As I watched the concluding season of Dark over the last few weeks, it was hard not to draw comparisons to life this year. The show, which rapidly became my favorite of all time (sorry, Breaking Bad), is an epic apocalyptic time travel/science fiction/mystery/thriller/romance enigma that simply demands you pay full attention every second of screen time. As you can see in the screenshot below, its major theme is "not where, but when", a question that is super appropriate right now given the worsening trend of Covid domestically over the last month.

Ooh, wouldn't time travel be useful right now?
I've started work on this, but expect our planning fees to rise a little if I'm successful!

As long as 2053 doesn't end up looking like it does in the show, we'll be alright.

Don't forget we are attempting to keep updated links on our website HERE for everything Covid related to travel restrictions, reopenings etc.

Meanwhile, our team remains in full inspiration mode, and we have nearly hit 50 Episodes already of our own epic Series "Where Are We?". It's not quite as good as Dark, but it's well worth a fun few minutes exploring our country quizzes in video format. Please check them out and perhaps subscribe to our YouTube channel after clicking on the image below.

We continue to be Ready When You Are. Stick with us, it will be worth it.

Whether it's soon or not until 2021 and beyond, we are sure that villa rentals are going to be increasingly popular with families in the new travel landscape that emerges from 2020. We need to let you know that the luxury end of this market we have access to incredible suppliers and properties and it's not just hotels where our exclusive Virtuoso amenities kick in. With a luxury villa rental-through J5Travel the following complimentary amenities are included:

• $200 equivalent Concierge Services Credit, to be utilized during stay (Credit can be applicable towards Car Rental, Chef Services, Grocery Pre-stocking, etc.)
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

1. Ani - Dominican Republic (above and below)
An amazing private property perfect for a large scale family reunion or celebration.
14 bedrooms for a maximum of 28 guests. While situated among smaller towns and agricultural villages, the sprawling property is also minutes away from some of the country’s finest beaches, excellent surfing and kite surfing spots, and a Trent Jones clifftop golf course resembling Pebble Beach.
The estate is fully staffed and is set on its own peninsula with 270 degree ocean views that include dramatic coves, beaches, and mountains in the distance. The facility itself offers world-class pampering and lavish comfort with a private chef and 24-hour butler service, resort-like swimming pools, water slides, tennis court, gym and spa.

And wait for it...it's All-Inclusive, even including spa treatments.

2. Wailea Sunset Estate - Maui (below)
The Wailea Sunset Estate is a beautiful, luxurious estate home situated near to two of South Maui's finest sandy swimming beaches.
4 bedrooms for a maximum of 8 guests.
As well as the impeccable oceanfront setting, a private chef is available for hire to grocery shop, or to prepare and serve up to 3 meals per day. You may wish to consider the luxury of having a chef-prepared gourmet dinner served in-villa and al-fresco on your arrival evening. Ready to grill complete meals can be delivered, or fully cooked ready-to-eat dining including salads and snacks are additional options.
Guests also receive special rates at the Wailea Golf Club which offers some of the most verdant and picturesque golf of any tropical destination world-wide at three exceptional ocean view courses, the Blue, Emerald and Gold.

3. Hawksbill - Turks & Caicos (above and below)

Hawksbill was designed as a multi-generational Caribbean retreat for its owners and their family, and has a contemporary Caribbean design language that is both transitional and responsive to its clients' individual personalities.
10 bedrooms for a maximum of 20 guests.
The main house features a beautiful, stately great room with unrivaled views over Grace Bay. Yes that's the same beach that is consistently ranked as one of the best in the entire Caribbean. A separate family space houses games, a big-screen TV and access to four en-suite bedrooms, two of which have ocean views and two that are set up as kids' rooms. Head upstairs via a cantilevered walnut staircase projecting from a native stone wall to find a stunning master suite with fully pocketing doors and ocean views at every turn.

4. Agnanti Villa - Paros, Greece (below)
Overlooking the blue of the Aegean, the Golden Beach and Dryos Bay, this villa is a charming private property located in a very panoramic position just few minutes drive from the sea.
4 bedrooms for a maximum of 9 guests.
If you're not familiar with Paros, the island combines modern with traditional elements in the most unique way, with a mix of traditional Cycladic architecture, vivid nightlife, magical beaches, enchanting rural villages, and historical monuments. This beautiful property comprises of three levels, a terraced well-kept garden and a private infinity pool surrounded by green trees and a spacious outdoor pergola and sundeck.

5. Forge Lake Lodge - Topton, North Carolina (above and below)
Bringing it back home to NC, this is the ultimate Smoky Mountain escape, where you can spend your vacation at a gorgeous, lakefront property.
7 bedrooms for a maximum of 16 guests.
Situated on the edge of Nantahala National Forest, this 10,000 square foot home is the epitome of rustic charm and classic luxury. Whether you seek to spend your days hiking in the lush forest, white-water rafting, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the lake, the woods, and the stars from the terrace, this vacation home has something for everyone to enjoy. From the fully equipped professional kitchen, complete with state-of-the-art appliances, exquisite hand-carved 19th century cabinetry, and expansive island bar, to the four amazing terraces, this home has it all.

If you need any travel advice in the current travel environment or if you may be ready to plan please click the button below.

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