by Michael and Laura Murphy
RENTAL CONTACTS
Of the many companies offering rentals in Italy, the following were selected because
they represent a broad and varied spectrum of properties in terms of geography,
style, price, and historical character. Among them well over 3,500 rentals are offered,
from some of the most elegant palaces and villas in Italy (and Europe) to ancient
stone farmhouses and rare apartments in Venice, Florence, and Rome. Inflation in
Italy in the early '90s has lifted hotel room prices to astronomical heights and,
along with them, prices of rentals. However, beginning in 1992, rental costs began
to moderate, partly because of the increased number of properties available as more
and more conversions were completed, and partly to beat the hotel competition as
renting became more and more popular. Thus, rentals prices have actually dropped
across the board for many companies and properties and certainly remain the best
accommodation bargains in the country.
Drawbridge to Europe, Inc.
98 Granite Street
Ashland OR 97520
Tel: 888~268-1148 Fax: 415-462-9835
E-mail: info@drawbridgetoeurope.com
www.drawbridgetoeurope.com
(Italy section of the book)
This small company founded in 1997 does a good job representing several major Italian
rental rental agencies, and does so without adding an exorbitant commission. In
addition to Italy, it has ferreted out privately owned chalets and apartments in
Germany, and represents a good selection in France. The two owners travel often
to Europe to look at properties and the areas in which they are located, so can
offer personal advice. We see the prices as very fair, and the service as personable.
Catalogs are available for the asking, but a good approach is to telephone, explain
what you are looking for and where, and leave the rest to them. Details on a choice
of rentals will be proposed.
(Germany section of the book)
This small company, founded in 1997 seems to do an excellent Job of ferreting out
hard-to-find privately-owned chalets and apartments, especially in Germany and Austria,
an also in Switzerland and France. The owner lived in Germany for many years, is
fluent in the language, and has close personal contacts there. Most of the properties
are found through these contacts. We see the prices as very fair, and though possibly
a bit higher than through the dirg/tibs operation, but the service and personal
contact are worth the small difference. This is especially true for first-time visitors
to Germany, or travelers wanting to get away from the more touristy areas. The best
approach is to telephone, explain what you are looking for and where, and leave
the rest to them. There will likely be a discussion of different areas and properties,
and details on a choice of rentals will ultimately be proposed. The service is accessible
and personable.