In TRAVELER’s March issue writer James Morgan writes about renting villas in Umbria, Italy. Here, 12 sites to help you find your dream Umbrian villa.

If you’re renting allow yourself at least six months to plan, advises Claire Packman, owner of At Home Abroad, www.athomeabroadco.com, a company that specializes in rental properties throughout Europe, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Also, access a budget and then do some research on your own to determine which region best suits your needs, before consulting with a rental company.

Be forewarned, however: Not every rental operation is legit. Be specific and direct when you ask questions, instructs Packman. Trustworthy operations will regularly evaluate their properties, have current photographs of the houses or villas, be able to provide thorough information on the region and property, and be able to answer all of your questions (or find the answer in a timely manner). Seeking a word-of-mouth recommendation from a friend, tourist office, or travel agent before booking is optimal.

Delving into Internet resources is one of the easiest ways to browse pictures and information on the types of rentals available today. Here, how to find your dream Umbrian villa.

At Home Abroad
Large photographs with descriptive bits on Umbrian villas

Country Villas
Pictures of and information on villas, cottages, farmhouses, and sites in Italy

Doorways
Links to information on Umbrian villas

European Escapes
Panoramic views of Umbrian villas with detailed information

Home in Italy
Extensive listing of villas throughout Italy

Italian View
Photographs of and information on Umbrian villas

Italian Villas.com
A comprehensive menu of villas searchable by Italian region

More Italy
A convenient search menu to locate Umbrian villas

Overseas Connection, Inc.: Villas of the World
A search menu with links to information on Umbrian villas

Roman Holiday Rentals
Photographs of and information on Umbrian villas and apartments

Salve Umbria
Information on Umbrian country homes and apartments

Umbrian Holidays
Information on a variety of Umbrian properties

—Compiled by Heather Morgan

Heather Morgan is a TRAVELER associate researcher and online editor