Traditionally, the concept of home swaps doesn't carry much glamour...
But a series of new enterprises aim to change this, including Love Home Swap.
Founded by entrepreneur Debbie Wosskow in October 2011, this online home exchange features thousands of high-class properties from locations around the world, including Singapore, India, Canada and more.
Homes featured on the site are finished to an incredibly high standard: many boast heated pools, sensational views and beautiful interior decoration.
There are also a number of unusual properties on offer, including a yurt in Scotland, a condo in Costa Rica and even a castle in Mexico.
Love Home Swap offers its members dedicated travel team to help find dream swaps and a personal concierge service to book and advise during exchanges.
Below, we've selected some of the more sumptuous homes available in its portfolio. Take a look through and fuel your wanderlust for accommodation that is both affordable and luxurious...
1. Room with a view
This two-bed villa in the Kumaon hills of Northern India offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and comes complete with an on-site chef to cook up tasty Indian meals.
2. Paris pit stop
Located in the heart of Paris, just 100 metres from the Pompidou center, this classic Parisian apartment has beautiful period features and every hi-tech amenity you need to live the dream...
3. A castle in Mexico
Visitors to this unique property set in the hills of a UNESCO World Heritage site, Mexico's San Miguel de Allende, have described it as the "most stunning home I've ever seen" and "a work of art."
4. Log house in Quebec
This five-bedroom handcrafted log house is just one hour away from the cosmopolitan delights of Montreal, but is set in 189 acres with its own private lake. Perfect for those seeking a little seclusion...
5. Auckland pool pad
Fit for a millionaire, this five-bedroom enclave comes with a heated pool, a hot tub, a seven-seater cinema and a private beach accessed by cable car. It's also situated in the Matakana wine region of New Zealand. Need we say more?
6. Paradise in the Hamptons
Make like Carrie Bradshaw and pop over to the Hamptons for the summer. This five-bed home has a 75-foot swimming pool and is owned by an interior designer. It's located in the centre of East Hampton, NY...
