When it comes to planning a family getaway, few experiences compare to the luxury and ease of staying in a private villa. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of arranging countless family vacations, including a memorable villa trip in Phuket for a group of 22. Renting a villa allows families to bond in comfort, offering more space and freedom than typical hotel rooms. Here are some tips to help you and your loved ones enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable villa holiday.
1. Choose a Villa with Plenty of Space
One of the biggest advantages of staying in a villa is the space it provides. Many villas, especially in Bali and Thailand, are designed with separate sleeping areas away from common living spaces. This layout ensures that everyone can enjoy their own space. If you have early risers like toddlers, they won’t disturb those who want to sleep in. Likewise, adults can come and go without worrying about waking others. Giving each family or couple their own space helps create a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
2. Consider the Ages of Your Guests
Before booking, think about the different age groups in your party. If you’re traveling with elderly family members, be sure to check the accessibility of the villa, especially regarding stairs. For families with teenagers, a games room can provide a much-needed space to keep them entertained. Similarly, villas with grassy areas, like Baan Santisuk in Phuket, are great for younger children to play and explore.
3. Think About the Villa’s Location
The location of your villa can make a huge difference to your experience. If your family loves the beach, opt for a beachfront villa or one that’s just a short walk away. This eliminates the need for complicated transportation and makes spontaneous beach outings much easier. You won’t have to wait for everyone to find their things, like shoes or sunglasses, before heading out for a fun day by the water.
4. Enjoy Hassle-Free Dining
One of the best parts of staying in a villa is the ease of mealtime. Instead of packing up the family and searching for a restaurant, you can enjoy delicious meals prepared by a private chef in the comfort of your own villa. Dining as a large group at the villa is much easier and less stressful. For families with young children, the convenience of enjoying a meal without the hassle of getting them in and out of the car is priceless. Often, the quality of the food at a villa exceeds that of many restaurants, making the dining experience even better.
5. Plan Ahead
When traveling with a large group, planning a few activities in advance can save a lot of time and stress. Consider creating a loose itinerary or a daily schedule. This will help ensure that no one misses out on activities like a yacht charter or a reservation at a popular restaurant. Planning ahead also prevents last-minute confusion and guarantees that your family can take full advantage of their time together.
6. Take Time for Yourself
While spending time together is important, it’s equally essential to carve out moments for personal downtime. Whether it’s enjoying a spa afternoon, a round of golf, or just lounging by the pool, make sure you prioritize some time away from the group. Everyone needs a break, and taking some time for yourself will ensure that everyone has a more enjoyable experience and can recharge. Plus, having personal experiences to share makes for great conversations later.
7. Let the Villa Staff Help You
At many luxury villas, you’ll have a dedicated management team or concierge to help take care of the little things. From arranging a relaxing massage to organizing transportation, the staff can handle the details, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your vacation. The assistance of the villa team makes a big difference, allowing you to focus on having fun rather than dealing with logistics.
8. Don’t Forget to Unwind
While planning activities is important, don’t forget to leave some days unscheduled for relaxation. The last thing you want is to return from your holiday feeling more exhausted than when you left. Some of the best vacation memories are made when you’re simply enjoying the downtime. Whether it’s lounging by the pool or watching the sunset, give yourself permission to do absolutely nothing and soak in the peaceful moments.
A villa holiday offers the perfect opportunity for your family to reconnect, enjoy luxurious surroundings, and make lasting memories. With these tips, you can ensure that everyone—regardless of age—has a fantastic time.
