We were pleased to learn that the Today Show featured a segment on vacation rentals last week. Nilou Motamed of Travel + Leisure magazine talked about the  rising popularity of vacation rentals and how to get the best options  without getting scammed. While she provided valuable information and gave good examples, we of course, are of the opinion that the BEST way to rent a vacation rental is by using a reputable vacation rental management company. After all, what happens if you rent from an unknown source and you arrived to a property that is nothing like your group expected? Or worse, doesn't even exist? What do you do? Who do you call? And, where do you stay now? Well, when you rent from a vacation rental company like Wise Vacations, it's like having your own personal concierge service to assist you every step of the way. And, if something unexpected does happen, the folks at Wise will make it right, or move you to another property within our portfolio. Now, that is peace of mind, isn't it?

Still looking for lodging for this weekend's Killington Wine Festival? We suggest the Highridge condominiums. Located in the main basin right on East Mountain Road, Highridge is just a stone’s throw from the Killington Grand Hotel and the K1 Base Lodge, where the main events are taking place. Plus, it sits right near the Killington Golf Course, so you'll be all set for a round of golf in between tastings. Highridge features 1-4 bedroom upscale condominiums, some with the very best direct mountain views you can find. Also on site, visit the Clubhouse and grab your tennis racquet and bring your game to the on clay tennis courts. There's something for everyone this weekend at Highridge- wine, golf, tennis, scenery, relaxation, and best of all- an unbeatable lodging package offering the 3rd night free, discounted event tickets, and more!

If you’ve decided to spend Thanksgiving in Killington, we’re thrilled to have you. If you’ve decided to spend Thanksgiving in Killington but don’t know where to stay, we’re here to help you! Let’s start by selecting the best vacation rentals based on kitchen features. After all, Thanksgiving is about skiing and eating. We have the skiing covered, now let’s take care of the eating and cooking part. Here are our “best kitchen” recommendations for your Thanksgiving stay in Killington:

If your group is on the smaller side and you are therefore planning a cozy but delicious small feast, Roaring Brook Cabin will provide the perfect "Vermont" atmosphere. With room for one head chef and maybe an assistant, your turkey will be mouth watering. Featuring a professional oven range and ample supplies, you can't go wrong. Check it out...

We call this one the coffee lovers kitchen!  You’ll be better than your Starbuck's barista when you get done making a latte in this fabulous espresso maker.  Once you’re fully motivated (and caffeinated), we’re sure you'll be pleased with the counter space, professional oven range, and upscale features of Tanglewood's kitchen. With a wide open space looking into to the living room, the chef can be social and catch the score of the game every now and then while preparing your Turkey Day extravaganza.

If you want an audience while working your culinary magic, Snowberry Hill is your best choice. This large galley style kitchen has several overlooking stools so your friends and family can comment, applaud, or offer "suggestions" throughout the day. You'll enjoy the professional oven range and ample space. And hey, if they're watching, they can be working, so pass the potato peeling and onion chopping chores across the counter.

If you’re looking towards renting a townhouse, Glazebrook is our #1 selection. We love this place. Do your feet get cold? Well they will warm up quite nicely here. Cook your entire Thanksgiving meal under the comfort and warmth of radiant floor heating. Newly upgraded, you'll find granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances and ample room to get the job done. 

We can’t do a segment about great kitchens without mentioning Presario. This home has the very best of every vacation rental feature and the kitchen is no exception. Spacious, open, and filled with all of the amenities, you cannot go wrong with this selection. We promise, it will make you a better cook.

We are also offering a Thanksgiving Special on some of our other vacation rental offers, check them out here.

If you're reading this you are probably in charge of finding the vacation rental for this year's New Year's weekend group trip. Well, you've come to the right place, we are here to help make your job wicked easy.

First, let's go over the basics; like how to book, when to book, and what you can book. There is a 4 night minimum stay for New Year's starting on Dec. 28th. Don't try to book online, it ain't happening. Call one of our very friendly Vacation Specialists instead. If you book before Nov 1st, you have 5 days to make your initial deposit, and then the remainder is due on Nov. 1st. If you book after Nov. 1st, payment is due in full with booking. If we've confused you, check out all of our policies here.

As of this blog post, we still have some great private home rentals available for all budgets and all group sizes. See what category your group falls into and then you're one step closer to being the vacation hero because you found the best house for your group:

1. Uber Luxe: If your group is looking for the best in upscale, luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views, a great location, and fabulous amenities then we suggest either Presario or Tanglewood. Presario was carved into Killington's mountainside with expert precision and design, which make sense because it was the vision of Killington's founder Preston Smith. So it arguably has the best mountain view of any home in the area. It is modern in design, unique in style, and simply perfect for your upscale group. Tanglewood on the other hand, is an architectural opposite but equal in luxe appeal. It is an amazing custom log home that leaves no detail to chance. An antler chandelier, plush leather furnishings, huge french doors, imposing stone fireplace, and a Martha Stewart approved kitchen are just a few of these details. We'll let you check out the rest here.

2. Large Group- On Mountain: So you have a lot of people, they all want a hot tub, and you must be close to the slopes. Sounds like a tall order, but we have some options for you. These houses all sleep 10-12 people, and fit the above description: East Mountain Retreat, Ledge End, Great Eastern (sorry, no hot tub here, but it is walk to trail), and Royal East (walk to trail).

3. Large Group- Off Mountain: If you want to save a little money, but still have a large group, may we suggest staying off of the Access Road? Here are two really great, really nice houses that are not on the Access Road, but still pack a punch. Vista View has a sweet hot tub on the deck and much more. The Meadows has tons and tons of space and an indoor hot tub.

4. Small Group- want a private home: Do you have a smaller group between 6 and 8 but still want the privacy of a house vs a condo? Here are two sure bets to make your vacation planning easy. Roaring Brook Cabin is a really unique and interesting log cabin that you must see. Sundowner has a cozy feel and great outdoor hot tub.

5. We know we want a condo: Well we have plenty. If you have a larger group, check out Colony Club. If you have budgetary concerns, we suggest Whiffletree or Edgemont. If you want to ski in /ski out, check out Spruce Glen. If you prefer ski in / ski out with more amenities, Sunrise Village is what you want. If you don't mind driving or taking a shuttle to ski, The Woods Resort and Spa is the perfect mix of quality, location, and amenities.  Sunrise Village and The Woods Resort are perfect if you have non skiers/riders in your group.

Call a Vacation Specialist at any time to get more information or to book your New Year's in Killington vacation!