Reviews for Atenas Vacation Rental - VRBO 206308 - 2 BR Alajuela House in Costa Rica, Your Tropical Haven Away from Home W/ Pool & Wi-Fi

Gracious Oasis

Guest Katie
Date of stay 05/17/13
Review Submitted 05/23/13

I can't even begin to describe what a wonderful experience we had while staying at Casa de Megumi. We arrived eary due to a bad experience at another hotel. We were so happy she had availability for us. The Orchid Room is perfect for a couple with everything you need. The grounds are beautiful with all the fruit trees and flowers. We had family staying at Casa Latana which is very nice as well. Hisano made us feel so at home during our stay and like a part of her family. She knew great places to eat, and we all went out to dinner two nights. We can't wait to come back and visit Hisano and her family again!

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

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A Month Enjoying a Beautiful Secure Casa and Estate

Guest Time Travelers
Date of stay 04/02/13
Review Submitted 05/06/13

My husband and I wish to thank Hisano and her family for their outstanding hospitality during our stay in Casa de Lantana this April, 2013. We are thankful we chose to stay here for our first trip to Costa Rica because Hisano and her family provided us a safe, clean, well-maintained, comfortable home within their lovely estate as a base to relax in perfect weather and explore Costa Rica. They generously provided us valuable verbal and written information regarding transportation, banking, shopping, dining, sightseeing, local activities and festivals and answered all our questions. Shortly after our arrival Hisano took us to tour Atenas. Someone was always available if we needed anything. It was comforting to know that we were not alone navigating a new country because we had a generous host family to mentor us. We also took advantage of the convenience of purchasing some tasty dinners from the menu items of local cuisine offered for delivery on weekdays. Casa de Lantana is within the gates of Hisano's family's beautiful estate with lovely warm-water swimming pool and lush tropical foliage and landscaping. We especially enjoyed our large covered patio with a view of tropical trees, plants, flowers, mountains, birds, hummingbirds, butterflies, lizards, and squirrels. We fell in love with their two sweet dogs. During late April we were able to enjoy avocadoes and limes from the trees next to our patio. The bus stop for the Atenas bus is just a few steps from the nearby front gate. We often took the 9:30 AM bus to Atenas where we enjoyed a nice breakfast at one of the restaurants. Our favorite was Antano's but there are several good restaurants. We enjoyed a stroll around the town and then shopped for groceries. On Friday there is a busy Farmer's Market. Go before 11:00 AM to buy wonderful bread. After grocery shopping we would take a taxi back to the Casa. One day we took a bus from Atenas to Alejuela where we visited the town square, the church, the Juan Santamaria plaza, park, statues, & Museum facing the town square and McDonald's. We enjoyed the following tours: Volcan Poas National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Crocodile Man The Original boat ride on the Tarcoles River, Los Suenos Resort, The Rainforest Tramway near Jaco. Hisano is a tireless, dedicated and caring hospitality professional. We were treated as a blessing during our trip planning stage and from the moment we arrived and we received many blessings during our stay.

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

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Henny en Trix Rietveld NRW Germany

Guest Henny en Trix
Date of stay 12/28/12
Review Submitted 03/24/13

Dear Hisano, We enyoined our stay with you very much.And we will nerver forgot our stay with you. Everything was perfect . The Orchid room, swimmingpoool en eating . We do think a lot of the time we spent In Costa Rica.Espacially with you in Rio Grande.Nothing was too much for you. I miss John and Coco the lovely dogs. I wish you very well. Greetz Trix and Henny Borken-Burlo, Germany

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Thank you so much for our perfect stay!!

Guest Kim
Date of stay 12/27/12
Review Submitted 03/31/13

I started looking for a place to stay for a month in the neighbourhood of Atenas and came across this beautiful property. When I read al the reviews I was sold. So we booked at Hisano and her lovely family for a month. Me and my husband, our twins of 2 and my mom with her husband. We had a great time and Hisano was the best host! The property is very Central. Only 10/15 minutes by car from Atenas. We also loved the beautiful pool and its stunning views. The house we stayed at (Casa de Lantana) was very clean and with the two bedrooms perfect for my family. My mom and her husband stayed at the Orchid Room. So we each had our privacy, but also the joy of each others company. Hisano as a host and as a person we grew to love as well as her beautiful mom, daughter and son. And of cours there 2 dogs! In a view words, we felt at home and didn't want to leave. We hope to maybe see you again Hisano and family!!

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

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Great hostess and proerty

Guest Principal
Date of stay 09/26/12
Review Submitted 10/07/12

As great as Casa de Megumi is so is Hisano. I was excited to stay here as I had scouted the location for my last night in Costa Rica carefully. It lived up to my hopes, but even more so because Hisano is a terrific engaging hospitality oriented person. My room was spotless and well appointed (beyond what I needed). I found it the perfect RandR location after a busy week in Costa Rica. Dinner was delicious as well. I highly recommend a stay with Hisano.

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Owner response: Dear Principal, Thank you so much for staying at our guest unit. We certainly enjoyed & appreciated your stay, in particular, having your advice for my son's future education, as he will be moving on to higher education soon. Your advise gave my son more options and hopes, as he realized that your advice was from your vast experience as an educator. Meeting wonderful people like you is the very reason why we keep doing this business. We are committed to keep improving our services and quality. Thank you once again for sharing your insights. Hisano

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Our return to Casa de Megumi

Guest Eric and Kim
Date of stay 08/31/12
Review Submitted 09/08/12

We knew as soon as we decided we'd return to Costa Rica on vacation that we would also return to Casa de Megumi. Two and a half years we spent several wonderful days at this Atenas get-away. This time around, it was like revisiting good friends. Such a treat!

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

Owner response: Dear Eric and the family. We are so happy to have you back here and it was like having our own family members coming home. I was so thrilled to eat the food your children and our son cooked for us adults, which motivated my son to bake more often now. Hope to see you again in the near future. Hisano

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Wonderful Jem in the Heart of Costa Rica

Guest kzinn
Date of stay 07/01/12
Review Submitted 08/07/12

My 3 year old daughter and I stayed at the lovely Casa Megumi for five weeks this summer. The Casa was the perfect size, clean and well appointed with all you need for a long term stay. The bus stop across the street makes getting to and from town very easy. Hisano, the owner, is a real treasure and both my daughter and I felt welcomed and safe in her care. I highly recommend this property. Thank you for a wonderful time Hisano!

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Dear Kassia, Thank you for staying at Casa de Magumi VR, your wonderful company and interesting conversations with you, your daughter, your husband, and your parents, and the beautiful orchid you gave us, which is placed in my kitchen so I can see it everyday and we think of and talk about you. My mother still talks about your daughter and her impeccable memory about the chocolate in that special box in her room. We miss you all and hope to see you again next summer. Hisano and the family.

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Our stay at Casa Megumi

Guest pops
Date of stay 04/05/12
Review Submitted 05/14/12

Overall our stay was very nice. Hisano was the most gracious hostess. We stayed in the Orchid Room for one week. The facility was as pictured. Very clean and nice looking. Driving directions were easy to follow. The owner was very helpful activity information. Hisano helped us set up a trip to Poas Volcano and Doka Estates. This worked out well. We recommend Poas, not so Doka. Hisano and her mother, Yoshi, were a pleasure each and every day. Recommend this as a base camp for this area. But, be aware the autopista is nearby which creates an urban feeling as far as traffic noise.

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

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Staying with Hisano in her lovely home

Guest Christine D.
Date of stay 03/08/12
Review Submitted 03/23/12

We stayed in the apartment over the pool. It has a lovely veranda where we read, played scrabble and had our morning coffee. The property is very close to the new Highway 27 and is only an hour to Jaco Beach. We also visited other small towns in the area. Hisano is lots of fun and a good guide to getting around. I recommend this location as a central base for exploring the San Jose area and the Jaco beach area.

Recommended for: Age 55+, sightseeing.

Owner response: Dear Christine, Thank you so much for staying at our Orchid Room. We enjoyed talking with you about your trips, the kind of things you are interested in, and getting to know you while eating dinner together. I hope you and your husband enjoyed staying in our property, town of Atenas, and nearby towns and convenient trips to San Jose, Escazu, beaches, etc. Hope to see you again in your next trip! Hisano

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Vacation in Paradise

Guest Nancy
Date of stay 03/01/12
Review Submitted 03/15/12

My friend and I just returned from a week at Casa de Megumi. We weren't sure what to expect but when we arrived, it was better than we had imagined. My casita, The Orchid Room, was wonderful. Very, very clean and spacious with new appliances in the kitchen and a large, modern bathroom. Even a sitting area with TV, large walk-in closet and a dinette. It faced the lovely swimming pool and there is a nice table and rocking chairs on the porch. Hisano Bell, the owner, made arrangements for a taxi to pick us up at the airport. The driver stopped by a grocery store so we could stock up on supplies before we got to the casitas. Hisano also made arrangements for tours such as to a near-by volcano, beach, coffee plantation and rain forest., We were very impressed with Hisano's knowledge of the area and her helpfulness. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone wanting to sample a taste of beautiful Costa Rica.

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

Owner response: Dear Nancy, Thank you so much for your stay at our place. We enjoyed having you and your friend here and getting to know you. And, thank you for sending us those pictures. Your elegant, graceful, yet lively presence enchanted us all. We hope to see you back again in the future. Hisano

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A truly blessed experience

Guest Sparky
Date of stay 01/07/12
Review Submitted 04/17/12

My husband and I stayed for three months at Casa Lantana. It was a delightful experience to be pampered by our wonderful hostess, Hisano Bell. From the very first day when Hisano took us to Atenas to purchase groceries to the last day when we tearfully said goodbye, we could not have had a more wonderful person than Hisano to see to our every need. The property is clean, well-kept, and gorgeous with flowers everywhere. I enjoyed my morning coffee on the patio each day with birds singing, and usually a short nap each afternoon in the hammock. Hisano helped us arrange trips to the beach, volcanos, coffee farms and interesting villages. She prepared wonderful meals to celebrate my husband's birthday and visiting friend's birthdays. We were blessed to spend our "winter" in such a lovely place with the perfect hostess.

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

Owner response: Dear Starley and Beauford, It was so wonderful to have gotten to know you both and your friends. We enjoyed your company very much and how wonderful it is to be able to celebrate our birthdays in such a delightful way! You all have shared with us many blessings, such as knitting face towel (yes, we love it), about educational matters, writing, etc. I will make sure that your gifts to local schools will be handed appropriately. Thank you and hope to see you again here soon!

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CO family escapes the cold

Guest CO family
Date of stay 12/20/11
Review Submitted 01/07/12

Our family stayed at Casa de Lantana in December, 2011, when we made a last-minute trip to Costa Rica to escape the winter snow. We enjoyed ourselves so much that we kept adding days to our stay. The grounds were beautiful, with mandarin orange trees, coconuts, hummingbirds, and colorful flowers. The house was equipped with a comfortable hammock, a full kitchen, WiFi, and plush towels, so we had everything we needed. Our kids had the best time playing games and splashing in the pool with Hisano's son, whom they adopted as an older brother. They also spent part of every day feeding and "training" the sweet and friendly dogs, JonJon and Coco. Hisano was a fabulous host, helping us with shopping and transportation and welcoming us into her home to share a meal with her family. What could be better?

Owner response: Dear Lissa and the family, Thank you so much for your staying at our casa and your wonderful review. We enjoyed having you very much, and I felt like a mother of young children again! What a wonderful feeling, very rejuvinating! Oh, JonJon and CoCo missed you (and your food) so much and did not eat the dog food we gave them for a few days after your departure. We could not believe that. We hope that you will be back again during the Christmas time this year so your daughter can be the MC for the gift exchange again at our Christmas party with family and friends. Or during the summer vacation so they can go to our local schools for Spanish? Hisano

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An exciting, and restful 10-days: I'm letting friends & colleagues know!

Guest Lor
Date of stay 12/18/11
Review Submitted 01/24/12

Well, this was an exciting, and restful 10-days. I'm letting all my friends and colleagues know about that awesome place: coming to visit is a must. First of all, the listing description was accurate regarding the location; and the photos reflect the rental’s appearance and amenities. The property top-notch, and well-maintained--a true tropical paradise--and the owner really goes the extra mile+++ to make the stay comfortable--from offering that a trusted taxi cab pick up guests at the airport, making us feel safe, from the start; to recommending nearby activities, attractions and restaurants, which are conveniently located, and easily accessible, even without a car. The stay was thoroughly enjoyable, including the view, and the refreshing swimming pool. Also, being invited to a Xmas party social, which the owner organized, along with the exchange of small, heart-warming gifts, made that holiday special. The climate is perfect, the property's flowers are blooming, the scenery is too beautiful for words. The biggest surprise was seeing "Tucans" (colorful, native Costa Rica birds), right there, on the property; not to forget the stunning sunsets, just outside of the guest room. Thank you to the owner for extending such stupendous welcome; taking care of every detail; and making the trip a success. ML :=)

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

Owner response: Dear MLM, Thank you so much for staying at our place! We are so happy that you could have much needed rest, being pampered by local massage therapist, getting to know other guests, and being in touch with nature: birdwatching, working in the gardens, relaxing at the poolside, and lying in the hammock reading and napping. These are the kind of things we neglect in our day-to-day lives filled with work, chores, and all sorts of obligations. I am so glad that you dared to take the time to really pamper your body and soul. Looking forward to seeing you here again soon!

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Our home away from home.

Guest Bryan
Date of stay 11/05/11
Review Submitted 12/12/11

We spent 3 fantastic weeks as Hisano's guests and were never treated better. Hisano was an invaluable source of information and provided us with wonderful contacts in regards to taxis, sightseeing, real estate and food. Her knowledge of Spanish came in quite handy as ours was neglible to begin with, then only passable by the time we left. The property is clean and a true paradise. Everything was as advertised and the only thing we were disappointed with was having to go home. We came to feel like we were part of the family and were privileged and honored to be able to spend time visiting with her wonderful mother. It was a treat to pick fresh fruit from the trees on the property and to relax by the pool. The nearby town of Atenas was easy to get to by bus, and was a very pleasant place to shop, go for coffee at Kay's or just wander about. We feel that we have made some true friends while visiting and we are very much looking forward to returning as soon as possible to spend time with some of the most wonderful people you could hope to meet. We would recommend this property to first time visitors to Costa Rica.

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

Owner response: Dear Bryan, yes, we also enjoyed your visit here and now we are looking at the Christmas tree you decorated for our property, which was beautifully done and our other guests are enjoying that beauty now. They are also from Canada! We also felt that you are like our family. Our dogs also miss you, the time you played with them (and the food they got, too). I hope to see you again during the next snow season, and we can have a Christmas Party without snow here!

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Exceeded Expectations

Guest Lisa
Date of stay 08/15/11
Review Submitted 09/25/11

My husband and I rented Casa de Lantana on Hisano's property from mid-August to mid-September 2011. Everything about our stay exceeded expectations. The house was impeccably clean, had many recent upgrades and was well-equipped. The grounds were immaculate, a lovely space to look out on from the large, covered patio. The patio was not prominent in the photos on the site, but was an ideal spot to sit and enjoy the outdoors, even during the rain. Most importantly, however, it was Hisano's personalized care and attention that made our stay. She went out of her way to help orient us, offering much more than advice, but honest friendship as well. Everything about Casa de Megumi merits the highest recommendation.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, sightseeing.

Owner response: Dear Lisa, Thank you so much for choosing our casa. We all enjoyed you and your husband and appreciate so much for your knowledge of modern technologies and location-independent ways of living you shared with us! How wonderful and free it would be to live like that! It is one of the pleasures we get from doing this business: to meet and get to know wonderful people like you. And, we are so grateful for your friend, who stayed at our place and referred our place to you. We look forward to having you again during your next trip. Hisano

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Orchid Room at Casa Megumi

Guest Vicki and Howard
Date of stay 05/10/11
Review Submitted 05/26/11

Since our return to Arizona I have not read other reviews as I only wanted to be influenced by my (and husband's) feelings. Our stay with Hisano, her friendly and helpful son, and delightful mother was wonderful. This was our first trip to Costa Rica and had no specific plans. We relied on Hisano for information regarding directions, sights to see, money conversion, bus schedules, in fact, everything! She was a treasure trove of knowledge and assistance (even lent me a pair of her long pants that I needed). We could have not asked for a more gracious hostess in a an absolutely beautiful setting. I would recommend here place without reservation especially for the first time traveler to Costa Rica. Pura Vida!

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

Owner response: Dear Vicki and Howard, It was so wonderful to have you both. How adventurous: zip line, Tarzan line, walking-bridge, beaches, nature walk, feeling the ocean breeze at Tambor, driving hours even at night in curvy Costa Rican mountain roads, driving through creeks, and all other things. You are inspirational to all other guests! I can hardly wait to hear from you next time, telling us that you have done white-water rafting and para-sailing, etc.! Hisano

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A personal touch

Guest Ken
Date of stay 04/17/11
Review Submitted 06/06/11

My wife and I stayed in Casa de Lantana for five days in March, 2011, then toured by car for nine days and returned to Casa de Lantana for another five days. We wanted to get a mix of the local culture and the tourist attractions. Hisano was helpful in every way. She arranged for a taxi driver to pick us up at the airport when we arrived and then to stop at a super market on the way to Casa de Megumi so we could pick up a few things. When we were ready to rent a car, she had the car delivered to us, and later picked up, with no delivery fee to us from the rental company. She also drove us around Atenas our first afternoon, explained how to use the local bus system, and helped us plan one-day excursions to a coffee plantation, an orchid nursery, the beach, etc. We also had the option of having home-cooked meals, local cuisine, delivered from nearby, which was a nice convenience on occasion. We found our visit very relaxing and enjoyable. As a special treat, Hisano prepared a Japanese meal for us and other guests one evening. The weather was very pleasant while we were at Casa de Megumi. We hope to return in the future and recommend it highly.

Recommended for: Age 55+

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Charm in the Mountains

Guest Sally
Date of stay 03/22/11
Review Submitted 04/04/11

Casa de Megumi lived up to the VRBO description and photos. The owner is very hospitable, approachable and friendly, and more than willing to spend time answering questions and making suggestions. On my first day, she drove me into town and pointed out stores, restaurants, the post office and banks. On my last night she invited me for an authentic Japanese meal with her family. She's very personable and a bundle of energy. The property is well-maintained and clean with beautiful tropical foliage, and the nice swimming pool is a special treat. The Orchid suite is fully furnished for in-home cooking and dining, and large enough for a couple to be very comfortable. Bus service into town several time a day makes it possible to be without a car. I enjoyed my time and would recommend Casa de Megumi to others. I loved Antano's restaurant in Atenas.

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

Owner response: Dear Sally, thank you for staying with us. We really enjoyed your presence and friendly conversations. This year, our garden plants and flowers have been happy with occasional rain already unlike ordinary years. Yes, Restaurant Antano is quite popular because of its beautiful ambiance and friendly staff and they told me the other day that they would move to a more convenient location in Central Atenas by the end of this month, a lot closer to the central park. I hope you will come back again so you can check out their new location. Until then, Manager, Hisano

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You will fall in love with Hisano her adorable family and Casa de Megumi!

Guest Rafiji
Date of stay 02/23/11
Review Submitted 03/07/11

After reading the amazing reviews garnered by Casa de Megumi my family and I attempted to book into the Casa de Lantana, the two bedroom house located on the property. Unfortunately due to it's fantastic hospitality, rooms and service, Cassa de Megumi was completely booked. What happened next for me was truly amazing and I will never forget my experience with Hisano her family and Cassa de Megumi. Although Cassa de Megumi was completely booked Hisano went out of her way to help me. I never asked her she just offered. She found my Mom, Dad and I an amazing place to stay at a wonderful price. Once we arrived and settled in Hisano and her adorable Mom came for tea. She brought us maps and much needed advice on tours that myself and my two senior parents could enjoy together. She set up Skype for me as I did not have a cell phone, she wrote down how to ask for a taxi in Spanish and called the cab company and explained who I was and how they could find me when I called. She drove us down town and drove around numerous times showing us where to find restaurants, grocery stores, drug stores, emergency facility's etc. She arranged the most wonderful tour for us and we had an amazing time. She invited us over for a fantastic lunch and we just fell in love with Hisano and her adorable family. We got to see Cassa de Mugumi and were amazed at how wonderful it is and the extraordinary value it offers. We did not get to stay with Hisano this time but I have learned my lesson and will book many months in advance the next time I am going to holiday in Costa Rica, probably even a year in advance to make sure I get my reservation. Hisano say's that when you stay at Cassa de Megumi you will be treated as a blessing well I didn't even get to stay there but I was still treated like a blessing. Hisano is a lovely sole who truly cares about people. I was truly blessed to meet her and her family. I highly recommend Casa de Megumi.

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

Owner response: Dear Rafiji, Thank you for your kind words and it really was a blessing to have met all of you here in Atenas. I am so happy that you enjoyed your vacation in Atenas and in Costa Rica. It is my pleasure to meet wonderful people through my vacation rental business, like you and your parents. I really hope that you will be able to stay here next time, so I can show you all other things you may be interested in doing. Now, in our garden, mangos and bananas are maturing on the trees in the blue sky! Hisano, Manager, Casa de Megumi VR

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Casa de Lantana

Guest Winnipeg101
Date of stay 01/18/11
Review Submitted 04/01/11

My husband, Randy, and I enjoyed our stay very much - the casa was very clean & well maintained. Hisano and her family (including JonJon and Coco, the dogs) were very kind, helpful & friendly. At the end of our four week stay, we left feeling like a part of the family. The property is about 10 - 12 km from the bustling village of Atenas but local bus and taxi service is cheap and reliable. We made the trip to Atenas 3 - 4 times a week for groceries, restaurants, etc - we found everything we needed in the shops in this lovely little village. We did not do a lot of local sightseeing other than Atenas (which has a great farmers market Friday mornings) but thoroughly enjoyed relaxing and reading on our large patio or down by the pool and then dipping into the cool clear waters during the afternoon heat. I would definitely recommend this property to family and friends.

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

Owner response: Dear Winnipeg101, Yes, we also feel that you were like our family; and our dogs miss you and your treats very much. After completing the stone walls alongside the drive way, we started making back garden walls to enable more flowery type of plants. Although our calendar is booked pretty well early next year, we certainly hope you can come to visit us again. Until then, please take care. Hisano, Manager

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The best place and people

Guest momoka
Date of stay 12/24/10
Review Submitted 02/05/11

My 10-year old son and I stayed at Casa de Megumi for 12days during the last Christmas to New Year holiday season. When we arrived by the taxi arranged by the owner for us, we received such a warm and exciting welcome by the owner Hisano, her family and many of their friends who were there for the Christmas Eve party! It was like coming back to sweet home, as many of them are smiling, laughing, talking, singing, eating, and having fun, which must have been the good Costa Rican way: natural yet beautiful smiles and laughter from their hearts. I, first timer in Costa Rica, started off my adventure by taking a local bus to Atenas on my own and went to the town market, as was suggested by the owner, even though I was a bit nervous. The bus driver, a very kind, attentive, handsome man, remembered where I was going to get off on my return home! I had a massage by a local certified massage therapist within walking distance, while looking at pretty flowers, plants, trees, horses, chickens; one of great joys of life, a healing touch of hands and bird’s chirping at the same time. For excitement-seeking adventures, we had a 12-line Canopy tour (zip line) which was my son's favorite. Another was that we became very industrious, most fascinated students learning all about coffee: its history, growing, mechanical and manufacturing, and roasting processes from tree to beans to a cup of coffee we drink. The amazing thing is they do all that without electricity, except grinding the roasted beans. Another joy was soaking our stressed-out bodies in hot-spring tubs in different temperatures, which was only 2-hours away from the casa, an easy yet relaxing day-trip excursion. I felt I could stay there forever as I could feel the warm mineral water was healing my entire body and soul. I highly recommend any travelers to stay at Casa de Megumi, where you will be welcomed and you can have different day trips, whether all-the above mentioned adventures, hiking, horse-back riding, feeding wild alligators, going to San Jose, various kinds of gardens, beaches, or simply relaxing and even working using their complimentary WiFi, which I did 50% of the time. A fabulous place to relax, have fun and work, even with children!

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.

Owner response: Dear Momoka, It was such a pleasure having you and your son here with us. We really enjoyed talking and doing things with you. Now, the rain is gone and the sky is blue all the time. Birds chirping and flowers blossoming, while you are still with snow? I hope to see you again next year, possibly during the summer vacation of your son! from Hisano Bell and the family and friends in Atenas, Costa Rica

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The Pure Life at Casa de Megumi

Guest Michael
Date of stay 12/02/10
Review Submitted 12/21/10

As they say in Costa Rica, La Pura Vida, "the pure life". This is reflecting in our minds as we are sitting here in our home in Washington State, smiling, reviewing our two weeks in Hisano's peaceful paradise in Atenas, Costa Rica. When we arrived at Hisano's, we were greeted with a welcome feeling, as if we had just returned home from a long journey and had been missed. Hisano made sure we were picked up at the airport, helped us with our touring ideas, provided free WiFi for communicating with our family, assisted us with our rental car and greeted us on a daily basis with her charming smile and conversation. The central location of Atenas is very convenient for traveling to other destinations within the country and is nestled within a very relaxed community of friendly people. Our two weeks at Hisano's were wonderful needless to say and we would highly recommend Casa de Megumi Vacation Rentals to anyone visiting Costa Rica. We will be returning and look forward to visiting with Hisano and her family once again.

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

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It was truly a blessing to be at Casa de Megumi

Guest Gosia
Date of stay 11/18/10
Review Submitted 03/24/11

Check out my entire article and review on: http://www.stewardshipreport.com/index.php/single-mom-traveling-central-valley-costa-rica.html But here is what I said about Casa de Megumi: After many dedicated nights of research, I found a two bedroom house on www.vrbo.com, which is a comprehensive site for vacation rentals all over the world. In my opinion, when staying for longer periods of time and traveling with children, a home type of environment is the best option. The property where we rented our house is Japanese owned and is called ‘Casa de Megumi.’ In Spanish and Japanese, it means ‘House of Blessing’. ‘Casa’ means house in Spanish and ‘megumi’ means blessing in Japanese. Finding a Japanese run vacation rental in Costa Rica was a great coincidence for me because of my recent Japanese-oriented past. I lived in Japan for a year and a half, was pregnant in Japan for five months, and it was the last place I traveled to before going to Costa Rica. Since I have a profound fascination with all things Japanese, Casa de Megumi was automatically kindred to me. Moreover, once I got to know the earnestly helpful owner of the property, Hisano Bell, a Japanese woman from Yokohama, I knew in my gut that Casa de Megumi was the right place for us to start our Costa Rica adventure. Hisano became like a travel guardian-angel for us in the Central Valley. Even before we arrived to Costa Rica, Hisano and I were in constant contact. She had all sorts of provisions made for us, like getting our groceries before we landed. When I sent Hisano my gorcery list, I forgot to put coffee on the list but Hisano provides local Costa Rican coffee for her guests; I did not even have to worry about that. On the evening we arrived, we enjoyed a traditional Tico meal that Hisano arranged for us with the cook at Casa de Megumi. Hisano’s thoughtfulness was endless. She would even drive us into town occasionally and offer knowledgeable travel tips, like where to exchange money for the best rate. That is what I call Japanese service and hospitality. The Japanese people pride themselves on how well they serve others. When I was living in Japan, I learned a lot about providing sincere quality services to my clients, students and anyone I chose to help, paid or not. These same qualities of good service that I observed in Japan were the same qualities that Hisano shared with us. The coincidence of Casa de Megumi was a true blessing.

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.

Owner response: Dear Gosia, we still talk about you and your daughter and your relationship with our dog JonJon! It was such a blessing to have you and your baby here, as we had some shared experiences about Japan and its culture, while at the same time both of us were interested in this beautiful country Costa Rica. As a mother myself, I am very impressed by your adventurous spirit to travel alone with your daughter, in a very graceful manner with lots of smiles, tenderness and love for all of us. I am so happy to learn that we played some parts in your adventure and joy in life here. Hisano

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Outstanding!

Guest Great location!
Date of stay 11/06/10
Review Submitted 11/23/10

My husband and I stayed for 7 days in the Orchid room at Casa de Megumi and the experience was wonderful. Hisano is very knowledgeable and was very helpful in all areas of our travel and our stay in Costa Rica. Her property is located in the Central Highlands of the country which makes it a desirable location for traveling on day trips throughout Costa Rica. I would highly recommend the Orchid room for one or 2 people. She also has a house on the property which accommodates more. It is also very nice. Her family is lovely and I always felt secure while staying there. We took a lot of day trips and her property is in an ideal location to do such things and a very peaceful place to end ones day. We loved out visit and will return again to Costa Rica and stay with Hisano.

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.

Owner response: Dear Debbie and Don, It was wonderful meeting and serving you and your husband. It is our joy to meet and get to know wonderful people like you. Hope all is well with you and we can see each other again in the near future. Hisano Bell and family.

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Our home away from home

Guest Gayle
Date of stay 11/01/10
Review Submitted 01/11/11

This was our 2nd year to go to Atenas and stay on this property. This is the first time ever that I can say truly that we had a vacation. The town is wonderful and welcoming as are the Tico people. The stay on the property was even better than home. We stayed both in the house and the Orchid Room and loved them both. What makes it the best is the Bell family that own and live on the property. Never kinder people you'll ever meet. If you want to try CR please call Hisano Bell for the very best acomadations. Hisano, we'll be back next year God willing.. Gayle and Lewis

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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A Virtual Paradise!

Guest Pat
Date of stay 11/01/10
Review Submitted 01/05/11

My first visit out of the USA. And it was an absolute paradise. An old school chum and her husband had been telling me for a year of Costa Rica and how fabulous it was; before inviting me to make a trip with them to see for myself. If you have never been, please make sure when you go that you stay with Hisano Bell and her family. I felt as I'd known them forever. The hospitality is beyond anything you could have experienced elsewhere. We stayed at the two bedroom casa on the property and it was so comfortable, clean and very homey. Hisano has lived there long enough that she is like a walking encyclopedia about her beautiful country. And if you stump her with a question, she'll have an answer for you quickly. She recommended most of the places we visited and seems to have a knack for placing guests in touch with the places that would interest them the most. Most definitely, I would recommend Hisanos' accommodations to anyone. I was sad leaving my doggie behind, but Hisano has a beautiful friendly dog, Jon Jon, that has the run of the property and loves to visit the small casa for possible treats. The tico neighbors were friendly. The property is gated and gives a feeling of safety and security. The grounds are almost an attraction in itself with the beautiful landscaping and gorgeous flowers that attract many fascinating butterflies and birds. It is peaceful, the weather is perfect, the people are the friendliest......a virtual Paradise.

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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Wonderful Week in Costa Rica!

Guest Lyle & Mary
Date of stay 10/23/10
Review Submitted 10/31/10

My husband and I traveled to Costa Rica to celebrate my husband's 50th birthday. It was our first trip to the country and it was made so much easier thanks to Hisano and her family. Even before we arrived Hisano had helped me make the arrangements for the car with GPS and a free cell phone. Upon our arrival, after a long day of traveling she also arranged a home-cooked, traditional Costa Rican meal for our dinner. The 2 bedroom "casita" more than met our needs and we especially like having a full kitchen as we like to prepare many of our own meals when we travel. Also, there was a large covered patio. This was fantastic and it was where we spent much of our time sipping coffee in the morning or enjoying the breeze and mountain views with some fresh fruit. Everything was extremely clean, well kept and bright. The entire Bell family made us feel welcome and they attended to our needs. We felt more like family friends than anonymous renters. My husband made a quick friend to the family dog JonJon who became a familair and friendly daily visitor to our casita. For my husband's actual birthday Hisano (and family) prepared an authentic Japanese meal that was the "food highlight"of the week. The houses are outside of Atenas which was a great jumping off point to travel throughout the country. Once again, Hisano assisted us in calling ahead to make reservations for us and even by hand drawing maps to be sure we got to our destination OK! All in all we enjopyed our stay very much and I am certain that we could not have been treated better by our gracious hosts. We will definitely return again and this time we'll stay longer than a week. It was simply too short a time to see all that Costa Rica has to offer.

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

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First, but not last time to Atenas

Guest Tacomama
Date of stay 09/16/10
Review Submitted 09/24/10

We went to visit Atenas as a possible retirement location and stayed here. My husband and I were treated like royalty. Hisano is a wonderful hostess and was extremely accomodating and helpful during our stay. We really enjoyed all of the amenities and proximity to Atenas for our trip. We hope it will not be our last visit. We highly recommend the site to anyone wanting to visit the area. You will not have better hosts than Hisano and her family.

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

Owner response: Hi, Tacomama, It was so wonderful having both of you here! We enjoyed talking and getting to know you both and we hope you will come back some more times until your house building is completed. I love doing vacation rentals as we get to know wonderful people like you and your husband. And, we look forward to hearing from you, your family members, and friends who are interested in a possibility of retiring here in Atenas! We will take good care of you all! This is such a wonderful place to be for retirees and peace lovers! Hisano

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Home away from home

Guest Mark
Date of stay 07/08/10
Review Submitted 08/06/10

The house is very comfortable and charming (great bed!), the pool is a very welcome feature, and the area is very beautful. The location is perfect for touring central Costa Rica, everything is quite close, and Atenas has all the amenities to make Casa Lantana your home away from home. But what really sets it apart is Hisano and her family who were so welcoming and helpful. This was my first trip to Costa Rica... I now have a place to come "home" to!

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

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Tranquil with Great Hospitality

Guest HolleyW
Date of stay 05/16/10
Review Submitted 05/28/10

What a wonderful experience staying at Casa de Megumi. Hisano is a wonderful host who makes sure you have EVERYTHING you need to have a good time. This starts at the moment you make a reservation when Hisano handles airport pick-up. And it continues to the moment you depart. We spent many hours on the patio enjoying the views of the mountains in the distance. I took a couple of naps in the hammock. One of our highlights was the catered dinner Hisano arranged from a neighbor. We had two evenings of outstanding Tico food dining on the patio. Our home was very comfortable. The free wifi was welcomed as I had to stay in contact with work. We look forward to visiting Hisano, her Family (including JohnJohn the dog) in the near future!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Great place.

Guest CRvaca
Date of stay 04/18/10
Review Submitted 05/07/10

This is a great place to rent in Atenas-- very close to the new highway to the beach (about an hour) and San Jose (about a half hour). The rates are very reasonable for what you get. They have a lovely pool and the apartment was very clean and had everything we needed. We felt very at home and safe with our 3 year old daughter there. It is a bit of a walk to Atenas, so a car is helpful. Hisano and her family are very friendly and helpful with advice and assistance of all kinds, but leave you to yourself as much as you like as well. She assisted us with a rental car before we got there and was able to give us a full price quote that is what we paid at the end of the trip and had good advice for generally getting around and things to do nearby. We definitely enjoyed our stay and would return.

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

Owner response: Dear Sarah and the family. We enjoyed having you and your lovely family, especially your sweet 3-year old daughter. It was so wonderful that you both spent so much time with your daughter at our pool side and the patio, which is a wonderful way to spend a vacation: much much attention, love, and care to your child! We hope to see you again in your future trips to Costa Rica. Hisano, Ron and the family.

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Guest April Balentine
Date of stay 03/12/10
Review Submitted 03/12/10

Hi Hisano,Ron,Michael,Grandma & Jon Jon! My trip to Casa Megumi and Costa Rica was so wonderful I can't wait to return with my husband this summer! What a beautiful country you have to offer to your guests! The house was so pleasant and the surroundings so beautiful, I only wish I was able to stay for more than one week! Hope to see you in the summer of 2010! Please tell everyone hi, especially my "boyfriend" Jon Jon!! Sincerely, April Balentine

Owner response: Hi, April, We also cannot wait to see you and your husband this summer! Now we have new highway completed and you can go to Escazu in 20 minutes and Jaco Beach in 45 minutes. JonJon is waiting for your return so badly, and he is getting so fat. See you this summer! Hisano, Ron, and the family.

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Casa de Megumi: an excellent choice!

Guest Easy life!
Date of stay 03/01/10
Review Submitted 04/18/10

After a 3 weeks roundtrip through Costa Rica we urgently needed some rest. We found the right address and stayed for five weeks at Casa de Megumi in the Orchidroom. It's a lovely decorated room where we found everything we needed. In front of our room there was a terrace with 2 rocking-chairs overlooking the beautiful swimmingpool and a wonderfull view over the valley. We feel like home especially by the attention we've got from this family. Also the vived dog JonJon was a realy good companion for us. We made long walks with him in the neighbourhood. Thanks Hisano, Ron, Michael, Grandma Yoshii to share this wonderfull time with you in Costa Rica. We are looking forward to see you again! Petra and Jacques

Recommended for: Age 55+, sightseeing.

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Great accomodations with wonderful hosts!

Guest Ode family
Date of stay 02/11/10
Review Submitted 04/03/10

The family that takes care of you here is wonderful! They were very helpful even before we arrived. Hisano arranged for our pick up at the airport, a wonderful meal to be brought in for us one evening and for our rental car to be delivered to their place the morning after we arrived. All extra services she suggested or provided were very reasonably priced and wonderfully appreciated. Safety of our family is always a big consideration for us when selecting a place to stay. Casa De Megumi has lovely grounds, nice courtyards and patios around an inviting pool. The grounds are secure and gated so it feels very restful. The rooms were all very clean. Our 2 teenage children shared one room with 2 twin beds and their own bath. My husband and I shared a queen bed in a nice room that had a full bath and a kitchenette. This arrangement worked very well for us all. We liked to gather in our room, cook some breakfast, get some coffee and our agenda for the day sorted out before heading out amd We enjoyed visiting the corner grocery and making our selections. Atenas is rather centrally located for all of the areas we wanted to visit. We saw a lot in the 5 days we were there. A list places we visited, The Crocodile bridge, Carara National Park, Two Brothers Crocodile Tour by boat, Jaco (Surfing Beach), Poas Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Muy Tranquilo (our favorite touristy gift shop), Chubassco (Best dinning out restaurant), Doka Coffee plantation and Selvatura Park with 14 zip lines and skybridge canopy tours. We strongly recommend using a GPS from the rental agency, that also helped us have a lot less stress and more confidence that we would always be able to find our way home to Casa De Megumi. Costa Rica has lots to offer, we certainly couldn't see everything in one trip. We made good friends with our hosts and enjoyed visiting with them after a days adventure. We visited in February, the weather was pleasant 70-80 degrees, we did find some rain but it was warm. We will definitely have to go back and we are telling all our friends if they go to Costa Rica, a great place to stay is Casa De Megumi.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Dear Kim, Eric and Family. Thank you so much fro staying at our Casa de Megumi Vacation Rentals. We enjoyed having you all here and still remember how all of you enjoyed jumping into the pool. Your energetic travel plan amazed us all and now we recommed all those places you went to our guests. We certainly hope to see you again in your future adventure trips to Costa Rica. And, next time with your mother, too! Hisano & Ron

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Guest Diane L.
Date of stay 02/11/10
Review Submitted 02/11/10

I stayed in the Orchid Room in December 2009. As a single female traveler to Costa Rica for the first time this was a perfect place to stay. Hisano was the ideal host both before and during my stay. She picked me up at the airport and gave me a tour of the local town including a stop at the grocery store on the way to the property. During the week she provided the perfect level of company keeping me from getting lonely but not interrupting my work. The property is beautiful. The wireless internet worked flawlessly allowing me to do all my work out by the pool. The room was terrific - large bathroom and walk-in closet, comfortable bed, and everything you need in the kitchenette. Lots of books on the shelves to keep you entertained by the pool. I would highly recommend staying at this property! Its a relaxing, safe, comfortable, and clean property with excellent hosts.

Owner response: Hi, Diane, So good to hear from you and we all miss seeing you doing Yoga at the pool side. I hope you and your husband had a fabulous trip at the beaches afterwards. Hisano, Ron, and the family.

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Guest Peter and Colleen
Date of stay 02/06/10
Review Submitted 02/06/10

Dear Hisano, Ron, Michael and Grandma, We are back in the cold of Ontario, back at work, but dreaming of Costa Rica. We both miss sitting on the porch in front of your Orchid Casita in the evening, overlooking your pool, having a beverage, chatting and watching the twinkling lights across the valley. That evening view is lovely and relaxing! The daytime view of the mountain ridges is beautiful too, however, the evening view seemed magical. We were honoured to meet your family, such down-to-earth people who enjoy living each moment with respect and wonder,even the puppies, Jon-Jon and Kabuki welcomed us as a part of your family. Peter stayed for 33 days in your Orchid Casita and I joined him for 14 days on our first investigative retirement search trip to Costa Rica. Your Orchid Casita was the perfect spot for our searching, away from the bustle of Atenas, but not too far away, close to the new highway so we could go into Escazu for our appointments or to Jaco Beach to relax. The weather was excellent in the Atenas area, making it pleasant sleeping at night without airconditioning. The Orchid Room was the perfect size for the two of us. Comfy bed, large bathroom, airy kitchette, big closet. Hisano and Ron, thank you for introducing us to Kay's Cafe, an excellent restaurant and expat resource for those of us considering retiring in the area. You helped us widen our network, gain valuable information and make new friends. Hisano, thank you for introducing me to Norma, the massage therapist. She didn't speak a word of English and I didn't speak a word of Spanish, however, those were the best massages I've ever had. Thank you! Please give the puppies pats for us! We miss you all and Costa Rica too. Colleen and Peter

Owner response: Hi, Peter and Colleen, thank you for your great comment with details about our vacation rental unit, Orchid Room. Yes, when we see the night view from the terrace, we think of you two and our puppies miss you so much. Now, they moved back to their old sleeping area in the corridor, instead of right in the front portion of the Orchid Room. Hope to see you again in the near future. Ron, Hisano, Yoshii, Michael and JonJon and Kabuki.

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Guest Roumi R.
Date of stay 02/01/10
Review Submitted 02/01/10

Dear Ron, Hisano and Michael, We enjoyed very much our stay in you casa in Atenas, Costa Rica. We liked the clean, tastefully decorated house, gardens, and the swimming pool. Sunsets were gorgeous! Stars were incredible! But most of all we liked meeting all of you. Our conversations and stay in casa de Megumi will be a nice memory of our visit to Costa Rica. Please give our best to your mom. Atanas and Roumi Radenski

Owner response: Dear Atanas and Roumi, Thank you so much for your wonderful comment and we also enjoyed meeting, talking, and sharing ideas with you both. Please come to visit us again! Till then, Hisano & Ron and family.

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Guest Laura132
Date of stay 01/31/10
Review Submitted 01/31/10

Hisano has created a BEAUTIFUL rental home in Atenas! The climate definitely is the best in the world! My family (of 5) came to visit me (as I am currently living in Costa Rica) and the rental was the perfect jump off point for all of our excursions! :) With Atenas being so nearby, it was perfect for grocery shopping and getting gas! We had the PERFECT Christmas in Costa Rica thanks to the wonderful help of Hisano and her family! We especially enjoyed sharing Christmas dinner with their family and felt very welcome during our weeklong stay! Definitely will recommend this rental to any friends who want to explore Costa Rica! Thanks Hisano! :)

Owner response: Hi, Laura and family. It was so wonderful to have you here and share the dinner on the Christmas day! How wonderful to have gotten to know your family! Please come to visit us again and jump into the pool! Hisano & Ron Bell

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Guest Rick Jones
Date of stay 01/12/10
Review Submitted 01/12/10

My wife and I had a wonderful vacation/househunting trip in Atenas, and staying at the Casa De Lantana was simply fantastic. Hisano and Ron went out of their way to make us comfortable. They were able to provide us with information needed to get around the area. We loved Costa Rica, and when we return we will definitely stay at the Casa de Lantana again. I highly reccomend it to anyone planning a trip to Costa Rica.

Owner response: Hi, Rick and Gina, It was wonderful to have you here and get to know and serve you. See you both during the rainy season! Hisano & Ron

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Guest Greg & Courtney
Date of stay 12/12/09
Review Submitted 12/12/09

Thank you SOOO much for your wonderful hospitality! We are very grateful that you took so much time to help us plan every detail and get the most from our Costa Rica stay. It is such a pleasure to find such genuinely good and giving people as the Bells, who are more than hosts - they're friends. We eagerly look forward to staying at Casa de Megumi on our next trip to Costa Rica, which we hope is sooner rather than later.

Owner response: Hi, Greg, yes, it was wonderful to have known you! I hope to see you both very soon. Ron & Hisano

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Guest Jan & Ray Carter1
Date of stay 08/31/09
Review Submitted 08/31/09

Ron & Hisano, What a very special place to call home for a week in Costa Rica. Beautiful grounds, immaculately clean casa, and wonderful friendships. How neat to just walk outside your door and pick delicious fruit. Nice terrace and cozy hammock to watch and listen to the birds,butterflies,etc.. Look forward to seeing you again in a few months. Tell Ron,Michael and your adorable mother hello

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Guest Anonymous
Date of stay 08/15/09
Review Submitted 08/15/09

Thank you so much for being such a terrific hostess while we were at the Casa. You helped us out with every detail before and during our stay, we truly appreciated it! You made our honeymoon have a terrific start! Thank you so much for everything! Chava and Elizabeth

Owner response: Hello, Chava and Elizabeth! I am so glad to have met you two and learn that you are having a terrific honeymoon! Since you are such a hot couple, even the rainy season has been hiding and our Atenas weather has also been hot. Wishing you a wonderful, loving life ahead. Hisano, Ron and the staff

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Guest Anonymous
Date of stay 08/15/09
Review Submitted 08/15/09

Thank you so much for being such a terrific hostess while we were at the Casa. You helped us out with every detail before and during our stay, we truly appreciated it! You made our honeymoon have a terrific start! Thank you so much for everything! Chava and Elizabeth

Owner response: Hi, Chava and Elizabeth! What honor to have you newly wed couple at our Casa de Lantana! I hope your honeymoon was as hot as the climate was here at our poolside! Hope to see your friends and families here, too! Hisano and Ron Bell

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Guest Jan & Ray Carter
Date of stay 08/10/09
Review Submitted 08/10/09

What a wonderful to stay in beautiful Costa Rica. We stayed in the 2 bedroom Casa which was very relaxing and just like home. We even got to mingle with some of the neighbors. The grounds are beautiful and have delicious fruit,etc. The Bells are truly great and do everything possible to make your trip to Costa Rica something you will never forget. Can't wait to come back in January. See you then! Jan & Ray Carter

Owner response: Hi, Jan and Ray! It really our pleasure having you at Casa de Lantana! Since then, we have worked on the backside garden with flowers and shrubbs using the bamboos from our property, so that next time you are here you get to see it. See you soon! Ron and Hisano Bell

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Guest Doreen and Wayne Hall1
Date of stay 07/11/09
Review Submitted 07/11/09

Our two week stay at Casa de Megumi in April was a trip of a life time. We enjoyed the sights and sounds of Costa Rica, especially the symphony of birds that we awoke to each morning. The pool was refreshing and the location of the casa was perfect for touring the countryside. Thank you Hisano and Ron for making our stay a memorable one.

Owner response: Hi, Doreen and Wayne. We are so happy to hear from you and learn that you really enjoyed the stay. Hope to see you again in the near future. Hisano and Ron Bell, Casa de Megumi VR

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Guest Doreen and Wayne Hall
Date of stay 07/09/09
Review Submitted 07/09/09

Our two week visit at Casa de Megumi was a vacation of a lifetime. We thoroughly enjoyed our surroundings, especially waking every morning to the wonderful tropical sounds. Thanks so much to Hisano and Ron for making our say so memorable.

Owner response: Hi, Doreen and Wayne, We enjoyed having you and other family members of yours here. What fun we all had over dinner and at the pool side! Come again soon! Hisano & Ron Bell

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Guest Maureen N.
Date of stay 06/04/09
Review Submitted 06/04/09

To say two months was enough time to soak up Costa Rica, would be untrue. Although our stay was filled with adventure, there was much we left undone. So we begin again to plan another extended stay for sometime in the near future, and we will definitely stay once again at Casa de Megumi. We rented the two bedroom house which met all of our needs, even allowing us to have visitors from Canada. The pool was so refreshing and the continuously changing flora and fauna was a delight. The mango tree just outside our house provided us with fresh mangoes for the duration of our stay. Hisano and Ron are wonderful hosts, arranging a rental car, providing bus schedules and overnight trip planning, cleaning and laundry services and two delicious authentic Japanese meals. If you are looking to experience Costa Rica and its people, you couldn't pick a nicer location. Thanks Hisano and family for everything. Hope to see you again next year, God willing. The Newmans

Owner response: Dear Bob and Maureen, all of us enjoyed having you here and thanks to your encouragement, my mother started drawing pictures vigorously nowadays. After having you here for 2 months, we now feel like missing our family members. Looking forward to seeing you, your sister and brother-in-law, and daughter next year! Ron, Hisano, Michael, and Yoshii

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Guest Cheryl Wilhelm
Date of stay 03/29/09
Review Submitted 03/29/09

Ron & Hisano, Thank you so much for everything you provided during our stay with you in March, 2009. The house was super clean and had everything we needed. You made us feel right at home and part of the family. It was a pleasure meeting your mother and sharing dinner with you on our last night. We will look forward to our next visit! Cheryl & Walt

Owner response: Dear Cheryl and Walt. It was such a pleasure having and getting to know you here. Thanks to your help with watering, our flowers and grass are getting prettier and greener. Look forward to seeing you again soon. Ron and Hisano

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Guest Roland Rodriguez
Date of stay 03/24/09
Review Submitted 03/24/09

Hisano treated us like family during recent visit and even loaned us her personal cell phone for several days. The house was also very comfortable. I highly recommend Case de Meguni to any one going to Atenas.

Owner response: Dear Roland and Linda, Thank you for staying with us and it was very nice to see you again in Atenas and we are thrilled that you are going to be in town some time from now on. I hope to see you soon again and hope your newly made house will be a wonderful place to be when you are in Atenas.

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Guest Shirley Clark
Date of stay 03/03/09
Review Submitted 03/03/09

Dear Ron and Hisano; Here I am, home again, and thinking what a wonderful month I had staying in the Orchid room. You and Ron were both so kind to me and your Mom is such a sweet lady. already I miss you all. And I thank you sincerely for having that going away dinner for me my last night there then you made me two sandwiches to take on the plane and all that was much appreciated. Next year I hope to return with my friends and we would take the Lantana

Owner response: Hi, Shirley, yes, we miss you too. All of us talk about you, as if you were one of our family members. Welcome to our family! Now, new bananas, avocados and mangos are getting larger. We all wait for your visit again with your friends next time. Now we have Wi-Fi high-speed Internet and provide free international calls. Warmest regards. Hisano Bell

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Vacation Rentals by Owner

Your Tropical Haven Away from Home W/ Pool & Wi-Fi [#206308] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (54)

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An exciting, and restful 10-days: I'm letting friends & colleagues know!

Our home away from home.

Our home away from home.

Exceeded Expectations

Exceeded Expectations

Orchid Room at Casa Megumi

Orchid Room at Casa Megumi

A personal touch

A personal touch

Charm in the Mountains

Charm in the Mountains

You will fall in love with Hisano her adorable family and Casa de Megumi!

You will fall in love with Hisano her adorable family and Casa de Megumi!

Casa de Lantana

Casa de Lantana

The best place and people

The best place and people

The Pure Life at Casa de Megumi

The Pure Life at Casa de Megumi

It was truly a blessing to be at Casa de Megumi

It was truly a blessing to be at Casa de Megumi

Outstanding!

Outstanding!

Our home away from home

Our home away from home

A Virtual Paradise!

A Virtual Paradise!

Wonderful Week in Costa Rica!

Wonderful Week in Costa Rica!

First, but not last time to Atenas

First, but not last time to Atenas

Home away from home

Home away from home

Tranquil with Great Hospitality

Tranquil with Great Hospitality

Great place.

Great place.

Casa de Megumi: an excellent choice!

Casa de Megumi: an excellent choice!

Great accomodations with wonderful hosts!

Great accomodations with wonderful hosts!