There’s an app for that.
It’s a phrase that’s become part of our daily lives, referencing the rise of instant-service mobile applications and the “on-demand economy,” where we can get a ride to the airport, check-in to our flights, rent a car, key into our accommodation and order dinner – wine, even – to be delivered; all without speaking to a single person.
Unless you consider Siri a person.
While technological advancements may be aiding our eventual transition into full-blown robots (kidding…sort of), there’s no denying their convenience. Especially when it comes to travel.
Taking a vacation is the ultimate form of treating yourself. The benefits of a vacation rental over a hotel are well-documented on this blog: the affordability, extra living space, privacy, full kitchen, outdoor areas and amenities like a pool, hot tub, game room or cinema. But what if you could take the incredible experience of a rental and personalize it? Enhance it? What if I told you you could summon a private chef, professional masseuse, personal hair/makeup stylists, child or dog-sitters and more, all with the tap of a finger on your phone?
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here are 20 apps that will improve and personalize your vacation experience. Don’t spend a fortune on the resort spa or overpriced on-site daycare. Choose a rental home instead and consider using some of these amazing on-demand services.
Car Rentals, Personal Drivers & Parking
Some of the best vacation destinations aren’t the most walkable. So renting a car or hiring a personal chauffeur can be a wise decision. It’s also convenient for day trips and exploring the surrounding areas or attractions.
Okay, so you’re limited to only renting an Audi A4. But on a positive note, you get an Audi A4! The free satellite radio is a nice touch, too.
Serving over 105 countries, Sixt lets you “drive first class, pay economy.”
Blacklane boasts a fleet with names like Mercedes, Lincoln, BMW and Audi. If you’ve scheduled a night on the town during your vacation, why not arrive in style?
Luxe solves the biggest city headache of all: parking. Currently serving a few major US cities, the service will meet you anywhere and valet park your car for you – in a secure lot, too. Apparently, they’ll “also wash and fuel” your ride. “Just ask.”
Vacations are meant for indulgence. Often that means letting your hair down and enjoying a few alcoholic beverages. And that’s okay. Just make sure to download the Be My DD app for when the cocktail hour ends and you’re ready to go dancing.
Car2Go is a car-sharing service in many European and North American cities. They’re a socially responsible company, earning a Clean Air Excellence Award in the category of Transportation Efficiency Innovations.
In-Home Services: Delivery, Glamor, Spirits & More
Here’s where it gets fun. One of the best parts of staying in a vacation rental is all the great amenities it comes with: maybe a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, barbecue grill, cinema room, billiards or ping pong tables. Often you don’t even need to leave the house to have a one-of-a-kind experience. How about taking it a step further? These in-home services range from food and chores to serious pampering.
InstaCart promises groceries delivered in one hour. Pro tip: see if there are any local markets, butchers, or spice shops in your vacation area and order up some authentic ingredients. It’s the best way to experience the flavors of your destination.
This delivery service has no limits. Any task you need, Favor will accomplish.
Drizly has become the most notable alcohol-delivery service thus far. If you’re vacationing in one of the 20 cities they service, don’t worry about finding the nearest liquor store. Drizly will take care of it.
This wine-and-food pairing app is super useful for those home cooked meals in your rental home. Research what wines go with what flavors so you know exactly what to buy at the local store.
Spending a week in one of America’s lively cities? Consider using Washio to make sure every outfit is crisp, dry cleaned and looking fresh. They’ll also give you a standard wash and fold. All items come back to you the next day, so you’ll be ready for a night on the town.
Imagine you spend your first day on vacation crushing some serious outdoor recreation. The next day you’re tired, a little sore and want to relax a bit (by the beach, perhaps?). You open an app on your phone, and within an hour there’s a licensed massage therapist at the door ready to loosen you up. That’s what Zeel accomplishes, because not everyone wants to spend an arm and a leg at the local spa.
Ladies listen up! GlamSquad brings professional hair and makeup styling directly to your home. It currently serves three major US cities: New York, Los Angeles, Miami and the surrounding areas of each, respectively.
Chef Ian T. Buchanan, of Open To The World.
Personal Chefs
Travelers vote the full kitchen as one of the main reasons they book a rental over a hotel. But we all enjoy a break from the cooking every once in a while. These private chefs and personal chef services will come to your rental and serve you a delicious meal.
Chef Ian T. Buchanan, Open To The World
Chef Buchanan is a traveling chef that will take any private dinner to the next level. He can join you for one special evening, or spend your whole trip with you.
Browse top-notch chefs, all specializing in different cuisine, ingredients and flavors and your pick will come to your rental to cook you dinner. The New York Times calls Kitchen Surfing “as good as a restaurant, if not better.”
Pet Care
Pets are family too, so of course they get invited on vacation. But not all activities are pet-friendly. These services will take care of your four-legged friend while you’re enjoying the beach, slopes, museum, art gallery, or whatever endeavor you may be on.
Rover dog sitters will send you text and photo updates, so when you’re on that day excursion you know Fido is being treated safely and lovingly.
This pet care service puts convenience first, allowing you to book and pay completely online. Check out their site to meet some of the animal lovers just waiting to watch your furry friend!
Maybe you’re taking a sail excursion, hiking some rough terrain or pursuing an endeavor not quite suitable for your pet. Hire Fetch Pet Care while on vacation and they’ll make sure Lassie gets walked, fed and entertained with world-class service.
Available all over the US, Bring Fido lets you call a pet-friendly travel expert ahead of time to ensure all your questions and concerns are put to ease.
Child Care
Some travelers let a baby or toddler hold them back from a vacation. Others embrace it, knowing that the worldly experience is better for your child than any TV show or book. But that doesn’t mean couples don’t want at least one day to themselves while in paradise. Having a trustworthy child care service is key to your peace of mind.
Watch video profiles of potential babysitters and read fellow reviews from others who have used the service.
Tags: Pet-Friendly Romantic
