Frequently Asked Questions

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• What do the stars in your rating system mean?

Our rating system is designed to assure clients that none of our properties are below three stars in quality. Clients can use the system to see at a glance the level of luxury, size and amenities of any of the properties in our program

 

Five Stars – These villas are the best in our inventory, featuring a combination of superlative location and views, beautiful grounds, top architectural design and materials, and spacious, beautifully appointed interiors with top-of-the-line appliances and amenities. They are equal or superior to the most luxurious resort or hotel accommodations in Wine Country.

 

Four Stars – In almost every respect these villas match the characteristics of our 5-Star properties, but may be somewhat smaller or have fewer built-in amenities. They are in almost every respect equal to the finest resort facilities in Wine Country.

 

Three Stars – These villas and houses offer abundant charm and character, but are smaller, simpler and more casual than our 4- and 5-Star properties. This category also includes cozy cottage or farmhouse-like retreats that offer proximity to vineyards or Wine Country’s charming small towns. They are a wonderful way to sample the good life in Wine Country at a more moderate rate.

• What range of home sizes and styles do you offer?

Our program offers homes ranging from charming one-bedroom cottages to six-bedroom estate-style mansions. Architectural styles range from Victorian, Ranch and Tuscan to French Country and Contemporary. Homes participating in our program must meet exacting standards regarding their appearance, location, amenities, décor and comfort.

• How do I rent a BeautifulPlaces villa?

The process is pretty straightforward. Look over our inventory of houses. You can search by name, location, size and rate. When you see a house (or houses) you like, click on the reservations form or call us at 800-495-9961 or 707-996-0266 and ask to speak to a reservations agent. He or she will be happy to answer all your questions about the property you’re interested in.

• What are your deposit and cancellation policies?

The policies vary by destination and sometimes ownership. For bookings in wine country, we ask for a deposit equal to 50% of the total rental fee you’ll be paying for a house. The balance is due 30 days prior to your arrival.

• If you cancel your reservation before 90 days out, we will refund your entire deposit, less our $125 booking fee.
• If you cancel your reservation from 61 to 90 days before your rental date, we will refund 75% of your deposit, less our $125 booking fee.
• If you cancel your reservation from 31 to 60 days before your rental date, we will refund 50% of your deposit, less our $125 booking fee.
• If you cancel your reservation 30 days or fewer before your rental date, we will retain all of your payment.
• Do I have to start my BeautifulPlaces vacation on a certain day of the week?

No.

• How do I check in to a BeautifulPlaces home (and how do I find it)?

Ten days to two weeks before your arrival, we will e-mail you a detailed set of directions to the house, as well as key instructions and gate codes. If one of our staff is on hand to greet you when you arrive at your BeautifulPlaces home, he or she will show you around the house and answer questions about its appliances and amenities. In any case, each BeautifulPlaces home has a packet with clear instructions on where to find things and how to operate appliances, entertainment equipment, spas, etc.

• What are the minimum required stays at your properties?

At most of our Sonoma properties we require a 2 night minimum for low season, 3 night minimum for shoulder season, 4 night minimum for holidays, and 5-7 night minimum stay for high season. Our Napa properties require a 30 night minimum. Other destinations vary, please inquire for details.