The perfect getaway is more than the dream destination. It is also about the superb accommodations. Although you might be outdoors most of the time, exploring and engaging with the locals, where you rest during your vacation influences the overall travel experience. But do you book a suite at a five-star hotel or go with a luxury vacation rental?

Let’s take a look at the considerations for each one.

The Costs

Short-term rentals have been increasing in popularity over the years. One contributing factor involves cost; hotel rates, in particular, have been rising due to inflation, real estate costs, and high operational costs. It makes sense for travelers to look for pocket-friendly alternatives, like luxury vacation rentals in Costa Rica.

Vacation rentals offer an economical option to experiencing a luxurious time away from the usual humdrum of everyday life. You can stay in a luxury villa or a posh condominium for days and not worry about how much it would cost you per night as you would if you stay in a five star hotel.

When considering your budget, a vacation rental may be a better choice if you’re traveling with a group. Instead of booking multiple rooms, you can find a three- or five-bedroom villa and have the entire property to yourselves.

You’ll also have access to amenities similar to a hotel’s, such as a pool, gym, and a private beach. Some of the more high-end vacation rentals will also offer access to a golf course, game rooms, and spas.

The Space

Beyond the amenities, space is also a big draw for people who choose to stay in a vacation rental. With a hotel, you’ll have limited square footage. Unless you splurge on a suite or a penthouse, you’ll have only so much room to move around in.

By comparison, vacation rentals can be the size of a manor or a spacious condominium in a resort. The size you choose will depend on your budget. Either way, a rental provides the perfect accommodation if you were to go on a vacation with the family or a big group of friends. And when you’re traveling with other people, space is the ultimate luxury because it gives you sufficient room to relax.

The Privacy

When you intend to have the utmost privacy on vacation, a vacation rental will match your travel goal. You can book a secluded villa so that every moment of your vacation is undisturbed. If you’re looking to spend more quiet time, reflecting and being calm, go with a vacation rental. You can even choose to dine privately on a patio, terrace, or the beach.

A hotel can offer some privacy, but it will be confined to your room. At the most, you could hang a hotel door sign that says “Do not disturb,” and you’ll spend time indoors without being interrupted. All other areas, however, you’ll have to share with other guests, from the pool to the gym and the restaurants.

The Services

A hotel stay gives you access to so many more services. You can get everything done for you, including reservations at a Michelin restaurant, booking concert tickets to the hottest show in town, or even pet-sitting at a pet-friendly hotel.

Most hotels, however, are not able to customize your stay. They may be able to tailor services to VIP guests, but do not offer the same level of personalization to other guests.

With a vacation rental, every aspect of your stay can suit your preferences. Many rentals have a management service and staff that can arrange, for example, unforgettable Costa Rica tours or gourmet dining on the beach with your own private chef. You can also get a maid or butler service during your stay.

Home Away from Home vs. The Pampered Life

The rates of a top-rated villa can be similar to the rates of a five-star hotel. Location factors into the cost; villas on a secluded private island or on remote mountains can be a bit more expensive than ones situated near city centers.

Some of these villas may be designed for the well-heeled and, naturally, well-traveled. The locations may be remote, but the amenities will likely be similar to any five-star hotel. Vacation rentals designed with luxury and the ultimate getaway in mind will come at a premium price. If you can afford to splurge, go with a luxury rental because it is worth investing in your wellness. A vacation, after all, is meant to rejuvenate and revitalize.

However, if you’re traveling alone or with a significant other and you really only need one room, a world-class hotel would be sufficient. If you don’t mind meeting new people while you go for a swim or have a cocktail, book a hotel room. You can reserve a vacation rental when you’ll be celebrating a milestone with the entire family, like a wedding anniversary or a 60th birthday.

In either case, the bottom line is to find the right accommodation to suit your traveling needs. Think about the value of the vacation instead of the overall cost, and enjoy a well-deserved holiday.