Travel: Private in Mexico

Barbara Beckley
One vacation choice that has consistently gained the favor of discriminating travelers in recent years is the rental villa in Mexico.
This is a concept that can offer privacy and convenient location, the homelike amenities that appeal especially to large family groups, and usually significant luxury to boot.
"People like having all the comforts of home, plus the privacy of their own space to relax in and share time with family and friends," says Pascal Jesus de Santana, director of Acapulco-based Acapulco Luxury Villas.
Throughout Mexico, rentals are available in the center of the most popular resort towns, or far from the madding crowd on private estates. Stays can be as brief as two nights or last for weeks, and amenities may be as simple or lavish as you wish. But "don't assume a villa has something if it's not listed," cautions Caroline Griffee, owner of Cabo San Lucas-based Cabo Villa Rentals. "Always ask to ensure you'll have the experience you expect."
Here's a small sampling of the exclusive "homes away from home" you can enjoy in a few of Mexico's top tourist destinations.

Acapulco
Acapulco Bay is the backdrop for the infinity pool and large terrace of Villa Alfin, an elegant six-bedroom, seven-bath home at the top of the exclusive gated Las Brisas residential area. Amenities include a chef and a professional Paddle Tennis court. The rate is $1,200 per night. Visit www.acapulcoluxuryvillas.com or
call (877) 225-9197.

In the bustling Condesa district, the 10-bedroom, 18,000-square-foot multilevel Mexico Mansion features two swimming pools (one of which boasts a 15-person bar) with Acapulco Bay views, four Jacuzzis, and a steam room. Rates begin at $1,795 per night. Visit www.acapulcoluxuryvillas.com or call (877) 225-9197.

Cabo San Lucas
A prime perch on the cliffs of Pedregal and a pool cantilevered over the beach gives the guests of Villa Stein unparalleled views of Lands End, the Pacific Ocean, and the Sea of Cortez. A palapa-covered swim up bar and Jacuzzi, spacious living and dining rooms, two bedroom suites, and a guest house make it fun for two to eight people. Rates range from $700 to $1,000 per night. Visit www.villasteincabo.com or call (866) 783-0518.

Between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, The Beach House offers six bedrooms and baths; family, living, and dining rooms; and an infinity pool on the beach inside the gated Costa Brava development. Rates range from $1,800 to $2,000 per night and $12,600 to $14,000 per week. Visit www.bajasurvacationrentals.com or call (888) 332-8477.