The way we travel is changing. A photo on the best beach isn’t enough anymore, or a table at a Michelin-star restaurant – we crave authenticity in our experiences. We want to get to the heart of a destination, not just the surface attractions. I think that’s why there is such an interest at the moment in renting actual homes rather than hotel rooms.
You get a real sense of how local people live, and for a brief time you can feel less like a tourist and more like a resident. Imagine, then, if you could combine that feeling with the ability to have every possible whim catered for, in style!
Not long ago while researching our upcoming RTW trip I stumbled across a fabulous website, Oasis Collections, that makes looking for and booking travel accommodation, which can sometimes be a chore, into an absolute dream. Twice winner of the coveted Condé Nast Traveller ‘Villa Rental Specialist’ Award, the site features beautifully-curated properties in vibrant urban centres cities as well as stunning beach resorts throughout South America, and some seriously swish homes in the cultural melting-pot that is Miami, our arrival point in the USA.
It’s impossible not to feel inspired as you browse through their website. You can’t help but fall in love with every destination, and if you’re a daydreamer like me, then you’ll inevitably start making mental notes about which restaurant to pick on your holiday and how to cover as many cultural highlights as possible in a week.
Oasis Collections are clearly experts at what they do. Their business model is focused unmistakably on luxury, uniqueness, convenience, style and charm. By marrying the dreamy combination of the perks you get from staying in a boutique hotel – with the comfort and independence of a private home, Oasis Collections is paving the way towards a new type of high-end travel.
These carefully chosen pads all come with a 24-hour personal concierge service, and a superstar team on the ground, made up of experts and expats to help you enjoy the trip of a lifetime, with minimal effort on your part.
I’ve picked my top 3 destinations and favourite Oasis Collections properties to get your mouths watering. I’m already dreaming, are you?
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
You feel compelled to leave any kind of shyness at the airport when you arrive in Buenos Aires. It’s a city that welcomes you with open arms like a beloved old friend, and the familiar European architecture help you feel right at home. The city is buzzing with culture, music and gourmet food (delicious flavoursome empanadas burst out of every street corner).
DREAM PAD
Where: Palermo Soho • Best for: Large Families / Honeymoon / Group of Friends • From: POA
BUDGET PAD
Where: Palermo Hollywood • Best for: Couples / Nightlife / Foodies • From: $150/night
CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA
You get a taste of the real Colombia when you visit the beautiful port city of Cartagena, slightly unreal in all its stunning beauty – vibrant colourful buildings lining the cobbled streets and alleyways. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cartagena is steeped in colonial history and strikingly well-preserved Spanish architecture, making it a truly unique spot.
DREAM PAD
Where: Old Town • Best for: Honeymoon / Large Families / Group of Friends • From: $2220/night
BUDGET PAD
Where: Old Town • Best for: Families / Foodies / Couples • From: $350/night
MIAMI, USA
Although I’ve yet to actually visit, I’m certain this exuberant city is going to suit me down to the ground. The Cuban street food, elegantly-faded 1950’s glamour, fine-sand beaches and the kitsch yet delicious sundae shades of the art-deco buildings are making my camera-trigger itch. If you’re looking to excite your taste buds, a quick dig on the internet will show you that Miami isn’t short of gourmet and upmarket restaurants, as well as tasty and authentic street food carts. I can’t wait!
DREAM PAD
Where: South Beach • Best for: Honeymooners / Wedding parties / Foodies / Couples • From: $7000/night
BUDGET PAD
Where: South Beach • Best for: Shopping / Foodies / Couples • From: $339/night
If you’d like to see more, you can also browse our favourite properties on our Pinterest Board and/or visit the Oasis Collections website.
* n.b. I was asked to write this post for Oasis Collections, however only because I truly admire the website and think it’s worth sharing with you. I didn’t receive any type of payment for writing the article.
