About Us

A passion for travel, design, and genuine hospitality, brought to life in every home we host personally.

Our Story

A passion that started abroad

Avanti Vacation Homes is the work of Katrina and Carmelo, a husband-and-wife team who turned a lifelong love of travel into a hands-on hospitality business. Their story began during a junior year abroad in Florence, Italy, where long days exploring a new culture sparked a curiosity that never faded. In the years that followed they made homes in Madrid, London, and New Orleans, collecting the small rituals and local touches that make a place feel welcoming. Along the way they even ran an artisan gelateria in New Orleans' Garden District, an experience that taught them how the right detail, served with genuine warmth, can turn an ordinary moment into a memorable one. Every property they host today carries that same spirit.

Our Approach

Boutique homes, hosted personally

Today Katrina and Carmelo bring that international perspective to a collection of boutique properties across Pensacola Beach, Florida, including Marbella and Idle Wave, as well as homes in New Orleans such as The Right Place. Their mission is simple: create warm, inviting spaces that feel like home while you are away from home. That means cozy gathering areas, well-equipped kitchens, comfortable beds, and the thoughtful amenity touches that guests remember. Because they host personally and stay close to every stay, Avanti has earned a 5-star reputation, with guests returning again and again to praise Katrina's responsiveness, the spotless properties, and the overall experience. Looking ahead, the couple hopes to one day bring the Avanti touch to Europe, the very place where their journey began.

The team