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Luxurious Hillside Villa at Alte, Messines

Posted by ECD on 20th November 2008

hillside villa

The Hillside Villa at the Alte, Messines is nicely located in an area where it is surrounded by great restaurants and bars. But apart from the great location as a big come-on, what will make one stop and say, “I want to spend a few days here,” are the wonderful amenities waiting to be discovered by guests.

hillside villa

The Hillside Villa’s architecture is very clean and rustic, with old-world charms that make the place look warm and inviting. One of the biggest prides of the villa is the large private pool, as well as the roof terrace where guests of six can have meals and conversation while enjoying the view.

hillside villa

Another thing that makes the pool great is the state-of-the-art Ultra Violet Light System that purifies and cleans the water for swimming. No chemicals are added to the water, and everything is clearly organic. Swimmers will enjoy this privilege and will probably waste no time diving into the pool. The patio is also a great venue for a cookout and little parties, all the more reason to love this hillside villa.

hillside villa

hillside villa

Overall, this popular hillside villa is a great vacation spot for families and large group of friends wanting to get away from the humdrum of the city. The bedrooms, lounge and dining areas are made for relaxation, while still providing great home and kitchen accessories. Get away from the world for awhile in this place, but if you want to stay connected to cyberspace, an internet connection is available. Should you wish to commune with nature on an impromptu hiking trip, mountain bikes are provided, too.

//Source and images from Hillside Villa.

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Elegance and Style at Sonoma Coast Villa

Posted by ECD on 17th November 2008

coast villa

Sonoma Coast Villa boasts of elegance and style as it creates a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all of its guests in this quaint country estate in Northern California. The coast villa has several gardens with beautiful terraces, tiled roofs, charming terra cotta stucco designs and wide verandas that portray familiar Mediterranean surroundings.

coast villa

The coast villa interiors are very warm, with the fireplace a great focus in the room. Other amenities in area include very private patios, spas and swimming pools, and other great comforts that make this Californian refuge a nice place to stay in.

coast villa

I like the extensive use of wood all throughout the architecture of this coast villa. It marries well together with other natural elements like fresh flowers, the green grass outside, and the blue sky. It is also a stark contrast to other modern furnishings like bathtubs, walk-in showers, and marbled floors.

coast villa

There are also many rooms like The Honeymoon Suite, Junior Suite, Country Rooms, Deluxe Villa Rooms, Deluxe Villa Rooms. Each room has a large private courtyard and a spacious sitting area with magnificent sliding doors. All together, these rooms make up a grand coast villa that is a home away from home. From the exterior to the interior designs, Sonoma Coast Villa really does embody both elegance and style - find true comfort, bliss and peace here. You won’t be disappointed.

//All images are from Sonoma Coast Villa.

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Sun, Sea and Sky at Lutsen Resort, Minnesota

Posted by ECD on 13th November 2008

sea villas

The Lutsen sea villa is a sight to behold at the Lutsen Resort in Minnesota. The structure are just a few meters away from the magnificent Lake Superior shoreline, and provides a great view of the sea and the sky. The grounds are very spacious, and the environment is perfect for those looking for tranquility and relaxation. There are walking trails provided for visitors who want to explore the area, as well as provisions for campfires at the beach, should one hold a gathering or a party.

sea villas

Inside the sea villa are big and spacious bedrooms, fully furnished kitchens, warm and inviting fireplaces, and other comforts from the modern home like TVs, DVD players, and internet. There are also private decks where one can spend the afternoon just having snacks and conversation, or reading a book.

sea villas

sea villas

sea villas

The Lutsen sea villa is part of a bigger resort that also houses other structures like lodges and cabins. Provided for the guests is a big recreational building where it contains a large indoor pool, a whirlpool and even a sauna. For children, they will be glad to see that a playground is also set up where they can play and have fun.

sea villas

The Lutsen Sea Villa is a wonderful way to enjoy both indoor and outdoor comforts. It is built in Scandinavian-style of architecture, and feels and looks very luxurious. The ambiance complements the vast expanse of sea and sky outside, and portrays the quality of a fine hotel.

//Images from Lutsen Resort.

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Awesome “O” Beach Villa at Maldives

Posted by ECD on 11th November 2008

beach villa

The “O” Beach Villas offer an enticing view of the Kuredu Express. Kuredu Express is famous for spotting dolphins and the blue Indian Ocean far away in the horizon. Distant islands can also be seen, and is a fantastic view while resting on the sun deck chairs.

beach villa

At the terrace area, there is a big daybed where people can lounge and enjoy the sun.

beach villa

beach villa

The “O” Beach Villa also boasts of a big bedroom that has a big space for sitdowns and conversations.

beach villa

beach villa

While the bathrooms are very romantic with a walk-in shower.

The architecture of this beach villa is such that it is positioned to catch the sun as it rises in the morning. Sunlight enters the villa in a magnificent manner, that it lights up the whole area. It’s a great place to enjoy the beach. Having a place to come home to instead of the regular hotel is like having the comforts of home.

//Source and images from Kuredu Resorts.

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Living Vicariously at Amira in Italy

Posted by ECD on 6th November 2008

Italian villas, villas Italy

This is probably one of the most beautiful Italian villas I’ve seen. It’s like a villa out of a dream, where every room looks very spacious, airy, and romantic. Located at one of the most premium places in Italy, in Cinque Terre, Liguria, is Villa Amira that really takes your breath away.

Italian villas, villas Italy

Villa Amira is perched on a ledge overseeing the ocean. This location is said to be part of an exclusive residential area, one of the best in Italy. And looking at how magnificent the interiors of the villa are, as well as the spectacular view outside, I couldn’t agree more.

Italian villas, villas Italy

Everything is first-class, a true luxury for someone who wants to experience a great rendezvous by living in a real Italian villa. From the quaint dining area outside overlooking the sea and the harbor, one can have a really peaceful breakfast, enjoying the sun and the fresh smell of water and the trees. There are also seats available for some lounging or sunbathing.

Italian villas, villas Italy

Even the interiors exude the warm atmosphere enveloping the villa, with its very modern yet earthy design and colors. Wide sliding glass doors and glass windows allow the room to breathe, and the sculptures and pottery and other accessories in the main room make the space look “lived in”.

Italian villas, villas Italy

Throughout the kitchen and the dining area, the bright colors continued the very welcoming appeal of Italy, and makes one feel very at home. The green lacquered cabinets are enticing, and looks almost good enough to eat, while the sunny dining table makes for a great venue for long meals of great food and conversation.

Italian villas, villas Italy

I also love the bedrooms and how they were designed. There’s something very authentic to it, and very native, too.

Italian villas, villas Italy

The Mediterranean theme is also very evident in this place, and makes one feel closer to the sea. The architecture, with its clean lines and wide open spaces, are made softer by interior elements like whites and blues, a splatter of greens, reds and browns. Curtains and big windows also bring sunshine inside, making the big area all the more inviting.

This is one Italian villa that you don’t want to miss when visiting. For an exclusive stay that is relaxing and luxurious at the same time, Villa Amira is something to look forward to.

//All images taken from ItalianVillas.com

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Plenty of Sun and Luxury at Bequia Islands in Grenadines

Posted by ECD on 3rd November 2008

Island Villas

The Plenty Wind at Bequia in Grenadines is a stunning island villa that must not be missed. With a spectacular view of the sea and the complete privacy that one does not get to enjoy everyday, this is a great vacation spot to unwind and relax.

Island Villas

Island Villas

The pool is the main focal point of this luxurious island villa, as it has its own personal deck and gazebo, where one can see the vast expanse of sea and sky that is surely a treat for any city dweller. The architecture is minimal, functional, and very spacious, as the design understands its purpose: it serves as a frame to the already picturesque landscape. Any further embellishments would only serve to divert one’s attention away from tableau that is nature, which is very abundant in Bequia island.

Island Villas

Island Villas

Meanwhile, the interiors are also beautifully designed - it carries the theme of openness and spaciousness successfully. The island villa also boasts of open-air showers, and private courtyards for all of the bedrooms.

Island Villas

Island Villas

Dining areas and lounge decks are also available, with the right amount of sun filtering through the wooden screens.

Island Villas

I would say that The Plenty Wind Villa has bountiful treasures and pleasures, indeed, just waiting to be discovered. The spaces allotted for each room makes me, for one, feel like I could stay there for a long time, just taking in the view and allowing myself to relax. There is something nourishing with the way that this villa is designed, as if this island villa was really intended to be a refuge, where one can calm both the body and the spirit.

//Source and all images from Grenadine Villas

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A Caribbean Vacation at Island’s End Villa

Posted by ECD on 30th October 2008

Caribbean villas

A real luxurious vacation starts at a Carribean villa, just like the Island’s End villa at St. John. It is located on the side of a cliff in a national park. As such its geography rather than its architecture gives it a commanding presence, with majestic views far into the distance and overlooking Coral Bay. It also has a panoramic vista of more than 180 degrees.

Caribbean villas

Constructed in an octagonal design from white painted wood, this Caribbean villa has a rather fresh and oddly serene design. Inside, the decor and design is of a piece, with an odd juxtaposition of Spartan color and design, combined with the warm and organic feel of wood.

Caribbean villas

Caribbean villas

The lines may be conventional, but an abundance of glass makes best use of the breathtaking views as well as giving an airy feeling, and firmly rooting the building within its surroundings. Every room is walled as much by nature as it is by the constraints of construction.

Caribbean villas

Caribbean villas

Around the interior of the villa runs a balcony constructed of the same white wood, in the same utilitarian design, affording even more chance to explore the scenery. Into this is set a smallish pool which fits in the overall scheme and a hot tub where guests can relax while enjoying the sunshine.

Caribbean villas

Comprising ten bedrooms each with their own bathrooms and living areas, as well as a functional kitchen, this Caribbean villa is very aware of where it is and what its purpose is. This is a villa designed to show off its surroundings and provide luxury - and is a great hideaway for those seeking exclusivity.

//All images are from Island’s End

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Luxury 5-Bedroom Villa in Orlando, Florida

Posted by ECD on 27th October 2008

Orlando Villas

In the community of Silver Creek in Orlando, Florida is a very luxurious five-bedroom villa that has become one of the most sought-after vacation rentals all throughout the year. It is minutes away from the magnificent Walt Disney World and other tourist attractions. It is the perfect Orlando villa for a visiting family or a large group of people.

Orlando Villas

The most stunning feature of this villa, in my opinion, is the 30×15 feet pool. Outdoor swimming is nice under the sun, with a view of the highlands. The conservation area has a small lake, where guests can spot herons, turtles and white cranes. It is very private and secluded.

Orlando Villas

The poolside is also a deck area, extended to provide space for guests who want to indulge in sunbathing. There is also a lanai area with a roof where guests can sit down and cool off over food, drinks and conversation. It must also be noted that a safety fence was created to keep the children out of danger from falling accidentally into the pool. Such consideration is very thoughtful, assuring that this luxurious Orlando villa is family-friendly, too.

Orlando Villas

Inside the property, all rooms are fully air-conditioned. There are five bedrooms, four bathrooms, two living rooms and dining areas and a kitchen. It also has a spa, aside from the magnificent pool outside.

Orlando Villas

The furnishings and warm interior designs make the living room and bedroom areas very cozy and inviting. The management of the villa boast of quality service - it is just like rooming in a five-star hotel. Guests are taken care of during their whole stay.

Orlando Villas

A game room is even available. Kids and adults alike can have fun here and enjoy the comforts of home while staying in this Orlando villa.

//Source and images from YourLuxuryVilla.com

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Sunny Walks at Villa Ginevra, Tuscany

Posted by ECD on 23rd October 2008

Tuscany villas

Villa Ginevra is a very charming home in the countryside near Cortona city in Tuscany. The field of flowers alone is enough to take your breath away - it’s like a place from your dreams. Sitting between the cultivated fields and the other historical houses, Villa Ginevra is a place like no other, as it faces a vast space filled with sunlight and trees.

Tuscany villas

The interiors of this Tuscan villa are warm and cozy. Furnished with sophisticated artwork and tasteful appliances, the rooms look very inviting. I, for one, would love to spend afternoons just reading a book here. Or maybe I’d just wake up really early and gaze out the window, and watch for the sunrise.

Tuscany villas

Also, all of the modern comforts of the home are present and readily available for use, like the satellite television, dvd player, cd player, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, and more. This is really nice to hear - even though Villa Ginevra has all the beauty of old Tuscan villas, it’s still good to be connected to a few technologies.

Tuscany villas

On Wednesday nights, the owners of the villa are said to host a party, with all of the villa guests invited to join in the hospitality and friendly gatherings that only make Villa Ginevra a lovelier place to spend your vacation in.

Tuscany villas

Outside, the pool and the terrace make an inviting and secluded place to hang out with your family, friends and loved ones. The fresh air and the spectacular view make for a very relaxing environment.

Tuscany villas

Over all, I love how Villa Ginevra is structured. Even if the house is made of stones and heavy walls, a distinct feature like the arched doorways, hallways and windows give this home character. The warm interiors also provide a hint of nostalgia, and the sunlight coming through is nothing short of amazing. This Tuscan villa is both romantic and peaceful, and should be a wonderful choice for those looking for a luxurious yet very humbling experience.

//Source and images from InTuscany.net

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Luxury R&R at Sempach, Switzerland

Posted by ECD on 20th October 2008

The Sempachersee Golf Club is the largest golf course in Switzerland at a site area of 4,500 square meters. Designed by Smolenicky & Partner, the firm was commissioned to build two new buildings as the golf club was expanded. Located in these two buildings are the club house/restaurant and the maintenance structure.

The restaurant has this aura of a bright summer day, what Smolenicky & Partner would describe as “country character…with worldly sophistication.” The three large windows over at the bar encourage a panoramic view of the landscape. Also, the ingenious use of spaces for the walls allows subtle light to filter through the room. These clean, straight lines flow smoothly to the deck outside, where the floor features spectacular craftsmanship that only highlights the interiors more.

Outside, the scenery is relaxing, with a very nice view of the Alps and the clear blue sky. Meticulously manicured grounds serve as a nice backdrop to a day of dining and playing golf.

The interiors in the other rooms were amazing, too, to say the least. This is the other face of the Sempachersee Golf Club, where everything is sleek, chic and very urban. It’s the perfect complement to the club members who are looking for exclusivity and sophistication.

The dark orange walls, intricately adorned with lights, are a sight to behold. Although a different world entirely from the other rooms, the continuity is present, with the installation of panoramic windows and mirrors. The clean lines and white borders and the unconventional spatial arrangements of the furniture and walls add character to this already very handsome structure.

I like the ambiance of the two buildings primarily because the strategy was to marry two distinct styles while maintaining an expression of style and casualness, which to me was a success, judging by how beautiful the rooms look together, and apart.

The Sempachersee Golf Club is a very impressive place. It’s perfect for anyone who hates the dreariness of the average golf club resort, and is looking for something that will fit their lifestyle.

//Source from Arch Daily; Photographs by Walter Mair

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