Pos Chiquito
Villa, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths (Sleeps 6-9)
From $2000-2500/wk Villa
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Guest: Steaksauce
(Baltimore, MD)
Date of Stay: 04/22/12
Review Submitted: 04/25/12
We stayed here for 4 days (we're on our last night tonight) and have had a great time in Aruba. The home is off the beaten path, really a stone's throw from a terrific beach for snorkeling or just lounging with the kids or reading a book. We had the whole villa - home with full kitchen, dining room, showered bathroom and bedroom. The tap water is YUMMY, no need for bottled. The home has no central air and can get a little uncomfortable because of the high heat/humidity, but just take a dip in the pool or surf and you'll cool off. Meanwhile there IS an A/C unit in the bedrooms and it can get downright chilly. Set it right and forget it. Juan was a joy of a host; I'll add more of him later. Watch when you walk for the ridges between the foyer and living room, and the hallway to bathroom. We didn't feel far away from anything, but it's a good idea to have a car (he has a vehicle for rent too but speak up or it may be taken). The HDTV picture looked washed out, and tweaking didn't help. A plus for high speed internet (works with the iPhone). And the hosts won't nickel / dime you. Nice pool in back, plus a backyard grill. Lizards run about during the day, there are some fire ants but listen this is Aruba, you should expect these things in a desert climate. Make sure to have the alarm OFF when you're in the home or it will trip. If you're worried the alarm is a great plus, but I don't mind having the screened windows open, esp. at night. There are some rough looking areas nearby but do not let that stop you; the whole area is very quiet and the area we stayed looked nice along the lane. There are 4 ceiling fans but 3 work. Maybe I didn't figure the last one. For the price, the real estate is awesome. My wife is picky and she wants this place even with the shortcomings because the view is SPECTACULAR. It's not perfect, hence not five stars. But we DO recommend this place highly. Juan is very reasonable and our little picky things? He said he would address them and I believe him. He is a man of his word and we don't want to take advantage of such good people. I should shut up and say it's bad so we can get an easier chance to get a return reservation! But Windsong is wonderful. What a view. Every day we get to see the blue and green Caribbean. That's perfection, better than staying inland or "within walking distance."
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Betty & Dennis
(Titusville, FL)
Date of Stay: 02/11/12
Review Submitted: 03/05/12
This place is all about location. To be able to scuba dive and snorkel right across the street was amazing. The sunsets were beautiul. We even got to see a rainbow one early morning. Away from the cruise ships and all the hustle of the tourist areas, this place was ideal. We got to experience the real Aruba. We enjoyed eating at the local restaurants, a few were in walking distance. The hospitality was superb. Juan picked us up at the airport, and once he showed us our accommodations, he gave us a little tour of the area. He was very dependable and only a phone call away. We stayed in the guest cottage. It was just the right size for us. We used the grill and palapa quite a bit. It was so relaxing to sit outside in the morning with a cup of coffee and enjoy the great weather. We were disappointed that the spa heater did not work. The pool was well maintained though. Having WIFI was real plus. What would have made this a five star rating? More than 2 towels in the bathroom, although there were 2 beach towels in the closet. The wash machine was handy so I did wash the towels. Also new bedding would have been nice. Would we stay there again? Most definitely.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway.
Guest: Dacia
(United States)
Date of Stay: 01/06/12
Review Submitted: 01/17/12
Loved our time at the villa. Very spacious living areas. Three kids easily shared one room (king bed and queen inflatable mattress). The covered patio outside, complete with hammock and gas grill, was perfect for an evening barbeque. Highly recommended!
Recommended for:
Guest: Don and Loris
(Lincoln, NE)
Date of Stay: 12/21/11
Review Submitted: 02/08/12
We have wonderful memories of our stay at Windsong Villa & Guest Cottage. When planning our 50th Ann. we made the choice first of Aruba and then had to find someplace to stay with our family of 9 and what a wonderful choice we made staying at Windsong Villa and Guest Cottage. We stayed in the Cottage and children and grandkids in the Villa but spent all of our time together except to sleep. Being so close to the beach to swim, snorkel and scub dive was such a plus - and just walking and setting near the ocean - so relaxing and the sun sets were spectular, actually I can't think of anything that wasn't spectular including the Villa, Cottage, swimming pool, Juan and all the people we met and visited with. Thanks for telling us of the Christmas Tree and decorations, they were used and with attending Christmas Day services at your Church in San Nicolas made our stay complete. We toured the whole island, having to rent an extra car so we could all go together and only got lost the first day for several miles. Everything in the Brown's VRBO description is true and anyone staying with them will be VERY satisfied. Would love to return tomorrow as we have 12" of snow on the ground and the high was 28 degrees (2/8/12). Memories were made for our 50th Anniversary, Thanks.
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.
Guest: PK
(Kure Beach, NC)
Date of Stay: 12/01/11
Review Submitted: 01/18/12
Windsong Villa is in a lovely quiet neighborhood across the street from Mangel Beach. There were divers, snorkelers, swimmers, kayakers, and SUNSETS. The house is spacious and comfortable with all amenities available; we cooked on the grill and enjoyed the pool area several late afternoons and evenings. Juan was always available for assistance and we enjoyed renting the car. Because the house is in the middle of the island, we could go to the tourist area in the north and Seroe Colorado in the south over and over again. It was nice to have a temporary home to return to instead of a hotel room. There is a fish market, neighborhood take-out restaurants, and small grocery stores to walk to as well.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: J&K
(Denver, CO)
Date of Stay: 08/28/11
Review Submitted: 09/08/11
We recently stayed at the Windsong Villa for our honeymoon, and while it was great to be immersed in more of the local culture and to be so close to the beach, we felt that it would be even better suitted for a family, as it lacks to be "romantic" or "deluxe". Some of the great things about the Villa were that it had the car, which made traveling much easier (and cheaper) then the bus or a taxi. The location was IDEAL for a family with shallow water and great snorkelling across the street. We also liked the pool in the back (not the Jacuzzi as it was cold and looked rather dishevelled), but the mosquitos made it somewhat unusable in the evening. Lastly, the kitchen was very useful and allowed us to cook some of our own foods including fish! The renovations that were made to the villa were definitely worth-while, as it is more updated then many of the surrounding homes. While the security system was great and felt very comforting at night, it had a learning curve to it and beeped incessantly for the first two days of the vacation. Praying made it stop! Some things we didn't like about the Villa were the linens were very worn and stinky. The face cloths and bath towels were stringy and we were only provided with two for the week. The bedding felt old and was stained and very pilled and thus scratchy. Please don't let this deter you from the Villa, though, because it is just as easy to bring your own bedding if you are picky about this sort of thing. We were also unhappy with the number of things that didn't work including the broken and unusable snorkel gear (again, just bring your own) and the ESSENTIAL ceiling fans. Lastly, the twin beds pushed together proved to be incredibly uncomfortable. It is still a mystery as to why we were provided with a guest bedroom and not the master bedroom as the sole renters of the Villa. Like I mentioned, things such as linens and "romance" aren't necessarily essential for a family vacation which is why I would only recommend the Villa again to those looking for a family vacation only.
Owner response:The villa is a great family vacation location. Many families have agreed. Many couples have enjoyed their time in the villa. Each person has different expectations. This couple was given the large bedroom that opens to the garden. The bathroom is immediately next to it. It was felt that they would enjoy the direct access to the pool and the garden. Ceiling fans in the living room are important. For some reason they were not working and this is being remedied. The portable fan in the villa should compensate when ceiling fans do not work. A prevailing breeze passes through the house from back to front so that much of the time fans are not necessary. The bedrooms are air conditioned. Towels and linens are maintained in good condition. We will certainly check about the problems mentioned here. Pool maintenance is done twice weekly, however with the prevailing wind, leaves sometimes do blow into the Jacuzzi. Our property manager is available at all times. If guests have concerns they are free to contact him during their stay. He takes good care of our guests.
Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car.
Guest: Matt
(St Louis Park, MN)
Date of Stay: 08/19/11
Review Submitted: 09/02/11
For those searching for an "off the beaten path" getaway in Aruba, this is your spot! Your search is over! While the photos here sparked my interest when I booked it, they don't do it justice. It is very spacious, and the setting even more beautiful than you can imagine. My new wife and I stayed in the main villa after spending part of our honeymoon at a resort. While it was nice, I can do the "resort" thing anywhere, and closer to home. We found Windsong to be the perfect place to relax, while immersing ourselves into the local culture. It was a good central spot to do other exploration of the island (the car was great), close to airport, and close to a handful of small local markets/restaurants within walking distance. The snorkeling is literally across the street and was awesome. We walked one night to Marina Pirata restaurant, which is a must. Also had an amazing experience one morning when we walked to the boat docks just past Marina Pirata. We showed up late morning after a boat came in, and bought fresh red snapper that we literally watched them take off the boat and clean for us. The very little Spanish that I stumbled through was helpful there, although you could get by with just English if you had to. It's not a tourist spot, it was all friendly locals, which made the experience all the better to buy fresh fish at the market and cook at "home" at Windsong. If I have one complaint it would be that it was quite warm in the villa and most of the ceiling fans weren't functioning. We opened up the windows to try and get some air moving, but then again we spent very little time indoors. But why would you be indoors with your own private pool in the backyard and a beautiful secluded beach just across the street! I highly recommend Windsong, and hope to be back soon myself. It was a lot of space for just the two of us, and would be great to return with another couple or two. Michael, Lois, and Juan - thanks so much for everything! Gina and I had a great time (although far too short) at Windsong, and look forward to visiting again.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: AK
(Aleknagik, AK )
Date of Stay: 12/21/10
Review Submitted: 01/07/11
We stayed for 10 days at the Villa and were very impressed with the house, the pool, and the location next to a beach and the lovely sunsets. The neighborhood was quiet and fun to walk around, with stores and restaurants nearby. The house was lovely with all the amenities you need. The beds were comfortable and the bedrooms quiet, with air conditioning if needed. The property manager was very helpful and answered any questions we had. In all, it was a lovely experience and we would definitely go back and highly recommend both the villa and cottage to others!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Gerda d.
(Grootebroek, Nederland (Netherlands))
Date of Stay: 12/11/10
Review Submitted: 01/23/11
Van 11 t/m 18 december 2010 hebben we in de cottage van Windsong onze eerste vakantie op Aruba mogen starten en mogen ervaren. Een superverblijf waarbij de fantastische locatie, de rust van de directe omgeving, de heerlijke zeekust met het sierlijke, visrijke Mangel Halto (op kruipafstand) maar vooral de geweldige, lieve, zorgzame eigenaren (Lois en Mike) en onze zorg en toeverlaat Juan ons als eerste geraakt hebben. Drie mensen die we al vanaf het eerste moment in ons hart hebben gesloten. Drie hele lieve mensen die de gasten graag een heerlijke vakantie gunnen en dit ook tonen! De cottage is zeer compleet ingericht en ligt op een heerlijke locatie direct aan de kust. Het biedt een indrukwekkende snorkelbaai direct tegenover het verblijf. Ook de villa is zeer compleet ingericht en biedt alles wat je je maar kunt wensen tijdens het verblijf. Het zwembad biedt op zijn tijd een heerlijke verkoeling en twee schuwe hagedissen laten zich dagelijks zonnebadend op het terras zien. Het verblijf heeft een volledige keukenopstelling, separate badkamer en airco. De TV biedt een Nederlands kanaal, zodat je desgewenst op de hoogte kan blijven van de Ned. actualiteiten. 's Avonds heb je vanuit het huis een adembemend zicht op de zonsondergang. Als je de gelegenheid hebt, neem dan snorkelles van Mike (is ervaren duikleraar); hij leert je de basis van het snorkelen en laat je tevens de mooiste plekjes van de Mangel Halto-baai zien. Het klimaat is supergeweldig : Heerlijk warm en ook 's avonds hoeft het vest niet aan! Het verblijf ligt op een heerlijk rustige locatie, toch ben je met de auto binnen een kwartier in Oranjestad. Ook andere locaties liggen eigenlijk op een steenworp afstand (het eiland is niet groter dan Texel). Ook Baby-beach (oosten van het eiland) is aan te raden voor zwemmen en snorkelen. Uit eten kan op loopafstand; het nabij gelegen restaurant is uitstekend (visrestaurant: vraag naar een plaatsje op het terras direct aan het water). Ook het restaurant Que Pasa in Oranjestad is aan te bevelen. Er zijn twee Starbucks in Oranjestad, dus een heerlijk kopje koffie is te verkrijgen. Op het eiland is een grote supermarkt (Superfood) waar alle Nederlandse artikelen te koop zin: van pindakaas tot chocola en van kaas tot drop. Je hoeft niets mee te nemen. De prijzen liggen nauwelijk hoger dan in Nederland. De mensen op het eiland zijn vriendelijk, rustig en heel gastvrij. Aruba heeft ons innig omarmd en laat ons niet meer los! Tot volgend jaar!
Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: E. B.
(Wolcott, CT)
Date of Stay: 12/04/10
Review Submitted: 01/20/11
Our vacation at Windsong Villa was absolutely wonderful! Mike and Lois Brown are wonderful people, and we were glad to have them around for interesting conversation. The Villa was exactly as described, and it was great to have ocean/snorkeling/diving across the street, and a nice little pool in the backyard. A lovely covered picnic area, too. Our caretaker was very friendly and helpful, and we appreciated his flexibility with our schedule. It was really nice to have local stores in walking distance, and the local bar has great Chinese food. We also went to 2 of the area restaurants and had delicious meals! Thanks to you both, Mike and Lois -- we hope to return in the future.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: KK
(Bethany, CT, USA)
Date of Stay: 12/03/10
Review Submitted: 12/15/10
I arrived alone in Aruba a day ahead of the rest of my travel party and was promptly picked up by the Brown's at the airport. Although I was also met with the most unfortunate weather (heavy rain for several days!--very rare) the Browns really helped to make my trip fun, fulfilling and relaxing. The customer service they provided went well above and beyond anything I had ever expected! I was given lots of education on the island history and layout, taken on a tour, enjoyed wonderful conversation, and was overall welcomed as if I were family. While enduring the heavy rains, Michael suggested a try at scuba diving (You're already wet!) I'm sure he didn't anticipate that I would have an anxiety attack(s) due to my fear of open water; despite that, he worked with me ever so patiently until I overcame my fear and became scuba certified! What a great feeling! The Windsong property is gorgeous both inside and out (even when it's raining!). It's clean, open layout,specious bedrooms/bathrooms that are newly remodeled, everything in working condition and the best part is it's proximity to the water/beach with plenty of Palapas (beach huts). It's a great place for yoga, scuba, snorkel, wading, swimming, shell collecting, etc! The best part is no crowds. The Windsong is also close to several grocery stores and delicious restaurants (marina pirada and fishbone--although it's pricey it's great!). The neighborhood is pleasant and even the neighbors are warm and welcoming! The roads are great to run on too. Overall the Windsong, the Brown's and Juan were an impressive trio. I can't thank Michael and Lois enough for their hospitality and generosity. They are so polite and helpful and really just such warm people that I feel honored to know! I can't wait to return and see what it's like when the sun is out for more than a few minutes at a time!
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.
Guest: Danielle
(Brooklyn, NY, USA)
Date of Stay: 11/10/10
Review Submitted: 11/21/10
We spent a quiet, relaxing week at the Windsong Villa overlooking the sea and Mangel Halto Beach. We were warmly welcomed at the airport by Juan, our accommodating host. The villa is clean and well equipped as a home away from home with ample space, a fully equipped kitchen, a beautiful back patio complete with songbirds, iguanas, flowering trees, pool, chaise lounges, and jacuzzi. A quick stop at the nearby grocery and we were stocked for the week. Breakfasts were had daily on the front porch with the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea as a backdrop. We made dinner with the on-site grill and ate under the palapa. Mangel Halto, the beach, is literally steps from the villa through the mangrove trees and was usually empty, except for the occasional local. Sometimes we lazed on the sand in the provided beach chairs, or slipped into the warm, shallow water through openings in the mangrove trees for daily floats. We snorkeled every day, using equipment in the house, exploring the reef off the beach, catching glimpses of all sorts of amazing fish and coral formations. The rental car was great to have and allowed us the flexibility to explore the island. We checked out nearby gold mine ruins, St. Nicolas and Baby Beach, went up to Oranjestad for dinner and gambling, and visited family staying in the resort area. We also checked out the rugged national park. All in all the Windsong Villa was a great place to experience the quieter, more local side of Aruba. The Browns have created a peaceful vacation home for those seeking a quiet respite in a beautiful setting.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Jim
(Elkton, MD, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/23/10
Review Submitted: 10/31/10
My wife and I spent a fantastic 7 day vacation in the Windsong Villa. The villa is furnished with everything you need—especially the well equipped kitchen—and its amenities are wonderful (pool, Jacuzzi, BBQ, hammock, etc.) The location can't be beat. Right across the street is a tiki hut to sit and have coffee while watching boats pass or a beautiful sunset. Access to a virtually private beach is only about 50 yds down the road for swimming, snorkeling, and sunning. The villa is in a quiet residential area, with two grocery stores about 5 minutes away. The villa also has a fine security system, although we never felt any concern while staying there, as well as free wireless internet access. The villa is only about a 10 minute ride to Oranjestaad (the "big city") or San Nicolas (Baby Beach). Everything is near by but you stay in a calm oasis away from the frenzied touristy resort area. If you get a chance treat yourselves to dinner at the nearby Flying Fishbone restaurant in Savaneta. Here you can have your meal on a table on the beach or literally in the water. The setting is unique, the service is excellent, and the food is wonderful. We also highly commend the friendly and very knowledgable house manager Juan Williams. Juan met us at the airport, arranged our car rental, showed us the grocery stores, and basically made sure that everything went smoothly for us. He is a real treasure and a fine ambassador of the Aruban "one happy island" culture. Mike and Lois have a wonderful rental property that will provide an excellent home base for a vacation in Aruba. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and look forward to a return visit.
Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Chris
(Netherlands)
Date of Stay: 09/09/10
Review Submitted: 10/17/10
You have to see this villa to believe it, it is that great. The villa has everything you need: dishwasher, oven, microwave, washing machine, dryer, pool, jacuzzi, bbq, car and one of the greatest views you van imagine. We were in the villa for 2 weeks with 5 adults and 2 young children (1y, 3y). The pool and jacuzzi were used everyday. It's wonderful to dine in the garden, right next to the bbq. We also rented the car with the villa and used it everyday. Aruba has much to offer: diving (also right in front of the villa), deep sea fishing, a helicopter ride (not even that expensive), sailing trips, more beaches, shopping in Oranjestad and much more. But there is no need to go anywhere else to have a great holiday if you stay in this villa: You only have to walk 50 meters to the sea to snorkel (and dive) and 50 more meters to the beach (Mangel Halto) between the mangrove trees. The sunsets are unbelievable and don't forget to watch the thunderstorms over Venezuela from the porch every night. Enjoy the bbq (it's huge, for European standards :-)) or go to one of the excellent restaurants in the neighbourhood. The villa is located perfect for trips across the island: Oranjestad is only 15 minutes away and the high rise area only 20 minutes. Baby beach is also only 15 minutes away. Last but definitely not least: your personal on site manager Juan will make sure that from the minute you arrive at the airport till the minute you leave you will feel right at home. Forget hotel personel: this is the way you want to be treated. Juan will attend to your personal needs. He knows the island and has lots of tips.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway.
Guest: AR + MM
(NY, NY, US)
Date of Stay: 08/14/10
Review Submitted: 09/01/10
"We would like to thank Mike and Lois for sharing their their home in Aruba with us. This is an ideal place to unwind, relax and enjoy the ocean as your front yard. As repeat visitors to Aruba, we really enjoy snorkeling and free diving in the Mangel Halto area. Having it at our doorstep was amazing. The reef right outside of the lagoon is beautiful, offers lots of opportunities for UW- photography, and isn't nearly as overrun as some other sites on the island. Many thanks to Juan, who was a very gracious host on behalf of Mike and Lois. We had a great time during our stay at Windsong Villa. "
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway.
Guest: Angela and Nick
(Minneapolis, MN)
Date of Stay: 07/30/10
Review Submitted: 08/21/10
We had the vacation of a lifetime in Aruba, and the villa was just wonderful. It was impeccably clean when we arrived, and everything was in working order. It was great to be able to step out the front door and be right at the beach! We enjoyed everything about the villa, like the pool, the shady outdoor seating area in back, the gourmet kitchen, and the relaxing living room. Juan was wonderfully helpful, even driving us to dinner and back the first night. This place was extra-special for us because we got engaged the first night! We can't wait to come back, and have already been telling all our friends to come here.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: M.E.
Date of Stay: 05/22/10
Review Submitted: 06/09/10
Hi Mike, Just a quick note to touch base after our Aruba stay. We had a really great time, the house was great and we really loved the location. We did two days of diving w/ Fly and Dive - they did a good job and the water was nice. Thanks again to you and Juan for making it all work out for us - we returned very relaxed well rested! Michael
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Guest: Christian & Sydney
Date of Stay: 02/27/10
Review Submitted: 03/25/10
My wife and I decided to stay at Windsong Guest cottage for our honeymoon trip to Aruba. What a great decision we made! The cottage was perfect! Everything we needed was readily available. It was clean, quiet, and right across the street from the beautiful ocean. Mike and Lois were just wonderful to us. From giving us directions to answering the many questions we had, they we just so accommodating and hospitable. I would highly recommend the Windsong Guest Cottage to anyone taking a trip to Aruba! We will most certainly be coming back! Christian & Sydney Colorado Springs Feb 27 -Mar12, 2010
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Guest: Dan & Julie, 2 children
Date of Stay: 01/02/10
Review Submitted: 01/01/10
Had a great time here. Took our lawn chairs across the road each a.m. to watch the turtles and pelicans. Had fun exploring the island, getting lost and finding our way back again. We experienced New Years which was very loud and bright. Thanks for a great place to hang our hats for 2 weeks.
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Guest: Vladimir Ivanov
(Lafayette Hill, PA USA)
Date of Stay: 11/11/09
Review Submitted: 11/11/09
My wife and I stayed in the villa from Oct 4 to Oct 13. We both believe that this one was our best VRBO vacation: clean and spacious house, reasonable price, great views from the front porch and nice backyard with a pool and a gas grill. Spacial thanks to Juan, property manager on the island - he was very accommodating and helpful with everything. He even gave us free cell phone to use on the island. Michael and Lois (the owners) have been quite considerate too during the entire period of our business relationship. I recommend this property to anyone who plans to visit Aruba.
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Guest: Ron and Kris Ann McNabb
(Lower Burrell, PA)
Date of Stay: 09/14/09
Review Submitted: 09/14/09
Hi, Mike and Lois. Thank you very much for everything. We really appreciate all the time you talked with us about all the things Aruba has to offer. We love Windsong Villa and will definitely be back. You have a beautiful home. Every morning we got up and opened the doors to a spectacular view. This is our first time not staying in a hotel, and your place spoiled us. Juan was great, too! He was always a phone call away, and really helped us out. Thanks again.
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Guest: Roxanne McLane
(-)
Date of Stay: 06/26/09
Review Submitted: 06/26/09
Windsong Villa was everything we hoped it would be. You can't beat the view from the front door. The area is nice and seemed very safe. We snorkeled all day on the reef right in front of the house. No A/C in the main house except the bedrooms. No worries...the wind provides a great breeze and the house really doesn't get hot. We ate mangoes until we were almost sick! Juan does a fabulous job picking up and dropping off at the airport. We discovered the Balashi Beer Garden for breakfast and lunch. Cheap great food. The car was great to have. Thanks for sharing your lovely home.
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/20/09
Review Submitted: 06/20/09
Mike and Lois' villa and guest cottage are first-rate. The facilities are clean and comfortable, and perfect for children. Juan is outstanding. Whatever you need, just let him know. I also recommend JADS for diving.
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Guest: Nawnie
(Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada)
Date of Stay: 06/15/09
Review Submitted: 06/01/10
Dear Mike and Lois - I just want to thank you for sharing your wonderful home with us. The setting was perfect and my mother, my sister, my daughter and myself enjoyed our stay so much. Your home was beyond great - the backyard is a tropical paradise and we enjoyed the pool every day. We loved walking along the beach in front of the house, wading in the water and watching the pelicans. Juan was wonderful and walked us four gals through everything and even took us to the grocery store the first night so we could have supplies for the morning. What a delight he was. Your house is beautiful and trully accommodating - you have thought of everything and it made our holiday. We loved Aruba so much and when we return we will only stay at your home. Thank you for all your help with the booking - you made it really easy. Again our thanks to Juan for everything - we really appreciated him meeting us at the airport and dropping us off for our flight to Bonaire. Thanks again, Dawn"
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Claire and Jack
(Lincoln,NE)
Date of Stay: 04/20/09
Review Submitted: 04/20/09
When we first arived in Aruba they were very helpful in showing us around. They recomended great places to eat. Their house is BEAUTIFUL! The view and the back yard/garden was amazing. The beach was literally only feet away. The beach was getting remodled and we can't wait to back and see the finished product. We would definitly recomend coming here
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Guest: Mark & Julie
Date of Stay: 04/12/09
Review Submitted: 04/11/09
Our three daughters are now advanced open water divers. All thanks to Mike! What a super-wonderful (that's a new word), just one wouldn't describe the experience of staying at Windsong Villa. From scuba diving to snorkeling, with a sprinkling of beach combing, shore and deep sea fishing, you have it all right here for us. After several days exploring the island and beaches with the rental car it was very cool to find out that we had access to the best snorkeling, sand and sun (and less tourist pressured) seaside upon the whole island. Tell your future guests that the easiest access to snorkelling the reef is right here in Mangel Halto. Next best snorkeling is Catalina Beach, we know we looked. We stayed 8 very full days and there is still so much to sea!! Waking up to the sound of the surf is priceless. YOur hspitality and beautiful home very much appreciated. Thank you for sharing your seaside escape. We had a vacation full of wonderful memories that our children and parents will treasure always.
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 01/01/09
Review Submitted: 01/27/09
We had a lovely time at Windsong. We rented the guest cottage for the Holidays. Everything was great from the first connection with the owner, to the $$ arrangements, to the connection with the manager and to the place ! It is a great alternative to busy/touristy resorts. The cottage is perfect for 2 adults: everything you need is provided, place is clean, very nice backyard. We also rented a car through the manager: cheap and reliable. The cottage is right across the street from Mangel Halto: a beautiful, quiet ocean...blue, blue and bluer ! The sunsets are amazing ! If you are looking for a quiet, clean and great location place, Windsong is your place !
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 01/01/09
Review Submitted: 01/17/09
My family stayed at Windsong Villa Jan 4-12, 2009. My husband and I treated our 20 and 24 year old kids and my Dad to a stay in Aruba. It was above our expectations! The Villa was just as pictured on the website and Aruba was a paradise. The island is very small and user friendly. The locals are helpful and currency is no problem. The weather was perfect. We snorkeled daily and loved the ocean just across the road from the house. The owners very kind and helpful as was the property manager, Juan. He arranged a car rental for us and picked us up at the airport. The house is convenient to everything on the island and we did it all!!!! The bar hopper bus picked the kids up at the front door and returned them later that night. The Jolly pirate snorkel cruise was a hoot and not to be missed. Our favorite part of the vacation was enjoying the sundown view from a picnic table just across the street from the house. It was breathtaking!!!! If you are considering a stay in Aruba this villa is an excellent choice. We will return soon. Dee Kellar
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/23/08
Review Submitted: 10/23/08
We chose Windsong from the internet and were apprehensive taking a holiday in a destination and location unknown to us. On arriving at the Windsong Villa everything that was shown in the internet pages was for real and more. Windsong is a superb property, the Villa a well made, well furnished property, built and maintained to a high standard with every modern appliance you could need. Besides all that Aruba can offer, Windsong is just across the road from one of the best dive sites on the island - mangrove trees, white sands, blue seas, coral reef, all within a stone’s throws of the villa. What a location!Thanks for a great Holiday and special thanks to Juan for such a warm welcome and for his attentiveness at making the holiday special.
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/08
Review Submitted: 10/22/08
We chose Windsong from the internet and were apprehensive taking a holiday in a destination and location unknown to us. On arriving at the Windsong Villa everything that was shown in the internet pages was for real and more. Windsong is a superb property, the Villa a well made, well furnished property, built and maintained to a high standard with every modern appliance you could need. Besides all that Aruba can offer, Windsong is just across the road from one of the best dive sites on the island - mangrove trees, white sands, blue seas, coral reef, all within a stone’s throws of the villa. What a location! Thanks for a great Holiday and special thanks to Juan for such a warm welcome and for his attentiveness at making the holiday special.
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/08
Review Submitted: 10/20/08
A wonderful place. Everything better than expected. The weather didn't cooperate (Omar) but Windsong Villa more than made up for it. We had one of the most relaxing and enjoyable vacations we have had in a long time. We will be back and will be bringing more friends with us. Mike and Lois - Well Done! Juan - Thanks for all your help and guidance. Regards, Dave & Sally Wheeler
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/08
Review Submitted: 10/01/08
Windsong Villa was the highlight of our honeymoon! We stayed in the one room guest house which was very well laid out & very cosy. Juan was excellent, and the Brown's advice on scuba diving and fine dinning made for day after day of enjoyment. Lastly, what a view!!! If you want a vacation that you'll never forget, then this is the place for you!
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Guest: Isla H.
(Cambridge, Ontario)
Date of Stay: 08/01/08
Review Submitted: 08/09/08
We loved our week at Windsong Villa! Every room is spacious and extremely well equipped -- with everything you need and more! The view from the front porch is spectacular, and right across the street Mangel Halto offers some of the best snorkelling on the island. The central breezeway through the house is wonderful -- even on a hot day in August, the house is comfortable. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, and we enjoyed the pool and gazebo every day. Our only regret is that we couldn't stay longer!
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/01/08
Review Submitted: 08/05/08
This was our first time to Aruba. Thanks for such a beautiful house and guest house. Everything was so perfect from the villas to the ocean view. Both interior and exterior were so tidy and clean, it's unbelievable. You also have a very good property manager, Juan, taking care of your property and your guests. Soaking in the swimming pool and the backyard whirlpool is another way to relax after a hardworking day. The backyard hut is also a perfect place for devotion or bible study. After all thanks for everything. PTL.
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/01/08
Review Submitted: 06/23/08
Wow! What a wonderful vacation. The Brown's house is absolutely wonderful, is equipped with everything you need and has the most beautiful view! Waking up everyday and looking out the kitchen window overlooking the ocean was just fantastic. This is our third trip to Aruba and we prefer not to stay in the large Hotels as we love the intimacy and flexibility a house rental provides. The Brown's house is highly recommended; it is recently renovated (beautifully) and has a wonderful location. You can't go wrong, Juan meets you at the airport and drives you to the property, provides the lay of the land is always available to answer any questions. Thanks Mike and Lois, we will be back
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 04/24/08
Review Submitted: 04/24/08
From our guest bookWe simply loved our time there and met many wonderful people. Juan is a true "steward" and so kind. You've got a great property manager. Your guest house was perfect, the weather was perfect and the ocean was my playground everyday. I snorkelled till I looked like a prune and loved every second. Your place (guest cottage) was just perfect for us to enjoy our 25th anniversary. V&K Quebec, CanadaHello Lois and Mike, now that we are home again we are reflecting back on the wonderful time we had staying at your home. We so enjoyed it! You have done a beautiful job remodeling and made it so comfortable. We loved watching the sunsets across the street and meeting the neighbours. You have a wonderful home and a great location. We would surely like to come back and rent from you again.A & H British Columbia, Canada Wow what a great place! We had a very fun time exploring and playing in the Aruba sun. Thanks for the diving course Mike. I loved it and can’t wait to dive again.G & K Ontario, CanadaA small piece of paradise, your lovely home. R & J British Columbia, Canada This is a great place. We enjoyed it very much. G & I Alberta, CanadaThank you so much for the use of your beautiful cottage. It is well appointed. We enjoyed our meals outside in front overlooking the beautiful gardens and inviting swimming pool.The time Steve and Mike spent reviewing diving was certainly the highlight!I enjoyed lying by the pool with my camera and book. We look forward to many visits to this ‘happy island’.D & S Maryland, USAThe cottage is lovely and we enjoyed staying there. It is very well appointed and had much more than we needed.B & T Alberta, Canada
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Guest: @lmckbrown@gmail.com
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Date of Stay: 04/01/08
Review Submitted: 04/23/08
From our guest book We simply loved our time there and met many wonderful people. Juan is a true "steward" and so kind. You've got a great property manager. Your guest house was perfect, the weather was perfect and the ocean was my playground everyday. I snorkelled till I looked like a prune and loved every second. Your place (guest cottage) was just perfect for us to enjoy our 25th anniversary. V&K Quebec, Canada Hello Lois and Mike, now that we are home again we are reflecting back on the wonderful time we had staying at your home. We so enjoyed it! You have done a beautiful job remodeling and made it so comfortable. We loved watching the sunsets across the street and meeting the neighbours. You have a wonderful home and a great location. We would surely like to come back and rent from you again. A & H British Columbia, Canada Wow what a great place! We had a very fun time exploring and playing in the Aruba sun. Thanks for the diving course Mike. I loved it and can’t wait to dive again. G & K Ontario, Canada A small piece of paradise, your lovely home. R & J British Columbia, Canada This is a great place. We enjoyed it very much. G & I Alberta, Canada Thank you so much for the use of your beautiful cottage. It is well appointed. We enjoyed our meals outside in front overlooking the beautiful gardens and inviting swimming pool. The time Steve and Mike spent reviewing diving was certainly the highlight! I enjoyed lying by the pool with my camera and book. We look forward to many visits to this ‘happy island’. D & S Maryland, USA The cottage is lovely and we enjoyed staying there. It is very well appointed and had much more than we needed. B & T Alberta, Canada
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