villa rental or home?

[disneymom3]

I have never stayed in a rental home before, but we are considering staying in one for the last three days of our trip in Dec.

Here's the background: Driving down from Mpls with 6yo, 2.5yo and 1yo. Timeshare exchange Sun to Sun at Vistana Villages. Planning on staying until Weds and then driving home. We have a two bedroom at V V and the best rate I am finding at hotel kingdom is $182/night and that is not going to happen. I am finding other villa rentals for $85 to $100 an night and houses in that range too.

So for those of you who have done both, what do you recommend? I'd be interested to hear what people really like and don't like about either option. We need the kitchen and have to have at least two bedrooms cause the 2 yo is not an easy sleeper and needs to be able to go to a separate room by himself.

 

[Robinrs]

Both have their plusses and minuses, depending on what you want.

There is daily housekeeping with the Hotelkingdom rental, none with the house unless you add a fee.

There is more privacy with the home, and the private pool is priceless.

December rentals, minus the holiday dates, are very affordable. I'm renting a 4 bedroom the first week in December for DIS CON for $90 a night. I've done it all and I prefer houses, myself, because of the space and the pool. They can spoil you rotten!

 

[Kenbar]

Our party is five. I was going to take two rooms or a suite. Posters on the UK visitors board have talked me into a villa. the choice is spectacular. Looking forward to space and the private pool.

ken

 

[disneymom3]

May I ask the two of you what site you have booked through? I am thinking the peace of a home for the last few nights of our trip would help us gear up for the drive home. The convenience of having a pool right there in the back yard really appeals to me--nowhere to transport the kids to after swmming is done!

Thanks

 

[SimonV]

disneymom3, try first on this site with our own Vacation Homes deal through Premier Vacation Homes on this! link. If that doesn't come up with the goods, try Florida Leisure (excellent company who I know well) at www.floridaleisure.com or Alexander Holiday Homes (ditto) at www.floridasunshine.com.

 

[disneymom3]

Guess I don't need this answer, there is a thread with lots of info further down!

 

[MalcolmC]

There are also many home owners on this board, like myself, who rent their homes directly, usually cheaper than through an agent or management company.