Luxury might not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of Airbnb, but look hard enough and there are plenty of accommodations and experiences that few five-star hotels could hope to rival. Rumour has it that a "luxury tier" offering premium services is on the cards. Until then, we've rounded up some of the most opulent properties available, from a 10-bedroom 16th-century villa in Tuscany to a private all-inclusive resort in Thailand.

1. Skiathos, Greece

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

Mastering the art of humble luxury, this minimalist seafront villa in the Sporades islands sits atop a forest with a secret private path to the beach. It boasts plenty of outdoor space, airy light-filled interiors, a herb garden, and spectacular views.

Staff are on hand 24/7, and the kitchen serves seriously fresh Mediterranean cuisine at your request. Guests are also given access to a concierge who can help you make the most of your stay. Sailing, anyone? 

Find out more about this villa here.

2. Podere Palazzo, Tuscany, Italy

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

Midway between Rome and Florence is Podere Palazzo, a country villa with expansive views of Tuscany's oak woods, pastures, olive orchards and vineyards. While the exterior is a classic stone farmhouse, the interior has been given a modern makeover to create a perfectly charming blend of the old and the new.

It has 5 bedrooms, large living and dining spaces, a library, gourmet kitchen with outdoor dining in the portico, three fireplaces, and breathtaking grounds including a pond, an infinity pool, an olive and fruit orchard and a vegetable garden. 

Upon request, the property's owners can help organize welcome dinners, cooking classes with Michelin star chefs, wine tasting, wine tours and more. If you're in the mood for a bit of pampering, there's a world-class spa with thermal pools and massages just down the road. 

Find out more about Podere Palazzo here.

3. Triton Luxury Villa, Turks & Caicos

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

Occupying over two acres behind the pristine sand dunes of Long Bay Beach, this seven-bedroom beachfront mansion features a plethora of luxurious features, including an outdoor movie theatre with fire pit, a sunset yoga and meditation pavilion, two pools, private tennis and bocce ball courts, an in-house butler, and panoramic unobstructed views of the island's turquoise waters.

If you do want to leave the villa—but why would you?—the beaches, shops and restaurants at Grace Bay are just a seven-minute drive away. 

Find out more about Triton Luxury Villa here.

4. Ani Villas, Phang-nga, Thailand

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

The slogan for this property is "it's all yours." And it's true. Ani Villas has 10 luxurious bedrooms and pool villas, around the clock staff including an executive chef, a private spa with professional massage therapists, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a beachfront swimming pool and separate kid's pool with a waterslide.

Perhaps the best part about staying at Ani Villas is that all meals, drinks - including those from the property's mixologist-curated bar - and indulgent spa treatments are all included at no extra cost.

If you're feeling adventurous, exotic activities such as early morning leopard spotting and twilight kayaking under dramatic cliffs can be arranged. 

Find out more about Ani Villas here.

5. Villa Machiavelli, Tuscany, Italy

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

Live like true Italian nobility at the fully staffed Villa Machiavelli, which was formerly the home of the Machiavelli and Mazzei families. This 16th-century masterpiece is in the Chianti Classico region just 20 minutes outside of Florence and, having been recently refurbished, Villa Machiavelli combines the property's stunning Renaissance architecture with 21st-century luxuries 

Enjoy the panoramic views of the countryside from one of the many terraces, or venture out by car or helicopter to explore the vineyards, olive groves and forests that are part of the estate. 

Find out more about Villa Machiavelli here.

 

6. Cliff Top Residence, Phuket, Thailand

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

Cliff Top Residence is an ultra-modern villa with panoramic views of Ao Yon Bay on the east coast of Phuket. The villa features six luxurious suites, spacious living areas, an infinity pool, expansive sun decks, a state-of-the-art private gym and two fully-equipped kitchens with around the clock staff to cater to your every need and desire.

Find out more about Cliff Top Residence here.

See also: The 7 Most Breathtaking Villas in Phuket

7. Glass House by Tirtha, Bali, Indonesia

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

This split-level residence in Bali, built primarily from clear glass, is an architectural masterpiece that seamlessly brings the outside in and vice versa. With just three spacious bedrooms, it offers an intimate and private retreat surrounded by lush tropical gardens. As well as a great place for a relaxing getaway, Glass House by Tirtha is a stunning venue for weddings and other special occasions. 

As described by the designers, "By day, The Glass House is bathed in dappled sunlight that filters through a natural boundary of mature trees. As darkness descends, artistic mood lighting can be controlled to replicate the twinkle of stars or the shimmering glow of the moon."

Find out more about Glass House by Tirtha here

8. Grande Bellezza, Los Angeles, USA

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

With its classic architecture and perfectly manicured gardens, we wouldn't blame you for thinking you've travelled to an aristocrat's home in Italy or France.

Located in Beverly Hills, the newly built European-inspired Grande Bellezza boasts unspoiled views over Benedict Canyon. This estate is all about al-fresco living, with outdoor living areas include an infinity pool, hot tub, barbecue and bar, and fountains. Inside, the villa has six bedrooms (all with en-suite bathrooms) a home theatre, wine bar and cellar, games room, and sauna.

Find out more about Grande Bellezza here.

See also: Life As A Billionaire At Helena Bay

9. Paris, France

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

Is it a gallery or a home? It's the best of both. This extraordinary listing is a triplex in the heart of Paris, built on the only remaining wall of a 13th century Abbaye de Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It houses some remarkable artworks and antiques, including a spiral staircase from the original structure.

It's a great home base for exploring the best of the city of lights, with iconic hangouts such as Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore literally at your doorstep. 

Find out more about l'Abbaye de Saint Germain here

10. Heinz Julen Loft, Zermatt, Switzerland

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb

Some of the world's biggest rock stars have stayed and partied at this loft, which was once the private home of famed designer Heinz Julen. With undisturbed views of the Alps and the local village, this chalet combines acres of glass, steel, textured concrete and wood in what is described as "a unique symphony of fusion architecture."

Warm up next to the crackling fireplace with a glass of wine after a fun day hitting the slopes, enjoy some music on the killer sound system or play your own on the baby grand Steinway piano. 

Find out more about the Heinz Julen Loft here.

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