I lived in a microwave-free apartment for a few years not too long ago, and (re-)discovered how (a) easy it is to make stovetop popcorn and (b) how much better it tastes than the microwaved stuff.
The trick is to heat the oil with three "test kernels" over something in the medium- to medium-high range. When those three pop, take the pan off the heat and put in the kernels for the batch and re-cover. Let them sit for a minute and move back onto the heat. Pop until it slows down. You can find plenty of more detailed instructions around the web!
The Villas should all have a pot big enough to make at least a smallish batch.