Vacation Rentals by Owner

Soaking the Ajijic Ambiance

Guest: Chas B. (Mill Valley, CA)
Date of Stay: 04/07/12 Review Submitted: 04/19/12

My third trip to Ajijic and the first staying in the Sunrise Casita. All the details are right here, along with amenities one would expect at a 5 star resort. The location in a mixed use neighborhood makes for an antithetic experience (not a gated community). Love the view and serenity from the bedroom balcony. Local produce, rotisserie chicken, fresh (hot) tortillas, and bakery are all close at hand April is great time of year to come, Semana Santa was wonderful, loved the new ferry service across the lake to San Luis Soyatlan and the village gringo population ebbing as the snowbirds head back north.

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

Everything One Could Ask For

Guest: Tes (Agoura Hills, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/31/12 Review Submitted: 04/21/12

My husband has always wanted to check out the Lake Chapala area so we went with our 12-year-old son and spent spring break in Ajijic. We fell in love with the Mexican Sunrise House from the first moment we saw it. We liked the fact that Leo provided everything that a traveler could ask for: some food so there's no need to go to the store right away (there was even a bottle of good wine), shampoo and conditioner, laundry detergent and fabric softener, condiments, etc. The location was very convenient for walking to restaurants, shops, markets, and the bus stop (we did not have a car). We would definitely recommend the house to friends and relatives and we will probably rent from Leo again if we go back to Ajijic.

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

Perfect Location

Guest: No toilet paper (Washing State/USA)
Date of Stay: 02/26/12 Review Submitted: 03/16/12

My wife and I spent 2 weeks at Sunrise House in Ajijic. The location is perfect for walking to anything in Ajijic (restaurants, shops, churches, town plaza and a small grocery store just a few doors down the street. The grocery is small but has essentials and the proprietors are the friendliest people in the city. ALL the mexican people we met were very friendly. Walked home after dark from restaurants without incident or fear, just bring a flashlight for the uneven cobblestone streets. The House was very clean and remained quite cool with the overhead fans going, even on the hottest day, 91 degrees. You will be awakened by the sounds of Mexico...roosters crowing, dogs barking and church bells ringing. Leo will answer any questions you might have. His goal is to make your visit as pleasant as possible. Just a few blocks away is a tour company called Charter Tours that are excellent. Be sure to stop in at La Prensa Francesa, No. 10-A Morelos for an omlett and wonderful chocolate coffee. I had a Mexican omlett, of course. Small but charming restaurant. Tango was our favorite lunch restaurant. Lunch special between 12:30 til 1:30 is only 55 pesos...about $4.50 US dollars. Restaurants are so cheap that we only made a couple of breakfasts at the House, usually prior to going on a tour. We ate out the rest of the time. We did not and you will not need a car. The traffic is crazy, the streets are very narrow and there is nowhere to park near the plaza.

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

Close to everything

Guest: Elaine (northern CA)
Date of Stay: 02/18/12 Review Submitted: 02/29/12

Wonderful, beautifully furnished and well-equipped house near the center of Ajijic, but far enough away to be quieter. The rooms are large and airy, and the outside patio area nicely landscaped. We could have been comfortable and content here for months. Leo was the perfect host, providing us with breakfast items (and a bottle of wine!) for our first day there and checking up on us a couple times to make certain that we had everything we needed. He immediately replaced a malfunctioning DVD player with a brand new one. I can give this special house a unqualified excellent rating!

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

Great home in Ajijic

Guest: Barb (Illinois)
Date of Stay: 01/31/12 Review Submitted: 02/12/12

We spent a week in the Sunrise House and it was perfect for us. Leo has thought of everything to make our stay pleasant and comfortable. Having a bottle of wine on the counter and goodies in the 'frig for our first breakfast was a welcome surprise that you don't usually find in rentals. As soon as we walked in we felt at home with the comfortable furnishings that Leo has chosen. Leo is a gracious host who would do anything to make your stay a pleasant one. Not having a car was no problem at all. We were close enough to walk all over town and just a block away from the trail to hike up to the tiny chapel at the top of the hill behind the house. Staying at the Sunrise House was a great way to experience old Mexico while staying in a comfortable modern home. Thanks Leo for all your help!!

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

Georgette(New York)

Guest: g p.
Date of Stay: 01/14/12 Review Submitted: 01/28/12

Our recent vacation to this home was great. The house is immaculate and beautifully decorated with Mexican tiles and stained glass. Very comfortable furniture and beds, made for an enjoyable relaxing stay. Neighborhood people are very friendly. Very close to town and no need for a car..all within walking distance. Thanks for the company of Cali, the belgian shepherd. We will be back!

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

Best Sunrise view over Lake Chapala

Guest: Dundee (Memphis,TN)
Date of Stay: 12/26/11 Review Submitted: 01/14/12

My family and I spent a wonderful couple of weeks in the Mexican Sunrise House this past December 2011. Leo is a very gracious host that has put a great deal of effort and thought in his homes. Leo is attentive to details and his "info pack" that comes with your booking was invaluable - best restaurants, directions, do's/dont's etc. Very tasteful decor, clean with all the furnishings you expect from a high end rental. On site parking was important to me as we had a rental. Neighbors were friendly. Walking distance to town and all "attractions" but far away from traffic noise. Garden with fountain is imaculate and restful to the soul. "Cali" to Austrian Shepherd comes and visit every day too - give him a hug from me. Kick back and enjoy! We did!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Christmas in Ajijic

Guest: cyn (USA)
Date of Stay: 12/18/11 Review Submitted: 12/30/11

Everything for our stay was very well provided for including Leo, our gracious host, checking periodically to make sure we were comfortable. Great way to experience Ajijic.

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

Nice central spot in Ajijic

Guest: Gail (Victoria BC Canada)
Date of Stay: 11/21/11 Review Submitted: 02/04/12

Excellent house for two , could handle four in a pinch. Location was perfect for us a we could walk to every where in the Village , busses just moments away to all lakeside communities and Guad. We did not need a car for three week stay . House is well stocked ,well cared for and our host Leo was helpful and gracious . We like Ajijic !! W & G

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

Chris and Carol

Guest: Chris (Portland, Oregon)
Date of Stay: 10/31/11 Review Submitted: 11/12/11

This house helped make our trip a wonderful experience! We could walk to the Plaza, restaurants, and the beautiful malecon along the lake. Groceries and a good take out chicken place are just a few minutes walk away. The Charter Club tour office is only a few blocks away and their range of day tours are well worth checking out. We went to the Teuchitlan pyramids and also the Guadalajara tour. Leo is the perfect host and helped make our week there at Ajijic a really great experience. This is a great house and a great location. It fully lived up to its description. Thanks, Leo!

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

Esta casa es el mejor lugar para alojarse en Ajijic! No se puede pedir más!

Guest: Karen (Pennsylvania)
Date of Stay: 07/22/11 Review Submitted: 08/05/11

(This house is the best place to stay in Ajijic! You can't ask for more!) This casita should be called "Heavenly House" because once you walk inside, you'll find a peaceful, calming environment where everything you could possibly want is provided. Beyond the delighful goodies in the fridge, you'll discover a fully equipped kitchen, water so pure you can drink it directly from the faucet, and a shower with plenty of hot water and pressure....not to mention an incredibly comfortable queen-sized bed for a solid night's sleep. The location couldn't be better, too! A short walk to get a meal or a loaf of bread (Leo will direct you to the best baker ever!), this house offers you the opportunity to live amongst the locals and experience a "real" Mexico....something you won't be afforded in a hotel or bed and breakfast. I think most of the reviewers here and anyone else who is fortunate to stay at Sunrise would agree -- you'll never want to leave! Kudos to Leo (an incredibly kind and generous host who understands your needs, concerns, and want for privacy) and to Cali (what a wonderful, friendly, fun "little" puppy!) for offering Sunrise House to visitors!

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

A Wonderful Experience

Guest: Joe (Palm Springs, Ca.)
Date of Stay: 07/10/11 Review Submitted: 08/08/11

Leo is extremely helpful, charming and witty. We thoroughly enjoyed his company. His philosophy and focus helped us to make up our minds and we are now planning to move to the Lake Chapala area. We can't thank him enough for his kindness and direction. Both houses are beautiful. Hoping to see you soon Leo.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

cute house in Ajijic

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/20/11 Review Submitted: 06/27/11

A very pretty and very comfortable 2 bedroom house just off the main street through Ajijic, only about 10 minutes' walk or a couple of minutes' drive from the Lake Chapala shoreline. Would highly recommend if staying in the north shore area of Lake Chapala; only about 25 minutes drive to the airport at Guadalajara.

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

Home Base in Ajijic

Guest: Steve (San Francisco, CA U.S.A.)
Date of Stay: 04/19/11 Review Submitted: 05/11/11

We recently spent our spring break in the Mexican Sunrise House and had a wonderful stay. We came to Ajijic to visit friends who recently moved there from the SF Bay Area, and we never would have discovered the area if not for them. Four of us (mom/dad plus two teenagers) enjoyed the comfort and tranquility of this roomy and tastefully decorated home. Downstairs, the fully-equipped kitchen and living room was perfect for breakfasts and daily happy hour. Surprisingly for us, we never cooked a meal there because we spent our days touring the area, and we sampled many of the local restaurants for delicious and affordable dinners, from the outdoor taco stand to the upscale Argentinian steak house, and everything in between. Upstairs the master bedroom is spacious, with a view of Lake Chapala and a patio deck. The kids shared the other bedroom with the pull-out trundle, and the home is so tranquil at night that we all slept like babies every night (or was it our exhaustion from the daily touring?). The home is located a short walk from the town's central plaza with its nearby shops and restaurants, and it seems that each day was full of activities in Ajijic and surrounding villages. One bonus was that our spring break coincided with "Semana Santa" (Holy Week), with its very impressive Passion Play. Highly recommend the Mexican Sunrise House for anyone visiting Ajijic!

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

Amazing Home, Fantastic Location, and Gracious Host!

Guest: Brian and John (Seattle)
Date of Stay: 04/02/11 Review Submitted: 04/11/11

Two days ago we returned from our stay in the Mexican Sunrise House, and we are ready to return tomorrow...if we only had more vacation time! All of the previous postings are right on the mark - superb! The home is as described, if not even better. We took the red-eye flight into Guadalajara and arrived early Saturday morning. Upon our entry into the home we discovered the fridge stocked with eggs, bread, milk, juice, and jelly. We quickly made a hot breakfast...and our vacation was off to a great start. Mexican Sunrise is in a perfect location. Thanks to Leo's thoughtful list of restaurant recommendations, we enjoyed a different restaurant every night. We were originally going to rent a car, but there was no need. We walked everywhere. The Mexican people were welcoming and friendly. On our second night Leo invited us over for drinks and local delicacies - yummy! I could go on and on about the accomodations and our one-week visit to Ajijic, but it can all be summed into two words - ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS!

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

Best Stay in Ajijic

Guest: Alaskan Couple (Eagle River, Alaska)
Date of Stay: 02/27/11 Review Submitted: 04/03/11

We enjoyed our stay at the Mexican Sunrise House. The house was as nice if not more so than the description and photo's. I searched for some time to find a rental house during the busy season; everything was booked and then luckily Leo had a cancellation which turn in our favor. Leo supplied lots of information to prepare us for our travel and stay. He greeted us and showed us around the beautiful house plus had a bottle of red wine ready to start us out on our relaxing stay. Most restaurants, stores and activities were close by. We dined out several times and every place was great, and extremely reasonable! There are many things to do from the marketplaces, art galleries, antique stores, hot spring spas too our favorite a boat tour to Mezcala Island where the old fort that is being restored. Leo was a gracious host and truly wanted to make sure our stay was the best--which it was.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Another Wonderful Month in Paradise

Guest: Mark & Liz (Minnetonka, MN, USA)
Date of Stay: 01/19/11 Review Submitted: 02/28/11

Having spent 5 weeks in the Sunrise House last winter, we thought we knew what to expect again this year. If anything, our experience was better than the first time. During the past year, a palm tree had grown so that it blocked some of the view from the upper bedroom terrace. Leo (landlord) enthusiastically had it trimmed to restore the view. And the maids did a fantastic job, once having to clean badly spilled candle wax from one of the colorful table cloths. Pots, pans, cutlery, tableware, linens, even shampoo and conditioner were amply provided. And the gracious provision of a bottle of wine, bread, butter, eggs, milk, coffee, etc. for the first morning is a very welcome gesture. The total setting of a shared housing compound with beautiful landscaping is difficult to beat.

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

I'll be back

Guest: Ray (ottawa)
Date of Stay: 01/12/11 Review Submitted: 02/21/11

My wife and I stayed at the mexican sunrise house from jan. 12 to the 19 2011. Beautiful home within 10 minutes walking distance to central plaza. We enjoyed both outdoor terraces where we could relax and enjoy the perfect weather. The owner Leo left us with a wealth of information on the area , where to dine,directions ,taxi info etc. The only disapointment was that we could only stay for 1 week. I would definately return for another stay.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Beautiful Home

Guest: erin (california)
Date of Stay: 01/01/11 Review Submitted: 01/30/11

I stayed there for a little over a week with my husband, sisiter, and 2 small children and it was ideal in comfort and location. The house is beautiful and well-stocked. Leo is friendly and helpful and close by in case of any problems. The location is great for taking day trips into Guadalajara and nearby towns of Chapala or Jocotepec. Walking distnace to town and with everything you need just a block or two away. Very enjoyable trip and beautiful accomodations.

Recommended for:Age 55+

Ajijic delight

Guest: Robert (Nanaimo, B.C. Canada)
Date of Stay: 11/04/10 Review Submitted: 12/11/10

The central location of this well equipped home from home was ideal for enjoying the Mexican way of life close up. The house comes with all of the basic needs including a weekly maid service. With a wide range of shops and restaurants within easy walking distance we found no need for a car; local buses and taxis are both plentiful and economical if needed. Should you need a car there is secure off street parking in the forecourt of the house. Our host was helpful and courteous but not intrusive. All in all a great experience

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

Fabulous ! If you want to experience true Mexican village living, this is it !

Guest: Familia de Cabo (Cabo San Lucas Mexico)
Date of Stay: 08/11/10 Review Submitted: 08/18/10

Mexican Sunrise House is just splendid. It has wonderful Mexican decor, plenty of room, cable & wifi, everything you could need to cook dinner at home if not out enjoying one of Ajijic's wonderful restaurants. You can walk the cobblestone streets to anywhere in the Village & Lake where the locals are always friendly & happy with a "Buenas Dias" as you go by. Leo could not have been a better host. We loved his dog Bogart who came to visit. Mexcian Sunrise House is a 10 out of 10 !

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

Wonderful Vacation Rental!

Guest: Cindy (Arlington, Texas)
Date of Stay: 07/10/10 Review Submitted: 07/21/10

We came for a much needed vacation and to consider Ajijic as a retirement location. Both objectives were met at this lovely casita. The Sunrise House is gorgeous and well equipped. There is a beautiful view of scenic Lake Chapala, and the decorating is authentic and colorful. We really got a taste of what Mexican living would be like and were walking distance to everywhere we wanted to go. Didn't need to bother with a rental car. Our numerous questions about living in Ajijic were thoughtfully and fully answered by our friendly, charming host. Highly recommended! Can't wait to return!

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

Guest: Mark & Liz Merrill (Minnetonka, MN)
Date of Stay: 03/04/10 Review Submitted: 03/04/10

We spent 5 wonderful weeks in the Mexican Sunrise House and can honestly say that, even though we left Ajijic to spend 2 months near our new granddaughter in warm Arizona (before returning to cold Minnesota), we regretted having to leave. And because we want to return to either of Leo's two rental properties in the near future, we hesitate to tell the world how much we enjoyed our stay there, for fear that we may not find it easy to reserve one of them. We spent 5 weeks in January and February of 2010 during what was apparently the wettest dry season anyone living there has ever experienced and we still loved it. Because the property is located in the village only a short distance from the center, it's possible to walk to all essential destinations. We had our car, so we also spent time in Guadalajara, which we also love, and visited other towns on the shore of Lake Chapala. The house provides plenty of privacy, while allowing us to visit with the other tenant and with Leo and Bogart. The views from the second floor bedrooms are terrific and room sizes, finishes, and furnishings are first rate. Leo responded very quickly to a couple of uncontrollable situations (loss of electrical power and a broken washer) and was a wonderful and welcoming host, especially upon our arrival. He is also very well organized and provided more information and guidance than any hotel ever provided us in the past. We plan to return, assuming we're able reserve one of the two homes for the dates we desire.

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March in Ajijic

Guest: Mr. D. (Canada)
Date of Stay: 03/01/10 Review Submitted: 04/12/10

We spent a wonderful March in Ajijic enjoying the rooster wake-up calls early in the morning while at the Sunrise House. It is beautifly located with a great view to the east and south. There is no need for a.c. as all the rooms have windows which can be opened to allow in fresh, cool air at night. The rooms are spacious and attractively furnished. The center of the village is nearby and can easily be reached by walking, except that one must watch the uneven sidewalks. Local shopping is convenient and the many restaurants provide great dining choices. Your host, Leo, provides you with a well designed information package which is most helpful. The use of telephone, satelite t.v. reception and access to the internet are a boon for any visitor. Staying at the Sunrise House is a real joy.

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

Mexican Sunrise House

Guest: Bobnip (Milwaukie Oregon)
Date of Stay: 02/20/10 Review Submitted: 03/26/10

I stayed for one week at the Mexican Sunrise House. The accommodations were excellent and as advertised. Leo Gutman is an perfect host/owner who is genuinely concerned for the guest's comfort during their stay. He is very thorough in his instructional presentation to ensure a pleasant visit. His recommendations for places to eat and visit were spot on! The house was very clean and nicely decorated. I would not hesitate to recommend this facility to my friends and relatives.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, girls getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Linda Myers (Ithaca, NY)
Date of Stay: 01/18/10 Review Submitted: 01/18/10

My husband and I had a wonderful stay at the Mexican Sunrise House in Ajijic. The location of the house is ideal -- with everything in the town within easy walking distance, and a bakery with fresh bread and sweet rolls daily just around the corner. The house itself is very private, charming and comfortable, and is decorated with beautiful locally made handicrafts. There is a covered patio with table and chairs for outdoor eating, and a balcony off the master bedroom, as well as a view from the bedroom of gorgeous lake Chapala and the mountains behind it,, which we enjoyed waking up to. it was very convenient to have our own washer and drier. The house has filtered water for washing and doing dishes, as well as water in a special dispenser for drinking. The stove was great for cooking. We took advantage of the Internet access as well as the satellite television service, which airs U.S. and Canadian programs. There was also a good selection of DVDs to entertain us. And we enjoyed having the house cleaned weekly by Esther and Lupe. We liked having all these services included in the rental price too.

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Guest: Shannon and Mark Nunlist (Polson, Montana)
Date of Stay: 01/12/10 Review Submitted: 01/12/10

Our family of four stayed in the Mexican Sunrise House through Christmas and New Year's Eve of 2009. During this time we thoroughly enjoyed the Mexican neighborhood, the neighbors, the proximity to everything, and walking everywhere. Our thanks to Leo for providing a bit of food, coffee and wine to get us started, and a very helpful orientation. The house itself was comfortable, clean, had everything we needed. Our girls of 11 and 17 enjoyed the TV and movies and, of course the internet access. Bogart, the dog, was often sleeping at our feet as we sat in the living area in the evenings. He was very sweet. Thank you for a memorable stay!

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Guest: Milan Blaho (Galena, IL)
Date of Stay: 12/10/09 Review Submitted: 12/10/09

What a wonderful place and what a wonderful host! After arriving there with my wife, Leo greeted us with a charming introduction to Ajijic and the Sunrise House, then presented us with a bottle of wine to enjoy by ourselves. Everything was (at least) as advertised. In fact, it was much more! It would be best described as a tropical paradise in the midst of old Mexico with all the creature comforts of home. Thanks again, Leo. We'll be back.

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Guest: Michal2 (Tel Aviv, Israel)
Date of Stay: 11/01/09 Review Submitted: 11/01/09

We had an enormous time in this beautiful place!! The house is so tastefully furnished, the view is amazing and relaxing and there is a great variety of restaurants, shops and galleries closed by. The owner is very kind and helpful and we didn't have to do much to enjoy our vacation - just arrive and seat on the terrace with a good drink looking at the sunset. we'll be back!!!

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Guest: Bonnie and George Staggs (San Jose, Ca)
Date of Stay: 09/13/09 Review Submitted: 09/13/09

We had a fabulous stay in the lovely Mexico Sunrise home in Ajijic. The comfortable home is decorated nicely, great colors and all the creature comforts one desires.The home is well appointed and very clean. We especially enjoyed the patio area to relax and read, or to enjoy a meal outside. The view from the upstairs bedroom is quite nice and the grounds are attractive and restful. We especially liked that it was such a short jaunt to downtown. A great place to relax and enjoy the Mexican way of life.

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Guest: Hans and Mary Ann (-)
Date of Stay: 05/02/09 Review Submitted: 05/02/09

We have just returned home from an enjoyable 2 1/2 months of warmth and comfort in Ajijic and Sunrise House. We can only echo the positive comments submitted by previous guests. The house and garden provided an oasis in the midst of a truly "Mexican" experience. Thanks to Leo, the maids and gardeners, all aspects of our stay earned top marks. It is easy to have a "smile on your face" while there.

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Guest: Kathy McEwen Hepner (Vancouver, Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/04/09 Review Submitted: 02/04/09

We have been to Mexico several times and stayed at resorts. After spending one week in Ajijic in 2008, we decided to return for a longer period and were fortunate to secure the Sunrise House for over a month. What a pleasant experience! The welcome goodies, the warm greeting from our knowledgeable host Leo, all the valuable information about the village, the fully equipped kitchen,and the beautifully designed and decorated house guaranteed a most enjoyable vacation. The location was perfect and enabled us to actually walk around the village and discover how the Mexicans conduct their everyday lives without all the luxuries that we have become accustomed to and demand. I must say that I felt safer in that little village than I do at home in a very secure condo development. If you enjoy pets, then you can share Leo's while living at the Sunrise House! Bogart is a wonderfully gentle and friendly "mutt" and his daily visits provided much enjoyment. Be careful not to get attached to him. We will be back. Thanks, Leo.

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Guest: Ed and Carol Michaelsen (Temple City, CA)
Date of Stay: 11/20/08 Review Submitted: 11/20/08

We have been to Ajijic many times, but this visit was our best yet due in large part by the graciousness of our host and the ambiance of the Sunrise House. Having a bottle of wine waiting at our arrival and a refrigerator stocked with first day supplies were but two of many touches that made this stay unique and memorable. Deciding where to eat can be one of the most stressful decisions you have to make while on vacation. Leo's compiled listing of area eateries was, in and of itself, worth the price of admission. Encouraged by his comments and recommendations, we now have a new list of favorite places to eat in Lakeside. Waking at the first light of dawn (this home is accurately called the Sunrise House) at the insistence of the neighborhood chorus of roosters, you are assured of maximizing your time in this most wonderful environment. You really don't want to oversleep! Thanks, Leo, for an unforgettable experience. Ed and Carol

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Guest: Dan Otero\Neil Woodward (Scottsdale, Arizona)
Date of Stay: 09/08/08 Review Submitted: 09/08/08

What a dynamite place to kick back, relax, shop, walk, and actually enjoy a vacation - Thank you, Leo! We met with old friends and thanks to Leo's local connections met several new ones. Leo's friendly pooch, Mr. Bogart, was a welcome visitor. Ajijic is a wonderful and most amiable community. We shopped locally and prepared most of our meals in the well-furnished kitchen. The Sunrise House was just lovely and very comfortable and that made our week most enjoyable. We will be back! Dan & Neil, Scottsdale AZ.

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Guest: Denise75 (Columbia, Md)
Date of Stay: 08/18/08 Review Submitted: 08/18/08

I had a wonderful trip to Ajijic thanks to our gracious host Leo. The Sunrise House is more than you can imagine. Beautifully decorated, superb setting, great weather and perfectly situated near the town with it's small markets for seafood, produce, bakery (pan) and anything you might need. The kitchen is totally complete to prepare your gourmet meals or walk a few blocks and dine at one their many excellent and affordable restaurants in town. I am already planning my next trip to Ajijic and my stay at the Sunrise or Jewel House.

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Guest: Bill and Kaaren (-)
Date of Stay: 04/17/08 Review Submitted: 04/17/08

Our winter stay here was wonderful from the moment we arrived. Our hosts were gracious with food in the frig,a welcome wine and cheese, and lots of answers to our questions. This is an ideal location to explore the area of Ajijic without a car. We were in the midst of real Mexico with all the sights and sounds of a village community. Fresh fruit and veggies were purchased at the local fruit market or Wednesday market and we became familiar with numerous small business owners within a block of the house. A daily visit to the bakery for fresh croissants and bolillos was a delight, and our Mexican neighbours were friendly. With limited Spanish, we communicated using universal gestures, and befriended several families and children. Each day brought special moments for both of us. The house is a home, with all the nicities, including a great maid and gardeners. This home was a perfect choice for us as newcomers to Ajijic, and managing without a car trimmed waistlines, and gave us the experience of riding local buses, and becoming quite efficient getting around the community. We give this vacation full marks.

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Guest: Susan Landa (Portland, OR.)
Date of Stay: 01/09/08 Review Submitted: 01/08/08

Our stay at your casita was lovely. The softly lit concave ceiling in the bedroom, the high-count bedding and perfect mattress made for sweet dreams. Your house instructions and town suggestions were very helpful. The casita was a comfortable and beautiful sanctuary during our stay in Mexico. Thank you for the bug spray and all the little details.

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Guest: Jerry Hlady (Faribault, MN)
Date of Stay: 12/12/07 Review Submitted: 12/12/07

Awakened each morning by the soft pink and gold sky , we felt perfectly at home in a foreign country. Our host and hostess made every attempt to exemplify that feeling. We were in old Mexico , but in a new Mexican home--secure, cozy and comfortable. We were able to be as involved in the village as we wished and walk everywhere. A perfect home away from home.

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