Vacation Rentals by Owner

Amazing Stay at The Palms

Guest: Christie B. (NY, NY)
Date of Stay: 04/16/12 Review Submitted: 04/30/12

We just returned from a fantastic stay at The Palms. The photos, while beautiful, do not do the rental justice - it's hard to imagine, but it's actually better. We have rented many homes over the past 10 years and this condo tops the list. My husband and I and our girls (ages 8 and 6) loved everything about our stay here - from the gorgeous views of the Pacific, the amazing infinity pool, Roy, the concierge, bartender and chef extraordinaire (I highly recommend the frozen mojito!!), beautiful Playa Flamingo - one of the prettiest beaches around, the gorgeous grounds, the hard-working and courteous maintenance staff, the fully-equipped kitchen, the comfortable beds, the flat screen tvs, the balcony and the porch - perfect spots to enjoy the amazing sunsets - everything was perfect. The service and the staff were top notch, from the fresh flowers throughout the unit when we arrived to the daily maid service (my girls loved the different creations the housekeeper made with their blankies and stuffed animals :)). In addition, the location is central to every type of activity. Elyne was very professional and helpful - any questions I had were answered quickly. I would highly recommend this property to a friend. Thank you Elyne, for sharing your beautiful home with us - we hope someday to return.

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

Spectacular!

Guest: D&W (Penticton, BC Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/18/12 Review Submitted: 03/11/12

My wife and I, along with another couple just returned from our first, and definitely not our last, visit to Costa Rica. We started with a week at The Palms and immediately entered into a world of serenity. What an amazing Condo and location! It is huge and with two large bedrooms (each with a spacious ensuite) that have king beds allowing each couple to have their own space. The condo is first class all the way with “top of the line” everything. It is very clean, spacious and maintained in all aspects. Easily a 5 Star rating. The outside is just as spectacular as all the property is trimmed and cleaned daily so it is like a huge garden. The main deck is probably the best deck in the complex as it is close to everything including the pool and the bar. A perfect deck for coffee in the am and for little cocktail parties at sunset (and the sunsets are perfect every evening). The pictures and descriptions on the web site are great but it is actually better than the photos. It is very centrally located to restaurants and if you like to walk it is amazing. We walked the beach to Brasilito & Conchal and also walked from the condo to endless beach and beyond to Lola’s. Long walk (about 15 km return) but incredible views and the cervasa never tasted better! We used the boogie boards, the gym, snorkeling equipment and the kayaks that you can use for free. We never had to wait to use them and the waves were perfect. All the staff at the Palms are very helpful and happy people. The Palms manager, Jorge and Roy went out of their way to help us. I have done a number of VRBO rentals before and Elyne was very helpful and professional to deal with. There is no need to look at any other accommodation; this one is perfect in every way for everyone!

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

Deborah

Guest: DebM (Wilmette, IL)
Date of Stay: 01/21/12 Review Submitted: 01/29/12

This was our second visit in two years to The Palms #7. This property is really lovely - wonderful location on one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. The condo itself is just like the photos - beautifully maintained & decorated with all the amenities one could ask for. The owners attention to detail is evident in the furnishings, up-to-date appliances, cooking utensils & large flat screen TVs in every room. The Palms property is top-notch with a gorgeous infinity pool, beautifully maintained landscape & a staff that goes out of their way to ensure your stay in relaxing, enjoyable & fun. Since our stay last year, The Palms now offers a light lunch & early dinner menu which is excellent. Roy, the bartender/chef/concierge is a delight. He makes a fantastic cocktail (Passionfruit Martini!), can be your personal chef & knows all the best places to dine, sail, golf, horseback riding, - any activity/adventure you're interested in, Roy can make the arrangements. One important thing to know about Costa Rica is that plumbing can be very sensitive - the previous occupants had an issue with the Masterbath toilet & the issue was still not resolved completely by the time we arrived.

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

Christmas and 50th Birthday in paradise!

Guest: EITAK (Tulsa, OK)
Date of Stay: 12/24/11 Review Submitted: 01/11/12

My family of four spent Christmas and my 50th birthday in at this condo. We have been many different places and this vacation definitely rates as one of the best! We were with another family that stayed in another condo at the The Palms. The condos are incredible and is exactly what is shown and actually even better. It was so nice to wake up every morning and drink my coffee on our balcony looking at the ocean. One of the best parts of the Palms is Roy. He cooked us a lobster dinner one night and helped us with all our other dinners and activities. He was so helpful and so much fun! We went on wonderful sunset dinner cruise, zip lined, horseback rides and visited the mud baths and hot springs. There are still so many things we want to go back and experience. We loved the people and the condo and cannot wait to come back!

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

Out of this world experience

Guest: lynne m (Port Moody, B.C. Canada)
Date of Stay: 11/26/11 Review Submitted: 12/28/11

I've been before to the Palms in Playa Flamingo. It is hard to believe but the second time 'round was even better than the first. Last time loved the water, the pool, the place and the day trips. This time, all of that and now I could order in fresh food when the whim occurred to me. The Palms now has a great chef and meals are delivered right to the door. This year, I saw giant leatherback turtles laying eggs (69 of them) at night. Once again, I also visited a superior Spa. So, whether I was busy on day trips or just relaxing in the pool, this condo is ideal-I love luxury.

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Absolutely perfect

Guest: Laurie (Albany, New York)
Date of Stay: 06/02/11 Review Submitted: 06/11/11

All the amenities of a 5-star resort coupled with the privacy and spaciousness of our own vacation home on the beach. The condo itself is beautifully furnished and equipped with everything you could possibly need for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation, including boogie boards, deck chairs, televisions upstairs and down, and dvd players. Both bedrooms are large and have tons of space to unpack and spread out. There is an in suite bathroom in each bedroom and another bath downstairs. The kitchen is wonderful and every pot, pan and utensil you can think of is provided. The condo is literally steps from the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica. The views of the ocean and the spectacular sunsets from the deck and upstairs balcony were breathtaking. Although the condo is privately owned, the rental includes the services of The Palms complex. This is where the resort experience kicks in. Roy is the concierge, but this title hardly does him justice. He is a master chef and will cook and deliver dinner either to the outdoor eating area or to the condo. We had grilled lobster one night and pizzas and salad another. Both were delicious! He also arranged for two day trips and made a number of restaurant recommendations. Most incredibly, when our 19 and 21-year-old sons expressed an interest in the night life of Costa Rica and told him that they like to dance, he took them to Tamarindo to learn salsa dancing! Daily maid service, beach towels, kayaks, beach chairs and umbrellas are also included. In all, we had a perfect nine days. I cannot recommend this rental highly enough. We cannot wait to return!

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

Superb condo in a superb location. 5* living!

Guest: stayathomedad (Solihull, United Kingdom)
Date of Stay: 04/14/11 Review Submitted: 05/03/11

We just returned from a family stay at your wonderful condo. We absolutely loved it! The setting on the beach is spectacular, the property itself is so well equipped, and in great condition just as you described it, and the facilities at the Palms are exactly what you need for a perfect beach holiday. The staff helped us use the bodyboards, kayaks and snorkelling gear. The gardens were well kept and the toughest decision each morning was which sunbeds and umbrellas to use - under the shade of palms on he grass, or by the lovely pool? With the mind-bogglingly beautiful sunsets and the special "sundowner" cocktails made for us at the pool bar, life really doesn't get much better! We particularly appreciated the wide range of cocktail glasses in your kitchen - the right glass for everything we could think of making! The kitchen equpment was all very high quality. Fresh fruit smoothies, daquiries, cocktails, my mouth is still watering at the memory! The only shame - we only had 5 nights. The next task will be to work out which of the 100+ sunset photos taken from poolside is the best...

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

Treat Yourself

Guest: Phil (Calgary, Alberta, Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/01/11 Review Submitted: 04/23/11

I stayed here for five nights with my wife and two year old daughter. Best holiday we have ever had. We had been recommended to the Palms by friends who had stayed there and we were not disappointed. The beach is quiet, the pool is amazing, even a shallow area for my daughter to play in, and the condo is first class. If you're looking for a quiet piece of paradise, this is the place. I will be returning. This was also my first time booking on VRBO and Elyne was great. Very responsive to emails, the place was very organized and in great shape. Jorge who met us at the condo and got us set up was great too. Phil

Recommended for:Families with young children

Wonderful time at the Palm Flamingo Beach.

Guest: Herbert (Ottawa/Ontario)
Date of Stay: 01/24/11 Review Submitted: 02/24/11

As soon as we opened the door to the condo,it looked that we were in paradise,The condo,described in pictures and description certainly was better in every aspect than we had imagined. The quality of construction and furniture was first class. We did a lot of cooking in the large kitchen,which was equipped with everything you possible would need,to create a good . We certainly recommend this wonderful place to anyone for a great holiday.

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

Luxury Ocean Front Living At Its Best!

Guest: Peter S. (Boulder, Colorado)
Date of Stay: 06/25/10 Review Submitted: 07/06/10

We are a family of four from Boulder Colorado who use vacation home rentals frequently and The Palms has to be the only one that was as good or better than the pictures and descriptions. It is one of the most beautiful settings we have ever seen. The Palms #7 is 5 star luxury in a non resort 35 unit complex. We were there for 10 days in June 2010 and there was never more than 1 or 2 other units occupied. All the units are ocean front with amazing views with one of the most stunning infinity pools we've ever seen and maintained without any chlorine. The grounds are impeccably maintained and the amenities go on and on including free use of boogie boards, surf boards, sea kayaks, ocean front gym, unbelievable BBQ area and more. The office staff were very friendly and helpful and helped arrange all sorts of things for us including a local Costa Rican restaurant that delivered incredible homemade hot local food lunches most of the days we were there. There is lots to do in Costa Rica but it's really hard to leave The Palms once you get there. The owner was great to work with and responded to all our emails and questions promptly. We would highly recommend the place unless you really want all the people, noise and bad services of a big resort. We will definitely come back here again. Family from Boulder, Colorado

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

Way, Way Beyond My Expectations

Guest: Steve & Sandra (Spokane Washington)
Date of Stay: 05/18/10 Review Submitted: 07/14/10

My wife and I, along with our 24 year old son and nephew just got back from two wonderful weeks in Costa Rica which was capped off by five fantastic days in unit #7 at the Palms. The pictures and descriptions on the web site just don't do the Palms or this beautiful home justice. Our unit sat right on the beach and was only a short walk from marina, resorts and shops and restaurants. The Infinity pool, beautiful tropical landscaping luscious green lawns and white sand beach are your back door. The unit had a large 1st and 2nd floor patios, off the living room and master bedroom suite. Every morning we sat with our coffee looking out on the early morning surf, and in the evenings watched the most spectacular sunsets and took tons of photos right from our patio. We spent hours in the two pools which are joined by a beautifully landscaped flowing creek. The beach is pure white and very safe, no rip tides, waves perfect for the boogie boards that come with the unit. There is excellent snorkeling a few hundred feet farther up the beach . On two of our days there was an off shore storm which created some of the largest waves the staff had seen and attracted several surfers at the point. But we typically had the entire beach to ourselves. This is the best maintained property we have ever visited. The staff is wonderful here and there are a lot of them, they never stop working, are always at your service and are warm and friendly. We hated saying good by to them. When we woke in the morning, the pools had already been cleaned, and every piece of furniture hand polished. The beach was being raked, shrubs groomed, clean beach towels set out on our deck and even the snorkeling equipment we had been using was all rinsed off and ready to go. Every two days maids came in and cleaned the entire unit and made sure we had everything we needed. There is a huge selection of equipment for use by the guests, including kayaks,surf boards, boogie boards, snorkel gear, life jackets, you name it and it is all brand new. The unit itself is spectacular. Huge, luxurious, gourmet kitchen everything top of the line from the Cuisinart knives to the Sub zero, this place is a palace. Not to be missed. We will be back!

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

Beautiful, Comfortable, Fun Playa Flamingo Condo

Guest: M. E. (Stillwater, MN)
Date of Stay: 04/27/10 Review Submitted: 06/03/10

We stayed at the condo for 5 nights late April 2010. We thoroughly enjoyed the stay and the beauty and comfort of the condo. The condo has a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. Lots of outside activity options from boogie boarding in the ocean, swimming in the pool, walking along the beach, watching the birds and iguanas, listening to the monkeys, preparing meals at the bbq,...The inside of the condo is breathtaking. The key feature throughout is the wood indigenous to Costa Rica. Beautiful cupboards, floors, woodwork throughout. The kitchen contains high end appliances and every cooking device or utencil that any cook would be interested in using. Huge master suite overlooking the Pacific. Slightly smaller king bedroom behind the master. Added feature was the wireless internet availability, Owner was very helpful before and after the trip, condo manager very helpful as well. We would definitely return and/or recommend this property. Local activities we enjoyed: buying wood products on the Monkey Trail, driving to local towns, golfing, watching the sunset and dining at Mar y sol.

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

Undiscovered Oasis In Paradise, First Class All the Way!

Guest: Eddie & Lois (New York, New York, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/09/10 Review Submitted: 05/12/10

We’ve vacationed at many fine places around the world. Nothing comes even close to this wonderful property. We could not believe such an “undiscovered” oasis was ours for two weeks. It was like having our own private estate. We usually had the entire property, gym and pool exclusively to ourselves. We were treated like gold by all The Palms staff. The villa itself is literally steps from the gorgeous infinity pool. And, the beach is just a few steps further; flat, sandy, safe for swimming and boogie-boarding. Every morning we enjoyed solitary walks on the beach, fresh-brewed coffee and breakfast on our spacious deck and just totally relaxed to the sounds of the waves, howler monkeys and birds….heaven. The entire home really is exquisite. The two Master-bedroom Suites are gorgeous, all the natural Costa Rican wood furnishings and details, what a treat to enjoy true Central American craftsmanship. The bathrooms are so luxurious, marble and granite everywhere. We can’t rave enough about the outfitting of this home, especially the kitchen. We are cooks and details like a garlic press were well-noted. Late afternoons, found us in the pool watching the most gorgeous sunsets ever! For supper, we either grilled our locally caught fresh ‘mahi mahi’ or ‘jumbo prawns’ on the huge Weber BBQ’s (Yum!) or strolled along the beach to one of Flamingo’s fine restaurants, usually Marie’s, Angelina’s or Mar Y Sol. The local restaurants were fabulous, more so than we had expected. We checked out the German Butcher for organic produce, chicken and beef, more fabulous BBQ’s! Later in the evenings we watched DVD’s on the big flat screen TV, browsed the Internet or checked our emails, all the comforts of home. We even attended a couple of “concerts”, some great musical talent in the area. The weather was perfect the entire time. So, we took advantage of the owner’s recommendations to have Jorge Mendez choose our guides for day-trips. He knows everyone. We were thrilled with our sailing, snorkeling, diving, deep-sea fishing and zip treks. We’ve already booked again for next year, before the place is “discovered”. Thanks Joan & Elyne for allowing us to stay in your wonderful home. Eddie & Lois

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

Even better than we expected!

Guest: Maureen and Erik (Seattle, WA)
Date of Stay: 03/28/10 Review Submitted: 04/15/10

Just back from 10 amazing days at this condo in Playa Flamingo. We felt like we were on another honeymoon - even with the kids in tow! The condo itself was spotless with great housekeeping throughout our stay. The layout is great - plenty of space to relax. It is the closest unit to the pool which, alone!, is enough reason to come back! The pool is super clean, warm, and perfect for adults and kids. The sunsets from the infinity edge of the pool are incredible! The beach here is also clean, flat ... great for beach walks. The kids had a great time boogie boarding! Didn't get to run while I was there due to an injury (would have been too hot anyway) but all 5 of us went to the workout room about half of the mornings and there was plenty of equipment to keep us going. We had fabulous meals at Mar y Sol, Marie's and Angelina's in Playa Flamingo. Would also recommend the drive (definitely would have rented a 4-wheel drive next time!) to Playa Avellanas to eat and relax at Lola's. Super unique spot with an amazing beach! On a drive north (via the Monkey Trail: don't do this without 4-wheel drive! Our poor rental car!) to check out Playa Hermosa, had wonderful tapas at Ginger. We would definitely come back and recommend this place to couples or families looking for a laid back, relaxing beach vacation.

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

Truly Spectacular

Guest: CJ_P (Canmore, Alberta, Canada)
Date of Stay: 03/09/10 Review Submitted: 04/05/10

Our two weeks at the Palms were exquisite, this is a magnificent place. The condo is amazing and very comfortable. It has all of the amenities I would want in a home away from home. The kitchen is great and well equipped. The white sandy beach, warm water and sun were awesome. Sunsets were intense and unbelievable. The sounds of the pounding surf lulled us to sleep at night. The staffs at the Palms are extremely friendly and attended to our every wish. The grounds of the Palms were exceptionally well kept. Jorge was always available should we need his assistance. The ocean was remarkable. Snorkelling with eight cow nose rays and cravelle jacks in the water in front of the condo was incredible. We also dove the Catalina Islands on many occasions - what a treat. We were a few feet away from a juvenile whale shark, scores of spotted rays, giant mantas and huge jacks. The diving was exciting. When not cooling down in the ocean we headed to the gorgeous infinity pool. We had so much fun in the pool and sunning beside it. Like clockwork, the howler monkeys made their presence known at sunset. Sadly, we have to leave this stunning location with so many fond memories of paradise. I would recommend this property to anyone seeking an exquisite vacation in a great setting. Sadly, we have to leave this stunning location with so many fond memories of paradise. Thanks Elyne and Joan

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

Guest: Delane Graham (Seneca, SC)
Date of Stay: 02/27/10 Review Submitted: 02/27/10

The tranquility and access to everything is what makes this place so special. Very secure and safe to walk anywhere. We took a Sunset catamaran cruise with Gold Coast Charters.From there met everyone we needed to give advice on places to visit and dining. Judd was our captain who has lived there six years. His contacts are unmatchable. The sunsets are wonderful and there are no noises except the howler monkeys and birds. The Palms has a great staff with phones, internet, and great contacts for any adventures. We will be back.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 01/04/10 Review Submitted: 01/04/10

Elyne, We really enjoyed our time at the Palms from Dec 27-Jan 3.. Jorge and his staff couldn't have been more helpful. It was tough getting our boys (ages 9 and 10) off the boggie boards!! Your place is in great shape from top to bottom. Another family we met (from San Jose, CR) said flamingo beach is the best beach in CR and the Palms is the only developement that has such proximity to the beach. very nice. Thx again for the use of your home!! Tim H and family

Owner response:Tim, Thanks for comments. We are really happy to hear you had a wonderful experience at The Palms. Joan & Elyne

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Guest: Joanne K. (Victoria, BC, Canada)
Date of Stay: 12/01/09 Review Submitted: 12/01/09

Costa Rica is a paradise and this is paradise in Costa Rica! The best beach (flat and few steps from condo) and the best place to stay and enjoy it! ***** 5 STARS. We thoroughly enjoyed our accommodation and it's "Costa Rican" flavour. The oceanfront gym and secluded BBQ area were exceptional. Loved listening to the waves, waking up to bird song, the wonderful, constantly warm, sunny weather and this glorious beach. Swam everyday, boogie boarded on many, endless walks & shell-collecting expeditions. Fun exploring nearby beaches & towns. Highly recommended trip to Tabacon Hotsprings, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, plus sailboat cruise on the "Shannon". Three great restaurants closeby Marie's and Angelina's a short walk down at the other end of Flamingo Beach and Mar Y Sol just up the hill. Excellent fresh fish, organic produce & meats closeby as well. For close to home excitement, we "assisted" many baby Olive Ridley turtles from their nests back to the ocean. Tried to catch the Leatherback Turtles laying eggs at Playa Grande one evening. We sure enjoyed using the free Vonage phone in the Business Center to call back home with daily reports! All in all, what we enjoyed the most was just being HERE at the condo on the best beach! Enjoy!! Joanne & Bev, Victoria, BC.

Owner response:Joanne - Thanks for your generous comments, we are always happy to hear that our special place is so appreciated by our guests - Joan & Elyne

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Guest: Sarah & Albert (North Vancouver, B.C., Canada)
Date of Stay: 12/01/09 Review Submitted: 12/01/09

Hola! Eleven days in Paradise. Thank you so much Elyne & Joan. Your beautiful home (fully stocked kitchen and all other deluxe amenities) and beachfront location were the best a couple of Gringos could ever hope to have. Our accommodations were five star plus and you rate a solid gold for helping us with tips for great outings. From the volcano and mineral pools at Tacacon to the Shores of Flamingo Beach, the incredible road tours, the fabulous restaurants, the sailboat cruise and sunset shows, the snorkeling, the Monkey Park, the shops, the Fiesta at Santa Cruz, the boat tour up the Tamarindo estuary, and finally the amazing criollo horses at Casagua. It feels like a lifetime packed into a mere 11 days. This is one vacation I will never forget. Many thanks. Sarah & Albert

Owner response:Sarah & Albert, Thanks for your comments. Our aim is to provide an experience that no one will forget. We think it's paradise too!

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Guest: Summer R (Redlands, California)
Date of Stay: 12/01/09 Review Submitted: 12/01/09

How does this sound for a relaxing days itinerary? Breakfast, beach, pool, ,lunch, nap, beach, pool, dinner, bed. Well, multiply that by 22 days and you will have an idea of how relaxing our time in Flamingo was. We took full advantage of the beautiful surroundings here and we enjoyed every minute of it. Elyne & Joan, we understand why you spend so much time here. THhre are no worries and each day flows effortlessly into the next. Emma and Joe started calling it "home" after just a few days so we can safely say they enjoyed it too. Thankyou both for allowing us to share this wonderful home you have here. Summer, Jeff, Emma & Joe Redlands, California

Owner response:Summer, Thanks for sending your family comments. Yes, we too find it very relaxing here at the beach. Luckily, we get pretty lengthy stays and really enjoy the Costa Rican "Pura Vida" lifestyle. Elyne & Joan

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Guest: lynne m (Port Moody, B.C. Canada)
Date of Stay: 11/23/09 Review Submitted: 11/23/09

The beach here is so quiet. Arising early I walk it on my own (30 steps from beachfront door), enjoying the sun and breezes. I meet no-one, the quiet and serenity are just what I had hoped. The homes here at The Palms are wonderful. The endless lap pool exquisite. If peacefulness, serenity and superb accommodations are what you seek.....you'll find it at The Palms #7. During my 2 week stay I did manage a visit to Tabacon Hot Springs and another to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, enjoyed massages and saw the illusive Quetsel and amazing flora. Really, a trip of a life-time. I hope to be so lucky to return to this beautiful country and Guanacaste some day. The highest of recommendations! Thanks Joan and Elyne.

Owner response:Lynne - We are very pleased to hear of your wonderful holiday experience. Thanks for your comments. Joan & Elyne

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