The Best Villas to Rent Around the World This Summer

Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos

Take the family and rent one of Parrot Cay's airy beach villas. The one-, two-, and three- bedroom villas each have a pool and are just a few steps away from pristine white sand. For a little indulgence, try the Tamarind Villa, comprising one unit of three bedrooms and one with two bedrooms, that can be rented together or individually. Adults can enjoy daily yoga and Pilates and relax at the COMO Shambhala Retreat while kids can take part in activities like treasure hunts and making shark tooth necklaces.

Why: The Caribbean is often thought of as a winter destination, which is what makes it such a secret gem in the summer. While the beach is never crowded, in the summer the resort is even more peaceful than ever.



GoldenEye Hotel & Resort, Oracabessa, Jamaica

Vacation like James Bond and rent out Ian Fleming's villa (or a beach cottage just down the way). The Fleming Villa, where he wrote all of the James Bond books, can accommodate up to 10 people in its original three-bedroom home and in two new poolside cottages; included are luxe amenities like a private swimming pool, media room and bar, sunken garden, and direct access to the private Fleming Beach. Jet ski through the beautiful Caribbean waters pretending to be in the cast of Dr. No, or just relax at Bizot Bar and sip a cool Red Stripe in the sun. Kiddies can carve coconuts, learn to fish, or stay up to stargaze with Brian, resident astronomy buff.

Why: 2012 marks the 50th anniversary of the release of the first James Bond movie, Dr. No. There's no better place to celebrate the release than at the Villa where 007 was born.



Geejam, Port Antonio, Jamaica

Geejam's three-bedroom Sanwood Villa, designed by world renowned Anthony Wade, features two upper deck verandas, an outdoor deck with a private swimming pool, beautiful ocean views, and a media lounge complete with an audio/visual library and a private art collection. A stylish oasis is part of a collection of five accommodations on the six-acre lush property.

Why: It's the only hotel in Jamaica where you can rock out like Gweni Stefani and Drake and record your own track at the hotel's state-of-the-art recording studio.



The Cottages at the Boat Basin, Nantucket, Massachusetts

The ideal rental for a traditionalist, these quintessentially New England one-, two-, and three-bedroom cottages all feature a full kitchen, living/dining area, and many have a private deck. Borrow bikes and pedal around to see the beaches, bogs, and legions of grey shingled houses. Guests at The Cottages also have access to sister hotel's White Elephant Spa, so one can get a Maritime Seaweed Body Revitalization after a day at the beach.

Why: The Cottages are steps away from downtown, great for walking and avoiding that infamous Nantucket traffic. Also, if a family trip just isn't the same without Fido, stay at one of the WOOF Cottages where man's best friend is treated to a dog bed, toys, and a list of pet-friendly spots on the island. (Keep an eye out for Forrest, the Cottage's new black lab puppy and mascot!)



La Réserve Ramatuelle, St. Tropez, France

These beautiful four to six bedroom villas each have a private garden, a pool, and an open view of the Mediterranean. Along with the privacy of a house, the villas come with all the benefits of being at La Réserve (housekeeper, personal chef upon request, and access to the hotel and spa services).

Why: This season, the property introduced four brand new well-being programs combining medical assessments, spa treatments, personal training sessions, targeted physical activities, and relaxation and diet programs. These include the Energy Program, Weight Loss Program, Beauty and Well-Being Break, and Express Fit & Beauty.



Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa, Koh Phangan, Thailand

Overlooking the crystal clear water of the Gulf of Thailand and just steps away, each of the brand new Ocean Pool Villas at Anantara Rasananda features a large terrazzo tub, open-air bathroom, garden courtyard, a beachfront plunge pool, and a tropical sala. Recently completed in January 2012, these villas are inspired by the natural beauty of Koh Phangan and offer special amenities like private in-villa check in, packing and unpacking service, VIP turn down service, and free access to the Rasananda beach front Pier Lounge in Samui with complimentary refreshments, deck chairs on the beach, and a relaxation sala.

Why: A quick 30-minute boat ride away from the more heavily trafficked Koh Samui, Koh Phangan is a smaller, less developed island made famous for its Full Moon parties that draw an international crowd of revelers. Bring your best friends and join the party, then return to the quiet stretch of beach and your luxurious private villa at Anantara Rasananda.



One&Only Palmilla, Los Cabos, Mexico

Situated on its own secluded beach, Villa Cortes, One&Only Palmilla's expansive private villa, is the perfect seaside escape, elegantly designed to feel like a modern day hacienda. With its 12-person private screening theater, state-of-the-art gym, home office, full kitchen, private infinity-edge pool, palapa-style poolside seating with fire-pit, outdoor rain shower and indulgent spa, there will be no reason to ever leave this Mexican paradise! Rental of the villa includes 24-hour butler service, and guests will be provided with an iPhone specifically for communicating with the villa butler.

Why: Secluded on the south side of the resort, Villa Cortez is the ultimate escape-within-an-escape, offering guests complete privacy and exceptional service. Families will love the best of both worlds – swimming in the crystal clear water and playing on the private beach during the day, and dining at one of the resort's renowned restaurants at night.



Orient-Express Afloat in France

Discover the French countryside from a new perspective with Afloat in France, a small fleet of luxury barges ideal for a family vacation. Fashion an itinerary that matches the interests of the group (think walking, cycling, or shopping) and relax between excursions in Orient-Express style over French dining and fine wine (for the adults!), all while cruising through the ever-changing scenery.

Why: Riverboat cruises are exciting for the whole family, and Orient-Express has it down to a science. With an on-board chef and all the amenities of a fine hotel, Afloat in France offers a wide variety of itineraries that can be tailor-made to keep everyone in the family entertained and comfortable.