Vacation Rentals by Owner

Best Vacation

Guest: Lesley (Houston, TX)
Date of Stay: 03/08/12 Review Submitted: 03/16/12

What a slice of paradise. The pictures here are exactly what you get-- they actually don't even do the house justice. Plenty of room in the house, a gorgeous veranda, and just a few steps to the ocean. This place is about 2.5 miles south of town, which is perfect. You get the best of both worlds-- seclusion on the beach, and an easy ride into town for dinner or sightseeing. Wolfgang, Eldon, and Merda were all great. Very helpful, but they also know when to get out of the way so you can enjoy your vacation. We did a little bit of everything- diving, snorkeling, mainland day trip, and plenty of just laying on the beach with a book. This house would be great for an extended stay-- the kitchen is really nice, and the space is perfect for a longer stay. Wolfgang's dogs were adorable also! We wanted to bring Cookie home with us. Such a great vacation, and a gorgeous place to stay. I would recommend renting a golf cart if you plan on going into town more than a couple of times. We went frequently to look around, shop, and eat, and we were very happy that we had the golf cart. We were so sad to leave on our last day! But we'll definitely be back.

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

Casa Buena Vista, ambergris Caye, Belize

Guest: Golden Girl (Riverview, MI)
Date of Stay: 02/01/12 Review Submitted: 03/08/12

What you see is what you get... And then some. Spotless inside. We stayed a month and it was cleaned about every 4-5 days. Merta (cleaning gal) even did the wash and it was returned to us folded! She was very friendly and was ready to do whatever we needed. Grounds were kept immaculate by Eldon, the grounds keeper. He was always willing to answer all our questions and give advice about the island. He was a gem!!! Owner, Wolfgang, was unbelievably accommodating. Took us on a tour of the city and suggested where we should shop, dine, and other helpful hints. Beach dog "Cookie" was the best dog EVER. He seemed almost human:)! Wanted to take him home. Location was nice and quiet away from the busy city. However close enough to city to go to shop, eat, and explore. We did find it necessary to have a golf cart for the 2-1/2 miles into town especially in the evening. Great tour company within walking distance. They were top notch and invaluable information. We did Hol Chan marine reserve snorkle (twice), zip line/ cave tubing and my husband did deep sea fishing ( twice). He caught lots of fish which we took to a restaurant in town called the Reef and they cooked and served it. Very good!!! I was disturbed by the garbage washed up on the beaches however Eldon kept our beach very clean. Sometimes there was an odor from drying sea grass. I missed not having a pool but that is just a personal preference. My husband loved the fact he could snorkle right in front of our place and see many fish!!! We stayed for the entire month of February, 2012 and it was fabulous. I was afraid a month was going to be too long and I would get home sick... Not the case. I didn't want to leave! I would highly recommend this property. We would definitely go back if we hadn't made a decision to try a different parts of the world each year!

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

Wolfgangs Retreat

Guest: Jack from Spokane (Spokane Wa)
Date of Stay: 01/08/12 Review Submitted: 01/23/12

Without question the best vacation my wife and I have ever been on. We compared it to other vactations we have taken, China, Bahamas, and Hawaii, no question this was the best overall. Wolfgang and crew were very helpful, and the facilities were nothing but first class. We will return and are making plans to rebook this week.

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

Amazing!!!

Guest: TamaraG (Austin)
Date of Stay: 07/23/11 Review Submitted: 08/19/11

This was the most amazing vacation ever!! (I have already reserved a week for next year)!! From the moment we were greeted by Eldon and Wolfgang until the time we left, I felt right at home. The accommodations were exactly like the pictures. We had everything we needed, even to cook some local fish and lobster! Wolfgang will show you the local hot spots and he definitely knows best. A golfcart is a must for at least a few of the days. We HAD to be able to get our fresh juice and veggies (not to mention having access to all of San Pedro)! Because of the beautiful view of some of the most amazing snorkeling waters, the friendly people at Suya Tours (A MUST), Wolfgang and his beautiful accommodations, sweet Eldon, Merta, Affi, And Cookie... We will be back next year!! (I will try not to cry when I leave the next time). Love to you all! Tamara

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

Beautiful location, budget-friendly accomodations!

Guest: Denise M. (Sparta, NJ USA)
Date of Stay: 05/14/11 Review Submitted: 05/29/11

I spent a week at the lovely Casita Buena Vista (May 14-21, 2011). Upon arrival via taxi from the ferry, I was greeted by Eldon, the caretaker, Merta, the housekeeper, and Wolfgang, the host. Also involved in the greetings were Wolfgang's affectionate dogs: Affie and Cookie. After a quick tour of the grounds and Casita, and some time to refresh while my golf cart was delivered, Wolfgang took me on a comprehensive tour of town, pointing out favorite shops and eateries and explaining the general layout of the island. This tour provided a wealth of information and was much appreciated! The Casita is very spacious, comfortable, and well-appointed. Eldon and Merta are delightful. Never a morning went by without Eldon's friendly greeting and inquiry as to my nights rest. The bed is comfortable, the water pressure excellent. There are two nice televisions that I barely watched, as time in the casita was spent corresponding with friends/family thanks to a reliable wifi connection (bring your laptop). I made friends with the people renting out the first floor of the main house, which looked lovely, indeed. We all enjoyed various tours with Suya Tours, three properties down. I had some ants in the kitchen, but it was my own fault for leaving food out. No problems with mosquitos, or other biting insects. Be sure to bring a good quality bug lotion (I used Ultrathon). As a solo female traveller, I felt very relaxed and comfortable on this property, and in this neighborhood. Wolfgang and his staff have a wonderful way of making you feel right at home, like old friends visiting for week. Cookie became my surrogate pet, and accompanied me on many beach walks and golf cart rides into town to pick up groceries. I highly recommend a golf cart, it's a fun and cost-effective way to get around town. Use Carts Belize. And while the Belize Barrier Reef is the star of the show, snorkeling out in front of the property is quite pleasant, too! And the fishing off the dock just steps away was wonderful. I caught 5 snappers one morning, which made for a tasty dinner that night! When visiting, be sure to visit Lazy Croc BBQ, Maria's stand for the best pineapples and juices and banana, Mr. Joe's and Suya Tours (both right down the road), Mannelly's Ice Cream (coconut!), Wine and Vine for imported cheese and meats, and I know I'm missing a bunch of other things. But most of all, give the dogs a scratch behind the ears, and my best regards to Wolfgang and his staff.

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

Paradise in San Pedro

Guest: Nicolas (Austria)
Date of Stay: 03/09/11 Review Submitted: 07/07/11

I spent 10 days at Villa Casa Buena Vista near San Pedro.It is a wonderful House and very nicely furnished. It was very clean, and ready for us, upon our arrival. The beachfront is fabulous. Its very close to "Hol Chan Marine Reserve" and other prime snorkeling and diving sites. We had a perfect vacation on a well maintained and excellent run rental property. 5 Star vacation.

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

Best beach front property south of the town

Guest: Vivek and Amarja (Flower Mound, TX USA)
Date of Stay: 12/24/10 Review Submitted: 12/31/10

Had an excellent 4 night stay at the Casa Buena Vista. Clean, modern, roomy, airy, well furnished, COMPLETE condo! Family loved the place. Wolfgang, the owner, is an excellent host who leaves you to your privacy and yet is always available in case needed. Very responsive and does all he can to provide you all necessary info to make your stay easy and comfortable. His 'town tour' is the most helpful thing as you end up leveraging so much of the info he rattles out. We explored the beach front quite a bit.....best property by far south of San Pedro that we came across. Most properties do not have clean water you can easily get into (lots of see weed). This one practically has a private 'Belizean sea swimming pool'. Very well furnished condo. Fully stocked kitchen including a few spices, sauces, etc. Well stocked bathrooms with NICE warm water. Eldon, the groundskeeper is very helpful and a thorough gentleman. Had the maid come in once to do our laundry (Wolfgang made a special request to have her come in on her day off....NICE!). Recommendations: Definitely rent a Golf Cart. Unless you are really open to a lot of biking, bike rides back/forth to town can be tiring. Walking back and forth along the beach for the same can be tough too. Suya Travels: Recommended by Wolfgang and is the place to go for tours. Very friendly family run business. Say hi to Ilse....she practically runs the place! Joes Restaurant: Ok....nothing special but convenient Maria's Vegetable stand: Wolfgang will take you there....Excellent fresh juice and worth the USD10 Ho- Chan Snorkeling: A MUST DO Blue Iguana: Very nice food (approx. $100 for 4) Caliente: Again....very good food ($875- $90 for 4) Wild Mango: Limited selection BUT what you get is awesome (approx. $100 for 4) Looking for good art/curios: Must visit the Art Gallery inside the Fido Restaurant courtyard A few warnings.....go armed for mosquitoes (especially in the rainy season). 'Off' (insect repellent should do). Also, take baby oil to protect yourself against sand-flies (no-seeums). You are bound to get bit by some. We used this generously and ended up with minimal bites. Wolfgang/Eldon.....thanks for the lovely stay!

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

A wonderful place in Belize

Guest: Cayman Jim (Chicago area)
Date of Stay: 10/21/10 Review Submitted: 10/31/10

Well… I just returned from a week in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize and stayed at Villa Casa Buena Vista about 2 .5 miles south of San Pedro. The villa, owned by Mr. Wolfgang Wind was everything it advertises to be and so much more. The villa is beautiful, very nicely furnished and has all the amenities one would want or need. Upon arrival, the villa was clean, and ready for us. The next morning, our host Wolfgang took us into to town to show us around and gave all kinds of great information on what the best local restaurants, markets and places to go (and avoid…) were. We even got to the local fish market early enough to get some fresh caught lobster tails and snapper to take back to the villa for dinner on the BBQ grill that night. The villa has everything, excellent wi-fi, 100+ channel satellite TV, full kitchen, and very nicely decorated. Eldon, the caretaker and Merta the maid took care of all of our needs and Wolfgang is a very gracious and wonderful host. The beach was excellent, and the shallow areas in front are great for swimming and snorkeling. Eldon even cracked open a fresh coconut from the beach for us to drink the coconut water from. There is a dive shop / tour operator only two properties down called “Suya Tours” that was excellent. Great service and we used them for four dives, a snorkel trip and a trip to the Mayan ruins at Lamanai. Their service was excellent. There is a couple of great places to eat and a local store (small, but has the essentials) within a short walk or golf cart ride. I highly recommend renting a golf cart, and Wolfgang was able to secure a discount for us through a local company. We met some of his neighbors next door and they were very nice to let us use the pool at their condo development one lot over. This was an excellent vacation, and my first time to Belize, and based on the wonderful experience at Villa Casa Buena Vista and the wonderful hospitality of Wolfgang, I will be going back there to stay again. I have traveled all over the Caribbean and do not use hotels, but always rent a villa or condo and this was one of the best experiences I have had.

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

A wonderful place in Belize

Guest: Cayman Jim (Chicago area)
Date of Stay: 10/21/10 Review Submitted: 10/31/10

Well… I just returned from a week in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize and stayed at Villa Casa Buena Vista about 2 .5 miles south of San Pedro. The villa, owned by Mr. Wolfgang Wind was everything it advertises to be and so much more. The villa is beautiful, very nicely furnished and has all the amenities one would want or need. Upon arrival, the villa was clean, and ready for us. The next morning, our host Wolfgang took us into to town to show us around and gave all kinds of great information on what the best local restaurants, markets and places to go (and avoid…) were. We even got to the local fish market early enough to get some fresh caught lobster tails and snapper to take back to the villa for dinner on the BBQ grill that night. The villa has everything, excellent wi-fi, 100+ channel satellite TV, full kitchen, and very nicely decorated. Eldon, the caretaker and Merta the maid took care of all of our needs and Wolfgang is a very gracious and wonderful host. The beach was excellent, and the shallow areas in front are great for swimming and snorkeling. Eldon even cracked open a fresh coconut from the beach for us to drink the coconut water from. There is a dive shop / tour operator only two properties down called “Suya Tours” that was excellent. Great service and we used them for four dives, a snorkel trip and a trip to the Mayan ruins at Lamanai. Their service was excellent. There is a couple of great places to eat and a local store (small, but has the essentials) within a short walk or golf cart ride. I highly recommend renting a golf cart, and Wolfgang was able to secure a discount for us through a local company. We met some of his neighbors next door and they were very nice to let us use the pool at their condo development one lot over. This was an excellent vacation, and my first time to Belize, and based on the wonderful experience at Villa Casa Buena Vista and the wonderful hospitality of Wolfgang, I will be going back there to stay again. I have traveled all over the Caribbean and do not use hotels, but always rent a villa or condo and this was one of the best experiences I have had.

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

A wonderful experience at Casa Buena Vista

Guest: Cayman Jim (Chicago area)
Date of Stay: 10/21/10 Review Submitted: 10/31/10

Well… I just returned from a week in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize and stayed at Villa Casa Buena Vista about 2 .5 miles south of San Pedro. The villa, owned by Mr. Wolfgang Wind was everything it advertises to be and so much more. The villa is beautiful, very nicely furnished and has all the amenities one would want or need. Upon arrival, the villa was clean, and ready for us. The next morning, our host Wolfgang took us into to town to show us around and gave all kinds of great information on what the best local restaurants, markets and places to go (and avoid…) were. We even got to the local fish market early enough to get some fresh caught lobster tails and snapper to take back to the villa for dinner on the BBQ grill that night. The villa has everything, excellent wi-fi, 100+ channel satellite TV, full kitchen, and very nicely decorated. Eldon, the caretaker and Merta the maid took care of all of our needs and Wolfgang is a very gracious and wonderful host. The beach was excellent, and the shallow areas in front are great for swimming and snorkeling. Eldon even cracked open a fresh coconut from the beach for us to drink the coconut water from. There is a dive shop / tour operator only two properties down called “Suya Tours” that was excellent. Great service and we used them for four dives, a snorkel trip and a trip to the Mayan ruins at Lamanai. Their service was excellent. There is a couple of great places to eat and a local store (small, but has the essentials) within a short walk or golf cart ride. I highly recommend renting a golf cart, and Wolfgang was able to secure a discount for us through a local company. We met some of his neighbors next door and they were very nice to let us use the pool at their condo development one lot over. This was an excellent vacation, and my first time to Belize, and based on the wonderful experience at Villa Casa Buena Vista and the wonderful hospitality of Wolfgang, I will be going back there to stay again. I have traveled all over the Caribbean and do not use hotels, but always rent a villa or condo and this was one of the best experiences I have had.

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

Fabulous beachfront

Guest: Cactus flower (Phoenix, AZ USA)
Date of Stay: 07/02/10 Review Submitted: 07/14/10

Property owner was very responsive. He provided lots of good information ahead of time that helped us plan our trip. He also offered great help with orientation to the area after we arrived. The beachfront is fabulous! The "mini reef" in front of the property offers wonderful snorkeling with tons of colorful fish...right out the door! The property is very well maintained with a full-time friendly groundskeeper. There's a plethora of restaurants in all price ranges in San Pedro town, a long walk or short taxi/golf cart ride away. The front porch offers a beautiful place to have morning coffee and appreciate the wonder of this special spot. The only reason we didn't give an "Excellent" rating is the noisy window air conditioner which could make comfortable sleeping a bit of a challenge for some. We would highly recommend this house to anyone and would definitely stay there again ourselves on another trip.

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

Casa and Casita Buena Vista

Guest: LoganB (El Cerrito, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/26/10 Review Submitted: 04/06/10

Wolfgang is a fabulous host, and his home is a wonderful place to stay on Ambergris Caye. We stayed in the 1BR Casita-a private, detached guest house off the main house. (This is a one floor house, so it would be pretty accessible for those with disabilities.) The beach is right outside your door, and the beachfront is comfortably set up with hammocks, lounges, etc. The beautiful 85 degree Caribbean Sea awaits you, and it's amazing to wake up and take a swim in the incredible crystal clear waters. The homes are both air conditioned, but on days with a sea breeze, you don't need to use it. The bed in the casita was a little small, just a double, but that was our only gripe. The shower is great, nice and hot. It's 2.5 miles from town, so it is advisable to rent a golf cart, moped/s, or bike/s. Groundskeeper Eldon is a lovely guy, and keeps the place beautiful, maintaining the welcoming environment. Maid service was midweek. This house has a full kitchen, free wifi, a/c and cable tv.

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.

Paradise found

Guest: Richard Gardineer (Rotterdam, New York), Heapodebt
Date of Stay: 02/20/10 Review Submitted: 04/18/10

We are just 24 hours home and are already planning our next stay. 2 weeks of the best relaxation we have ever taken. As others have stated if you are looking for a high end busy resort type stay, this is not for you. If you are looking for peace and quiet with a fantastic view and a gracious host and staff, THIS PLACE CANNOT BE BEAT! This was our first time to Belize and not sure of anything as far as travel or transportation or tours. Wolfgang made all the proper arrangements and we were not disappointed. His staff (Eldone & Merta) were kind and professional, taking care of any need we had. The Villa is spacious and lacked nothing. Ambergris Caye is paradise and Villa Casa Buena Vista is a big part of it. Wolf, Thanks again for a wonderful stay and send along our thoughts too Affie and Cookie. Warmest Regards; Richard & Leslee

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Guest: Craig Cascio (Sebastopol, Ca. USA)
Date of Stay: 01/02/10 Review Submitted: 01/02/10

This is truly a wonderful find in Ambergris Caye!! What you see in the web-site pictures are very accurate, what you don't see is how wonderful the owner (Wolfgang) is. Upon arrival Wolfgang was very helpful in getting us moved in. He then took us out to the local store where we picked up some provisions for the morning (coffee). The next morning we were given the grand tour of San Pedro, complete with where to get groceries, exchange US dollars for the best rate, fresh fruit and juices, and pointed out the many restaurants along the way. Wolfgang also set up our golf cart rental, so once the tour was complete, he then took us to pick up our new mode of transportation. (YaHoo)!! The property is well maintained outside, and well appointed inside. A great outside shower with hot & cold water for when you get back from snorkeling in the waters right outside your door! There are two docks on each side of the property that you can be picked up for tour adventures, or water taxis. This property lacks for nothing, Wolfgang is always around if you have questions. He even found me a dentist at 7:00 pm one night. This property is very safe and one my wife and I will recommend often!!

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/01/09 Review Submitted: 07/01/09

Now, this is what I call living! One year ago, I was introduced to Casa Buena Vista, and all that paradise has to offer. I was extremely in need of a vacation where I could simply get away from everyone and everything, and just rest. Since Casa Buena Vista was remote, clean, and affordable, I ended staying for 3 peaceful weeks. I left feeling very strong and healthy. I was able to stay that length of time because the grounds has wifi, which is vital, or I would not of been able to do such a trip. Knowing work could be continued from my new found paradise. I One year later, I came back to the same spot at Casa Buena Vista, for a 6 weeks, but this time for adventure. Having all the bells and whistles, zodiac, bikes, boat, golf cart, etc. I was given 5 star treatment, without the expense or the crowd that usually comes with a, so called, "5 star resort" My work day consisted of a few hours on the computer as I dangle my legs in the most beautiful of oceans, snorkeling for an hour, and exploring all the various parts of the island village at night. Yes! I would recommend.

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Guest: Christopher Herman (Minneapolis, MN)
Date of Stay: 04/11/09 Review Submitted: 04/11/09

Casa Buena Vista is great choice for accomodations while on Ambergris. The house is located about 2 miles south of downtown San Pedro. That sounds like quite a distance, but the road is in good condition and it is just far enough from downtown to allow you to get away from the noise of San Pedro. The owner Wolfgang and the groundskeeper Nelson are very hospitable and could not have been more accomodating during our stay. Wolfgang will take you for a tour of the downtown the day you arrive. He will show you all the best places for food, tours, bikes etc. The house is ground level and has a great walkout patio that overlooks the ocean. The front yard is a very well maintained beach with ample lounge chairs and hammocks. The house is fully furnished with everything you will need. The ocean right out from the house is swimable and and all of the docks are public and usable during daylight hours. San Pedro has lots to do whether you just want to relax or want a more active vacation. Bikes can be rented to get you around the island. Hol Chan is a great place to snorkel with sharks, rays and giant turtles. San Pedro has many restaurants that serve pretty much any food and also has a very active nightlife if that interests you. Wolfgang will be more than happy to direct you to someone who can set you up with any activity.

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Living in Paradise

Guest: Gloria Saiko, gloria@saikofilm.at
Date of Stay: 03/02/09 Review Submitted: 04/18/10

Now, this is what I call living! One year ago, I was introduced to Casa Buena Vista, and all that paradise has to offer. I was extremely in need of a vacation where I could simply get away from everyone and everything, and just rest. Since Casa Buena Vista was remote, clean, and affordable, I ended staying for 3 peaceful weeks. I left feeling very strong and healthy. I was able to stay that length of time because the grounds has wifi, which is vital, or I would not of been able to do such a trip. Knowing work could be continued from my new found paradise. I One year later, I came back to the same spot at Casa Buena Vista, for a 6 weeks, but this time for adventure. Having all the bells and whistles, zodiac, bikes, boat, golf cart, etc. I was given 5 star treatment, without the expense or the crowd that usually comes with a, so called, "5 star resort" My work day consisted of a few hours on the computer as I dangle my legs in the most beautiful of oceans, snorkeling for an hour, and exploring all the various parts of the island village at night. Yes! I would recommend.

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