Book a Vacation Rental

Although we think of summer as cottage season, vacation rentals can be a good value for a family or group of people anytime of the year and not just in Canada.

If you want to head to a new ski area or consider an escape to Mexico, the Caribbean or father afield, considering a cottage or vacation home rental can be a budget-friendly option over a hotel or resort.

Renters should consider these tips when searching:
- most listed prices are US dollars, the most commonly accepted currency, which benefits Canadians due to the strong Canadian dollar

- websites can represent individuals and rental agencies - consider going with an agency if this is your first time for a vacation rental in that country

- ask friends or family for referrals of rental agencies or destinations

- get everything in writing: a contract will make the transaction simple

These sites include Canada, U.S. and international, with a strong emphasis on the U.S. Generally, the websites that include international destinations offer more advanced web design features for easy navigation, detailed listings and plenty of photos, but prices tend to be much higher on average for weekly rental, with a starting price of US $600+ per week at the low-end of the spectrum.

Homeaway.com

With over 185,000 listings worldwide, the majority of this site's options are in the U.S. The site offers suggestions based on activity such as golfing, skiing or hitting beaches as well as detailed descriptions with rates, basic information and reviews listed first and more detailed information offered within each property listing. Prices are in $US dollars and per week; search includes options such as barn, chalet, farmhouse, estate, studio or villa.

Domegos.com

Although a new kid on the block, this site has amassed 5000 vacation rentals in over 70 countries. Easily searched via region or city, the site is very detailed in each listing, sporting extensive amenities and photos, as well as indicating languages spoken by owner, a welcome note for those searching international destinations. Prices are in $US dollars per day and rentals include apartments, condominiums and bed & breakfast options.

Perfectplaces.com

The majority of listings are in the U.S., especially in North and South Carolina, Florida, California, Oregon, Massachusetts and Hawaii. Like the other two sites, this is a vacation rental site, so it does incorporate cottages, villas, and condominiums, as well as includes activity preferences (ie. skiing, boating, golf, tennis) and handicap accessibility in its search options. Prices are in $US dollars per night and per week, with the ability to save favourites to review a group before making a decision.