Riviera Maya Retreat: Hard to Beat.

Riviera Maya
Sprawling family home for big groups.
4 bedrooms, Penthouse & Studio. Base rate for 8 ppl.
Available week of 3/28, 100’s more available 3/21-4/4
Retail: $6,500/week.
Special 20% off! Only $93/nt per person.

See More Details. Inquire Now.

Set your San Diego Trip in Motion: Stay Right on the Ocean.

San Diego
Coastal paradise with perfect oceanfront location.
5 bedrooms. 15 person capacity.
Available Weeks of 3/21, 3/28 and 4/4
Retail: $5,070/week.
Special 15% off! Only $41/nt per person.

See More Details. Inquire Now.

Oahu Island Style: Vacation with a Smile.

Maui
Better than beachfront, private beach access.
4 bedrooms. 8 person capacity.
Available Weeks of 3/21, 3/28 and 4/4
Inquire for discounted Spring Break rates

See More Details. Inquire Now.

Venice Beach Rental Priced at a Fraction: Near to All Local Attractions.

Venice Beach
Eco-friendly, minutes to beach, dining & attractions.
3 bedrooms. 7 person capacity.
Available Weeks of 3/21, 3/28 and 4/4
Retail: $3,800/week.
Special 13% off! Only $68/nt per person.

See More Details. Inquire Now.

More Discounts -

San Diego, CA:

Private Beach House on the Sand 1733
http://thesociety.com/vacation+rental/20345
Inquire Here
# it sleeps: 20
Retail Rate: $7098
Special Rate: $6033
Weeks available:
3/21-3/28       Y
3/28-4/4        Y
4/4-4/11        N