Warm Winter Wanders: January Destinations to Soak Up the Sun 

BY  Sibashree Jan 16, 2025

Renting a perfect yacht for your charter is a thrilling opportunity to enjoy luxury, freedom, and adventure. Travel on the surface of the blue ocean is unlike anything you want to experience during the holidays. The different amenities available on the board give you an experience unlike anything else. You can charter an airplane for a fun and joyful ride. But there’s something else when it’s a yacht.  However, selecting the ideal yacht can seem overwhelming, with so many options available.  Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time renter, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect yacht for your trip.  1. Define Your Vacation Style Think about the type of experience you want. Are you looking for a romantic escape, a family-friendly adventure, or a lively party with friends? Your vacation style will guide you in selecting the right type of yacht.  Sailing Yachts: Ideal for those who love the authentic experience of navigating with sails. Motor Yachts: Perfect for luxury, speed, and comfort. Catamarans: Spacious and stable, great for families or groups. Gulets: Traditional wooden vessels, perfect for laid-back cruising with a touch of charm. At 12 Knots Yacht Rentals, you’ll find a variety of yachts tailored to your preferences. Choosing the best yacht for your vacation depends on your cruising style and how you want to sail. The type of luxury experience you want depends on your desire and the experience you are looking for. You’ll choose the perfect yacht for your charter depending on that. So, first, set your expectations and the above parameters should help you identify what you are looking for in the yacht.  2. Consider Your Group Size How many people will join you? Yachts come in different sizes, from intimate vessels for two to spacious yachts that can accommodate large groups. Ensure there’s enough room for everyone to sleep, dine, and relax comfortably. There are different sizes of yachts, and each size has a capacity to accommodate a specific number of people.  Get a small yacht, and you can have 4 to 12 people onboard. Now, if you want a grand and luxury wedding on a yacht, you’ll need from 100 to 300 people. That’s when you need a large yacht. Also the need for safety guides and features also change with the number of people you want to have onboard for the charter.  3. Choose the Right Destination The destination often influences the type of yacht you should choose. For example: In the Caribbean, a catamaran might be ideal for shallow waters and island hopping. For the Mediterranean, a motor yacht provides the speed and style needed to explore glamorous coastal towns. A luxury yacht in the Maldives ensures you travel comfortably across atolls. So, choosing the right destination for a yacht charter is also an integral part of finding what works for you. Think of the location you want to visit on your yacht and choose accordingly.  Visit 12 Knots to explore available yachts by destination.  4. Decide on Crew vs. Bareboat Crewed Yachts: Perfect for a hands-off, luxurious experience. The crew handles everything from navigation to meals, leaving you free to relax. Bareboat Charters: Great for experienced sailors who want full control of the yacht. You’ll need the appropriate certifications to rent these. If you want the experience of charting a yacht, it’s great to go for a bareboat charter. If you are a skilled sailor and have significant experience handling a yacht in the ocean, nothing is stopping you from getting a bareboat charter. You must have the necessary certifications and licenses for charting bareboat yachts. So, keep your personal safety and legal procedures in mind when deciding between a crew or a bareboat charter.  5. Set a Budget Yacht rentals often have significant differences in pricing depending on the size, type, and location. Keep in mind additional costs, such as fuel, docking fees, and provisioning. Many charters offer transparent pricing, making it easier to stick to your budget.  But, typically, in the budgeting part, the key areas of consideration come down to the charting fees and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance).  The advance provisioning allowance for the additional expenses such as drinks, food, delivery, re-delivery fees, and the average cost for smaller yachts.  Depending on your requirement for a luxury yacht charter, you’ll have to spend a specific amount. A small yacht chartering will cost you $10,000 per week. On the other hand, a large sized luxury yacht will cost $150,000 per week. So, set your budget depending on whatever type of experience you are looking for.  6. Check the Amenities Think about the facilities you’ll need: Spacious cabins and bathrooms Air conditioning Onboard kitchen or chef Wi-Fi and entertainment systems Equipment for water sports like snorkeling, paddle boarding, or jet skiing Explore yachts on 12 Knots to compare amenities and find your ideal match. 7. Understand the Season Different destinations have peak seasons. For example, the Mediterranean is best in summer, while the Caribbean shines in winter. Booking in advance ensures you get the yacht you want at the best price. 8. Read Reviews and Consult Experts Look for reviews from past renters and seek advice from yacht rental professionals. At 12 Knots, their experienced team is ready to help you make the best choice for your trip. Several listing websites online allow you to comparent types of yachts and luxury riding experiences.  You can compare prices, features amenities on those websites before making a decision. In addition, different clients also leave their own reviews and testimonials about specific rentals. You can check those before making a decision.  Conclusion  Renting a yacht is a fantastic way to elevate your vacation, but the key to an unforgettable experience is choosing the right yacht. You can ensure a seamless and enjoyable trip by considering your vacation style, destination, group size, and budget. You can take the advice we have given in this article to make your selection a worthwhile one. On the other hand, if you are a travel enthusiast, read other articles we have on our website.  Ready to start planning? Explore the best yachts for your dream destination at 12 Knots Yacht Rentals and embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Ankita Dec 18, 2023

Imagine waking up to the serene sound of waves on the Amalfi Coast or savoring a cup of freshly brewed espresso on a sunlit terrace overlooking the rolling Tuscan hills. This is the enchanting promise of a villa rental in Italy—a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and cultural immersion that transforms an ordinary vacation into an extraordinary adventure. In this guide, we'll explore the intricacies of planning the perfect Italian rental villa getaway, from selecting the ideal location to making the most of your stay. Why Choose a Rental Villa in Italy Italy, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers a diverse array of rental villa options. These properties range from rustic farmhouses in the heart of vineyard country to opulent mansions on the shores of the Mediterranean. Unlike typical hotel accommodations, villas offer a heightened level of privacy and space, allowing you to unwind in a setting that feels genuinely your own. Moreover, a luxury villa rental in Italy is not just about luxurious lodging; it's about immersing yourself in Italian life, experiencing the local customs, and enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace. Finding the Right Villa Selecting the perfect villa is a journey in itself. Start by considering the location—each region of Italy offers something unique. A villa in Tuscany might provide rustic charm and proximity to historic cities, while a Sicilian beachfront property offers stunning seascapes and a laid-back vibe. Consider the size and layout of the villa, ensuring it accommodates your party comfortably. Amenities are crucial too—do you need a fully-equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, or a private pool? When it comes to amenities, think about your dream vacation and choose a villa that turns that dream into reality. Timing and Booking The best time to book a villa in Italy largely depends on your vacation preferences. The summer months are bustling with energy and warm weather, ideal for beachside villas or enjoying the lively Italian summer culture. However, the shoulder seasons—spring and autumn—offer milder weather, fewer tourists, and often more attractive rates. Regardless of the season, booking in advance is crucial, especially for popular destinations or unique properties. Early booking not only secures your preferred dates but often provides more competitive prices. Planning Your Stay Tailoring your stay is what sets a villa vacation apart. Beyond just a place to sleep, villas can be the centerpiece of your Italian adventure. Many offer unique experiences—imagine participating in a cooking class in your own kitchen, guided by a local chef, or enjoying a private wine tasting in the villa’s cellar. Plan these activities ahead of your stay to ensure availability and to fully immerse yourself in Italian culture. Also, consider any special requests or needs you might have—some villas offer services like childcare, personal trainers, or event planning. Making the Most of Villa Amenities The amenities offered by Italian villas are often what make your stay truly memorable. Many villas boast private pools, stunning gardens, and outdoor dining areas—perfect for enjoying the Italian sun. Inside, you might find fully equipped kitchens, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and luxurious bedrooms. Some villas even come with staff—housekeepers, cooks, and concierges—who can enhance your stay by taking care of daily chores, preparing meals, or helping you navigate the local area. Exploring the Local Area Your villa rental is a gateway to exploring Italy's rich tapestry of culture and history. Venture out to local markets to sample fresh produce and regional specialties. Visit nearby historical sites and immerse yourself in Italy's deep history. Or simply stroll through local villages, enjoying the architecture and friendly faces. Remember, part of the joy of a villa rental is the freedom to explore at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and creating unique memories. Practical Considerations When planning your villa vacation, there are several practical considerations to keep in mind. Transportation is one—while some villas are easily accessible by public transport, others might require a car rental, especially in more remote locations. Familiarize yourself with the local language and customs to enhance your interaction with locals and enrich your experience. Safety is another consideration—ensure you are aware of any local guidelines or regulations, particularly if you're traveling with children. Conclusion Choosing a villa rental in Italy offers an exceptional opportunity to experience one of the world's most beloved destinations in a unique and intimate way. It's a chance to create a vacation that is not just a break from everyday life, but a rich, immersive journey into the heart of Italian culture and luxury. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your Italian villa getaway can be a dream come true, filled with memories that will last a lifetime. Read Also: Which Is The Largest Freshwater Lake In India? 12 Best Things To Do In Sanibel Island – Tour And Travel Guide Exploring The Unexplored: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Darjeeling?

BY  Ankita Sep 8, 2022

What is the one thing that we worry about before making plans to go on a vacation? That is correct: it is about the stay and the travel. While it is true that the number of travelers has reduced drastically in the last two years with the rising cases of coronavirus and the following lockdown, reports say that 2022 has seen new growth in the rate of travelers. If you are someone who doesn't want to take a lot of stress about where to stay during the vacation, I recommend that you give a thought about VRBO. If you are someone who is looking for user reviews and an overview of how VRBO works, you have come to the best place. It is still the best place for you if you want to know what does VRBO stand for. Keep on reading this article till the end to learn more about the platform… VRBO: Traveling Made Easy! Heard the name Vacation Rental by Owner? Oh wait, let me make that one easy for you. Take 2! Heard the name VRBO? Yes, that is correct! Known for excellent rental options, it is one of the most used platforms if you are planning a vacation with your friend and family. The way it works is very similar to Airbnb, and that is the reason why many people might confuse the two and how they work. There are many people who do not like to go through the entire process of booking a hotel for their vacation. And to an extent, there are many who do not like the feeling of staying in a hotel, even if they are so much more convenient. Why? Well, for me, it is because they are exactly the same. It does not matter how good the hotel is, but something is always missing. That is the reason why people have started to think about choosing rentals. For that homely experience, you know? Similar to Airbnb, VRBO is one of the most used vacation rentals. As the name suggests, VRBO is something that specializes in vacation rentals that people directly own. There are a different variety of rentals that you can choose from, beginning with houses to condos and villas. The People Of VRBO: Who Is VRBO For? In case you were thinking about who can use VRBO, let me tell you that VRBO is, in its truest sense, for the people by the people. It is a service that is provided by the owners of the apartment or property for people who are looking for a place to stay while they are on vacation. When you go to the official site of VRBO, you will figure out that there are two options of VRBO login for you to sign in: VRBO Traveler Login VRBO Owner Login This means that you can use this platform not only to book a rented apartment while you are on vacation but also to rent your own property for others to book while they are planning the same. In other words, it is a great place for you to not only book your property while you are planning a holiday with your family or friends but also to earn money for the platform by being able to rent it to people who need it. Properties You Can Rent On VRBO There are a number and varieties of properties that you can rent on VRBO. The main reason for that to happen is because there is a huge number of people who are from varied backgrounds. This is the reason why you will also get a lot of variety from the properties to choose from. Some of them are as follows: Houses Apartments Treehouses Condos Palaces Villas So there are a lot of options for you to choose from depending on what you want your vacation to be like. Choosing VRBO: What Is VRBO Like, And Is It Worth It? If there is something that you should want to know about it, then it is about the services that it provides. After all, while booking a place to stay, you must want to know about the customer service or the quality of the stay that you should look forward to. While it is true that VRBO was one of the best when it came to rental services, the quality of the customer services that the platform provides now has drastically changed. The platform was founded in 1995. And trust me when I say this, the quality was great at that time. However, in the recent past, there have been a lot of complaints regarding the services that the platform provides. There are a number of cases where the customers could not find quality customer support when they faced an issue with the property. Because of all these reviews, people have started considering choosing Airbnb over VRBO. The only reason, however, that clients still choose VRBO is that you can choose the area of stay based on your preferred location. This means that you can search for the type of property that you want to select based on the location. For example, it can be a mountain viewing property, beachside property, or a ski rental property. VRBO Reviews: What users have to say about the platform! I know it can be a bit tricky to trust the words of a stranger. That is the reason why I have gathered some of the most genuine reviews by the users who have experienced the services that VRBO provides. Here are the reviews that you were looking for: 1. Source: TrustPilot.com 2. Source: consumeraffairs.com 3. Source: consumeraffairs.com 4. Source: sitejabber.com Alternatives Of VRBO: Want To Try Something Else? In case you are not that happy with VRBO, let me tell you that there are many other websites and platforms that deliver the same or similar services. In case you want to have other alternatives at hand, here are some of the platforms that you can try: Booking.com Kayak Priceline Expedia Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Now that you have reached almost the end of this article, I hope most of your confusions are already clear by now. Still, there might be some left. Here are some of the questions that raiders frequently ask. Why don’t you check them out? 1. Is VRBO Trustworthy? While there might be several reasons for you to choose VRBO, the quality of service that the platform provides has fallen dramatically in the past few years. There have been a lot of complaints about the services that the company provides. 2. Is VRBO The Same As Expedia? Though it is true that the tour and travel website Expedia Group acquired VRBO in the year 2015, the latter made its debut in the year 1995. This means that VRBO has been around for a much longer time.Therefore, even if the company is under the Expedia Group, the two are two different sites, and they work very differently. 3. Does Airbnb Own VRBO? VRBO is a travel booking company that was founded in the year 1995. On the other hand, Airbnb was founded in 2008. These two are two separate companies, even though they are from the same industry. Expedia currently owns VRBO. Bottom Line: Should You Be Trying VRBO? There are many travel websites and agencies in the world, and it is one of them. It helps customers book their vacation and everything related to it. The way the platform works is very similar to how Airbnb does. That is one of the reasons why many people are confused about whether Airbnb owns VRBO. In case you were searching for the features and the user reviews of VRBO, I hope that you found this article to be of help. Also, if there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to comment them down in the box below. Read Also: Hotwire.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022 90 miles cuban cafe – Reviews, Special menu and Price The Speciality Of Barnaby’s Cafe – Reviews, Special menu and Price