The Standout Holiday Rental Company We Love
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The Standout Holiday Rental Company We Love

The search for beautiful holiday homes that still feel as luxe as a boutique hotel can sometimes feel never ending – especially now that Airbnb and similar sites have become over-saturated. That's where Plum Guide is different. The holiday rental platform showcases some of the world's most remarkable homes, all of which have been expertly vetted by their in-house critics to eliminate the guesswork. Here’s a bit more about the site – including how to use it and the homes we're bookmarking for a future trip.

Created in partnership with Plum Guide

What It Is

On the hunt for holiday homes that still retain the luxe feel of a top hotel? Plum Guide provides access to exactly those sorts of properties, all around the world. While other booking platforms have become over-crowded, Plum Guide has its own system to help customers find exactly what they’re looking for. By sourcing the best homes from a selection of booking platforms, its 150+ point ‘Plum Test’ combines tech, data and expert human curation to come up with a selective list of homes – in fact, the vetting process is so rigorous that only 3% of all homes in any one area are selected to be part of the Plum Guide collection. That's said, there's something for every taste and budget, with Plum Guide offering options across three different price points – medium, high and luxury.

What Makes It Different 

Plum Guide’s personal MatchMaking service will connect you with a home that suits you – whether it’s a cosy residence for two or something larger for groups and parties. Believe us when we say its in-house curators are sticklers for detail, so you can trust you’re in safe hands here. Plus, the site uses expert photography to bring each home to life on screen, while the editorial descriptions are written by some of the best writers in the industry. We also love Plum’s approach to customer service – just like the old days, there are no hidden numbers or call centres. Instead, its expert team is always on hand to help.

How It Works

Trust us when we say there's nothing ‘average’ about a Plum property – and the site couldn't be easier to navigate. Start by using the easy search tool, where you’ll be asked to list your desired destination, check-in and check-out dates and number of guests. From there, Plum will show you a list of homes that fit the bill, and you'll be able to book the property that piques your interest. Have questions? You can contact your host directly to make sure you’re clear on the fine print.

Who It's For

If you're looking to make the most of travel now that life has returned to normal – whether you’re looking to escape for the weekend or plan a longer trip with friends and family – Plum Guide has a property for you. We love how all its homes focus on smart design and comfortable living – and if you’re not one to compromise on exceptional experiences or the finer details, this is the platform to help you make your next trip count.


Inspired? Here are the properties we're bookmarking for our next trip...

BEST FOR A COSY COUPLES' STAYCATION:

Little Lamb

Where: Faringdon, Oxfordshire

What: Sleeps 2 – 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom

Price: £167 per night (based on 2 sharing)

This small but coy shepherd’s hut is set in the grounds of a traditional Cotswold cottage and surrounded by beautiful country views. Inside, there’s a cleverly designed pull out and put away bed and the compact kitchen has everything you could need for rustling up a romantic supper for two. Enjoy your morning coffee on the private patio, before striking out on one of the local walking trails. The honeyed villages of the Cotswolds are only a short drive away and you’re spoilt for choice with local pubs. In the evenings, turn on the twinkling fairy lights, pour a glass of wine and listen to the soft sounds of the local wildlife. There’s no television here, but digital detoxes are certainly to be encouraged.

Visit PlumGuide.com

BEST FOR SUMMER 2023:

Hips Don’t Lie

Where: San Rafael, Ibiza

What: Sleeps 6 – 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms

Price: £1,120 per night (based on 6 sharing)

The perfect home for next summer’s getaway, this beautiful villa is surrounded by Tempranillo grapevines and lavender flowers. Recently redesigned by a well-known local design studio, it’s where traditional Ibizan architecture meets contemporary lifestyle – think rustic beams, exposed stone walls and design-led furniture. Even so, it’s the pool area that sells it. Relax on one of the wooden sun loungers with a holiday read, or perch on the in-pool tanning platform to catch some rays. If you find the ocean is calling, the coastal resort of Santa Eulalia is just 15 minutes away and you’re in easy reach of many of Ibiza’s other sites and beaches, too.

Visit PlumGuide.com

BEST FOR GROUPS:

Bonsai By The Beach

Where: Broadstairs, Kent

What: Sleeps 12 – 6 Bedrooms, 6 Bathrooms

Price: £1,364 per night (based on 8 sharing)

Just along the coast from Broadstairs and by the cliffside promenade, this home is all about modern luxury. The highlight has to be the atrium-style dining room. The perfect spot to gather a group over a good bottle of wine, there are two living rooms to choose from for after dinner – the formal room with an upright piano and wood-burner or the cosy snug with its wall-mounted stove and striking marble coffee table. There’s also a home gym and a private swimming pool – and if you’re wondering where the house gets its name, the family bathroom is filled with bonsai trees and greenery to evoke the feeling of a Japanese zen garden.

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BEST FOR LIVING THE AMERICAN DREAM:

City Lights Below

Where: Los Angeles, California

What: Sleeps 8 – 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms

Price: £3,413 per night (based on 8 sharing)

This ultra-modern villa is high up in the Hollywood Hills – a stone’s throw from Mulholland Drive. Choose to spend your downtime drinking cocktails in the living space or chilling out in the games room and cinema, with its table tennis and beanbag chairs. Come the evening, you can admire the lights of LA below from the swimming pool, the loungers, or the master bedroom’s glass-fronted balcony as private chefs take to the modern kitchen to whip up a feast.

Visit PlumGuide.com

BEST FOR A BLOW-THE-BUDGET EUROPEAN BREAK:

Trocadéro Jewels

Where: Paris, France

What: Sleeps 6 – 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms

Price: £5,111 per night (based on six sharing)

This Parisian spot is in the 7th arrondissement – close to the Eiffel Tower and barely a 20-minute was from the lush green expanse of the Champ de Mars. Inside, the thoughtful furnishings include light wood flooring, and moody monochromatic photography that makes for a relaxing space to unwind in after a day of sightseeing. Come the evening, serve up drinks at the in-built minibar, or plate up your own French-inspired dishes in the chic and spacious dining area. The bathrooms are insane too, with archway windows, double sinks, and plush bathtubs. It even comes with the added benefits of hotel-style amenities and quality services, including a 24-hour concierge, private chef, and a home cinema system.

Visit PlumGuide.com

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