20 Best Vacation Homes of 2026: Meet the AvantStay Awards Winners

For the 2026 AvantStay Awards, we invited our travel community to once again vote for their favorite homes across 20 standout categories. After tens of thousands of votes and weeks of anticipation, a new group of exceptional stays has risen to the top. From elevated desert estates to design-forward coastal escapes and unforgettable mountain retreats, …

The 7 Best Airbnbs to Stay at During SXSW 2026

Austin, Texas is known for its bustling nightlife, tasty tacos, and yes, South by Southwest (SXSW for those looking to add another acronym in their life). We’ve come up with the best AvantStay Airbnbs close to South Congress and its parties – all with unique vacation rental experiences you can’t get anywhere else, guaranteeing a …

10 Best Game-Day Vacation Homes with Movie Theaters

It’s officially football season, which means that you’re gonna want to have the best seat in the house once it’s time for the big games. Take a look at some of our favorite vacation homes that come with extra cozy movie theaters perfect for broadcasting game day on the largest screen possible, so you can …

Best Places to Visit in Utah

Utah is a state of contrasts, from stunning red rock landscapes to snow-covered mountains, offering outdoor adventures that few places can match. Visitors come year-round to explore its natural beauty, unique cities, and countless activities. Whether you’re wandering desert valleys or alpine peaks, every corner of Utah tells a story. The cities themselves make excellent …

Best 6 Top-Dog Destinations for Your Next Getaway

Gearing up for a summer vacation? Your pup’s part of the family, so it’s only right they come on your vacation, too. Check out these hot (dog) vacation rentals you’re allowed to bring a furry friend or two along with. Malibu, CA For the dog who’s down to catch some waves.Cliffridge is a hilltop home …

Pride Paradise! Where to Stay When You Attend Pride Parades

It’s Pride time! Let’s get to it with a super special list of all the best places to stay. Whether you’re attending your hometown’s pride parade, or are making a journey to a special city to see one, this round-up has all the stays to guarantee a rowdy and rockin’ Pride 2025, all the way …

Ask the Expert Series: Interior Design

How do we turn a vacation rental from average to an AvantStay? In our Ask the Expert series, we sit down with different members of the AvantStay team to learn just that. For our first installment of the series, we take a look into how AvantStay transforms vacation rentals with award-winning design services. We asked …

Ask the Expert Series: Onboarding

How do we turn a vacation rental from average to an AvantStay? In our Ask the Expert series, we sit down with different members of the AvantStay team to learn just that.  We asked our Product Manager II, Lina Nguyen, about the process of onboarding homes, what it’s like working with homeowners and more. 1. …

Ask the Expert Series: Revenue Management

How do we turn a vacation rental from average to an AvantStay? In our Ask the Expert series, we sit down with different members of the AvantStay team to learn just that.  We asked our Revenue Analyst, Matt Murphey, what it’s like pricing a vacation rental, best booking practices and more. Let’s dive in! 1. …

Work from (Vacation) Home – AvantStay’s Best WFH Destinations

Working from home is so last year! Going forward, we vow to Work from Vacation Home. Whether you’re looking for a Zoom background to make your coworkers jealous, or need a clear space for a clear mind, this round-up includes some of our favorite WF(V)H spots where you can disconnect to reconnect, and hit that …

12 Best Palm Springs Airbnbs You’ll Wish You Lived In

Warm desert air, stunning mountain views, and the company of your favorite people, all gathered around a beautiful outdoor table, sharing delicious food and creating unforgettable memories–you’ll wish you never have to leave but live in this house.  Palm Springs is synonymous with sunshine, relaxation, and a laid-back desert lifestyle. A place where time slows …

The Best Time to Visit Charleston

Step into a city where history whispers from every cobblestone street and southern charm flows as freely as sweet tea on a summer porch. From the famous Rainbow Row with its colorful historic houses to the enchanting Spanish moss draped over ancient oak trees, Charleston is the South Carolina gem that offers visitors a true …

20 Homes That’ll Make You Feel Like You’re in Europe

No passport required! These homes are meant for those who want to feel like they’ve traveled abroad, at a fraction of the cost. With features like Spanish architecture, Greek-like sculpture gardens, Italian kitchens, and more, this list comes complete with all you need for a budget-friendly/at-home European vacation. After all, it does seem like everyone …

7 Best Places to Visit in April for Easter Vacation

Easter weekend is about coming together—gathering around the table, celebrating renewal, and creating cherished family memories. This April, skip the cramped hotel rooms and choose destinations where everyone has space to spread out, kids can hunt for eggs, and families can truly reconnect. Whether you’re planning a multi-generational Easter celebration, organizing a friends’ Easter brunch, …

8 Best Places to Visit in December in USA for Holiday Reunions

The first snowfall dusts the mountain peaks. Lights twinkle along charming Main Streets. The air carries the scent of pine and woodsmoke, and there’s that unmistakable feeling that magic is in the air. December is the season for celebration, togetherness, and creating memories that last long after the new year begins. Whether you’re planning a …

AvantStay Awards Finalists: 2025’s Best Homes

Not all vacation homes are created equal, and at AvantStay, we know what makes a stay truly unforgettable. Whether it’s a jaw-dropping view, a pool that steals the show, or a game room that keeps the whole crew entertained, some homes just get it. That’s why we created the AvantStay Awards—to spotlight the best of …

AvantStay Offers Support to Travelers and Building Owners Affected by Sonder Amid Marriott Termination and Chapter 7 Liquidation

The recent termination of the licensing agreement between Marriott International and Sonder, as well as the subsequent initiation of a Chapter 7 liquidation of Sonder’s U.S. business, signals a broader shift in the short term rental industry, defined by a growing emphasis on elite operations, world class reviews, and profitable operators. The shift highlights the …

The Best Places to View the 2024 Solar Eclipse

Get ready for next year’s most spectacular event—even more awe-inspiring than Taylor and Travis as a couple—the 2024 Solar Eclipse! In just a few short months (April 8th to be exact), the skies will host a VIP cosmic show, and we’re here to guide you to the top North American spots for witnessing this amazing …

Employee Spotlight: Cameron Tabucchi, Guest Experience Manager

Name Cameron Tabucchi Where are you based? Reno, Nevada Job Title Guest Experience Manager How long have you worked at AvantStay? 2.5 years How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? In my role, I collaborate closely with my team to guarantee that every guest enjoys a …

Employee Spotlight: Nataly Titsworth, Senior Regional Account Manager

Name Nataly Titsworth Where are you based? Austin, TX Job Title Senior Regional Account Manager  How long have you worked at AvantStay? 3 years! How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? My role is to build and maintain strong & successful partnerships with our owners. Every …

Employee Spotlight: Darrin James, Senior Area Manager

Name Darrin James Where are you based? Los Angeles, Malibu, and Newport Beach. Job Title Senior Area Manager  How long have you worked at AvantStay? 7 months  How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? I supervise operations and employees for the LA/Malibu and Newport Beach markets. …

Employee Spotlight: Cori Wheaton, Sr. Area Manager

Name Cori Wheaton Where are you based? Santa Rosa Beach, FL Job Title Senior Area Manager How long have you worked at AvantStay? Almost 2.5 years How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? In a nutshell, my job is to care! Care about the properties I …

Employee Spotlight: Kellee Pantelakis, Sr. Assistant Area Manager

Name Kellee Pantelakis Where are you based? Telluride, CO Job Title Sr. Assistant Area Manager How long have you worked at AvantStay? 2 years How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? I work in property management. I run vacation homes. How do you like to start …

Employee Spotlight: Lisa Glenn, Sr. Area Manager

Name Lisa Glenn Where are you based? Florida Job Title Sr. Area Manager How long have you worked at AvantStay? 2 years How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? As an operational wizard in the Vacation Rental World, I orchestrate seamless experiences across multiple markets, ensuring …

Employee Spotlight: Renee Powell, Assistant Area Manager, Coachella Valley Estates

Name Renee Powell Where are you based? Coachella Valley, CA Job Title Assistant Area Manager, Coachella Valley Estates How long have you worked at AvantStay? Close to 3 years How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? The main responsibility of the Field team is to take …

Employee Spotlight: Alice Ward, Product Manager I

Name Alice Ward Where are you based? Denver, CO Job Title Product Manager How long have you worked at AvantStay? 1.5 years How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? I’m focused on creating outstanding experiences for both our guests and homeowners, while tackling challenges to drive …

Employee Spotlight: Chloē Buss, Field Operations Regional Director

Name Chloē Buss Where are you based? Nashville, TN Job Title Regional Director of Operations, East Coast  How long have you worked at AvantStay? 2 yrs, 5 months  How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? Operations is about being able to pivot, to find efficiencies and …

2023: That’s a Wrap!

You went places and did things—and we’re here to celebrate it. Grab your favorite bevvie and join us as we explore the best parts of our year spent together. New Additions It’s never been easier to find your dream stay. This year, we added multiple new destinations, including Port Aransas, Whidbey Island, and Chesapeake Bay! …

AvantStay Employee Spotlight: Jack Tuggle, CX Manager

Name John (Jack) Tuggle Where are you based? Los Angeles, CA Job Title CX Manager How long have you worked at AvantStay? 1.5 years How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field? My role is in a very unique area in the company. I work with all …