We have all been there, for me it was in Tuscany while the olives were glistening ready for harvest and the sun was shining in perfect temperate glory. While walking on the hillside I came across a stunning stone villa with miles of table land and breathtaking Vistas. I thought “I could live here for the part of the year”. The idea of buying a Vacation property may seem like you are living the dream, however the dream quickly becomes a reality when you find yourself paying for upkeep and maintenance. Renovating, building, repairs at the pace of the local residents probably goes at a different pace than what you are used to. Even if it is turn-key, there can always be problems with any piece of real estate, compounded if you don’t happen to be in the country at the time. Look out it’s a hurricane!

You can have more of a local experience by renting a villa, invite friends if you want the sense of familiarity, there are so many not so permanent options to choose from.

My advice is if you love to travel there are many ways to have that wonderful vacation experience without having to deal with the headaches of owning that piece of land; and you can spend your money on some of the finer things in life that make your vacation a luxury (and frankly still at less of a cost than it is to own).

Recently I was lucky enough to stay at The Barcelona Edition, named in this Jetsetter Article. Situated in the core of this ancient city, it was magical. The hotel is also right next to a local market with farm fresh produce and fabulous little resto-patios to enjoy this local fair. Spectacular views from the rooftop bar abound custom cocktails at sunset, and the whiff of the hotels signature scent in every hallway made this the ultimate sensory experience. If this was just the runner up – I can’t wait to stay at some of the Jet Setter winners.

“A vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it in.” – Robert Orben