We found our French Provencal house on VRBO then worked directly with the owner, via email and his website, to secure a reservation.
There are downsides to such accomodation, however. Many vacation homes will not employ a housekeeping staff, meaning the chores of homelife will travel with you. You will not leave for the beach in the A.M. and return to a turned-down bed, fluffed up pillows, and fresh linens – you will be coming back to the home looking exactly as it did when you left it.
We dig being able to do our own laundry (which allowed us to pack a little bit lighter) and having a full kitchen. This place is one of four hamlets, positioned together, a short drive (or healthy walk) from the center of the beautiful Saint Remy de Provence. The owner and his small staff have been superb at being both accomodating and invisible. They prepared for us a homemade welcome meal of Lasagne, salad, a fresh baguette, peach tarts, and vanilla ice cream. All of which was waiting inside the refridgerator. Such a wonderful suprise (it truly was! there was no mention of this free, extra welcome “gift” when we booked the house). The fridge was also stocked with eggs, yogurt, soda, butter, milk, and juice. All complimentary – what a nice touch. Each of the first two morning, we had hanging on our door a bag of fresh, warm croissants and pain au chocolats. I cannot recommend this vacation house (or group of houses) enough.
Jeff
OWTK – live from Provence!
http://www.outwiththekids.com
