Vacation Rentals by Owner

Hidden Gem in Ajijic

Guest: Dar and Mar (BC., Canada)
Date of Stay: 12/10/11 Review Submitted: 02/23/12

My partner and I stayed in this charming little Mexican casita for 2 months upon our arrival in Ajijic. We both absolutely loved our time here, and this home was perfect for the two of us....cosy, warm, and inviting, with an uplifting colorful Mexican decor...the tilework, artwork and stained glass are beautiful. Having our morning coffee on the little terrace being entertained by dozens of beautiful hummingbirds and hedge sparrows was an awesome way to start the day! At the end of a busy day exploring our "new home" of Ajijic, we would so look forward to returning to this restful and calming environment, with all the comforts of home! Loved being able to get TV news and favourite shows from Canada, and the internet connection was always fast and reliable. This house is situated in a busy Mexican neighbourhood so we were able to experience the true and full flavour of living in Mexico.....the local neighbours were very friendly and helpful, and we enjoyed all of the neighbourhood festivities, street parties, the early morning roosters, buying fresh produce from the little pickup truck outside our gate...the marching bands, the loudspeakers advertising everything from gas to ice cream.....the sound of horseshoes on the cobblestones, and the firecrackers set off to ward off the evil spirits...it was an enjoyable walk to shopping, the plaza, the Wednesday tianguis, and the lovely malecon. Leo was a thoughtful, knowledgable and charming host....from the welcome bottle of wine and breakfast goodies in the fridge, to the "Mezuzah" on the doorpost, to the detailed information package on what to see and do, where to eat and shop, and so much more! Leo went above and beyond to find us a secure and safe parking spot at his friend's property, when we arrived to discover our truck wouldn't fit in the off street parking spot at the casita. Any issues in the casita (minor leak in bathroom) were dealt with immediately, and we always felt we could call Leo with any problems or concerns. Loved having "Cali", Leo's dog, visit us daily for hugs and treats! It was hard to leave this little gem of a place we called "home" for two months, but we have wonderful memories to carry with us. We love Ajijic and will continue to enjoy the rich Mexican culture, history and people we have met here thus far.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Your personal little garden

Guest: Javelinman (Sioux Falls, SD, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/18/11 Review Submitted: 07/04/11

The Jewel House is a pretty little spot with tons of little perks. The personal courtyard with fountain is especially nice, though we also enjoyed the well-kept rooms, two bathrooms, open shower, and tasteful decor. No lake view, but the courtyard is classy, the nearby bakery is fabulous, and the walk to the lake is reasonable. We had two power outages during the week - a real frustration. But the owner was very good at communicating with us and went over the top to accommodate our needs. This is a good mid-range place to stay in Ajijic. Recommended.

Owner response:It's part of living in Mexico, that at the beginning of the rainy season (June), power is occasionally lost. The whole neighborhood was affected on this one. Power is usually up 99.99% of the year.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

3 sisters LOVING our stay at the Mexican Jewel House

Guest: Big G (California)
Date of Stay: 04/15/11 Review Submitted: 06/01/11

We spent a most wonderful, restful and fun week at the Jewel House. The house was a perfect size, Leo is a charming host, most helpful and kind. The photos on the Internet were accurate, the house was very clean and what a treat to find some food to get us through breakfast the next day. We are planning another week next year and the Jewel House is our ONLY choice to stay. The house is centrally located and we had many neighborhood walks as well as going to the outdoor market. Leo has a list of suggested restaurants; we went to many of them and had great meals. All in all, the vacation was just what we had hoped for. Oh, and don't forget the bakery just down the street-- so convenient. 3 sisters from California

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

A Toronto Couple

Guest: A Toronto Couple (Canada)
Date of Stay: 03/25/11 Review Submitted: 03/25/12

We really enjoyed our stay at the Mexican Jewel House. It was cozy and very well maintained. A friendly and most helpful landlord made our stay hassle free. The location is within a 10 minute walk to the water and a 5 minute walk to the town square. Yet it is in a quiet part of town. Lots of hot water and very comfortable beds which always makes a difference on a holiday.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Another wonderful stay in Ajijic

Guest: Western (Tomah, WI)
Date of Stay: 03/01/11 Review Submitted: 04/09/11

We have just returned from our second year at the Jewel House and it was great. The Jewel House is perfect for two people ( although it can accomodate more). Two bedrooms, two bathrooms and everything you need to set up housekeeping. We stayed for a month and enjoyed every minute. It is beautifully decorated and exceptionally clean. A short walk to the plaza and the shops and restaurants in the area. The owner is nearby to answer questions and give assistance if needed and is very helpful and friendly. We hope to return to the Jewel House for our third year.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Mexican Jewel House - A Wonderful Experience!!!

Guest: C & M (Gunnison, CO)
Date of Stay: 12/04/10 Review Submitted: 12/22/10

We fell in love with the Mexican Jewel House from the very first moment that we walked through the terrace gate. It was the perfect place to relax and enjoy the wonderful Ajijic weather. The design and décor of the house provided a very clean, comfortable and pleasant atmosphere which we thoroughly enjoyed all week long. The house owner, Leo, was very friendly and available to help with any questions that we had. The location was ideal for walking to the plaza, restaurants, super market, shops, and waterfront. The local neighbors were very friendly and we thoroughly enjoyed their smiles during our walks. We would absolutely stay at the Mexican Jewel House again!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Fiesta Week at Jewel House

Guest: skyrocket (Arlington, Texas)
Date of Stay: 11/20/10 Review Submitted: 12/07/10

We are repeat guests, and intentionally rented the Jewel House during the annual thanksgiving week Festival of San Adres. The location allowed us to enjoy both the activities at the nearby plaza and surrounding neighborhoods, as well as the serenity of the house and gardens. We even had a band concert just outside our front door one morning; definitely a memorable way to wake up! Weather was perfect for our visit, and we were still able to enjoy a traditional thanksgiving feast at a local restaurant with friends. Leo was the consummate gracious host, as usual.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Our home away from home!

Guest: Fran & Bill (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
Date of Stay: 08/08/10 Review Submitted: 10/03/10

The Mexican Jewel House is conveniently located within walking distance of many village attractions, yet it is private and cozy for relaxing and a good night's sleep. We immediately felt at home there. The house is completely equipped and furnished comfortably, spotlessly maintained inside and out, with excellent television and internet access. A local pizzeria delivered right to our gate. Modern laundry facilities made life easy. Inside parking for our rental car gave a feeling of security. The owner's detailed lists of local stores, restaurants, medical and dental providers, and clear location maps made our choices easy. This is a great place to base your explorations.

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Our Stay at Mexican Jewel House

Guest: Mel (Dallas, TX, USA)
Date of Stay: 07/17/10 Review Submitted: 08/10/10

We had a most relaxing, easy, and wonderful vacation at the Mexican Jewel House. Our owner was ever so gracious and helpful, as he provided us with great lists of local markets, restaurants, activities and introductions to folks living in the neighborhood. We felt right at home, as he welcomed us with a few goodies in the fridge and a 2 week supply of great bottled water. The location of the house is perfect for walking out for a bit, or for the day or evening. You're close to EVERYTHING. And, our house was charming, roomy, and well-maintained. The photos were very accurate in representing the rooms and all of the amenities. And he provided a welcome critque on the list of restaurants. The weather is perfect - never got hot, and loved sitting outside in our courtyard any time of day...We highly recommend this get-a-way to all ages. Note - you do need to be comfortable walking up the cobblestone hills - which we loved, after a good meal!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car.

Best vacation ever!

Guest: Alma (Torrance, CA USA)
Date of Stay: 05/21/10 Review Submitted: 07/12/10

The Mexican Jewel was perfect in every way! The house was clean and fully equiped with everything we are use to having in our own home. Including comfortable beds! It was walking distance to everything. We did some hiking, wine tasting, and a lot of relaxing. The house has a wonderful private patio which is great for reading. Even though we had warm weather the house always stayed cool. This is by far the best vacation home we've ever stayed at. I highly recommend it to anyone. Thank you Leo!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

The Jewel House was great!

Guest: Jer Bil (Prescott, Arizona)
Date of Stay: 05/05/10 Review Submitted: 06/12/10

My wife and I spent a wonderful two weeks at the Jewel House. The facilities were very nice and close to town with many fine restaurants. For a 1st time visitor to Ajijic, it was an ideal place to get acquainted with the culture as there are a number of friendly Mexican families in the neighborhood. Our host, Leo, was an invaluable source of information and patiently answered any questions that we had about where to go or what to see. He even invited us to attend a monthly neigborhood party at his nearby house where we met many other expatriates who were equally informative about living in Ajijic. We highly recommend a stay at the Jewel House! J & B

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

What a jewel!

Guest: Frito (Westlake Village CA)
Date of Stay: 04/03/10 Review Submitted: 05/30/10

Truly a jewel! The Jewel House was charming and spotlessly clean. Very peaceful! It is conveniently located within walking distance of the plaza and great restaurants. Leo is the proud owner and was very helpful with good suggestions for activities. We would highly recommend staying at the Mexican Jewel House. It truly was a wonderful Mexican village experience!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Enjoyable stay at Mexican Jewel House

Guest: house seeker (Olympia Washington USA)
Date of Stay: 03/17/10 Review Submitted: 03/29/10

We had a very nice time staying at the Jewel House for 8 days. It is just as it is represented. The photo show the house well. It was very clean and quite comfortable. We were able to walk anywhere in Ajijic within a few minutes although we did have a car with us. The owner is close by if we were to have had any problems which we didn't. Owner was very welcoming and helpful, answering all our questions about the area. Would recommend this property to anyone looking for a cozy private little house close in.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

It is a jewel

Guest: Western (Tomah, WI)
Date of Stay: 03/01/10 Review Submitted: 03/30/10

We were so lucky to find this place for our stay in Ajijic. Tastefully decorated in lively colors, most importantly it is very clean and well maintained. Surrounded by friendly neighbors, we enjoyed relaxing and star gazing on our patio each evening. Everything we needed was provided by the owner. And you won't find a more friendly and accomodating owner. We hope to be able to return next season.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Guest: Liz Martyn (-)
Date of Stay: 02/15/10 Review Submitted: 02/15/10

I just returned from the Mexican Jewel House. I was staying with my sister Julie and brother in law Bill. I was in the second bedroom and it is very comfortable. Both Julie and myself thought that the photo's did not do the "Jewel" justice! Everything is perfectly appointed and whoever did the decorating would appear to have been a "professional" with fabulous taste! Leo (the owner of the property) is nearby and extremely helpful with any questions. You are walking distance from everything. Restaurants are fabulous and lots to do on day trips. Cheers, Liz

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Guest: EaganGal (Eagan/MN/USA)
Date of Stay: 02/07/10 Review Submitted: 05/25/10

We stayed at the Jewel House for just one week November 2009 and loved it so much we came back in February 2010 for 3 weeks. It is a beautiful house with all the amenities, and Leo is a wonderful host and also very helpful with any questions about the village or the area. The location is the best part, within a 15 minute walk of anywhere in Ajijic.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

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Guest: EaganGal (Eagan/MN/USA)
Date of Stay: 02/07/10 Review Submitted: 05/25/10

We stayed at the Jewel House for just one week November 2009 and loved it so much we came back in February 2010 for 3 weeks. It is a beautiful house with all the amenities, and Leo is a wonderful host and also very helpful with any questions about the village or the area. The location is the best part, within a 15 minute walk of anywhere in Ajijic.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Guest: the Kovar's (Collinsville,IL)
Date of Stay: 01/16/10 Review Submitted: 01/16/10

Mexican Jewel is a perfert name for this property, with its charm inside and out and its location. As it is only a short walk from the City Center, with its many wonderful restaurants, and the lake it is a perfect choice especially if you do not have a vehicle. I want to thank our host Leo as he met us when we arrived and made us feel welcomed as if we were old friends. And last but not least, it is the land of Eternal Spring. Esperanza de volver pronto!

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Guest: Thomas H. (-)
Date of Stay: 12/11/09 Review Submitted: 12/11/09

This was my first visit to Ajijic. The Jewel House was a great place to stay. It is very comfortable and well appointed. The gardens are beautiful. Everything is very clean and well maintained. I loved the location. You can go down the street three doors and shop at the little grocery store for breakfast items--eggs, bacon, milk, bread. The bakery around the corner is great too--just walk down the hallway turn left and you are in the bakery with guys making bread. You pick the bread out of baskets. There are several restaurants close by. We enjoy Ajijic Tango twice during our stay. I would recommend stayihng here.

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Guest: John and Kathleen (Eagan MN)
Date of Stay: 12/02/09 Review Submitted: 12/02/09

We had a wonderful week at the Jewel House in November and will return for 3 weeks Feb 2010. Everything desired is within a 5-15 minute walk and the house is extremely comfortable and with nice amenities as listed. Leo is a warm, welcoming and helpful host!

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Guest: Julie and Jim Coari (Pasadena, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/28/09 Review Submitted: 10/28/09

We had a wonderful visit to Ajicic. The town is charming. Our casita could not have been better. It was beautifully decorated, spacious and comfortable too. The charming patio with fountain was delightful. This was our first visit and we plan to come back soon.

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Guest: Pete P. (Agoura Hills, CA. USA)
Date of Stay: 09/05/09 Review Submitted: 09/05/09

This colorful and clean casita in easy walking distance to Ajijic is indeed a "jewel". Our week's stay was relaxing and comfortable with all the amenities we could wish for. Leo is a gracious and helpful host; he was always there for help and advice.

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Guest: Linda Lehman (Palatine IL)
Date of Stay: 03/05/09 Review Submitted: 03/05/09

2008The Jewel House is aptly named! It is a beautiful home in a setting we loved. The house is decorated beautifully and the garden is lovely. The location – on a typical Mexican street – was wonderful! We enjoyed our Mexican neighbors, and being able to walk to everything was great! Having the house next door available for our friends created a perfect situation for all of us.After being there a month, we cannot say enough about our hosts, Sheila and Leo. They sent detailed and very useful information before we arrived and they were available for whatever we needed while still respecting our privacy. They helped make our month in Ajijic extra special.2009We just returned from our second month’s stay at the Jewel House – returning a second year was like coming home. We enjoy this house and neighborhood very much! It was fun to come back to things that were familiar (the fresh-squeezed juice on the corner and hot bolillos at the bakery) and to see the many changes (new restaurants and shops). Our friends didn’t come to stay next door this year, but we met great new neighbors, so we still had margarita friends if we wanted to enjoy the garden in the evening.The house is convenient to the town – within walking distance of everything. We love this Mexican neighborhood where we can be a part of everyday life, go behind our doors and have all the privacy we want, or launch sightseeing tours of nearby areas. Leo is a great host with good advice and help with whatever is needed. The Jewel House is definitely a jewel!

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Guest: Kate & Louis (Arizona, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/28/08 Review Submitted: 10/28/08

A fantastic experience! The Mexican Jewel House is the perfect location from which to explore Ajijic on foot. Go down the alley off of Juarez, just up from the carretera and enjoy fantastic bread from the local baker! The roast chicken on the corner of Juarez and the carretera is also great! Leo is the perfect host, and willing to provide as little or as mutch information as you might need. And Bogart loves to visit if you allow. What a great dog! Come, let your hair down and enjoy!

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Guest: Jennifer Zeck (Minneapolis, MN)
Date of Stay: 08/19/08 Review Submitted: 08/19/08

We stayed in the Jewel House from 8/2/08 through 8/9/08 and had a wonderful time. The home is very comfortable and beautiful! The gardens are gorgeous and the terrace is great for morning coffee or happy hour. It was difficult to leave the property as it felt so good to be there, however, with Leo's expert advice we did explore, ate at wonderful restaurants, etc. leo is a great and knowledgable host. I highly recommend the Jewel House.

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Guest: Jeff and Heather Lawlor (Boston, Mass)
Date of Stay: 08/18/08 Review Submitted: 08/18/08

Ajijic was truly memorable, way off the beaten path. The Jewel House was the perfect place to relax and get away, complete with true Mexican charm. Leo was the perfect host offering an insiders guide to the local food, culture and attractions. I would highly recommend the experience to anyone.

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Guest: Kathy and Gene Jongsma (Doha, Qatar, and Bradenton, Fl)
Date of Stay: 08/09/08 Review Submitted: 08/09/08

This house is indeed a jewel! We loved the ambiance--the beautiful stained glass windows, the tasteful Mexican tiles in the kitchen and baths, the wonderful art and sculpture throughout the house and especially the gorgeous gardens and fountain. What a great place for a little R and R! Leo is a terrific host, answering questions, offering insights, and suggesting great places to visit and to wine and dine. We had a terrific time and will recommend this beautiful house to others considering a Chapala experience.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/25/08 Review Submitted: 07/25/08

What a wonderful experience we had in Ajijic! The Jewel house is perfect, not only with it's wonderful colors and gentle gardens but for the total experience of Mexico. We were able to buy produce right off a truck that drove by every day, and were reminded every morning that the trash man was coming. How fun! We loved being able to walk out our door and pick up wonderful sweet rolls on our way to the town and all it had to offer. Ajijic is magical and the jewel house was part of the magic. We will be back!!! Thanks for going above and beyond to make our stay more than we hoped for.

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Guest: Larry Spicer (Queensland, Australia)
Date of Stay: 07/13/08 Review Submitted: 07/13/08

We have just returned from a very pleasant two week stay in the Mexican Jewel House. It is very nicely decorated in a Mexican style without going "over the top", and is well located in relation to the village center. We can certainly recommend staying at this casita!

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Guest: Dave Hinman (Park City Utah)
Date of Stay: 10/19/07 Review Submitted: 10/19/07

I brought a client to Ajijic to sample property searches to invest, and if this house was for sale, he would buy it! This house is in a perfect location to restaurants,shops,village, mountain hiking out the backdoor! The house has all the charm of the village. The owners are very helpful for recommendations! You can do nothing and read, or be gone all day! You will feel very safe here. I will stay here again. Dave Hinman Realtor Park City Utah

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Guest: Nick51 (Lake Tapps, WA)
Date of Stay: 04/18/07 Review Submitted: 04/18/07

We've visited Mexico several times over the last 10 years and have finally found a place that allows a person to experience what Mexico is all about. If you are tired of the tourist traps and want to get to know the friendly locals this is the place for you. Or if you have time to visit the 2nd largest city in Mexico you won't be disappointed. Most importantly the hospitality of your hosts is as hands on or off as you like. Either way you'll be presented with lovely home with touches that you just don't find at a hotel.

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Guest: GOLDNER ILAN (-)
Date of Stay: 01/02/07 Review Submitted: 01/02/07

I didn't visit the place but it looks very promising.HALELUYA.

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Guest: Erin57 (Castle Rock, CO)
Date of Stay: 12/27/06 Review Submitted: 12/27/06

I just returned from a fabulous vacation in Ajijic, and the Jewel House only added to the incredible experience. I loved the decorations and ambiance of the house. Truly a relaxing Mexican retreat! There are great shops in town and delicious food. MANY restauarants to choose from. The owners of the Jewel House are friendly and more than accomodating (also give great dinner recommendations!). I would refer a friend or a stranger to this rental, and I will definitely be back.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/13/06 Review Submitted: 12/13/06

My wife and I just returned from a week in Ajijic and had an excellent vacation. This house is very comfortable and the owners have taken care to decorate it carefully and colorfully. They were very helpful with information on the area, and we appreciated being within walking distance of many restaurants and shops. We did not want to be in an isolated "tourist" area; this house was perfect for us.

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Guest: Chas B. (Mill Valley, CA)
Date of Stay: 12/05/06 Review Submitted: 12/05/06

Ajijic is wonderful village with plenty of interesting shops AND people. The Wednesday street mercado is not to be missed. This place is truly a little jewel, well-appointed, comfortable, and located within easy walking distance of town plaza. It was spotless on arrival, and we appreciated the fresh fruit and cold drinks in the fridge. The owners are thoughtful, with plenty of personal touches throughout the home, and provide an info-packed fact sheet about the area. If you're lucky, their dog Bogart will let you be his friend. And don't miss the Diane Pearl gallery in town, you won't leave empty-handed.

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