Vacation Rentals by Owner

Wonderful hospitality, quiet refuge but close to the action!

Guest: Emily and Brad (Denver, Colorado)
Date of Stay: 05/08/12 Review Submitted: 05/19/12

Thank you Steve and Angie,we loved our time at Villa Paraiso! We thought it looked absolutely incredible online (great website!) and it exceeded our expectations in person, thanks to Steve and Angie’s kind hospitality. The villa is just outside of Bocas Town, maybe about 2km? It was an easy bike ride and also an easy taxi ride if it's dark or you don't feel like riding. We absolutely loved being a little bit away from the hustle and bustle of town but it was great being close enough to the action. The pool was even more beautiful in person, amazing tile work! It was so great having the beach and warm ocean just beyond the pool. Steve used to build luxury homes in the US, and you can tell he put loving touches into the craftmanship of the villa-beautiful wood cabinetry, granite counters, nicer bathroom than my bathroom at home! Steve and Angie keep guest books filled with honest tips from past guests, everything from where to go to dinner, what guides to call, etc. The cell phone they give you to use while in Bocas is such a smart idea, it really made everything so easy. You will have to take taxis in Bocas (cheap though!) and the best taxi driver's numbers are programmed into the phone, along with the best guides and other important numbers. They have really put a lot of thought into what touches can make their guests more comfortable. The snacks and beverages in the fridge were awesome too! I could go on and on, there is so much to say! Go and enjoy Bocas now while it still feels like a bit of a secret! We loved it!

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

Abolutely Paradise

Guest: Wishin I was in Bocas (Riverhead NY)
Date of Stay: 04/17/12 Review Submitted: 05/15/12

We couldn't have asked for a better place to stay! No TV, no telephone, no internet just us! Angie and Steve are the BEST and we are looking forward to coming back. All the suggestions are great but we would add renting an ATV for a couple of days to get around and sight see! Plenty of things to see and plenty of time to do nothing. The best of both worlds. Relaxation was the key for us and it was above and beyond that. No alarm clocks needed - take lots of pictures -you couldn't ask for a more beautiful place and two of the best people around to help you relax and enjoy your stay. We are looking forward to coming back soon and relaxing to the fullest extent. Thanks for everything you are the best! Anyone need more info on our stay, feel free to email me.

Owner response:Thanks to these wonderful guests for sharing their time with us! We do have TV,with a variety of movies (no cable) there is a cell. phone available for your use, programmed with the numbers you will need, and we also have WIFI. You can choose to use all the conveniences, or you can escape and relax like these guests did!

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

Perfect Place to Escape!

Guest: Laura K. (Atlanta, GA, USA)
Date of Stay: 03/31/12 Review Submitted: 04/12/12

Our family loved staying at such a wonderful place. The hosts go above and beyond to make sure your stay is a wonderful memory (my kids will never forget!), super helpful. Very clean, new and well mantained, they put alot of work into the place. There are endless possibilities of day excursions but be sure to take time to enjoy the fab property! You can even order breakfast from them served fresh & hot! The restaurant next door makes for an easy fix if you are tired and don't want to go into town. We did Starfish Beach, Nivida Bat Cave's Tour and The Oreba Chocolate Tour and loved it all! Still more to explore!!!

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

Spring Vacation in Tropical Paradise

Guest: G&D (Midwest)
Date of Stay: 02/27/12 Review Submitted: 04/11/12

My fiance and I had a very romantic and adventurous stay at La Casitas in Bocas del Toro with Steve and Angie. Their property is immaculate and right on the ocean. We got quite a few awesome sunrises during our week long stay. The pool right outside of our front door was a great spot to relax and cool down on the hot days. The bikes provided got us wherever we needed to go while providing a little exercise to work off the extra calories consumed at many of the local restaurants Steve and Angie suggested. We had a great time and will definitely suggest Villa Paraiso to our friends and family.

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

Ocean Front Retreat

Guest: Matt (Vancouver, Canada )
Date of Stay: 02/10/12 Review Submitted: 03/01/12

The villa and facilities were perfect for a laid back holiday in Bocas del Toro. The hosts were gracious and friendly and made you feel welcome from the start. Falling asleep and waking up to the sound of waves on the beach outside the bedroom window was fantastic. The villas are a bit out of the town but taxi trips are quick or you can walk it in about 20 mins. While not a resort town, the area offers lots of incredible natural scenery, adventure trips, laid back atmosphere, and a simpler pace of life.

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

A slice of Paradise

Guest: deborah L.
Date of Stay: 01/19/12 Review Submitted: 02/06/12

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Villa Paraiso. The home is beautiful, comfortable and perfectly located, just as described. Falling asleep to the sounds of surf but still being so close to Bocas Town was perfect. We used the kayaks, snorkel gear and bicycles on our daily outings. Our favorite activity was to bike toward Bluff Beach, exploring along the way. Every member of the Cottrell family was friendly and helpful during our stay. We highly recommend a stay in Bocas del Toro and there would be no better place but Villa Paraiso. Although we rated this location as excellent, we recommend an upgrade to the WiFi and an addition of cable or Satellite TV. The description made it clear that there was no cable so we were prepared but believe an upgrade would be a welcome addition.

Owner response:We appreciate the input of our guests to make this the BEST place in Bocas! We have been considering cable TV, but are not sure we want to spoil the serenity. Unfortunately WIFI is affected by the amount of tourist in the entire area, we have been looking into what we can do. Thank you again for your help in suggestions to make us better!!

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

Beautiful Locatino

Guest: Eric B (Vancouver, Washington)
Date of Stay: 01/18/12 Review Submitted: 02/11/12

This place is wonderful. Steve, Angie, and the boys take such great care of you. I can't wait to go back. It was so relaxing. The beach is literally right outside of your window.

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

Beautiful Locatino

Guest: Eric B (Vancouver, Washington)
Date of Stay: 01/18/12 Review Submitted: 02/11/12

This place is wonderful. Steve, Angie, and the boys take such great care of you. I can't wait to go back. It was so relaxing. The beach is literally right outside of your window.

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

Exactly As Everyone Says

Guest: DH (Colorado)
Date of Stay: 12/09/11 Review Submitted: 12/26/11

It's exactly like everyone comments in these reviews. Steve & Angie do a great job, warm, friendly and very helpful with local knowledge. If you are looking for a quiet getaway without the typical 'touristy' hype this is where you need to stay. The new additional casitas added to the property look fantastic! Enjoy!

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

Wonderful vacation at an amazing villa on a beautiful island

Guest: Bjorn and Jen (Flagstaff, AZ)
Date of Stay: 10/22/11 Review Submitted: 11/05/11

Thanks so much for a wonderful time and really do hope we can come back some day. You have a beautiful place, but what really makes it outstanding is your warmth and hospitality as hosts. You strike a perfect balance between being available and helpful and giving privacy. We enjoyed visiting with you and think you would be super fun to have as friends, if we lived in the same place. If you ever venture to Arizona look us up. We are only 1 hour from the Grand Canyon and would love to host you and show you our corner of the world. The villa is so comfortable. We enjoyed the native decorations and beautiful flower arrangements, and all the extras: phone, snacks, breakfast, brownies, cinnamon rolls, ect.. We wish you the best of luck with your business. We will spread the word in Arizona and Wisconsin. Jen and Bjorn

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

Best Spot on Isla Colon!

Guest: Chris & Jessica (Philadelphia)
Date of Stay: 10/15/11 Review Submitted: 11/10/11

For those travelers fortunate enough to find themselves lodging at the Villa Parasio, rest assured you have found the best accommodations Bocas Del Toro has to offer. Steve, Angie and their family have provided us with everything we could have imagined and more. Their advice, assistance and hospitality will stay with you long after your visit comes to an end. Thanks for the wonderful week, Cottrells! A few tips for your stay. 1) Taxis are cheap and efficient. We used Miquel throughout the week. He is sure to keep you entertained. 2) We used Jampan Tours to visit Zapatillas Islands, and highly recommend the trip. 3) Have Miquel Drive you to Boca Del Drago, Eat at Yarisori’s and hike the beach pathway to Starfish, it’s stunning! 4) Use the bikes provided by the Cottrells to visit Bluff Beach. Stop at La Coralinas to take in the views with excellent food and drinks. 5) Savor Angie’s first morning breakfast, because it will be the best one you have on Isla Colon! Thanks again guys! We hope to see you in the new Villa sometime soon!

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

The Perfect Vacation Getaway

Guest: Erica (San Jose)
Date of Stay: 10/10/11 Review Submitted: 10/25/11

My husband and I had a lovely time staying at this location- it was absolutely perfect! The Villa was located in the perfect spot in Bocas. It's close enough to the downtown area (which has all the restaurants, shopping, and tours), so getting a 10 minute taxi ride into the city is always very easy, yet it far away enough from town so it also had a very private, romantic atmosphere. Plus, you have access to your own pool and private beach so it does't get much better than that! Steve and Angie were the perfect hosts. Their home was beautiful, they went above and beyond with helping us coordinate fun places to go, dinner reservations, and even tracked down a camera we managed to loose on a beach; yet they also gave us a lot of privacy so it felt like we had the place to ourselves. Additionally, they provide their guest with an amazing list tips and tricks from past guest to make the most of your time there so don't bother taking the time to pre-plan your Bocas activities. This list was better than any TripAdvisor reviews we've seen :) If you're looking for the BEST place to stay in Bocas- choose this location. You will not be disappointed!

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

The Perfect Honeymoon!

Guest: Jess (Olney, IL)
Date of Stay: 08/30/11 Review Submitted: 09/21/11

We had the time of our life at Villa Paraiso! We were so pampered by Steve and Angie! Steve was at the airport to pick us up and show us around town. Then he took us to what I believe is the most beautiful home on the island, and we settled right in. The pool and the yard is gorgeous, (not to mention your own private beach!) and the inside is very clean and cozy. We loved that they had bicycles for us to use, which we rode to town every day. They also provided kayaks and snorkel gear, which we also took advantage of. They provided us with a cell phone with all the numbers we needed already progammed in, and for not much you can buy a phone card to make calls back home. We took advantage of the honeymoon package which I would totally reccommend. This includes some of Angie's wonderful breakfasts, a lobster dinner prepared by Chef Chris by candelight on the lanai, a packed lunch made with love by Angie, and two 75 min. massages that we both swear were the best ever. Also Angie and Steve had made us a beautiful arrangement of flowers and snacks in the room when we arrived, and they stocked the fridge. Angie was also kind enough to make us a few late night sweet treats! Steve, Angie, and the boys were also very helpful in helping us plan our adventures around the islands. They have some good suggestions about what to do, and how to go about it. I really cannot put into words the beauty of this place, and the generosity of the hosts. It made for a truly incredible week in paradise! We fell even more in love with each other, and also fell in love with Bocas! Thanks so much Steve, Angie, and boys!!! We hope to see you again. Maybe our one year anniversary!

Owner response:We work hard at making sure our guests have an unforgettable vacation experience! We are here to cater to your needs and wants, but give you the privacy and relaxation you are looking for! This is a perfect place to celebrate your special occasion!

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

Villa Paraiso.... el lugar para descansar!

Guest: Alberto S. (Panama City, Panama)
Date of Stay: 06/25/11 Review Submitted: 07/26/11

July 2, 2011. Villa Paraiso.... el lugar para descansar! mucha tranquilidad, el canto de las olas es ecepcional para meditar y reflexionar. Todo queda cerca, la gente es muy simpatica , el transporte es bueno, caminar hacia el centro fue muy divertido. Angie gracias por tu atencion, particularmente por el postre de anoche y como dicene "No Me Olvides" estuvo ecepcional. George y Venus

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

Relax!!!!

Guest: Carla and Dave (colorado)
Date of Stay: 06/03/11 Review Submitted: 06/26/11

Thank you so much for making us feel so welcome in your home and beautiful surroundings. You have made our 1st, but hopefully not our last trip to Panama a great pleasure and a grand adventure. We loved your kind attention, all the yummy treats and the great advice on what to see and do. Our 2 week stay here was better than we ever dreamed it to be. We will fondly remember our days filled with snorkeling, kayaking, biking, reading and relaxing by the water. We loved Zapatillas, Bastimentos, Starfish Beach, and so much more! We had an absolutely incredible and wonderful time and thanks to all of you so much.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

A beautiful place

Guest: Abigail (New York, NY)
Date of Stay: 05/03/11 Review Submitted: 05/19/11

We had an absolutely wonderful time at Villa Paraiso. Angie and Steve could not have been nicer, and they were so helpful in suggesting places to visit, restaurants to try, etc. We spent a good portion of our time on Bocas puttering around the island on a motor scooter, which was a lot of fun! We also took a boat tour to San Cristobol island and a few other spots, with snorkeling in between. It was amazing coming back to such a comfortable and convenient place after our long days, with our own pool and little kitchen. Would definitely come back here!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Villa Paraiso - a piece of paradise in Bocas

Guest: Deb (Calgary, AB)
Date of Stay: 03/21/11 Review Submitted: 04/10/11

We spent 1 week at Villa Paraiso in March 2011. Angle and Steve provided us with all of the information we needed to have a wonderful vacation in Bocas. Thanks for the treats in our room and the beautiful flowers!. Was greatly appreciated upon arrival. The beach cruisers were also a fun experience that got us in and out of town quickly. Villa Paraiso is very quiet, private and relaxing. You can stay put or go explore the island. I have provided Angie with a great local boat guy -Geraldo - who we hired to ourselves and spent the day on the water and over to Zapatilla Cay - a must see! Just 5 min bike ride down the road is the best meal you will have in Bocas -Guari Guari - worth every penny! Look closely because it's buried in the trees beside the tiny house -you'll know what I mean when you see it. Enjoy the serenity of Angie and Steve's home and the beautiful sky at night while you float in the beautiful pool. I wish the Cottrells well. They are a wonderful friendly family who made our stay most enjoyable. Thanks so much for sharing your home with us.

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

BEST Vacation Ever!!

Guest: C and T (Reno, Nevada)
Date of Stay: 03/14/11 Review Submitted: 04/16/11

My husband and I go on a special trip every two years. We've been to some amazing places but Bocus Town and Villa Paraiso take the cake! Below is the email I sent to the owners of V.P. upon our return last month: Steve and Angie, > Thank you so much for making our trip so memorable! We had an AMAZING time > and the extra "touches" you had for us made our trip that much more special > (i.e., flowers, snacks, brownies (wonderful!), helpful hints, cell phone, > bikes and the list goes on and on). We had a wonderful time with Anthony > and would highly recommend him to any of your future guests. The day in > Panama City flew by and we were able to see much more than we expected. We > hope you and your family have a wonderful trip - you may be on your way > already - we will be recommending Villa Paraiso to all of our friends and > family. I can't wait to see your new villas when they are complete, what a > lot of work but how beautiful they will be. We feel so lucky that we were > able to be there prior to your trip. Meeting the two of you and your family > made our experience that much more meaningful. We miss it so much > already!!! Our shells all made it home in one piece and I immeidately > filled up our "boat" with the shells and went out today to buy frames to > glue more of the shells on to. I hope you don't mind I copied your > decoration but it makes me smile every time I walk by it.....If there is > ever anything we can do for you or any of your other guests want to talk to > someone who's been there, we are more than happy to sing your praises. The > picture I took of the notes I wrote in your guest book came out perfectly so > now I have an extra special memory of the most special places we visited. I > hope your criuse is as special to you as our trip to Bocus was to us!!! All > of our most heartful thanks..... Tarah and Chuck.

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

A great place to spend in March!

Guest: kareninkansas (Mission, KS USA)
Date of Stay: 03/07/11 Review Submitted: 03/22/11

March 7-13 Jim and Karen Cartlet We’ve had a lovely week at Villa Parasio. The weather has been perfect, no rain at all. We enjoyed Guari Guari restaurant twice- good! We biked over to La Coralina, had breakfast and then biked over to beautiful Bluff Beach. We took a water taxi to Bastimentos and walked up the hill. The Thai restaurant was closed for a couple of weeks so we ate at Roots. If you go up the hill be prepared, it’s a long walk up and the last half is a dirt/mud path through the jungle. I wouldn’t want to come back in the dark. We enjoyed eating tacos/enchiladas at Shelly’s – great calamari at Buena Vista, good food at Lily’s and Lemon Grass. Read the other book for other ideas of places to go. We read several books each. We enjoyed the porch and pool and just relaxing. Thanks Angie and Steve for a great week!

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

Beyond words

Guest: Tom and Barb ( York, Pa. USA)
Date of Stay: 02/03/11 Review Submitted: 02/21/11

We enjoyed oursleves so much at your gorgeous villa and island. I hope all the people that have stayed with you and the people that will be staying have as much fun as we did. Thank you for all the special treats and good info for part 2 of our trip. You made us feel right at home. Please keep in touch and let us know how your project is coming.

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

Wonderful Private Stay at Villa Paraiso

Guest: Sue (Glen Ellyn (Chicago area) Il)
Date of Stay: 01/24/11 Review Submitted: 02/03/11

We had a great stay at the Villa! Angie and Steve gave us the warmest welcome along with lots of great tips for a good time. We were concerned about rain in Jan. but really lucked out. Lots of sun! Having howler monkeys, parrots, and all the beautiful nature nearby really made it a paradise escape. We enjoyed a day with Jampan Tours- snorkeling and Red Frog Beach. It was great to walk for miles and see everything around – we always felt safe. P.S. Angie’s brownies were a yummy treat! Hated to go back to frigid Chicago. Sue and Tom Chicago, IL (Glen Ellyn)

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

Villa Paraiso is home away form home

Guest: Lucy (Chicago Il)
Date of Stay: 01/12/11 Review Submitted: 01/25/11

We had a wonderful stay at the Villa. The island is absolutely amazing. The Villa is splendid and the hosts are wonderful. Everything was so much more than we expected. We hope to come back soon. Lucy and Bob Chicago, Ill.

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

Our second stay at Villa Paraiso

Guest: JW (Caledon, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 12/17/10 Review Submitted: 01/27/11

This was our second stay at Villa Paraiso. As with our first trip, we found we did not want to leave when our time was up. Steve and Angie are great hosts, always accommodating. Having a private pool and outdoor area is fantastic, it feels so luxurious. The area is fantastic, with local restaurants around if you do not want to cook. Of course if you do, there are many areas to purchase food nearby in Bocas Town, which we did a few nights and barbequed. The beach is terrific right out back of the villa, as are the views and the wildlife - we watched in the afternoons as the howler monkeys swung around in the trees across the street in front of the villa. This is a great spot for a couple, and with the future addition of the cassitas, we look forward to the opportunity to stay at Villa Paraiso with friends in the future. Thanks, Angie!

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

Quiet, Oceanfront property still close enough to Bocas Town

Guest: SeaSarie (New York, NY)
Date of Stay: 11/24/10 Review Submitted: 12/10/10

Our trip to Bocas was wonderful and despite all the warnings of rain, it never was enough to change our plans. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves was wonderful, the number one reason why we booked a beachfront place! If the weather is good, jump at the chance to do Wizard Beach or Zapatillas, we did neither because the waves were too big, so calm seas should be taken advantage of. Red Frog was a great experience, as was Starfish Beach, truly one of a kind. The craziest and most memorable experience was spelunking in the Nividia cave in Bastimentos. Find Honky at Roots restaurant to be your guide. We went 400 meters and waded through some deep water for a one of a kind experience. All the extras here were great- the bikes, the beach equipment, the home-cooked surprises showing up at our door, all made this place stand apart from a hotel experience. All the best, I thank you Cottrell’s for your warm reception!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect vacation

Guest: Happy Traveler (Victoria, B.C., Canada)
Date of Stay: 11/17/10 Review Submitted: 11/30/10

My husband and I spent five nights here on a trip to Panama celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary. I was originally looking for a hotel or bed and breakfast but couldn't find anything that appealed to me. I knew this was the place for us when I looked through the VRBO website. All our expectations were meant and after seeing Bocastown I was satisfied I made the right choice. We felt safer in Bocas than most of the other places in the world I have been. Staying a little out of town was perfect. The setting was peaceful and yet all the conveniences of town were easy to access it was only a $1 to $1.50 each taxi ride or a 10 minute bike ride. This suite is the main floor of Angie and Steve's family residence - totally private and quiet but they were both available at any time to give assistance. The suite is very clean and well maintained. They were the perfect hosts! There are a lot of activities in the area but since our primary goal was relaxation we made use of the outdoor living areas and the pool. The local cell phone programmed with numbers we would need as well as the bikes were a real treat. Others might be more interested in some of the other toys such as snorkeling gear. We used the bikes to explore the beautiful and almost deserted Playa Bluff to the north. We set out to Bogas del Drago - lots of beautiful scenery but lots of hills but unfortunately didn't have time to do the whole trip. We did the free and very infomative tour of the nearby Smithsonian. We had every intention of checking out as many of the wonderful restaurants in town but after our first night at Guari Guari spent most of our time there. Definitely make reservations at this place as soon as possible. For $19 you get four wonderful small appetizers, a main course and desssert. This is one of the best restaurants we have ever eaten at. The host and chef were both absolutely amazing. As it was only a five minute ride, we rode the bikes but a cab might be more comfortable. I would definitely recommend this property to a friend or relative. We would definitely visit again and may do so. We don't usually visit the same area twice - too many other places in the world to visit - but I do have a feeling that this is only our first trip to Panama of many.

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

Lovely honeymoon

Guest: Christian (Holland)
Date of Stay: 10/04/10 Review Submitted: 01/01/12

We stayed at Villa Paraiso 1 year ago for our honeymoon. The family Cottrell were very welcoming. The villa is very private and has all the luxuries needed. Also the great pool in front of the villa and a step away from the sea/beach. Cycling to the village is a treat. In the village there are nice places to eat. Family Cottrell can tell you were to go for diner. We really recommend staying here!!!!!!!!

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

A vacation to remember!

Guest: Chris and Carla (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 09/06/10 Review Submitted: 10/05/10

We as many others before us, enjoyed our stay at Villa Paraiso. Angie is a wonderful hostess. We found their tips and those of other visitors very helpful! Here is what we recommend: Stay as long as you can or come back when you get a chance- Bocas has a lot of offer!! If you arrive on the early flight from Albrook, come prepared for the beach (you may be able to leave your bags with Angie and Steve) because the villa is not ready until the afternoon. Go to Zapatilla Islands and Coral Cay- most amazing colored reef. Go to Red Frog Beach and Dolphin Bay – you will never see more dolphins in a single spot. The earlier you go the better! Consider hiring a local to do these tours. We did a tour with Jampan, which is owned by a Canadian, and one with a local guide (Basi) and he was awesome! While we had a good experience with both, we encourage you to hire a local to support their livelihood. Make reservations at Guari Guari as soon as possible, both locals and foreigners recommend it! Go to Playa Tortuga for the drinks but not the food. Take a water taxi to Bastimento to eat at Roots or Sonrisa del Mar for island food. Ask for the whole fish or Mixto (mix of seafood) Eat at Rincon del Sabor for local and cheap food, $10 for two including drinks and tip, you can’t beat that! Have an icy cold beer and enjoy the sea breeze at the Reef Take a break and relax in one of the benches in the park downtown. Relax and enjoy! Chris and Carla, San Francisco, CA P.S. We were engaged here!

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

A Dream Come True!

Guest: Ryan & Bethany (Carrboro, North Carolina, USA)
Date of Stay: 08/27/10 Review Submitted: 09/07/10

Villa Paraiso was a dream vacation/honeymoon for us! Thank you, Angie & Steve for sharing your gorgeous home with us, making us feel welcome in many ways, all the great recommendations and just going above and beyond as hosts. We’ve enjoyed every minute we’ve gotten to spend here! We loved having use of the bikes and other fun toys, were grateful for the use of the cell phone you provided, and felt the location from town was a perfect distance. We also really appreciate all the attention to detail in the suite, the quality and cleanliness of everything and the perfect balance between privacy and mingling with you all – it’s been a real treat! We will be raving about this place to others and hope to make a return trip someday :)

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

Paradise

Guest: tanya L. (Tustin, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/12/10 Review Submitted: 08/24/10

What a lovely place to stay in unspoiled Bocas. The room was wonderful – cool, comfy, and spacious. Beach out front has great snorkeling and views. Villa Paraiso was close to town for fun but far enough away to feel as if you were on your own private beach. Hope to return.

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

Absolutely Perfect!

Guest: Joe M. (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 06/22/10 Review Submitted: 07/28/10

We stayed in the Villa for our honeymoon about a month ago. It was absolutely fantastic! Just a short, easy bike ride into town, it's in a perfect location. The Villa itself is very comfortable, very tough to beat having your own pool, a gorgeous porch and the ocean all within a few feet of your door. Bocas itself is a beautiful town and access to the other islands is incredibly easy (there's tons of boats ready to take you wherever you want to go.) The people are very friendly, the food is as fresh as you could ask for (there's a good chance your dinner was swimming in the ocean just a few hours before it was on your plate.) We spent a week in the Villa and felt like we could've easily stayed for a month (or longer.) I would recommend the Villa 100%. Beyond all this, Steve & Angie are outstanding hosts - ready whenever you need them but you wouldn't notice they were there unless you asked for them.

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

Truly a paradise!

Guest: Beach lover (Magalia, CA, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/04/10 Review Submitted: 06/21/10

My husband and I are from California and we stay at Bed & Breakfasts and Vacation Homes all the time. Villa Paraiso is hands down the BEST place we have ever stayed! It turned our 7 yr anniversary into a dream vacation! Before booking I emailed Angie and Steve with many questions to make sure I wouldn't be disappointed and to learn more about the area and the things to do. I also wanted to see how good the location would be. Angie promptly emailed me back with the answers to all my questions and seemed to read my mind by supplying me with very useful extra information. The location is truly set in a paradise. You have your own villa set in a beautiful tropical location that has no neighbors on either side. This is perfect for the couple that wants to relax and have the beach to themselves. Open the front doors of your villa and walk straight to the saltwater pool (a plus for those trying to avoid harsh chlorine chemicals which will dry out your skin and hair). You'll probably rarely use this as 5 more steps away you are on your own private beach. This beach is the only real swim-able beach that we found although there are many diverse beaches within walking and bicycling distances. You're just a short distance away from a nice surfing beach and beaches that have more fish. We actually saw a rare 9-legged starfish at the villa's beach on our 1st day! There is a folder with recommendations for anything you would like to do while you're there. We went to Red Frog Beach and Dolphin Bay, which included snorkeling. We also took a $5 round-trip bus to Bocas del Drago with a short walk to Starfish beach. There were starfish EVERYWHERE! You can take a boat trip back for $1.50 or take the walk along the beach/jungle and see HOWLER MONKEYS!!! We were able to see these by ourselves and were able to get close enough to take pictures and video of a family of around 10. I was literally 15 feet away from them! That was one of the best experiences I had. If you're looking for night life, it's a short 20 min walk into town where you can eat at many diverse restaurants and visit discotechs later in the evening. It's also reachable by a $2 taxi ride. Steve and Angie provide you with a cell phone that you can use to call taxis and many other useful people. We stayed in one night and had a local, Chris, cook an enticing dinner for us. He is also one of the people you can find on the cell phone provided. The Villa Paraiso is a dream vacation! ?

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

The Great Stay

Guest: C&L (Colon, Panama)
Date of Stay: 05/30/10 Review Submitted: 11/22/10

The place was awesome. The villa had a very homey feel to it. Instead of feeling like a hotel, you feel right at home. The Cottrells, while they are there to help you when you need it, they also give you the space you need so that you don't even notice they are there. The food was excellent. They make their own cinnabuns and pizza which were outstanding. The pool was just the right temperature and everything was just so clean. My wife and I really enjoyed our time there and recommend it to anyone who wants to visit to Bocas; it's well worth it. Chris & Lucy Fruhwald

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

Looking for a little piece of "Paradise"?

Guest: Daviditas (David,Panama)
Date of Stay: 05/14/10 Review Submitted: 05/14/10

...We found it!!! Beautiful and peaceful surroundings. lots of beach, sand and sun. All nestled in a privately delightful setting. Great for a little anniversary getaway!!!

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Read this and read this well !!!! Por favor !!!!!

Guest: Robertt (Holland)
Date of Stay: 05/11/10 Review Submitted: 05/31/10

We, Leonilde and Robert, a couple from Colombia and Holland were very lucky that another couple had cancelled their trip Bocas and we could stay in Villa Paraiso. We stayed there from 11 untill 14 of May, so only three days. Too short but we had no other option ! Those days, what a pity that it rained a lot, we had the feeling we were living in Paradise with our own pool, beach before the house, bicycles etcetera. Angie and Steve are the best hosts you can find on the island and their breakfast is finger licking ! They gave us the best tips what to do in this short rainy period .We went to several beaches and had dinner at the best restaurants that were really cheap !!!! All the recommendations are also written in a book that you will find in the room.. Our lovely decorated room with flowers and a basket full of drinks and sweets. We really miss this place !! Villa Paraiso, Angie and Steve, we will be back !!!! Thanks and take care !!! Leonilde y Robert.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

Unparalled privacy & luxury in a warm, friendly atmosphere

Guest: Babyloo (El Valle de Anton, Cocle, Panama)
Date of Stay: 04/22/10 Review Submitted: 05/06/10

We knew basically what to expect, being our second visit, but our hosts have improved with age like a fine wine. Our stay was more delightful than the last. The praise for the wonderful family cannot be overstated--they give you all the privacy you want, but if you don't take time to aquaint yourself with them you are missing one of the most beautiful things here. The rest is obvious, the pool, the privacy, the spacious accomodations, the flora and fauna, and oh,and did I mention the beachfront location with the tranquil lapping of the waves, the breathtakingly beutiful views? There are many things to do; or, like us, do mostly nothing. Enjoy!

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

Villa Paraiso and the Cottrells are Wonderful!

Guest: Connie & Bill (Calgary, Alberta, Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/17/10 Review Submitted: 05/05/10

We have just returned from a week in Bocas at Villa Paraiso. The Villa was everything the VRBO ad promised and more! This lovely home is right on the beach with a beautiful refershing pool, air conditioning, relaxing outdoor lanai and quick ride to town. The Villa is beautifully decorated with local art and furnishings and spotlessly clean. But what we most enjoyed was the personal attention by Steve and Angie full of ideas for things to do, places to eat and other local information. A lovely gourmet breakfast awaited on our first day. We felt safe and cared for by our gracious hosts and highly recommend this Villa to anyone visiting Bocas. Don't miss out on the most amazing 6 course dinner in Panama at Guari Guari, diving with the very professional Scubafleet and snorkeling with JanPam Tours. We loved Bocas and Villa Paraiso and will definately return!

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

An outstanding Pool, Beach front vacation hotspot that you should not pass up!!!

Guest: donaldonuria (Changuinola, Panama)
Date of Stay: 04/08/10 Review Submitted: 04/08/10

My wife and I just had an absolutely outstanding time at this exquisite Beachfront suite. The listing is very accurate as described and even way better than what you could see in the picture with a very clean and well maintained atmosphere. The owners were very kind, friendly and very hospitable. We will never forget this vacation and whatelse could you ask for; roll out of bed right into the pool and then roll out of the pool down the stairs and right on the beach as you roll into the water. What a blast. I would very highly recommend this hotspot to all my friends and relatives as soon as possible.

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.

excellent place for a vacation!!!!!!!!- from Vicki and Brad Webster

Guest: vicki sw (Poynette Wisconsin)
Date of Stay: 03/28/10 Review Submitted: 04/11/10

We would highly recommend Villa Paraiso to all! There is something for everyone at the Bocas.The pictures of Villa Paraiso truly represent this beautiful unique property on the ocean.The suite is extremely clean and promotes an atmosphere of peace and relaxation. The pool , the deck and the sitting area are equally well maintained and clean. We especially enjoyed the sunrises and sunsets over the ocean that we could view right outside our door.( it just doesn't get much better than that!!!!!) The Cotrells are wonderful hosts that are always willing answer questions and to share their knowledge of the Bocas. There are plenty of good restaurants close by. Traveling by taxi was efficient and low cost. This made it easy to get to wherever we wanted to go. We would definitely recommend Villa Paraiso to friends, relatives and absolutely everyone looking to have an awesome time at the Bocas. Vicki and Brad Webster- Wisconsin, USA

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

Guest: Darrel Grinstead (Washington DC/Rehoboth Beach DE)
Date of Stay: 03/16/10 Review Submitted: 03/16/10

We greatly enjoyed staying at Villa Paraiso. The Cottrells were attentive and helpful and the site is beautiful. To offset the slight inconvenience of needing to call a taxi whenever we went into town, our hosts gave us the use of a cell phone with the names and numbers of taxi drivers preloaded. (Mr. Dixon was the best!) The suite was comfortable and the setting with the pool and beach unbeatable. I would stay there again if looking for a private, quiet getaway close to Bocas Town.

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Guest: Karen & Keith2 (Toronto, Ontario)
Date of Stay: 03/11/10 Review Submitted: 03/11/10

Villa Paraiso is a perfect spot - close enough to experience the action of the town and nearby islands, but far enough to enjoy the quiet and feel totally relaxed. Steve and Angie are wonderful hosts - friendly, eager to help and very knowledgeable about the area. The suite is lovely - spacious, tastefully decorated and complete with kitchenette. And the private salt water pool certainly makes it a great place to stay on this very HOT little island. We'd definitely visit again!

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Guest: Silia & Rafy (Panam?)
Date of Stay: 02/17/10 Review Submitted: 02/17/10

Bocas siempre ha sido uno de nuestros lugares favoritos de nuestro país, por lo cual decidimos pasar ahí nuestra Luna de Miel. Villa Paraíso fue el marco perfecto para tan especial fecha, y la hospitalidad y buenas vibras de los Cottrell, el complemento ideal!Gracias Steve y Angie por la mejor Luna de Miel!See you soon...

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Guest: corie1 (nebraska)
Date of Stay: 02/14/10 Review Submitted: 02/14/10

This was the best vacation we have ever had only because of the hospitality from the Cottrells and the great tours from Louis Grimas! We held a jelly fish, held star fish and sea urchin. We saw a nurse shark, most beautiful coral and fish i have ever seen! The Cottrell's home was the best of Bocas from the fresh flowers to the homeade food the beautiful location and all the ammenities and all of the helpful suggestions we could not think of anything to make it more accomidating. Thank you cottrell's!

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Guest: O & D Brown (-)
Date of Stay: 01/22/10 Review Submitted: 01/22/10

Angie and Steve are great hosts! The pool is great for a refreshing dip, the beach is a nice walk - always relaxing to feel the sand between our toes. We liked that it is far enough away from town to avoid the noise, but close enough if we wanted a nice supper. Thanks so much for a great vacation!

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Guest: Angela and Dave Tucker
Date of Stay: 01/22/10 Review Submitted: 01/21/10

Angie & Steve:Thanks for the wonderful 2 weeks in your lovely home. We had some apprehensions before we arrived as this was our first time booking a vacation without going through a travel agent but from the first email we received from Angie we knew we’d be in good hands. Not only did your home exceed our expectations but your family made our vacation a very, pleasant and memorable one. We’ll definitely put Villa Paraiso down in our places to return to! Angela & Dave TuckerToronto, Canada

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Guest: Rob Wygand (British Columbia, Canada)
Date of Stay: 01/19/10 Review Submitted: 01/19/10

Steve and Angie were very welcoming hosts during my stay. The location of Villa Paraiso is perfect,close enough to Bocustown if you wanted, and far enough away if you like peace and quiet and relaxation. All amenities are top notch adding to this gem of a place.I hope to go back soon and have Villa Paraiso as my hub to new discoveries in Bocus del Toro.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/31/09 Review Submitted: 12/31/09

Angie/Steve - we have made it safely back to Canada. After island hopping around Panama we agreed that the Villa is simply the best. We left our hearts in Bocas. I am still dreaming about waking up and seeing the ocean, heading into town to buy groceries or Shelley's tacos, back to the pool for reading - its a routine I can certainly get into for an extended period of time. Your villa was the perfect beginning to set up our vacation. Can't wait to see you again for 2 weeks next year.

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Guest: Miriam5 (Barcelona)
Date of Stay: 12/14/09 Review Submitted: 12/14/09

Es un lugar fantastico, ideal para relajarse y disfrutar de la naturaleza.La suitte es muy bonita y el entorno ideal.

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Tranquility at its finest

Guest: Bryse (Florida)
Date of Stay: 12/12/09 Review Submitted: 04/14/10

My girlfriend and I did a tremendous amount of searching to find one of the best places in Bocas Del Toro that provides island style living, tranquility, cleanliness, and classiness all in one. Well Villa Paraíso had everything we hoped for. You even get a phone with pre-programmed numbers for all that you'd ever need on your trip. The treats supplied by Angie were incredible as well as the private chef they use. They're also a dictionary of information when it comes to Bocas Del Toro, and they know all the right people so make sure to ask questions!

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

Guest: Sean27 (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 11/09/09 Review Submitted: 11/09/09

My wife and I loved staying here. The pool is very refreshing when you need a break from the Ocean. When we were there were able to see some howler monkey's, parrots and even a sloth. There are some great restaurants in walking distance and its nice to stroll into town for a beautiful bike ride or walk. Make sure you home for sunset and up for sunrise it was amazing. We had stayed in town and it was so noisy that we almost left the island and moved on. When we found this place we fell in love with it and have stayed here twice.

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Guest: Ernie & Betty (Dyersville, Ia--USA)
Date of Stay: 11/09/09 Review Submitted: 11/09/09

We spent two wonderful weeks with the Cottrells in a truly tropical paradise.The acommodations left nothing to be desired. It was very difficult to leave. We hope to return. Ernie & Betty---- Dyersville, IA, USA

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