AUSTIN, Texas, March 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today Vrbo® unveiled its 2024 Vacation Rentals of the Year in the U.S., which feature the most remarkable private vacation rentals across the country as well as a bonus property in Mexico, a popular international destination for U.S. travelers.
This year’s Vacation Rentals of the Year list recognizes some of the most gorgeous waterfront homes, stunning cabin escapes and modern city stays in destinations including Sedona, Arizona; Austin, Texas; Inlet Beach, Florida and Blue Ridge, Georgia. The properties also include trending outdoor amenities that are inspiring travelers’ booking habits in 2024. Across the board, the homes offer:
Six heated pools, three of which are infinity pools
Eight hot tubs
Three outdoor sport courts for basketball, tennis and pickleball
Five fire pits
Three saunas
Six game rooms with ping pong, foosball, billiards, air hockey and shuffleboard
Four indoor gyms, including one yoga studio
Unique amenities including a wine cave, a vineyard and an in-ground trampoline
“What stands out to me is the variety in this year’s Vacation Rentals of the Year — from cool places with game rooms for kids to wine caves for grown-ups, at nightly rates ranging from $550 to $3,000. This list exemplifies the caliber of private vacation rentals across Vrbo,” said Jon Gieselman, president of Expedia Brands. “What’s new and makes it even better is that when you book any of these properties, you earn OneKeyCash back that you can use on your next vacation. No other major player does that.”
Now in its third year, the Vacation Rentals of the Year highlight the most spectacular, private vacation rentals that represent a variety of popular vacation destinations and price points. The homes are selected from the more than 2 million properties worldwide on the Vrbo platform, based on criteria including having:
A 4.9 or higher star rating
Positive guest reviews
Standout amenities and spaces for spending time together with friends and family
Premier Host status
“Vrbo’s Premier Hosts go above and beyond to offer exceptional, reliable and relaxing guest experiences and are key to making a traveler’s vacation seamless,” said Tim Rosolio, VP of Partner Success, Vacation Rentals. “With the recent adjustment of our Premier Host criteria, we are ensuring that only the best partners receive the badging and are eligible for opportunities like Vacation Rentals of the Year. We have incredible partners on our platform, and with the Premier Host badging we’re sending a clear and compelling trust signal to travelers about where to find the best, and consistent experiences on Vrbo.”
Travelers that book on Vrbo can also save with One Key, the first loyalty program from a major online vacation rental platform. Guests can earn 2% in OneKeyCash on every eligible Vrbo booking — including any of the 2024 Vacation Rentals of the Year — that can be used toward future bookings on eligible Vrbo vacation rentals, or on Expedia and Hotels.com. For example, booking a one-week stay at any one of the Vacation Rentals of the Year could earn travelers a few hundred dollars in OneKeyCash, on average.
See the list of the 2024 Vacation Rentals of the Year, as well as images and videos of the properties, along with a video testimonial from one of our Premier Hosts at www.vrbo.com/2024vacationrentals. And for even more trip-planning inspiration, make sure to check out previous years’ Vacation Rentals of the Year lists from 2023 and 2022.
Notes to the editor:
Visual Assets: Property images and b-roll are available for download.
2024 U.S. Vacation Rentals of the Year Property Details:
Sedona, Arizona – “Palatial Paradise Estate” is a stunning estate featuring breathtaking views of the iconic red rocks. This idyllic home invites the outside in with unique features including telescoping doors that connect the living room to the resort-style patio, an infinity pool, waterfall feature and outdoor fireplace. With easy access to all the best attractions in Sedona and nearby Coconino National Forest trails, this escape is the ideal vacation rental for a family or group vacation.
Big Sky, Montana – A one-of-a-kind cabin retreat, the “Fire Lookout Towers” is an awe-inspiring home situated on 60 acres and perched atop a ridge overlooking the majestic Beehive Basin. The cabin is only 10 minutes from Big Sky Resort and offers the most relaxing, comfortable space to savor a homemade meal with loved ones in the gourmet kitchen and dining room or relax by the floor-to-ceiling fireplace after a long day of skiing and exploring the surrounding wilderness.
Inlet Beach, Florida – “Paradise Found” is a vacation rental that really lives up to its name. The beachside oasis nestled along 30A is a resort-like space thoughtfully designed to accommodate groups of all kinds and guests of all ages. The home has three distinct living areas for spending time together, a gourmet chef’s kitchen, and an open concept living room that merges the indoors and outdoors. Outside, enjoy a masterfully designed infinity pool with a large hot tub, a covered cabana, and premier entertaining spaces.
Austin, Texas – Located just minutes from bustling downtown Austin, discover “Toro Canyon,” a tranquil getaway that seamlessly blends modern luxury and comfortable elegance. The home is perfect for a relaxing retreat with friends, boasting beautifully landscaped grounds and outdoor amenities including a pool and hot tub, outdoor kitchen and dining space, fire pit, and even a sports court — all nestled within a canopy of trees with a natural creek running nearby.
Glen Ellen, California – “Villa Montebella” is an Italian-inspired villa located in the heart of Sonoma Valley. The home offers acres of privacy with spectacular views, including ones of the San Francisco Bay less than an hour away; sips of world-class Cabernet Sauvignon from the onsite vineyard, or produce for meals from the farm. The villa boasts large gathering spaces including a library, theater room and oversized kitchen for group meals, a spa facility with steam and dry sauna rooms, and the standout amenity, which is the wine cave filled with art, a dining area and even a game room.
Sand Lake, Michigan – Situated on Baptist Lake, “Sandy Lakehouse” is a stunning lakeside home beyond compare. The property is decked out with every amenity imaginable, including a professional-grade gym, custom sports court for basketball and pickleball games, and a fully equipped game room. This is a perfect spot to host family and friends for a summer vacation or for a quick weekend escape, located only half an hour from Grand Rapids.
Epworth, Georgia – “Miracle Creek Retreat” is an expansive cabin nestled on a hillside in the Blue Ridge area, overlooking Fightingtown Creek below. The home combines modern design and comfort with stone and wood elements and includes spa-like bathrooms, a generously stocked gourmet kitchen with river views, and a game room with a wet bar. An outdoor living area also provides serene views of the forest and a cozy space for evenings spent under the stars.
Winchendon, Massachusetts – “Copley’s Lakefront Cottage” is a uniquely designed, Belgian-style farmhouse located on Lake Monomonac that straddles both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The modern home is wonderful for any season with its own private beach and dock for boating and swimming in the summer, and ice skating and fishing during the winter. Inside, the home is impeccably furnished with features including floor-to-ceiling views of the lake in the living areas, and a large sauna for a pampered spa day.
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands – The oceanfront “Villa Cin Cin” is an exquisite luxury home right outside of Cruz Bay that offers unparalleled views of the nearby Virgin Islands National Park from an expansive veranda by the infinity pool and a rooftop deck. The estate was also custom-built to have identical primary en suite bedrooms so everyone in the group gets the best room, and comes with thoughtfully designed spaces for movie and game nights after a day in the sun.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico – “Casa Acantilado” is an extraordinary cliffside villa in the heart of downtown Cabo San Lucas. This striking home offers an uninterrupted blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, including bedrooms with oceanside patio access, and comes with gorgeous views of the water from the pool, sauna and hot tub, which are great ways to start and end the day on a relaxing note.
About Vrbo
In 1995, Vrbo introduced a new way for people to travel together, pairing homeowners with families and friends looking for places to stay. We were grounded in one purpose: To give people the space they need to drop the distractions of everyday life and simply be together.
Since then, we’ve grown into a global community of homeowners and travelers, with unique properties around the world. Vrbo makes it easy and fun to book cabins, condos, beach houses and every kind of space in between.
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Vrbo is part of Expedia Group and offers homeowners and property managers exposure to over 750 million visits to Expedia Group sites each month. To learn more, visit www.vrbo.com.
Swisse Launches Glam Bites: Zero-Sugar Beauty Gummies Designed for Busy Routines
Swisse launches Glam Bites: delicious beauty gummies with zero sugar, no sugar alcohols, and no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners—designed to support beauty from within.
Swisse Launches Glam Bites: Zero-Sugar Beauty Gummies Designed for Busy Routines
Swisse, the premium supplement brand under Health & Happiness (H&H) Group and a Certified B Corp, is kicking off 2026 with a new way to support “beauty from within.” The company just introduced Swisse Beauty Glam Bites, a line of zero-sugar beauty gummies made with science-backed ingredients—without the usual “junk” found in many gummy supplements. Positioned for today’s always-on lifestyle, Glam Bites aims to make daily self-care feel less like another task and more like a quick, enjoyable habit: bite, nourish, and glow.
What makes Glam Bites different?
Gummy supplements are popular, but they often come with tradeoffs—added sugars, sugar alcohols, artificial flavors, or ingredients that don’t align with cleaner-label preferences. Swisse is leaning into the opposite approach. According to the company, Glam Bites are crafted with:
Zero sugar
No sugar alcohols
No artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners
Gluten-free
Free from major allergens (milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, sesame)
That “clean but still tasty” promise is a big part of the launch—especially as more shoppers look for supplements that fit into wellness routines without feeling like a compromise.
A beauty routine that starts from the inside
Swisse is framing Glam Bites as a simple daily add-on that supports skin, hair, and nails through targeted micronutrients. Leading dietitian Dana A. White highlighted the brand’s approach in the announcement, noting that Glam Bites deliver “powerful, science-driven beauty benefits” through a precisely balanced blend of nutrients—while keeping the formula free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners.
The Glam Bites lineup (available now)
Swisse launched Glam Bites in three formulas, each with its own ingredient blend and naturally flavored profile.
1) Hair Skin Nails Glam Bites
Price/Count: $19.99 (60 count)
Key ingredients: Biotin, Zinc, Bamboo Extract
What it supports: Stronger hair and nails, plus skin firmness and elasticity*
Flavor: Blood orange (naturally flavored)
2) Glow Skin Glam Bites
Price/Count: $24.99 (60 count)
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamins C & E, Sea Moss, Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen Peptides
What it supports: Collagen production, improved elasticity, and a stronger skin barrier*
Flavor: Blueberry lavender (naturally flavored)
3) Skin Defense Glam Bites
Price/Count: $24.99 (60 count)
Key ingredients: Astaxanthin, L-Glutathione, Green Tea Extract
What it supports: Healthy aging, even skin tone, and antioxidant protection against environmental stressors*
Flavor: Raspberry green tea (naturally flavored)
Why gummies—and why now?
Swisse is launching Glam Bites at a time when gummies are increasingly becoming the preferred supplement format for younger consumers. The company cited research showing:
45% of Gen Z and 31% of millennials favor gummy supplements.
74% of U.S. personal care buyers agree that skin health reflects overall health.
In other words: the market is shifting toward convenience, better taste, and wellness products that connect beauty with whole-body health.
A global wellness brand expanding its portfolio
Swisse was founded in Australia in 1969 and has grown into a global wellness name known for premium supplements made with ingredients backed by scientific research and produced under world-class manufacturing standards. With Glam Bites, the brand is clearly betting on a “cleaner gummy” future—one that fits modern routines and modern label expectations.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
How C-reactive protein outpaced ‘bad’ cholesterol as leading heart disease risk marker
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a key inflammation marker that can predict heart attack and stroke risk—often better than LDL cholesterol. Here’s why it matters.
C-reactive protein is created by the liver in response to infections, tissue damage, chronic inflammatory states from conditions like autoimmune diseases, and metabolic disturbances like obesity and diabetes. Essentially, it is a marker of inflammation – meaning immune system activation – in the body. C-reactive protein can be easily measured with blood work at the doctor’s office. A low C-reactive protein level – under 1 milligram per deciliter – signifies minimal inflammation in the body, which is protective against heart disease. An elevated C-reactive protein level of greater than 3 milligrams per deciliter, signifies increased levels of inflammation and thus increased risk for heart disease. About 52% of Americans have an elevated level of C-reactive protein in their blood. Research shows that C-reactive protein is a better predictive marker for heart attacks and strokes than “bad,” or LDL cholesterol, short for low-density lipoprotein, as well as another commonly measured genetically inherited biomarker called lipoprotein(a). One study found that C-reactive protein can predict heart disease just as well as blood pressure can.
Why does inflammation matter in heart disease?
Inflammation plays a crucial role at every stage in the development and buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries, which causes a condition called atherosclerosis that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. From the moment a blood vessel is damaged, be it from high blood sugar or cigarette smoke, immune cells immediately infiltrate the area. Those immune cells subsequently engulf cholesterol particles that are typically floating around in the blood stream to form a fatty plaque that resides in the wall of the vessel. This process continues for decades until eventually, one day, immune mediators rupture the cap that encloses the plaque. This triggers the formation of a blood clot that obstructs blood flow, starves the surrounding tissues of oxygen and ultimately causes a heart attack or stroke. Hence, cholesterol is only part of the story; it is, in fact, the immune system that facilitates each step in the processes that drive heart disease.Fatty plaque buildup in the arteries causes a blockage that starves tissues of oxygen and can lead to a heart attack or stroke.wildpixel/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Does cholesterol still matter for heart disease risk?
Though cholesterol may not be the most important predictor of risk for heart disease, it does remain highly relevant. However, it’s not just the amount of cholesterol – or more specifically the amount of bad, or LDL, cholesterol – that matters. Two people with the same cholesterol level don’t necessarily have the same risk for heart disease. This is because risk is determined more so by the number of particles that the bad cholesterol is packaged into, as opposed to the total mass of bad cholesterol that’s floating around. More particles means higher risk. That is why a blood test known as apolipoprotein B, which measures the number of cholesterol particles, is a better predictor of risk for heart disease than measurements of total amounts of bad cholesterol. Like cholesterol and C-reactive protein, apolipoprotein B is also influenced by lifestyle factors like exercise, weight loss and diet. Nutrients like fiber, nuts and omega-3 fatty acids are associated with a decreased number of cholesterol particles, while increased sugar intake is associated with a larger number of cholesterol particles. Furthermore, lipoprotein(a), a protein that lives in the wall surrounding cholesterol particles, is another marker that can predict heart disease more accurately than cholesterol levels. This is because the presence of lipoprotein(a) makes cholesterol particles sticky, so to speak, and thus more likely to get trapped in an atherosclerotic plaque. However, unlike other risk factors, lipoprotein(a) levels are purely genetic, thus not influenced by lifestyle, and need only be measured once in a lifetime.
What’s the best way to prevent heart disease?
Ultimately, heart disease is the product of many risk factors and their interactions over a lifetime. Therefore, preventing heart disease is way more complicated than simply eating a cholesterol-free diet, as once thought. Knowing your LDL cholesterol level alongside your C-reactive protein, apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein (a) levels paints a comprehensive picture of risk that can hopefully help motivate long-term commitment to the fundamentals of heart disease prevention. These include eating well, exercising consistently, getting adequate sleep, managing stress productively, maintaining healthy weight and, if applicable, quitting smoking.Mary J. Scourboutakos, Adjunct Assistant Professor in Family and Community Medicine, Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Easy Pet Wellness Routine: 5 Healthy Habits for Dogs and Cats Without the Fuss
Build a simple, effective pet wellness routine with 5 easy habits. Learn how to support your dog or cat’s health through tailored nutrition, functional supplements, exercise, mental enrichment, and stress-reducing environments—without overwhelming your schedule.
Easy Pet Wellness Routine: 5 Healthy Habits for Dogs and Cats Without the Fuss
(Family Features) Pets are more than companions – they’re family – and keeping them healthy can be simple, enjoyable and rewarding. Today’s pet parents may be busier than ever, yet they’re also more committed to wellness than previous generations. That means approaching their furry friends’ unique needs with the same balance, care and attention to overall well-being as they do their own. In fact, according to the 2021 Human Animal Bond Research Institute Benchmark Survey of Pet Owners, increased knowledge about the health benefits of the human-animal bond led 91% of pet owners to say they would be more likely to take better care of their pets. Pet health isn’t just about food, however. A holistic approach to wellness combines daily supplements, dental care, exercise, mental enrichment and proactive health, with many owners looking for ways to simplify routines to support their pets every day. These practical ideas can help support a pet’s overall wellness routine. Tailor Flexible Nutrition Plans to Pets’ Needs Every pet is unique, but balanced nutrition forms the foundation of wellness. Dog and cat parents are increasingly seeking customizable food and supplement solutions designed around their furry friend’s age, needs and lifestyle. Age-specific formulations and products featuring natural, minimally processed ingredients and eco-friendly sourcing allow owners to support their pets’ overall health, from mealtime to daily wellness routines. Support Healthy Skin and Coat A pet’s coat often reflects its overall health. Along with a balanced diet and plenty of water, adding a daily supplement can help support a natural shine. While professional grooming keeps dogs and cats looking their best, incorporating regular at-home brushing and bathing with a gentle shampoo strengthens the bond you share and provides an opportunity to spot any changes, like lumps or bumps. Enhance Pet Wellness with Functional Support Even with a balanced diet, many pets may benefit from extra support to maintain their overall well-being. Functional supplements can help target specific needs, including joint mobility, immunity and stress relief. For example, NaturVet’s easy-to-use Lickable supplements – available in Hip & Joint, Calming and Multi-Vitamin formulas for dogs and cats – offer a simple way to make wellness an effortless part of everyday life. Promote Exercise and Mental Enrichment Movement is essential to any wellness routine. Regular walks, agility activities and games help keep pets fit and happy. Physical exercise is only part of the puzzle, though. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, scent games and agility training help dogs and cats stay mentally sharp, even on days when outdoor activity is limited. Create a Calming Home Environment Dogs and cats can experience stress when routines aren’t followed, just like people. Maintaining a consistent daily schedule and providing a quiet, comfortable space – such as a bed in a low-traffic area – can help promote calm, comfort and security. By taking a few simple, consistent steps each day, pet parents can create a balanced, enjoyable wellness routine that keeps their furry family members healthy, happy and thriving. From functional supplements and daily care habits to exercise, mental enrichment and a calming environment, small efforts can make a big difference, turning everyday care into a rewarding part of life with your pet. To find more practical health and wellness solutions for your pet, visit naturvet.com. 5 Easy Steps to Help Pet Owners Build Healthy Habits Creating a consistent health and wellness routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Consider these simple steps:
Start slow. Introduce new supplements or activities gradually to avoid overwhelming pets.
Be aware. Review product labels and ingredient certifications to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your pet.
Incorporate naturally. Mix functional supplements into meals or use them as a reward for good behavior.
Stay consistent. Small daily actions can add up to long-term health and wellness.
Monitor and adjust. Work with a veterinarian to create a tailored plan and observe your pet’s energy, mobility and mood, adjusting as needed.
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
Mary J. Scourboutakos, Adjunct Assistant Professor in Family and Community Medicine, Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Tailor Flexible Nutrition Plans to Pets’ Needs Every pet is unique, but balanced nutrition forms the foundation of wellness. Dog and cat parents are increasingly seeking customizable food and supplement solutions designed around their furry friend’s age, needs and lifestyle. Age-specific formulations and products featuring natural, minimally processed ingredients and eco-friendly sourcing allow owners to support their pets’ overall health, from mealtime to daily wellness routines. Support Healthy Skin and Coat A pet’s coat often reflects its overall health. Along with a balanced diet and plenty of water, adding a daily supplement can help support a natural shine. While professional grooming keeps dogs and cats looking their best, incorporating regular at-home brushing and bathing with a gentle shampoo strengthens the bond you share and provides an opportunity to spot any changes, like lumps or bumps. Enhance Pet Wellness with Functional Support Even with a balanced diet, many pets may benefit from extra support to maintain their overall well-being. Functional supplements can help target specific needs, including joint mobility, immunity and stress relief. For example, NaturVet’s easy-to-use Lickable supplements – available in Hip & Joint, Calming and Multi-Vitamin formulas for dogs and cats – offer a simple way to make wellness an effortless part of everyday life. Promote Exercise and Mental Enrichment Movement is essential to any wellness routine. Regular walks, agility activities and games help keep pets fit and happy. Physical exercise is only part of the puzzle, though. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, scent games and agility training help dogs and cats stay mentally sharp, even on days when outdoor activity is limited. Create a Calming Home Environment Dogs and cats can experience stress when routines aren’t followed, just like people. Maintaining a consistent daily schedule and providing a quiet, comfortable space – such as a bed in a low-traffic area – can help promote calm, comfort and security. By taking a few simple, consistent steps each day, pet parents can create a balanced, enjoyable wellness routine that keeps their furry family members healthy, happy and thriving. From functional supplements and daily care habits to exercise, mental enrichment and a calming environment, small efforts can make a big difference, turning everyday care into a rewarding part of life with your pet. To find more practical health and wellness solutions for your pet, visit 
