Reviews for Antigua Vacation Rental - VRBO 136424 - 4 BR Guatemala House, 1 of 5 Luxury Castle-Like Homes (Pool/Hot-Tub) (Sleeps 2 to 42 Guests)

Eight was Not a crowd

Guest Love Antigua!
Date of stay 02/25/13
Review Submitted 03/04/13

All I can say is WOW! We left Antigua yesterday after sharing this lovely home with three other couples for a week. The home is much better than the pictures! All four couples said they would stay there again. There is enough room to congregate in the kitchen, dining room, patio or living room, and there is enough space in each of the bedrooms to afford some time away from the gang. We were the couple who did not have an ensuite bathroom, we shared a bath with another couple. We did not mind at all. I would make one suggestion...to add a dressing table to the room we stayed in, I sat on the bench to apply makeup with a hand mirror...it worked out ok...but a dressing table would have been grand! For those visiting, be sure to pick up extra Toilet paper as they do not provide...and the bath towel situation is a bit hard to figure out. Other than that, enjoy the home, Antigua, and the people of Guatemala. Visit the Vahalla Macadamia Nut Farm, the owners Lorenzo and Emily are quite colorful!

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

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Casa Santa Cruz is more charming than in pictures

Guest Clauds
Date of stay 01/27/13
Review Submitted 02/22/13

We arrived in Jan 27 2013 and the house looks just as beautiful in person, we had a great stay we wish we could stay longer next time we will. All the staff was great also very safe place to stay in Guatemala lots of security away from the noise but also close to all the main attractions of Antigua. If you are planning a trip to Guatemala you have to visit Antigua and you must stay in one of Phillipa's houses I travel to Guatemala every year and from now on I know where I'll be staying. Great for families as well as for young travelers that love that European charm we had a great time with a group of girls that came on this trip. Thanks for our lovely stay we enjoyed casa Santa Cruz

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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Lovely place to stay

Guest Beth
Date of stay 01/11/13
Review Submitted 01/22/13

We stayed in one of the slightly smaller places--they are all around that central pool--I can't remember the name. It really was just lovely, and not at all small. The one we stayed in had three bedrooms, one with a king bed and two with twins. All the rooms were very nice and included a complete bathroom (not sure I remember any bathtubs if you care about those). The whole place was very spacious, high ceilinged, lots of windows to let in let a cross breeze. It had a few little private patio areas in addition to the shared pool/hot tub space. Was a great place for my older (70ish) parents to begin their first real trip outside the U.S., as it was just so pleasant and safe feeling. We also had our 5 year old daughter with us. We picked this place partly because of the pool, and she had a great time cannonballing the afternoon away every day. The pool was a little brisk for me, so I enjoyed the hot tub instead. I do agree with the one reviewer who said it feels more like 7 longish blocks to the square. Not an issue at all if you are used to walking/in decent shape. My folks were feeling a bit under the weather, so combined with all the other walking (find a bank, find food, look around etc) it did feel a little far...I forgot how much walking around you usually end up doing in latin america w/out a car. That said, I could have easily grabbed a tuk tuk or cab for everyone when they started to get worn out. Everyone who helped us out--mostly we spoke with Paola who speaks English well--was super helpful. We did have one small misfire--didn't find anyone to pick up up when we arrived at the airport. Wasn't a big deal to just grab a different ride, I speak enough Spanish. If you've never been to latin america though, and haven't dealt with the throng of taxi guys, that can be a bit intimidating. We had several other rides arranged through Sofia/Paola/Phillipa & all went well. My daughter made friends with Fernando, the guy who took us out to Lake Atitlan & back, and to the airport. If you stay, Hugo's Ceviche truck is close (head up the big road divided by the median, toward the market) and very good! Yes, you can get ceviche out of the back of a pickup truck. There's also grocery store up that same street, and various fried chicken places, so food wasn't too far, once we got oriented. Overall, a great place, I'd stay again for sure.

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

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Gorgeous and convenient Antigua rental!

Guest New Mexican mama
Date of stay 09/14/12
Review Submitted 10/03/12

This rental meets every expectation and more! It is a lovely property as reflected in the photos with every amenity to make one's stay comfortable (and I have traveled enough in the region to know what a difference that can make). Even better, having staff onsite who can answer questions and arrange babysitting for our kids was a real perk, as was the pool of course. The owner, Phillipa, was super attentive to our needs as well and made sure everything was perfect during our stay. I could not have asked for anything more. The property is literally blocks from the center of town and makes for a great location to explore Antigua on foot. Both kids and grandparents were happy during our stay at this house, not an easy feat. Looking forward to our next visit already!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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NOT WORTH THE MONEY!!!

Guest Charlie
Date of stay 07/15/12
Review Submitted 09/10/12

We stayed at casa hermita for a month from july 15th-August 12th and had several issues. This place is definitely NOT worth the money and it is certainly NOT castle-like. Below is a more accurate description of the “castle”. - The entire place is moldy and damp. Mold was discoloring the ceiling in the baster bedroom and the dampness caused allergies for my son. - Sewer water comes up through the floor when it rains. We had small kids so we were extremely concerned. we had to block off an area of the house to make sure no one came close to this. - Internet is most often at dial-up speed - if it works at all. I was planning to work remotely and communicated this plan to the house manager but due to the poor internet I had to spend most of my time at internet cafes. - The house is described as being 5 blocks from the central park which sounds close. It is more like 7 LONG blocks and is located in a dark, desolate street. I was concerned about coming back after dusk. - Clothes dryer never worked. This resulted in near daily visits from random repair men who would show up without warning, take apart the dryer, have it run for hours to test it and leave when they finally gave up. - Description indicates that laundry is done for you - This never happened. We have 3 rental properties ourselves so were very patient and thought that the owner would give us a partial refund for the troubles which didn't happen. Needless to say, I was shocked and disappointed that the owner would be so blatant in the misrepresentation of the house. We left three days early due to these conditions. By the way, she offers a free night to anyone who posts a positive review so take the positive reviews with a grain of salt.

Owner response: We were unfortunately unable to please this customer. Her partial refund for her return stay, that she said she would like to make, is still available to her. As you can see all our previous customers have been very happy and have enjoyed our hospitality. It is unfortunate when a child suffers from allergies and I wish them the best. I’m sincerely sorry that they were unable to enjoy their vacation. I look forward to improving my home and making our traveler’s stay even better. ?

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The Castle

Guest Luz Maria
Date of stay 06/20/12
Review Submitted 09/23/12

When i saw the ads I was very intrigued, of why the castle description, as I was going to be in a colonial town built by Spaniards, with a muslim influence on their architecture, e voila, as soon as I passed the door I had this sensation of being in a huge castle, as the spaces are so magnificent, ample, somehow I felt empowered, royal, nevertheless,it is a truly colonial spaniard house though done with an air for kings and queens and little princes.That feeling got reinforced at the balconys, and then another majestic feature appears, in all its might and power, The Volcan de Agua!!!!Honestly what a beautifull and great place to spend my days in Antigua, after great bars, amazing restaurants, coming home was, an experience as we always ended up in that sensuous pool!!! Loved my days there and if you want to get royal , feel royal, this is the place!!!

Recommended for: Romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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After several visits, this home continues to delight me

Guest Jeanne Mendez
Date of stay 06/15/12
Review Submitted 09/20/12

I have stayed at this beautiful home several times over the past few years and each time I find that I love it more and more. First of all, it is exquisitely beautiful. The exterior is lovely stone and seemingly simple, but it belies the size and absolute beauty of the inside. High ceilings, beautiful dark wood accents, nichos holding lovely colonialesque sculptures or candles, decorated with warm colors and luscious fabrics. Fantastic heavy wood dining table. All decorated with fresh flowers and candles. Even the bathrooms are breathtaking - sinks placed in beautiful wrought iron rather than the usual ceramic tile. The bare stone floor exposed around beautiful carpets and antique looking wall finishes add to the colonial feel of the place. The house is in a gated community so it is safe and very quiet. Once inside the gate, the community is well lit and beautifully landscaped. The courtyard includes a beautiful pool, magically lit in the evenings. It is just a few blocks away from the bustling Antigua market and the main square - an easy walk from all the tourist destinations of Antigua, with shopping and some smaller restaurants within two or three blocks. The views are indescribable. You look out your bedroom window, and over the roofs of churches and colonial style buildings is a volcano, hovering majestically over the city. The house is very well equipped, super comfortable beds and living room furniture, an excellent dining room - to entertain a dozen or more people if the mood suits you and a fantastic kitchen with everything you could possibly need. And then there is Dona Clara - the housekeeper who is so much more. She keeps the home immaculately clean and will even cook for you if you arrange it. But more so, she is a warm welcoming woman who treats you like family. I love this place and wish I could go to Antigua more often, just to enjoy spending time in this beautiful home. Thank You Philippa!

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

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Superbe location pour un week end romantic

Guest armandboissy
Date of stay 05/18/12
Review Submitted 09/22/12

Vivant au bords du lac Atitlan de maniere permanente nous sommes toujours a la recherche d'endroit a decouvrir.. Meme si Antigua est une de nos destinations favorites nous aimons rester a ces maisons pour la qualite des prestations offertes. Pour nous le plus important c'est de pouvoir etre dans un espace ou nous nous sentons comme a la maison et pour cela les maisons sont tres spacieuses. Nous choisissons toujours de venir durant la saison basse car cela nous permet de beneficier de beaucoup de privacite. La piscine et le hot tub dans un espace rappelant nos villages medievaux nous permet de rever tout en savourant le plaisir de se retrouver a deux. Si nous ne voulons pas sortir diner en ville et bien nous pouvons nous faire livrer a domicile. Notre grand lit king et notre spacieuse salle de bain ajoutent au confort de la maison. Parce que situe dans un complexe prive en dehors des rues bruillantes la maison offre beaucoup de tranquilite et si on cherche a se reposer et bien c'est l'endroit parfait. Se reveiller en Antigua et pouvoir aussi commodement sortir se promener pour apprecier les dernieres lumieres de la journee sur les pentes des volcans Acatenango, Fuego et Agua ou pour pouvoir assister a une eruption du volcan fuego font de cette maison un endroit de reve pour nous pour passer du temps privilegie.. Parfois nous venons aussi avec notre famille recomposees, deux filles 10-12 et un garcon 10 et comme la maison est tres grande c'est un plaisir de pouvoir avoir tout le monde vaquer a ses occupations sans deranger les autres. En plus si ils veulent faire du velo dans la residence c'est tres rassurant pour nous de savoir qu'elle est securisee et qu'il n' y a pas de traffic.

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway.

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best place in town

Guest Cle
Date of stay 04/12/12
Review Submitted 09/22/12

I have been to Antigua quite a few times over the last years and this is far out the best place I have been staying. I definitely will come back.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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This was the most beautiful home...

Guest comment entered by owner

This was the most beautiful home...

Guest Kermet S.
Date of stay 02/27/12
Review Submitted 09/22/12

We always stay at VRBOs. This was the most beautiful home we have ever stayed in. The house keeping service was exceptional. One of our party became ill and the House Keeper made her a special local tea and she was better almost immediately. Just a very small example of the wonderfu experience we had while staying in Casa La Hemita. The kitchen was well equipt, the beds were very comfortable, and bathrooms were always clean, the views of the volcanos from the Master bed room patio were spectacular. Paola was wonderful to work with and was very helpful, answering all our questions about the area. We had to meet every morning in the Central Park and we were always able to get transportation almost right out our gate. The security was fantastic and the men at the gate were very pleasant. We will return next year and we hope to be able to rent Casa La Hermita again!! Recommended for:Sightseeing, age 55+, adventure seekers, people with disabilities, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, families with young children.

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This was the most beautiful home we have ever stayed in.

Guest Kermit S.
Date of stay 02/25/12
Review Submitted 03/10/12

We always stay at VRBOs. This was the most beautiful home we have ever stayed in. The house keeping service was exceptional. One of our party became ill and the House Keeper made her a special local tea and she was better almost immediately. Just a very small example of the wonderfu experience we had while staying in Casa La Hemita. The kitchen was well equipt, the beds were very comfortable, and bathrooms were always clean, the views of the volcanos from the Master bed room patio were spectacular. Paola was wonderful to work with and was very helpful, answering all our questions about the area. We had to meet every morning in the Central Park and we were always able to get transportation almost right out our gate. The security was fantastic and the men at the gate were very pleasant. We will return next year and we hope to be able to rent Casa La Hermita again!!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Vladislav de Leon, Rockland, Canada.

Guest gato
Date of stay 01/05/12
Review Submitted 02/01/12

I know I’m posting this a little late. SORRY better later than never? We stay at this Magnificent home myself, my wife and two kids (4 and 6 years old) and my brother in law, his wife and daughter one year old. It was well located so we could walk into town during the day or night. It was also a very secure sight with 24 hours security. The location is by far the best in Antigua for a furnished house. Market, restaurants, and central park is such a treat. We were 7 people and had plenty of space if we needed something the house is a quick five minutes walk from the market, and ten minutes to the town square at night it was so quiet and peaceful. The architecture and design features are stunning the colours, cushions everywhere and attractive art touches. Really the house should be in a MAGAZINE. The house is so well decorated and equipped that it immediately feels like home. As soon as you think it's too good to be true, you get to meet the full-time housekeeper. She's simply amazing. She keeps the house impressively clean and organized and has a sweet and friendly spirit. Our Kids LOVE THE POOL and Jacuzzi There is TVs, and a lot of dvds for all ages and we love the fireplace with some wine just to relax. The beds have great mattresses, good linens, and the master bathroom has my ideal of the ultimate bathtub - the owner even provided romantic candles everywhere to enjoy it with. Oooohh don’t forget the incredible view of volcanos surrounding Antigua great view of the volcan de Agua in the morning from the master Room. Wow what a view!!!! Philippa the owner is incredibly accommodating helpful at every turn, with great insights on the local culture, restaurants, tours, transportation, you name it - she is well connected and an incredible resource. She's simply wonderful to work with and has been so flexible with us. My brother-in-law and I decided to get a massage the girls came to the house. It was great. My wife was a little disappointed because we just stay 3 days. She wanted to stay longer but for sure next time. We are going to spend more time in Antigua and you bet that we are going to rent this place again and again. In summary - just stay here! You won't be disappointed!

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

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Perfect

Guest comment entered by owner

Perfect

Guest Steven F
Date of stay 11/29/11
Review Submitted 09/22/12

I stayed with my 2 daughters and my son in June. We were blown away. I have been traveling for years and this was by far the best ever. Rooms are beautiful and large, kitchen was to die for. The kids used the pool and hot tub and The location was central. We found it a short enoyable walk to the central market and anywhere else we decided we wanted to stroll. Great service and hospitallity We will be back 100% for sure. Recommended for: Age 55+, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Families with Teenagers, Families with Young Children, Romantic Getaway

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Absolutely Gorgeous!

Guest Mamel
Date of stay 10/10/11
Review Submitted 09/23/12

This was a wonderful surprise! After a 4 hour delay of the airlines and a 2 hour wait to register for lost luggage, I exited the airport to see my name printed out on a paper held by an older man in the crowd. I'd been worried there wouldn't be anyone there, what with all the delays! But no, a charming, better English speaker than my Spanish, gentleman, took me up the mountain and down to Antigua! And arriving late at night, in the dark, and exhausted, a sigh slid from my lips when the lights went on in the courtyard. This was worth all the troubles and stops! The space was beautiful, inside and out. The premises beat the photos and the staff was exceptional. Over the following week, three friends joined me for a workshop in town and were equally thrilled with the space. We each had our own bedroom and bath and felt we were in a place of beauty and comfort served by a staff that exceeded all expectations! On the last night of our workshop, we invited 20 people to come for dinner. Dona Clara and her assistant, prepared an exceptional meal at a reasonable (actually cheap for what we had) dinner. They did the shopping and preparations which exceeded our requests and the leftovers, continued to feed us for the next few days. Each day we returned in a tuktuk or by foot, to the clean, beautifully maintained properties. Each night we were happy to sit in the hot tub and watch the stars over the courtyard. We all decided we wanted to come back whether or not there was a workshop involved. The information provided by the owners sent us on several around the town excursions to restaurants, shops and sights we wanted to see and places we didn't even know we wanted to see.. Any questions about locations, places to visit, extra pillows, and where do we find shampoo were answered by a member of the staff complete with a little drawing of the way to get there or the name to give the tuktuk driver. We felt deliciously cared for by such warm and friendly people. I would absolutely recommend this to family and friends and even people I've never met. The kindness and genuine hearts of the onsite staff, the beauty and care with which the spaces were created and the quiet elegance of the entire property were more than we expected and the privacy of the spaces made it feel as if we were in someone's own home. I fully expect you will love this experience and encourage you to check this out for a lovely place to stay on your visit to Antigua.

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

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Truly Memorable time..

Guest comment entered by owner

Truly Memorable time..

Guest Emily R
Date of stay 07/04/11
Review Submitted 09/22/12

We had a truly memorable time at this vacation home. If possible, I'd rent it out for the whole 2 months that we are here in Guatemala! I've used VRBO.com a few times before, but this time proved to be well worth it! I've never stayed in a place on vacation where I honestly felt at home--even the kids had a beautiful little table where they could eat their breakfast in the morning. I will never again come to Antigua and look for hotels--Philippa, we WILL see you again in the near future! If you are looking for the perfect place to stay in Antigua, look no further!

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Truly Memorable time in this vacation home.....

Guest Emily R.
Date of stay 06/26/11
Review Submitted 07/04/11

We had a truly memorable time at this vacation home. If possible, I'd rent it out for the whole 2 months that we are here in Guatemala! I've used VRBO.com a few times before, but this time proved to be well worth it! I've never stayed in a place on vacation where I honestly felt at home--even the kids had a beautiful little table where they could eat their breakfast in the morning. I will never again come to Antigua and look for hotels--Philippa, we WILL see you again in the near future! If you are looking for the perfect place to stay in Antigua, look no further!

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Perfect

Guest Steve
Date of stay 06/22/11
Review Submitted 12/29/11

I stayed with my 2 daughters and my son in June. We were blown away. I have been traveling for years and this was by far the best ever. Rooms are beautiful and large, kitchen was to die for. The kids used the pool and hot tub and The location was central. We found it a short enoyable walk to the central market and anywhere else we decided we wanted to stroll. Great service and hospitallity We will be back 100% for sure.

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

Owner response: Thanks Stephen. We certainly enjoyed having you to stay and enjoyed your company. Happy New Year! Best wishes, Philippa

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Quiet, Safe, Beautiful Place...

Guest Brady G.
Date of stay 05/12/11
Review Submitted 05/19/11

This is a quiet, safe, beautiful place. Great for families on vacation, or as in our case, it's the perfect spot for a short working retreat. Sleeps 10 adults, good meeting space, easy walks to everything in Antigua. Tasteful, quality design and furnishings. Thanks!

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We could not have been happier.

Guest Blue
Date of stay 03/24/10
Review Submitted 04/06/10

We stayed at this lovely house last week and had a wonderful experience. The house is everything you see in the photos, but better. It was clean, and the staff took very good care of us. There is a book that gives you many good ideas of things to do, and a small library of books if you just want to sit on the patio to read, watch the volcano and listen to the birds.

Recommended for: Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

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"The house was perfect....."

Guest Bob
Date of stay 11/21/09
Review Submitted 09/30/10

We stayed in this house during Thanksgiving week for our annual visit to Guatemala. The house was perfect for my wife, Spencer (our adopted son), and our Au pair and her friend. The house had plenty of room for everyone to have their own space. The location of the house could not have been more perfect. The house is located just a few blocks from the main city square. We spent a lot of time exploring the city of Antigua and we were able to walk everywhere from our house. When we were done exploring for the day we were able to come back and relax in the very well-appointed living room. The house had a nice kitchen that we used to prepare a dinner for our friends from Guatemala. Oh, and I almost forgot, the views from the house are breathtaking. You can see the volcanoes of Guatemala from just about every window in the house. The house also had a nice outdoor patio that was perfect for my son and I to swing on the hammock. This house was truly a home away from home for our family.

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

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Guest Benjamin Herrarte
Date of stay 10/11/09
Review Submitted 10/11/09

It was a pleasure to stay at your spacious home, it made the whole stay in Antigua so much comfortable, and peacefull, it is a great way to see the city and have a cosy please to retreat! thank you for creating it! Benjamin

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Guest Jeanne Mendez
Date of stay 10/09/09
Review Submitted 10/09/09

What an absolutely fantastic home! Immediately upon entering my breath was taken away by the beauty of the stone and wood and the magnificent artwork throughout. Each room was gorgeous and large. Even with the beautiful art, etc, it is a wonderfully comfortable and homey spot. My partner and I were traveling with a family of four and we all had great privacy when needed but enjoyed the large living room and dining room/kitchen when we were together. The bathrooms are wonderful. And the views from the upstairs bedrooms are stunning. The house was spotlessly clean and all the necessities (linens, dishes, etc) for our stay were abundant and of high quality. Location is perfect - close enough to walk to sites and restaurants in Antigua. But far enough way to be delightfully quiet -- and safe! Dona Clara is wonderful and very sweet. Thank you so much, Philippa. Jeanne

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Guest david Newton
Date of stay 10/09/09
Review Submitted 10/09/09

Just a big thank you for a wonderful stay in an enchanting town and beautiful villa. Perfect location and Dona Clara is an angel! My family and I would definitely come here again.

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Guest kathy rose1
Date of stay 05/13/09
Review Submitted 05/13/09

My husband and I stayed in this fantastic home for 1 mo this past January. We have to say everything was perfect-from the volcano views to the commodious rooms to the high speed internet access and cable TV. Of course Clara was the shining jewel as both housekeeper and, on occasion, cook. Another positive thing to note was the very fine gated community. We were welcomed by neighbors from near and far. In fact we were so impressed that we may return to look for a place for ourselves on a more permanent basis. Don't hesitate to rent this property-the owner, the housekeeper and the community all add up to five stars! Kathy Rose and Hal Vogel

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Wonderful!

Guest Anna L.
Date of stay 02/17/09
Review Submitted 10/13/10

We stayed at this property in Feb 2009. It is everything the pictures suggest. The rooms were clean and comfortable, Clara (the maid) was sweet and reliable, the owner was helpful and dependable. The property is within walking distance to the town centre and attractions, and Antigua itself is full of incredible sites. The property is in a secure compound so safety is not an issue. We were very grateful to find this property and would not hesitate to stay there again.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Beautiful Villa

Guest Trish E.
Date of stay 07/06/08
Review Submitted 10/01/10

"I spent a week in this beautiful villa with my adult son, daughter and my daughter's friend. The pictures do not begin to do it justice: it is a truly lovely home with local art on the walls and in special niches, good bed linens, a fully-equipped kitchen, high speed Internet, beautiful views from the balconies...! The layout was perfect for our group--my son had a bedroom and bath downstairs, I had a room and bath at one end of the upstairs hallway, and the girls each had a bedroom and shared a bath at the other end. The gated facility made us feel very secure (although there was nothing about Antigua that made me feel insecure--day or night). The housekeeper is a charming woman and Gustavo tended to our every need and responded quickly to any little emergency--a tv remote that didn't work, etc... The location is a long block to the main commercial street, and the artisans' market, and about 6 blocks from Central Park --Parque Central. Antiqua is a must-see destination. In my mind, it ranks with Prague as a beautiful and romantic destination. The citizens are most gracious and will speak to you in Spanish if you are able, but most also speak enough English to get by if your Spanish fails you. I have rented many vrbo properties around the world and this one certainly is among the best! I recommend it without hesitation or reservation. One caution about visiting Antigua if you require wheelchair accessibility: the roads and sidewalks are so bumpy that they can be difficult even for someone who has no physical challenges. Everyone should bring sturdy walking shoes. Flip flops present a hazard. Our favorite restaurants include: Frida's, La Fonda de la Calle Real, Cafe Contessa, Rainbow Cafe for breakfast/lunch(co-located with the travel agency that we used for all of bookings, and a bookstore), and Cafe Dona Luisa (sit upstairs near the window for a volcano view). Also Panza Verde for its ambience and good, though not local, food. Finally: bring mosquito repellent. There are not a lot of them, but the ones that live

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Fabulous Home - Loved it!

Guest David Clouse
Date of stay 06/03/08
Review Submitted 10/10/10

Philippa, Thanks for allowing us to stay in your beautiful Antigua home. For most of our group, this was our first time in Antigua and we had an amazing trip. The home was perfect for our group. Everyone had a their own private space and we enjoyed the dining room and living room and the high speed Internet. The view of the volcano was a special treat, and Dave especially enjoyed the hammock. We had breakfast one morning and dinner one evening at Casa Santa Domingo which was fabulous. We also highly recommend breakfast at the coffee plantation. We will be sure to tell others about our fabulous home.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, sightseeing.

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Guest comment entered by owner

Guest Andrea C.
Date of stay 10/09/07
Review Submitted 10/08/07

We just wanted to tell you how lovely and welcoming your home is! We are so happy and comfortable here...What a blessing for us during this time!!! The home is beyond your descriptions....it is so wonderful! My husband loves the hammock! Also, we are so impressed with Rudy! What a help he was that first day.. And, Clara, if course is going to prove to be a Godsend to us... Thanks again for keeping such a lovely home.... Andrea and family

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Vacation Rentals by Owner

1 of 5 Luxury Castle-Like Homes (Pool/Hot-Tub) (Sleeps 2 to 42 Guests) [#136424] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (28)

Eight was Not a crowd

Eight was Not a crowd

Casa Santa Cruz is more charming than in pictures

Casa Santa Cruz is more charming than in pictures

Lovely place to stay

Lovely place to stay

Gorgeous and convenient Antigua rental!

Gorgeous and convenient Antigua rental!

NOT WORTH THE MONEY!!!

NOT WORTH THE MONEY!!!

The Castle

The Castle

After several visits, this home continues to delight me

After several visits, this home continues to delight me

Superbe location pour un week end romantic

Superbe location pour un week end romantic

best place in town

best place in town

This was the most beautiful home...

This was the most beautiful home...

This was the most beautiful home we have ever stayed in.

This was the most beautiful home we have ever stayed in.

Vladislav de Leon, Rockland, Canada.

Vladislav de Leon, Rockland, Canada.

Perfect

Perfect

Absolutely Gorgeous!

Absolutely Gorgeous!

Truly Memorable time..

Truly Memorable time..

Truly Memorable time in this vacation home.....

Truly Memorable time in this vacation home.....

Perfect

Perfect

Quiet, Safe, Beautiful Place...

Quiet, Safe, Beautiful Place...

We could not have been happier.

We could not have been happier.

"The house was perfect....."

"The house was perfect....."

Wonderful!

Wonderful!

Beautiful Villa

Beautiful Villa

Fabulous Home - Loved it!

Fabulous Home - Loved it!