For a man who's been living larger than life for nearly two decades, billionaire Tilman Fertitta has at last brought to Galveston the kind of luxury that he and other high rollers demand in their travel experiences. With the opening in late July of the posh Villas at theSan Luis Resort, Fertitta has seriously upped this Gulf Coast city's allure.

Five private villas, each with its own hot tub and its own poolside cabana, are tucked into a secluded corner of the San Luis property in a location that requires a pass key.

Word is that a number of big-name pro athletes are looking into the Villas as a quick and easy getaway.

The contemporary villas offer 800 square feet of plush surroundings that include a living area, king-size bedroom and an enormous bathroom, each space outfitted with a large flatscreen TV and high-style decorative touches. Pillow cases are embroidered with the initial of each guest's last name. Add the requisite mini fridge, coffee maker and high-tech sound system to the list of amenities.

With little fanfare, the serene pocket of luxury is already burning up the San Luis reservation lines — even with a tariff that requires serious discretionary income. Rates range from $899 a night to $2,600 depending on the season and day of the week. But there is plenty of bang for the buck.

Word on this new escape has spread quickly through big spender ranks. We hear, in fact, that a number of big-name pro athletes are looking into the Villas as a quick and easy getaway. Privacy guaranteed.

With its swank Las Vegas style swimming pool with pool attendant, private bar with a ravishing bartender and full room service, villa guests will have no need to leave the rarified premises. However, the San Luis spa and the hotel restaurants — the acclaimed Steakhouse and Grotto — are ready to receive villa guests. For those interested in lively party action, the San Luis' H2o Pool + Bar is the answer.

When guests, who text in just before arrival, pull into the porte-cochere of the San Luis, they are greeted by the Villas hostess and escorted via golf cart to their luxe cocoon. The hostess is on site throughout the day and much of the night, answering guests every need.

As Paul Schultz, vice president of hospitality for Landry's Hotel Division noted, “The Villas at the San Luis offer a one-of-a-kind experience to our guests by providing them with the service and amenities of an award winning resort and the relaxed charm of a secluded hideaway.”