Vacation rentals: enjoy a home away from home with lavish amenities in prime locations. According to many industry insiders, the vacation rental market is on the rise. Lodging industry expert Glenn Haussman recently reported on the "explosive growth" of vacation rentals in recent years.

"Vacation rentals are really starting to catch on," said Margie Van Zee, COO and Founder of Bella Palazzo, a company that markets high-end vacation rental homes to discerning travelers. "This is a more intimate experience and we are also able to offer all the hotel type amenities and services."

Haussman also notes that this surge in vacation rental business is in sync with the current economic crisis. "Travelers look for ways to not only save money but also the ability for multiple generations of a family or a group of friends to spend more intimate time with each other."

Indeed, many of even the most lavish vacation rental properties offer prices that, when divided among a group of 10 or 12, can cost less than or equal to a traditional hotel room.

Where to begin when choosing your villa or chalet? We've rounded up some of our favorite villas around the world, from mountain chalets with ski-in/ski-out access to a tropical estate with a pool in the living room. Bring everyone along to each of these stunning properties on our list of the Top 10 Vacation Rentals for Fun Getaways with Family and Friends:

Sol de Occidente in Costa Careyes, Mexico. It's an incredible castle on the tip of a lush peninsula between two pristine beaches. Surrounded by an infinity pool, this six-bedroom vacation rental in Costa Careyes offers private bungalows, a romantic bedroom suite in a tower on a Top Ten Luxury Vacation Rentals For Fun Getawayscliff and a private beach with a palapa.

Cove Spring House in Barbados. It's known as the "most coveted home on Barbados" and certainly lives up to its reputation. This luxury villa offers a private beach, ten exquisite bedrooms, Ralph Lauren furnishings and a staff of 16 to attend to all your needs. It's hard not to slip into the island's leisure lifestyle with the expansive verandas and outdoor lounges, a private movie theater, fresh water swimming pool and spa.

Forty Two in Queenstown, New Zealand. Set over three floors, this urban townhouse is fun and flirty in the heart of Queenstown. The style is urban chic: New Zealand materials given a contemporary twist. It's the perfect place to call home while you're on your wild adventure in Queenstown. Enjoy a rooftop terrace, exquisitely appointed bedrooms and additional services like a personal concierge, private chef and/or in-house catering.

Shore in Bali. It's sleek, sexy and modern. Set in a large tropical garden with two swimming pools, this exquisite private villa on the Indian Ocean combines modern amenities and rich Balinese flavor. The mood Top Ten Luxury Vacation Rentals For Fun Getawaysis open, airy and in complete harmony with the serene surroundings. Did we mention the elevated living room/lounge has a glass floor with the swimming pool underneath? Completely chic.

Villa Maha in Marrakesh, Morocco. It's a regal escape just minutes from central Marrakesh that celebrates the art of living Moroccan style. The rounded living areas and cupolas open onto regal terraces and exquisite gardens. Let yourself go in the surprising architecture, fine details and unique atmosphere. This private villa in Morocco is truly a remarkable vacation rental for a distinctive vacation experience.

The Lodge in Verbier, Switzerland. As part of the reputable Virgin Limited Edition, this luxurious chalet receives Sir Richard Branson's stamp of approval, and thus a coveted position at the top of the luxury travel scale. The Lodge is situated on a quiet road just a short walk from the resort town Verbier. It's a stunning nine-bedroom chalet renowned for its stylish interior and exceptional personal service from a 13-person staff. For fun on the Top Ten Luxury Vacation Rentals For Fun Getawaysslopes and après ski in Verbier, The Lodge has it all.

Bond House in Cape Town. Designed by South Africa's leading architect Stefan Antoni, this vacation rental in Cape Town is an architect's dream. Glass walls let the sun soak the airy interiors and expansive terraces open onto spectacular views of Camps Bay and Table Mountain. This luxury vacation rental in Cape Town offers a swimming pool, elevator, lounge bar and seven exquisite bathrooms.

Sogno di Luce in Saint Tropez, France. It's not just a villa, it's a villaHotel. This newly constructed vacation rental is perched atop a sun-drenched hill overlooking the Bay of St. Tropez. Enjoy the privacy of a vacation home with the attentive service and amenities of a luxury hotel in this innovative villaHotel concept. The private villa includes six king-size bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, at ...