We discuss today with Paolo Macchiaroli. He founded My Private Villas in March 2012 as an exclusive collection of the highest quality luxury holiday villas.
Tell us about your business. How would you describe it?
My Private Villas is an exclusive collection of the highest quality luxury holiday villas, but it is also a private club of owners who wish to offer their properties for rent directly to discerning guests at rates that are lower than anywhere else.
What led you to this business?
My great passion for travel and my interest for interior design.
How do you define success?
Success is not giving up and put all your heart, mind and soul even in your smallest act and you will get the success.
Were you ever influenced by other entrepreneurs?
I always love to share my thoughts, my visions and my ideas with other people, as I strongly believe that we can learn every day something from everyone. Without sharing we will never grow.
What is the most challenging part of your work?
To surprise our demanding clients with properties and service beyond their expectations.
What was your most rewarding professional experience?
Received the compliments of some owners or clients that they have never found a company like us so far and that we are different an unique.
What do you have your sights set on next?
Quality and services. The villa rental market is growing so fast and there are so many different suppliers that the only direction is the quality and the services that can be offered to a client.
How is a day in your life?
Busy, but always happy.
Choose two of your favorite quotes and write them here.
“Behind the clouds, the sun always shines”
“The expectation of pleasure is itself a pleasure”
Any hobbies?
Music & books.
What makes you smile?
My 5yo daughter
What is your secret talent?
Better ask someone else…
What are you never without?
A white handkerchief.
Which historical figure do you most admire?
Nelson Mandela.
What scares you?
Better think positive and don’t think about afraid.
What’s your favorite vacation spot?
Italy
‘Best-kept secrets’ (websites, places, books, etc) you’d recommend, and why?
Better keep secret! (smiles)
What are three life memories you recall most frequently and why?
All personal memories.
How do you define luxury?
The definition of luxury has changed from expensive goods or experiences enjoyed exclusively by an elite of people, to attention to details or whatever raises people’s expectations.
For me luxury is the enjoyment of the best in life: the experience of beauty and knowledge at their deepest and most inspiring. Luxury could be an aperitivo at the sunset, a favourite song with your lover, a perfect dinner near the fireplace, but nowadays time is the greatest luxury.
Villa Manresa. In Mallorca, Spain
