Vacation Rentals – Enjoy a home away from home with lavish amenities in prime locations. According to many industry experts, the vacation rental market is on the rise. Accommodation industry expert Glenn Haussman recently reported on the “explosive growth” in vacation rentals in recent years.

“Vacation rentals are starting to catch on,” said Margie Van Zee, chief operating officer and founder of Bella Palazzo, a company that markets high-end vacation rental homes for discerning travelers. “This is a more intimate experience and we can also offer all the hotel-type amenities and services.”

Haussman also notes that this increase in the vacation rental business is in sync with the current economic crisis. “Travelers are looking for ways not only to save money, but also to allow multiple generations of a family or group of friends to spend more time in privacy.”

In fact, many of the more luxurious vacation rental properties offer prices that, when divided among a group of 10 or 12, can cost less than or equal to a traditional hotel room.

Where to start when choosing your villa or chalet? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite villas from around the world, from mountain chalets with direct access to the ski slopes to a tropical estate with a pool in the living room. Bring everyone to each of these stunning properties on our top 10 list of vacation rentals for fun getaways with family and friends:

Sol de Occidente in Costa Careyes, Mexico. It is an incredible castle at the tip of a lush peninsula between two unspoiled beaches. Surrounded by an infinity pool, this six-bedroom Costa Careyes vacation rental offers private bungalows, a romantic one-bedroom suite in a tower on a cliff Top Ten Luxury Vacation Rentals For Fun Getaways, and a private beach with a palapa.

Cove Spring House in Barbados. It is known as “the most coveted house in Barbados” and it certainly lives up to its reputation. This luxury villa offers a private beach, ten exquisite rooms, Ralph Lauren furnishings, and a staff of 16 to attend to your every need. It’s hard not to slip into the island’s leisure lifestyle with the spacious terraces and outdoor lounges, a private movie theater, a freshwater pool, and a spa.

Forty-two in Queenstown, New Zealand. Set over three stories, this townhome is fun and flirty in the heart of Queenstown. The style is urban chic: New Zealand materials with a contemporary twist. It is the perfect place to call home while on your wild adventure in Queenstown. Enjoy a rooftop terrace, exquisitely appointed rooms, and additional services like a personal concierge, private chef, and / or in-house catering.

Shore in bali. It is elegant, sexy and modern. Set in a large tropical garden with two swimming pools, this exquisite private Indian Ocean villa combines modern comforts and a rich Balinese flavor. The mood of the top ten luxury vacation rentals for fun getaways is open, airy, and in complete harmony with the serene surroundings. Did we mention that the raised living room / lounge has a glass floor with the pool underneath? Completely chic.

Villa Maha in Marrakech, Morocco. It is a real getaway just minutes from the center of Marrakech that celebrates the art of living the Moroccan style. Rounded living rooms and domes open onto majestic terraces and luscious gardens. Let yourself be carried away by the amazing architecture, the fine details and the unique atmosphere. This private villa in Morocco is truly an extraordinary vacation rental for a distinctive vacation experience.

The Lodge in Verbier, Switzerland. As part of Virgin’s prestigious limited edition, this luxurious chalet receives Sir Richard Branson’s seal of approval and therefore a coveted position at the top of the luxury travel ladder. The Lodge is located on a quiet street, just a short walk from the resort town of Verbier. It is an impressive nine-room chalet famous for its elegant interior and exceptional personalized service from a staff of 13. For fun in the top ten luxury vacation rentals for fun getaways, slopes and après ski in Verbier, The Lodge has it all.

Bond House in Cape Town. Designed by leading South African architect Stefan Antoni, this Cape Town vacation rental is an architect’s dream. Glass walls allow the sun to soak through the spacious interiors, and spacious decks open up to spectacular views of Camps Bay and Table Mountain. This luxurious Cape Town vacation rental offers a pool, elevator, lounge bar and seven exquisite bathrooms.

Sogno di Luce in Saint Tropez, France. It is not just a villa, it is a hotel of villas. This newly built vacation rental sits high on a sun-drenched hill overlooking the Bay of St. Tropez. Enjoy the privacy of a vacation home with the attentive service and amenities of a luxury hotel in this innovative villaHotel concept. The private villa includes six king-size bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, atrium-shaped ceilings, and elegant furnishings. The elegant pool deck echoes the iconic flavors of St. Tropez glamor.

Villa Turquesa in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. This sumptuous villa is one of the greatest discoveries in Cabo San Lucas. It has it all: ocean views, easy beach access, a large infinity pool, hot tub, and a swim-up bar. It is the best villa option for a fun-filled vacation that maximizes entertainment for up to 18 guests. Relax on the poolside loungers, fire up the barbecue, watch a movie on the surround sound home theater system or keep fit in the fully equipped gym. What else do you need? Oh yeah, wander through his top ten luxury vacation rentals for fun getaways by walking to a secluded beach for a dip in the Pacific. Simply paradise.

Tagomago Island in Ibiza, Spain. Did you ever think that you could have your own island in the Mediterranean? Love the classy atmosphere but want to avoid a crowded resort? This innovative property combines an intimate island getaway with the famous style of neighboring Ibiza for a dream retreat on a private island. The only property on the island is a trendy and modern mansion offering sophisticated furnishings and the highest standard of amenities. Surrounded by spacious terraces and exquisite chill-out lounges, Tagomago guarantees pure leisure on your own private island in the Mediterranean.