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Europe

France and Italy remain at the top of the list for those looking for a European rental. In France, the affordable alternatives to Provence are the Dordogne and Loire Valleys. In Italy, the bargains are Sicily and the southern Adriatic Coast. More and more companies are also looking to destinations such as Portugal, Spain, and Greece. Bear in mind that summer months are by far the most popular, which means houses are harder to come by. In May and late September, the crowds thin out, the weather is still great, there are more options to choose from, and you can save up to 40 percent off peak-season rates.

From June 2006

By Hillary Geronemus

The Regional Players

HomesAway, a Toronto-based company, has an inventory of 65 properties (many of them are not available through other North American agencies) in France, Italy, and Spain. The company's employees regularly visit all of its rentals.

Just France, Custom Italy, and the Italian-focused Homebase Abroad specialize in single destinations, offering farmhouses, luxury villas, and city apartments. All three are renowned for their high standard of service and close relationships with local homeowners.

Abercrombie & Kent's rental agency has a roster of 19 lavish properties in France and Italy with hotel-style service—full staff, daily housekeeping, a groundskeeper—plus access to thousands of other houses around the world.

London-based Carpe Diem Luxury Travel and Five Star Greece are experts in high-end private luxury rentals, most of which aren't found on the open market. The former has properties from Corsica to Austria, the latter on many lesser-known islands.

Also worth a look Fontelunga Villas, LaCure, Rentvillas, Unique Properties & Events, Villas & Apartments Abroad, Villas of Distinction, and Wimco Villas

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The information in this story was accurate at the time it was published in June 2006 but we suggest you confirm all details and prices directly with any establishments mentioned. The quality of offerings and services tends to change over time.