Ask Haute Retreats: Your Latest Questions Answered

At Haute Retreats, we specialize in creating extraordinary, personalized experiences by offering access to some of the most luxurious villas worldwide. Whether you’re planning a family reunion in the rolling hills of Tuscany or seeking a child-friendly adventure in the tropical paradise of Costa Rica, we provide expert recommendations and tailor every detail to ensure your stay is nothing short of unforgettable. Our commitment to excellence and insider knowledge guarantees a seamless, luxurious escape for families and travelers alike.

The Destination: Tuscany

Question: we are going to be a group of adults and children of 20. What activities you can arrange for us at the villa we will rent in Tuscany?

We can arrange unique activities such as private cooking classes with local chefs, wine tastings, yoga classes, spa treatments, tennis classes if the villa has a tennis court, Italian classes. Families can enjoy al fresco dining under the stars, and even painting classes for adults and children, led by a renowned artist whose work is inspired by Renaissance art—ensuring fun and bonding for all ages.

Further Reading What are the Best Places to Stay in Tuscany?

The Destination: Amalfi Coast

Question: We are planning to celebrate a 40th birthday in Amalfi Coast, is it possible to have fireworks at the villa?

Yes, it is often possible to arrange fireworks for special events at a villa on the Amalfi Coast, though it typically requires permission from local authorities due to safety regulations and environmental protections. When booking through Haute Retreats or similar luxury services, we can help coordinate these arrangements, ensuring the fireworks display aligns with local rules and adds a spectacular touch to your celebration. It’s advisable to inquire about this early on to ensure everything is organized in time for the event.

Further reading: A Week in Amalfi Coast in the Spring

The Destination: Croatia

Question: We are 4 couples in the 50s and would like to plan a summer vacation in Croatia. Which island do you recommend for a nice relaxing stay Brac or Korcula?

For a relaxing summer vacation in Croatia, both Brač and Korčula are excellent choices, but they offer slightly different atmospheres.

Brač is known for its pristine beaches, such as the famous Zlatni Rat, and offers a blend of relaxation and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports. The island has charming towns like Sumartin and Bol, with great restaurants and a peaceful vibe. It’s a perfect spot if you enjoy serene beach time, scenic views, and proximity to Split (just a short ferry ride away). Brač also has a variety of luxury villas that can provide a tranquil, yet indulgent retreat.

Korčula, on the other hand, offers a quieter, more traditional Croatian experience. Known for its medieval old town, Korčula is sometimes compared to a mini Dubrovnik, with its historic charm and beautiful architecture. The island is a great destination if you love exploring local culture, wine tasting, and soaking in the laid-back Dalmatian atmosphere. It tends to be less crowded than Brač, making it an ideal spot for a more intimate and tranquil stay.

For a more relaxed, cultural experience, Korčula would be the better option, while Brač is great for a balance of relaxation and activities with a bit more buzz. Both islands are stunning, so it depends on whether you want a slightly more vibrant stay (Brač) or a peaceful cultural escape (Korčula).

Further Reading: 5 Luxury Villas in Croatia with Heated Pool

The Destination: Phuket

Question: We are traveling with 4 small children. Which area do you recommend for renting a villa in Phuket?

For traveling with small children in Phuket, I recommend considering Bang Tao or Nai Harn for renting a villa.

• Bang Tao offers calm waters, spacious villas, and family-friendly resorts with plenty of amenities for kids, like playgrounds and kid-friendly pools. The area also has easy access to restaurants, shops, and the Laguna complex, which has facilities catering to families.
• Nai Harn is quieter and more relaxed, with a beautiful, calm beach ideal for children. It’s not as crowded as some of the busier areas, offering a peaceful environment for families. Villas here often come with large gardens and private pools, providing a tranquil atmosphere for a family stay.

Both areas are safe, offer a range of family-friendly activities, and are well-suited for young children, providing a good balance of convenience and serenity

Further Reading: Top 7 Hiking Trails in Phuket for Nature Lovers

The Destination: Costa Rica

Question: We are traveling with 2 teens. Does Costa Rica offer activities suitable for teenagers?

Absolutely! Costa Rica is a fantastic destination for families traveling with teenagers, offering a wide range of activities that cater to their interests and energy levels. Here are some popular options:

Adventure Sports: Teens can enjoy zip-lining through the rainforest canopy, white-water rafting on thrilling rivers, or bungee jumping for an adrenaline rush.

Surfing Lessons: Many beaches, such as Tamarindo and Jaco, are ideal for surfing, with lessons available for beginners and more experienced surfers.

Wildlife Tours: Guided tours in national parks like Manuel Antonio or Corcovado allow teens to explore diverse ecosystems and spot wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds.

Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore beautiful trails in places like Arenal Volcano National Park or Monteverde Cloud Forest, which offer breathtaking views and unique flora and fauna.

Beach Activities: Costa Rica has stunning beaches where teens can swim, snorkel, or simply relax. Some beaches also offer opportunities for beach volleyball and kayaking.

Cultural Experiences: Teens can engage in local culture by visiting artisan markets, participating in cooking classes, or learning about sustainable farming practices.

Night Tours: Unique nocturnal wildlife tours are available in areas like Monteverde, offering a chance to see the rainforest come alive after dark.

With such a diverse range of activities, Costa Rica is sure to provide your teens with an exciting and memorable vacation experience!

Further Reading: Explore the Most Beautiful Costa Rica Beaches

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