When to Skip or Splurge on Airbnb Luxe

Ever wanted to feel like a movie star? From glowing infinity pools to your private island, living like a celebrity is now perhaps more attainable. How? Airbnb Luxe.

This offering is designed to cater to your every whim and features some of the most gorgeous properties. Let’s look at Airbnb Luxe, the type of accommodations it includes and the other amenities it can provide.

Airbnb Luxe provides Airbnb's highest-end homes. These sumptuous properties go through strict inspections and include a dedicated custom trip designer who can incorporate chefs, drivers and massage therapists into your itinerary.

You won’t find Airbnb Luxe locations everywhere — these types of properties are indeed one-of-a-kind and are limited in scope.

» Learn more: The traveler’s guide to Airbnb

Airbnb Plus vs. Airbnb Luxe

Along with Airbnb Luxe, you can also choose to book Airbnb Plus homes. Although considered superior to standard Airbnb properties, Airbnb Plus accommodations fall far below Airbnb Luxe regarding luxury and customization.

For example, Airbnb Plus homes require an in-person inspection to ensure that the property is well-maintained; Airbnb Luxe homes include a 300-point vetting procedure for every unit.

Airbnb Plus homes are also owned by hosts — with a minimum rating of 4.8 stars. Airbnb Luxe properties, meanwhile, are professionally managed by the Airbnb Luxury Retreats arm.

» Learn more: How does Airbnb work?

As unique as they are special, you can still expect to find a comprehensive compilation of amenities at your Airbnb Luxe property. These can include:

• Butler.

• Private driver.

• Private chef.

• Childcare.

• Housekeeping.

• Security.

• Personal concierge.

• Private airport transfers.

• Private massage therapist.

• Gardener.

• Villa manager.

• Sports equipment.

• Nanny.

In addition, some of these services may come as part of an ever-larger variety of amenities, including a fabulous infinity pool or your own private island. However, depending on where you are staying, some of these services may come with an extra fee.

» Learn more: How to book an Airbnb with credit card rewards

Here are some of the coolest Airbnb Luxe properties around.

1. Castello di Segalari — Italy

Ever wanted to stay in a castle? How about one in Europe, where you and fourteen of your closest friends can enjoy a full-time chef, a sprawling pool and a tennis court. Located in Tuscany, Italy, all this can be had just ten minutes away from the beach.

But, of course, luxury like this won’t come cheap. Including taxes and fees, room rates can range from over $3,500 to over $7,500 per night, depending on the time of year.

» Learn more: Airbnb vs. Vrbo — Which is better for travelers?

2. Nao Nao Private Island — French Polynesia

Though the famous Nukutepipi Airbnb is no longer available, you can still have your own private island experience. This Airbnb is also located in French Polynesia and includes three bedrooms, a water scooter and a private beach. Rates here can start from over $6,500 per night before taxes and fees.

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3. Villa Lago — U.S.

Are you looking for an Airbnb with an infinity pool? You can enjoy mountain and lake views from this private villa in California while you swim. Located just south of Palm Springs and within the PGA West neighborhood, there are also over 120 golf courses in the area to choose from.

Rates here are typically over $2,000 per night before taxes and fees.

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4. Casa de la Playa — Mexico

Casa de las Playa in Los Cabos, Mexico, is located directly on the sand and features a minimalist style home with a pool, hot tub and multiple fire pits. According to reviews, its remote location ensures you’ll seldom see anyone else — and the ability to hire a private chef means you’ll never need to leave.

Up to 12 guests can sleep in this Airbnb and rates run between $1,000 and $2,000 per night before taxes and fees.

» Learn more: Is the #Airbnbust upon us?

5. White House Napa Valley Inn — U.S.

How many friends do you have? Airbnb Luxe also includes boutique hotels if you’re in the mood. This option in Napa Valley includes 17 bedrooms, full-time staff and housekeeping for you and all your guests. You can also add on spa services and other activities, though downtown Napa is just a ten-minute walk.

Rates here are around $12,000 per night before taxes and fees, and the inn can only be reserved for an exclusive buyout.

» Learn more: How to cope with brutal Airbnb cleaning fees

• Pay with a credit card that maximizes points. Since many of these properties are quite expensive, you’ll want to use a credit card that earns extra bonus points on travel spend. Cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® will earn you 3x Ultimate Rewards® points per dollar spent on all travel, while the Citi Strata Premier℠ Card will earn 3x ThankYou points per dollar spent on hotels, including Airbnb. Here's more info on smart credit cards for Airbnb purchases.

• Be aware of stay minimums. As you’d likely expect, properties like these can come with some restrictions. So, in addition to firm cancellation policies, you’ll want to double-check the minimum stay requirements before booking. Some can be as high as seven nights.

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There’s no denying that Airbnb Luxe properties are lavish. With high-end finishes and the ability to completely customize your stay, Luxe Airbnbs can cater to even the most demanding customers.

However, there’s a price to pay for this service — rates at these properties can span upwards of $10,000 per night and still charge extra for some amenities.

If you’re looking to splurge, an Airbnb Luxe could be a good option for a memorable vacation. However, you may want to expand your search to Airbnb Plus and even standard Airbnb properties to ensure you find the right property for you.

Photos courtesy of Airbnb.