Spent one week at Masseria Cisterna Rossa in the Salento area of Puglia in mid Sept 2025. Pictures of this villa do not do it justice. It is large, very beautifully furnished and in outstanding c... See more
Company replied
While we don't verify specific claims because reviewers' opinions are their own, we may label reviews as "Verified" when we can confirm a business interaction took place. Read more
To protect platform integrity, every review on our platform—verified or not—is screened by our 24/7 automated software. This technology is designed to identify and remove content that breaches our guidelines, including reviews that are not based on a genuine experience. We recognise we may not catch everything, and you can flag anything you think we may have missed. Read more
Review summary
Created with AI, based on recent reviews
What people talk about most
Reviews shaping this summary
Thank you The Thinking traveller for fixing the perfect holiday for us on Paxos. The villa lived up to and beyond our expectations and you gave us all the options for transport well in advance which t... See more
Company replied
They certainly do not oversell their villas, what you see on their website is how it is and our villa was quite simply amazing. The thoughtful extras (like some groceries in the villa on arrival) make... See more
Company replied
Antonia was so helpful in 2024 when we were securing our Villa and switching from Sicily to Puglia. Francesco, upon arrival came to meet our group of 14 to explain and take care of any necessities at... See more
Company replied
Company details
About The Thinking Traveller
Written by the company
Since 2002, The Thinking Traveller has offered unique access to the most desirable villas in the heart of the Mediterranean. The company’s success – including being voted Best Villa Rental Company nine times at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards - is based on three founding principles: exclusive villas, unrivalled local knowledge and thoughtful personal service.
We invite clients to leave their feedback following their return from holiday to ensure it reflects their overall experience with us.
EXPLORE GREECE
EXPLORE SICILY
EXPLORE PUGLIA
EXPLORE CORSICA
Contact info
The Old Truman Brewery, 91 - 95 Brick Lane,, E1 6QR, London, United Kingdom
- 020 7377 8518
- info@thethinkingtraveller.com
- thethinkingtraveller.com
4.7
Excellent
1K reviews
Asks customers to review
This company invites their customers to review, whether positive or negative
Replied to 87% of negative reviews
Typically replies within 1 week
How this company uses Trustpilot
See how their reviews and ratings are sourced, scored, and moderated.
Excellent Trip to Sicily
Holly was so helpful in trip planning, and then the East Sicily Team took care of us very well. The villa was beautiful.
21 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback.
We’re delighted to hear that Holly’s guidance helped shape your plans and that our East Sicily team looked after you so well during your stay. It’s wonderful to know you enjoyed the beauty of the villa. Sicily is a truly special place, and we’re thrilled it made such an impression.
We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back to another Thinking Traveller destination soon.
Warm regards,
The Thinking Traveller Team
Outstanding service from Thinking Traveller in difficult circumstances
My girlfriends and I recently booked a trip to Zakynthos through The Thinking Traveller. A couple of weeks before our departure, they contacted us to let us know that, due to the wildfires, we wouldn’t be able to stay in the villa we had originally booked. Naturally, we were disappointed and a little concerned - but we were quickly reassured.
The team at The Thinking Traveller went above and beyond to find us alternatives, even exploring additional options we suggested. They bent over backwards to make sure we were happy, and in the end we stayed in a fabulous property with wonderful chefs and amazing experiences. It couldn’t have worked out better - and with hindsight, the new location was probably even better than the original!
While on the island, we sadly heard more about the devastation in the south and learned of the tragic loss of some beautiful horses - a reminder of how serious the fires had been. Through it all, we were truly impressed and grateful for how thoughtfully and efficiently The Thinking Traveller handled everything.
We were delighted with our experience and couldn’t recommend them more highly.
15 September 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience.
We’re truly grateful for your understanding and kindness in such difficult and uncertain circumstances. The wildfires in Zakynthos were devastating for so many, and our hearts remain with all those affected.
We’re delighted that, despite the challenges, the team was able to support you, explore every possible option, and ultimately find a villa and experience that you loved just as much — if not more — than your original choice. Your appreciation means a great deal to us, and we’ll be sure to share your kind words with everyone involved.
It was a pleasure to look after you and your friends, and we couldn’t be happier that your time on the island turned into something so special. We very much hope to welcome you back to one of our destinations in the future.
Warmest regards,
The Thinking Traveller Team
Outstanding experience
I had a very great experience. From the team at Thinking Traveler very efficient and diligent to the great service, support and kindness at the Villa we rented out. We are happy to book again with TT on our next holiday!
30 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you so much for your lovely review.
We’re delighted to hear that you had such a great experience, from the efficiency and care of our team to the warm hospitality you enjoyed at your villa. It’s wonderful to know your stay was so memorable, and we’re thrilled you’re already thinking about your next holiday with us.
We look forward to welcoming you back very soon.
Warm regards,
The Thinking Traveller Team
The Thinking Traveller - an impeccable company
The Thinking Traveller is an exceptional villa company. From the moment we clicked onto their website to our return home after the most wonderful holiday, they have been impeccable. Their pre-holiday support was excellent, as was the discreet and very thoughtful care while we were away.
We are regular Thinking Traveller clients and they manage to surpass our high expectations every year.
26 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you so much for your generous words. It means the world to us to hear that your experience from your first visit to our website to your return home felt so seamless and thoughtfully supported.
We take great pride in offering both attentive pre-holiday guidance and discreet care while you’re away, so your appreciation is deeply valued.
As returning guests, your continued trust is the highest compliment. We’re delighted to know we’ve been able to exceed your expectations year after year, and we very much look forward to helping you plan your next memorable escape.
Warmest regards,
The Thinking Traveller Team
Thank you The Thinking traveller for a perfect Paxos break
Thank you The Thinking traveller for fixing the perfect holiday for us on Paxos. The villa lived up to and beyond our expectations and you gave us all the options for transport well in advance which took away stress from the beginning and the end of the holiday. A special mention to Faye whose kindness and generosity were superb in being your agent on the ground. Her professionalism, kindness and willingness to assist were off the scale. Thank you! Bridget, Steve and Mike
8 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you so much for your lovely words. We’re absolutely delighted to hear that your Paxos holiday was everything you hoped for — and more. It’s wonderful to know that the villa exceeded your expectations and that the travel arrangements helped everything run so smoothly from start to finish.
We’ll be sure to share your kind comments with Faye, who will be thrilled to know her care and support made such a difference to your stay. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and very much hope to welcome you back to another Thinking Traveller destination soon.
Warm regards,
The Thinking Traveller Team
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thanks for taking the time to review us and very pleased the team onsite managed to resolve any issues that happened.
The Thinking Traveller Team
I’m extremely disappointed with the…
I’m extremely disappointed with the thinking traveler. We booked our stay for our 10 year anniversary and upon arrival were instantly disappointed and felt tricked/lied to about the property. What was advertised as a beautiful stay, instead was never cared for. Dog poop on property, linens stained, cabinets broken and list goes on. Because of this we contacted management and wanted to change our trip. Never stayed a night at there accommodations because of how dirty it was. Their management sends a worker and they even admit to how bad it is but yet upon coming home they are only looking to give a 1/2 refund. Which shocked me because they acted all like they were here to do good for us and yet now they are acting like they can’t actually refund us even with admitting how bad their property was. Will never stay or book through them again, and would never recommend because you as the customer have no rights in this company.
17 August 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Dear Mr Ernst,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We’re genuinely sorry to read your review, especially following your initial feedback about our team’s responsiveness both on-site and from our office. While we always aim to deliver the highest standards of service, we acknowledge that your experience did not reflect that, and we understand your disappointment — particularly given the significance of your anniversary.
The concerns you raised regarding cleanliness and maintenance were taken seriously from the moment they were reported. Our local team responded promptly, visiting the property and following up after your decision to leave, with the intention of resolving matters directly and supportively. We believe that, had we been given the opportunity, many of the issues could have been addressed locally.
While some issues were acknowledged, we do not agree with the characterisation that the property was entirely misrepresented. The villa has consistently received positive feedback, and the condition described does not reflect its usual standard. That said, we regret that it did not meet your expectations.
We respected your decision to spend your holiday elsewhere and understood your choice not to pursue further discussions at the time. The partial refund offered was based on a balanced assessment of the situation and in line with our policies, which aim to be fair to both our guests and villa owners.
When that offer didn’t meet your expectations, we also suggested involving an independent arbitration service to ensure a fair and impartial review. We remain available should you wish to revisit the matter or discuss our proposal further.
Kind regards
The Thinking Traveller Team
Great experience!
The property was incredible, the rental process was easy, and we really enjoyed having a local help us with our plans.
21 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you so much for your kind review.
We’re delighted to hear that you had such a great experience — from the ease of booking to the enjoyment of the property itself. Our local teams take great pride in helping guests make the most of their time away, so it’s wonderful to know their support enhanced your stay. We hope to welcome you back to another Thinking Traveller villa very soon.
Warmest regards,
The Thinking Traveller Team
Just amazing!!!
28 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Amazing review - thank you!
The Thinking Traveller Team
Perfect end to our honeymoon.
We wanted something special for the end of our honeymoon in Greece. We heard of The Thinking Traveller and decided to try it. This was the best decision we could’ve made. First, what you see is what you get. The pictures are a not filtered nor edited to make it look more appealing. The Casa Rosemary was absolutely beautiful. Second, the service was impeccable. Our concierge, Anastasia, was always available to answer our questions. She also took care of the arrangements for our activities (e.g. she made sure our ebike rentals got delivered to the villa, the bottles of wine we ordered were waiting for us on the kitchen table and so on). Finally, the hosts left us a beautiful basket of fresh fruits, snacks and home made local treats. They made sure we felt welcomed from the start.
The only piece of advice I cannot stress enough is to book your activities in advance (at least 6-8 weeks before your arrival) to optimize your chance of getting a confirmation on your chosen dates. We really wanted to try the in-villa private chef services, but we booked the chef a month in advance and there was no more availability. Apart from that, our stay was really perfect.
Thanks again, The Thinking Traveller.
8 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for choosing us for such a special occasion. We’re thrilled to hear that Casa Rosemary was everything you hoped for and that Anastasia helped make your stay so memorable. It’s lovely to know the little touches from your hosts made you feel so welcome.
We really appreciate your advice about booking activities early — that’s great guidance for future guests. We’re delighted your honeymoon ended on such a high note, and we’d be honoured to help you plan your next adventure.
The Thinking Traveller Team
Great experience at TerraMia
Generally great communication with local team via WhatsApp and property was exactly as described. Very well equipped kitchen for cooking.
Pool was very very cold in early October and would have benefited from heating. I did ask but didn’t get a reply.
29 September 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you for your thoughtful feedback! We’re so pleased you had a great stay at TerraMia and that the property and kitchen met your expectations. It’s also lovely to hear our local team’s communication was helpful.
We appreciate you mentioning the pool temperature and your note about not receiving a reply — we’re sorry for that and will make sure it’s followed up internally. Your comments help us improve, and we hope to welcome you back for another enjoyable stay soon.
The Thinking Traveller Team
Seamless experience from start to…
Seamless experience from start to finish. Amazing personalised support on location. Will definitely use again.
5 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you for your wonderful feedback!
We’re so pleased to hear your experience was seamless and that our on-location team provided such great support. It means a lot to know you’d choose us again — we look forward to helping you plan your next trip!
The Thinking Traveller Team
Excellent Options and Great Local Support
Great experience throughout the process. The only issue is the website, which was excellent for searching and identifying the right property, but not well suited for managing our group. Great properties, great local teams and very helpful booking agents who know the properties well.
4 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thanks so much for your kind review! We're really glad you had a great experience and felt supported by our teams. Your feedback on the website is appreciated — we're working on updates to make group planning easier and we hope to help with your next trip soon!
Thinking Traveler was amazing .
Thinking Traveler was amazing .
They answered all my questions and made sure our stay was perfect .
This is our second time to use Thinking Traveler . I highly recommend them .
14 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you so much for your lovely review and for choosing us again! We’re thrilled to hear you had another wonderful experience and that our team helped make your stay perfect.
Your recommendation means a great deal to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next trip.
The Thinking Traveller Team
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you so much for your kind words!
We’re delighted you enjoyed both the house and the service from our team. Providing exceptional experiences is always our goal, and it’s wonderful to know we met your expectations. We hope to welcome you back again soon.
The Thinking Traveller Team
Wonderful people.
20 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Wonderful review.
Thank you
The Thinking Traveller Team
Beautiful properties
Beautiful properties, awesome experiences with fabulous guides and tremendous local on the ground support for anything you need.
12 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thanks for the lovely review and very pleased you had a great trip.
The Thinking Traveller Team
Property sublime
Property sublime, so a great if short stay.
only grumble is communication with host / company - we needn’t have stopped to get over night provisions after our flight and host cross that we had (but we were categorically told no provisions included on both our trips this year - & both had provisions!)
& maybe TT need to be a bit more available in weeks leading up to before departure as help with onward travel / etc is best done a few weeks in advance
Thx 😊
11 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thanks for the review and very pleased you loved your villa.
We are sorry there was a miscommunication regarding the provisions and we are working to ensure this doesn't happen for future guests.
Also very sorry you felt we were not available in the build up to your departure - we try very hard to ensure the last minute planning is all handled efficiently between our London and Local teams and we are very sorry this wasn't the case your you.
Thank you for your feedback and for taking the time to review us. We will work on improving the issues you have highlighted.
The Thinking Traveller Team
Everything (almost) was fine
Everything (almost) was fine - the villa we were renting was overwhelming und held everything the pictures and the description had promised. The guidance from your part and most of all! the housekeeping service was excellent !
BUT I would have expected a bit more honesty about the direct surroundings which were rather run down: a lot of unfinished buildings, some obviously for years in that state. And a (former) beach restaurant which we could have reached on foot - isolated and rotten.
Still, we would happily consult you again when renting a place for a holiday !
7 October 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Very pleased to hear the villa and the local services exceeded expectations but sorry to hear we let you down with our description of the local area.
We try to be as honest as possible with prospective guests but we clearly got it wrong in this instance - sorry.
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience.
The Thinking Traveller Team
Historical Sicilian villa but not ideal for first visit to Sicily
We booked the Villa Armerina for a family holiday at the end of our fourth visit to Sicily in September 2025, we originally had 6 people booked but only 4 could stay for a few days then two at the end of the week.
What we liked about the Thinking Traveller company
There was a good choice of villas where we wanted to stay in Sicily.
There were plenty of photos and local support staff. The description of property was good.
What we didn’t like
Priced a bit higher than other companies
Having to pay a large non-refundable deposit immediately on booking and there’s no cooling off period- when you book you will lose 30% of the total price if you have to cancel for any reason so have good insurance.
What attracted us to the Villa Armerina was its originality, history and rural setting.
It was understandably less luxurious than newer properties but it was historical, unusual and huge inside with a fabulous large, secluded pool overlooking rolling Sicilian countryside.
The downside was that it needed a lot of attention to detail. Blocked sink, broken shower head, a broken plug on bedroom fan and too many dead insects in the pool were quickly remedied when pointed out and we accepted the cracked windows, minimum amount of toilet rolls and rubbish in bedroom bin without mention.
Neighbours dogs barked all night and were heard by those sleeping in twin bedroom but thankfully not at other end of building.
However, what really distressed us was the bare live plug next to the bed that would have proved lethal had we touched it. That definitely should have been noticed and fixed before our arrival. We removed it safely by ourselves as no one acknowledged our text till the next day.
Both the support staff and company customer relations department sent apologies for any inconvenience, said there was a circuit breaker in place anyway and a offered 10% off future bookings none of which felt really genuine or caring so we wouldn’t book this property again and look at other companies before The Thinking Traveller.
Surrounding area
The nearby old town of Piazza Armerina was very rundown with many derelict buildings that were infested with feral pigeons and most of the streets and surfaces were encrusted with droppings and feathers, the most unpleasant town we have visited in Sicily.
Although this property was ideal for our family, I wouldn’t recommend this area for those visiting Sicily for the first time and wanting to do lots of sightseeing as it was a long way away from the tourist sites (except Villa Romano which is well worth visiting), there was very little to do in the local area and a car is essential.
19 September 2025
Reply from The Thinking Traveller
Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed feedback following your stay at Villa Armerina. We truly appreciate your honesty and are sorry to hear that your experience did not meet expectations. We aim to maintain high standards across all our properties, and we take safety extremely seriously, and the presence of a live plug is unacceptable. We’re grateful you brought this to our attention and relieved no harm occurred. Please rest assured that we have addressed this with urgency and reviewed our inspection protocols, although I am sorry that our discussions and resolutions did not feel sincere and meaningful to you.
Regarding the surrounding area, we appreciate your perspective. While Piazza Armerina offers historical interest, we understand it may not suit all travellers, especially those new to Sicily or seeking a more vibrant tourist experience. We’ll take this into account when advising future guests.
We’re sorry that this experience has led you to reconsider booking with us, but we hope you’ll give us another opportunity to provide the high standard of service and accommodation we’re known for.
The Trustpilot Experience
Anyone can write a Trustpilot review. People who write reviews have ownership to edit or delete them at any time, and they’ll be displayed as long as an account is active.
Companies can ask for reviews via automatic invitations. Labeled Verified, they’re about genuine experiences.
Learn more about other kinds of reviews.
We use dedicated people and clever technology to safeguard our platform. Find out how we combat fake reviews.
Learn about Trustpilot’s review process.
Here are 8 tips for writing great reviews.
Verification can help ensure real people are writing the reviews you read on Trustpilot.
Offering incentives for reviews or asking for them selectively can bias the TrustScore, which goes against our guidelines.