Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

This Travel Agency is Giving Away 25 Epic Vacation Stays (Including an Airplane Treehouse)

Thanks to our less-than-stellar handling of the COVID-19 crisis, many countries promptly shut the door on American travelers. The mantra around the world seems to be, “You don’t have to stay home, but you can’t come here.” But, that doesn’t mean all travel is off-limits. To celebrate its 25th anniversary this year, VRBO is giving away 25 stays at incredible vacation rental homes. The good news is that most are located in the States, so you might not even need your passport.

727 Airplane Jungle Fuselage in Costa Rica
Image used with permission by copyright holder

VRBO’s latest contest is giving 25 families a memorable vacation worth at least $5,000 each. These aren’t your typical vacation rental homes, either. From the beaches to the lakes to the mountains, winners can pick from the company’s most unique, most iconic listings. These include a massive, 38-person Texas ranch that’s basically its own private amusement park, a luxurious ski-friendly treehouse in Montana, and a private island retreat with lakefront views all to yourself. The pièce de résistance, however, has to be Costa Rica’s famous 727 Airplane Jungle Fuselage — a legit, decommissioned jet fuselage that looks like it crash-landed in the treetops near Manual Antonio National Park. From a vantage point some 50 feet above the jungle canopy, the one-of-a-kind treehouse offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and some of Costa Rica’s most iconic beachfront.

Red Sands Ranch Amusement Park in Texas
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The list of 25 homes was compiled from VRBO’s best-rated vacation homes, condos, cabins, and even castles. They’re the listings that VRBO travelers have liked, pinned, shared, and talked about more than any others. Entrants only need to share and tag a favorite family travel photo on social media. “We’re giving away 25 stays in some truly over-the-top VRBOs to our favorite entrants – so share any throwback vacation photo that warms your heart, makes you laugh, smile, or even shed a happy tear,” said Lish Kennedy, VRBO’s VP of Global Brand Marketing.

VRBO Private Island Vacation Rental
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The contest runs until October 18, 2020. To enter, just share a throwback family vacation photo on either Facebook or Instagram. Make sure it’s public, tag it with #VRBOTurns25, and you’re in. Get the full contest details here.

Recommended Videos

If you’re looking for a seasonally appropriate escape right now, check out our roundup of the most haunted vacation rental homes worthy of Halloween 2020.

Mike Richard
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…
The coolest things to do in Singapore, from Michelin dining to sidecar tours and more
Enjoy these recommendations from the Singapore Tourism Board
Singapore skyline

If you’re looking for a destination where modern innovation meets timeless tradition, then Singapore is the place to be. Known for its futuristic skyline, beautiful green spaces, and delicious street food, this city-state has it all. Founded as a British colony in 1819, Singapore gained independence in 1965 and has since grown into one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Oh, and it boasts the strongest passport in the world, giving its citizens access to more destinations visa free than anywhere else!

We’ve teamed up with the Singapore Tourism Board to bring you the coolest things to do in Singapore, from cultural gems to sustainable attractions that will make your trip unforgettable.
Stay at a top-rated hotel

Read more
JetBlue launches new premium travel experience
JetBlue introduces EvenMore premium experience
jetblue evenmore premium experience jan ej v3 6

JetBlue’s premium travel experience, EvenMore, is now available for booking on jetblue.com and its mobile app. January 28 will bring additional perks to EvenMore members, like a new premium snack, free alcoholic beverages, and dedicated overhead bin space. The launch is part of the airline’s JetForward strategy, which offers benefits and products tailored to customers.
EvenMore delivers a premium experience at 35,000 feet

Marty St. George, president, JetBlue, said: “It’s no secret that customers increasingly value unique experiences, so we’re bringing together great service and affordable fares into a competitive, elevated travel option. Building on the success of Even More Space, the new EvenMore offers new amenities that our customers will love, in addition to the extra legroom they enjoy today.”

Read more
These are the best restaurants in America right now
Eat like royalty at one of the top restaurants in the U.S.
Chubby Fish, Charleston, South Carolina

Here at The Manual, we're passionate about food. From savoring the elegance of French cuisine to diving into the vibrant flavors of Jamaican fare, we've explored it all. But it a country as vast and diverse as America, the question remains: Which dining spots truly stand out? After much deliberation (and plenty of delicious bites), we've taken on the challenge of ranking the top 25 destinations for food lovers and crafting a list of the best restaurants in America.

These are the places that will make you love food even more. It could be the pairing of a dry red wine or the presentation of a remarkable dish. Maybe it's a classic dish that's been turned out in a city for generations. Perhaps it's a Michelin star-winning chef redefining what it means to eat in America. No matter which direction the following establishments go, know that they excel at that very route. Hungry?

Read more