Reviews for San Francisco (San Pancho) Vacation Rental - VRBO 74970 - 3 BR Nayarit House in Mexico, Tranquility- in Lo De Marcos, Mexico

Exquisite views

Guest Mic
Date of stay 03/27/13
Review Submitted 04/14/13

Four of us including 2 teenagers stayed at the lovely Casa Blanca overlooking Lo De Marcos and it's beautiful beaches and mountains for 10 glorious days this spring. The casa was clean, comfortable, and spacious - ideal for 2 families or 1 family wanting 2 sleeping areas separate and private from one another. The views and pool were the focal points of the residence for us and the pool was kept clean and at a perfect temperature. Bill and Mary were great hosts - Bill thank you for all the assistance whenever we needed it and all your tips on places to go and things to do. As for Lo De Marcos, what a charming little village. Still quite authentic Mexican. If you don't mind that there is only one american restaurant (Luna - which is awesome) and you won't find a great margarita in town, then you'll love it there. But there are many great restaurants (and great margaritas) in nearby San Pancho & Sayulita (15 & 25 minute drives away respectively). If you like horseback riding, then go with Lenny - he's a great guide and makes it a special experience. The people of Lo De Marcos are friendly and we felt completely safe there. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to have a more authentic mexican experience than what you would get in Puerto Vallarta or Sayulita.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Owner response: Thanks, we look forward to seeing you next year Bill

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Trip of a Lifetime

Guest sdnlk4
Date of stay 02/03/13
Review Submitted 02/25/13

We just returned from a 2 week vacation at Casa Blanca in the little village of Lo de Marcos. We have been to Puerto Vallarta, Bucerias, Rincon de Guayabitos, and this place is a little piece of paradise. The Casa is large with an open concept. The space was clean and tastefully decorated. The bedrooms large, with ceiling fans. Three bathrooms, with plenty of space. The kitchen is very well-stocked and there is an extensive library with games and books. The pool is mostly shaded until 3 pm or so , and the hot tub turned on for the evening or earlier upon request. From the deck we saw whales in the ocean daily. (hint:take binoculars) The drive way is in a nutshell, a major workout! It is long and steep! The beach is down the driveway, and about a block away. Most days the waves were strong, but fun to play in! The beach is very quiet, with 2 palapa restaurants near the area where swimming was the best. Lo De Marcos is an amazing little Mexican town.It took about 10 minutes for us to walk to the main shopping area, and we walked home in the dark several times -never feeling unsafe) We attended several community events/fundraisers: tasting ribs, fish tacos, pizza , tamales, chimichungas , flan and margaritas from local restaurants. There was entertainment and music in the square which we were attended and met locals as well as long term tourists. Everyone was super friendly and helpful. Groceries were easy to buy: fresh fish, meat, produce, soda, beer and wine... There was a local bakery where you could walk in and see the hearth oven and pastries being made and baked and buy on the spot. A cute little coffee shop downtown for our mochas and lattes, and several juice stands. There are a handful of restaurants in town to try for supper as well. La Luna (italian ) and Arciellas were our favorites. Bill and Mary are the onsite caretakers who live behind the casa in their own casita. They were amazingly helpful and always friendly. We were 2 families with total of 4 kids. (6-9 yrs) I would not recommend younger children staying there as the drop offs from pool and deck are big, and with the hike up the driveway, they would not manage. It worked very well for us , with lots of space for playing and relaxing. It was a fantastic vacation and we will be back! Thanks so much Bill and Mary.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children.

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Lovely Time Away from Snow and Cold

Guest Cathy
Date of stay 01/22/12
Review Submitted 02/02/12

Just returned from 9 days in Lo De Marcos...our first visit to this sweet, sleepy Mexican town. We found Casa Blanca a lovely respite with it's incredible ocean views, whale sightings, tropical birds and foliage. Since we do so much of our own cooking while in Mexico, we found the tortilla factory, fish guy and in-season produce in tow. (We shop at the Mega Mart in Bucerias on our way from the airport to pick up most staples and such.) Weather was 80 degrees every day, the waves crashed 24/7, the beach the cleanest and most vast we've experienced on this side of the Pacific; estuaries filled with water birds and Olivia's palapa beach restaurant our favorite hangout (the ceviche is to die for!) Having a car afforded us some exploratory side trips to La Penita and the Thursday market, polo match and baby sea turtle releasing in San Pancho as well as stopping at roadside fruit stands. We jacuzzied nightly under the stars and loved floating in the pool. It was by far one of our most memorable trips to Mexico thus far.

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

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Vacances sympatiques à Lo de Marcos

Guest Lulu
Date of stay 12/29/11
Review Submitted 01/09/12

Nous venons de passer une semaine en famille à la Casa Blanca et nous sommes revenus enchantés par ce sejour. Bill et sa femme sont charmants et trés prévenants, la maison est trés spacieuse avec une vue imprenable sur la mer. Elle est agréable à vivre car il y a beaucoup d'espace. Le jacusi extérieur a fait le bonheur des enfants. Le village de Lo de Marcos n'a pas été dénaturé par le tourisme, c'est un petit village de pécheur bien tranquille. Nous vous conseillons la Casa Blanca pour vos prochaines vacances sur la Costa Allegre.

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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Hats off to Casa Blanca

Guest Gus26
Date of stay 12/18/11
Review Submitted 01/15/12

Our stay at Casa Blanca was incredible. Our family of 5 had more than enough room. The house was clean and comfortable and the swimming pool and hot tub relaxing. Our hosts Bill and Mary were very helpful and went out of their way to make our stay enjoyable and stress free. Easy 5 minute walk down to the beautiful beach that offered new types of waves each day, from great boogy boarding to peaceful bobbing. The walk up from the beach wasn't quite as easy as the house sits up on a hill, but we didn't mind the exercise and then a plunge into the pool. We witnessed fantastic sunsets, beautiful foliage and butterflies daily from the casa. Easy 10 minute walk to town and easy bus ride to San Pancho, Sayulita, and La Pinita. We would recommend Casa Blanca to anyone looking for a quiet, gorgeous setting.

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

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Most Incredible Location

Guest Bob & Mare
Date of stay 10/15/11
Review Submitted 12/21/11

After spending a week in Casa Blanca, it’s hard to come back to reality. What an absolutely beautiful home with spectacular views and all the amenities: full kitchen with big fridge, outdoor grill, indoor bar, open architectural design with plenty of room, the best infinity pool with view you will ever experience, and for those who just have to connect to the real world: flat screen tv’s and internet access. We had a wonderful time in the tiny town of Lo De Marcos, visiting the markets, hitting the beach bars, and even visiting the famous Lo De Marcos Surf Shop. The good news: an ATM is now available in town; the bad news: no post office (but, now you have an excuse for not writing home). Side trips to Sayulita are fine for a more formal dinner, but even that starts to appear too commercial. Casa Blanca is a great place for a few couples to share a tropical experience, or for a family to spend some quality time together. We also went with the recommended Gecko’s Rental via internet reservation, picking up and returning the car at the Puerto Vallarta airport. Casa Blanca Managers Bill and Mary were available for help, on an as needed basis, and were fabulous. Just don't leave there without trying the fresh jicama.

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

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Casa Blanca is Paradise!

Guest GG M.
Date of stay 09/19/11
Review Submitted 10/25/11

We stayed at Casa Blanca for our honeymoon and it truly was paradise! Everything about our vacation was perfect. The house had such incredible views of the ocean, the mountains and the jungle for every room of the house. We loved the remoteness of the town and it not being touristy at all. The restaurants/huts on the beach had the freshest seafood and mexican food we have ever had and just tasted amazing! The house with the views and the pool was just glorious; we hardly ever left the pool. My favorite part was the built in loungers in the pool. If we could have improved on anything we would have loved the hot tub to have been hot; we are huge hot tub fans and we also would have loved air conditioning in the house; made it very difficult to sleep at night in the heat. But other than that, everything truly was amazing and beautiful. This was a honeymoon I've dreamed of my whole life; pure perfection! Cannot wait to come back!!

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

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Great house

Guest Alex & Anna
Date of stay 04/09/11
Review Submitted 04/21/11

Our family of four (including two kids ages 8 & 9) just spent a week at Casa Blanca. This is such a fantastic property with great views, beautiful pools, close to the beach, away from everything. While we enjoyed staying away from the crowds and peace and quiet available in undiscovered little towns, it takes only 10-15 minutes drive to nearby touristy tonws San Pancho and Sayulita with all kinds of restaurants, art galleries, etc. The beach is excellent. Bill and Mary are great hosts. Thank you! This is a great place to spend quality time with the family or friends or simply for a romantic getaway!

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

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Chill out in Mexico

Guest Aza
Date of stay 02/15/11
Review Submitted 02/28/11

After 8 days of calling Casa Blanca in Lo de Marcos home, it was very hard to leave. A Great Mexican experience. Firstly, you will not find Art Gallaries, Cafes or tourists on Golf Carts in Lo De Marcos. It is not that type of place as tourism hasn't over-run the area yet. If you require this environment it is only an easy 15 minute drive south to San Pancho or further on to Sayulita. Great places to visit but returning to the tranquility and views from Casa Blanca always put a smile on our faces at the end of the day. What you will find in Lo de Marcos are friendly chilled out locals, nature, a couple of great resturants and one stunning safe swiming beach with unforgetable sunsets that over time will remove all of your life stresses. The house itself is fitted out with Cable and a Flat screen TV, internet connection and most other mod. cons but honestly were hardly used as the view from the house and spa was just too enticing. Bill and Mary are always on hand to help and always very informative about things to do and places to see. Thank you to you both

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

Owner response: Thank you so much. It was great having you here. Thanks Bill

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Great escape

Guest Colleen
Date of stay 12/24/10
Review Submitted 01/30/11

Our family stayed here over Christmas & New Years and thoroughly enjoyed it. The house is expansive and the views are amazing. Lots of wildlife (birds, bugs, geckos, snakes, frogs) to see. The pool was very nice - refreshing and the hot tub is more of a warm tub (never really got too hot) which is fine for Mexico. Bill and Mary were very attentive, gave us lots of recommendations, were very accommodating & hospitable. Lo De Marcos is a lovely village but not a ton to do there - you definitely need a car to get around to the neighboring villages. Sugar & Spice is a great little restaurant in Lo De Marcos. Great fish tacos at Herme's in La Penita (ask Mary for correct name of restaurant). In Sayulita, go to Rollie's for breakfast. We appreciate the easy going nature of both Bill & Mary and the whole booking process was made easy. Thanks Bill & Mary.

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

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simply put a house in paradise

Guest Jackie
Date of stay 08/09/10
Review Submitted 01/04/11

I have loved Lo de Marcos since the 80's when I first started visiting. Casa Blanca added a whole new dimension to our experience. We came with my daughter, her husband, and three of my grandchildren. Bill and Mary are excellent hosts and so helpful and kind. The house is gorgeous, huge, and has all the necessities avalable. The view from the patio is phenomenal. I can't wait to go back. Thanks for everything Bill and Mary

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

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Had a blast

Guest Clayt and Shauna + 5
Date of stay 06/18/10
Review Submitted 07/02/10

My wife and 5 kids had a blast at Casa Blanca. The view is amazing, and the kids loved the infinity pool as well as the pool table. From the balcony we spotted caciques, ducks, parrots, butterflies, iguanas, crabs etc. We loved our stay here and would recommend it to anybody. Bill and Mary are the best. They have excellent knowledge on where to eat, what to do, and who's who around town. If you want to experience real Mexico, and I mean an authentic Mexican village, yet at the same time stay in a beautiful luxury villa, then this house is for you.

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

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Relaxing Retreat in Lo De Marcos

Guest Pacho and Carlina
Date of stay 04/06/10
Review Submitted 06/10/10

Our vacation was more than "the best". Our expectations were highly met; the owners were so informative and helpful;April was a great time to go; the infinity pool was awesome; the towns people were so friendly and tourist oriented; the owners suggested some awesome nearby places to visit and restaurants to try. How do we rate this ---A+.

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

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Most memorable life experience's

Guest keeping busy
Date of stay 01/12/10
Review Submitted 05/07/10

There is not a lot of wiggle room here in my opinion you have simply reached the ultimate in Mexican accommodations , I arrived to Casa Blanca in January 2010 with my wife and family ( daughter and 2 grand kids ) the very first reaction from the children was '' we feel like movie stars staying in such a magnificent home " .The kids body surfed , swam , hiked , and took in the seemingly unlimited amount of nature that surrounded them. I have traveled Mexico for many many years and must conclude that the luxuriously appointed Casa Blanca house with its gracious host's Bill and Mary is unsurpassed in all dimensions and is worthy of many return visits in our future travels..........Thanks so much Bill and Mary !!!!

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.

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Guest Rob Eastwood
Date of stay 01/06/10
Review Submitted 01/05/10

Spent Xmas through New Years in Casa Blanca bringing the whole family and had an excellent time. Many of the superlatives expressed in previous guest comments capture the great qualities of this place. Truly is a one of a kind property. Have rented vacation homes in PV, Hawaii and other vacation areas and believe it would be very difficult if not impossible to match this house for the price almost anywhere else. Very easy to get comfortable there, situated perfectly just above the beach and town with the 2,000 square foot plus great room, infinity pool and spa. The beach at Lo de Marcos is outstanding, kid friendly, good body surfing, decent board surfing, tidepools. Great town with lots of tasty seafood. Finally excellent and friendly hosts in Bill and Mary. We will be back.

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Guest Jack & Sherri
Date of stay 11/30/09
Review Submitted 11/30/09

Wow! What can you say. Its never the same after returning home from vacation, at least for a week or so. After returning from Casa Blanca, life changes for ever. Make room for us Billy, we're moving in!

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Guest Jack Bergeron
Date of stay 05/15/09
Review Submitted 05/15/09

On April 6 2009 I surprised my Son and Family witch included my 2 Grandaughters By booking 3 nites with Bill and Mary in Casa Blanca. Daphne and I have a property in Lo De Marcos and for the last 6 years we have often said it would be nice to spend a nite up there. Casa Blanca is the shining star that overlooks our little peridise .We were treated so very nice by BILL ON THE HILL and Mary. Our family would not leave the comforts of the Beautiful home and fantastic pool they said we can see everything in town from here . If you want to spoil yourself you would never be didapointed comming to Casa Blanca. Thanks again Bill and Mary

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Guest Dave & Dawna Demers
Date of stay 03/21/09
Review Submitted 03/21/09

Lo de Marcos is an extremely friendly town. It's the getaway from tourist ville! Casa Blanca is a beautiful, well kept and clean home that is completely equipped as advertised. The pool is spotless and the birds eye view is the best in town! Plus the bird watching is excellent! Bring a Mexico bird book with you. We LOVED watching and listening for the bread lady and the shrimp and veggie guys! Try the fresh baked homemade turnovers and croissants! Bill and Mary checked in with us daily to tend to any household items we may need and were a great source of local information. I can't say enough about the friendliness of everyone during our stay! If you want privacy around the pool, the best view, and a short walk to the beach then Casa Blanca is the place for you!

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Guest Louis & Sylvie Villeneuve
Date of stay 02/15/09
Review Submitted 02/15/09

Bill and Mary, your are great hosts! We really enjoyed our stay at Casa Blanca! The house is wonderful with all the equipement we need.And what about the pool and the jacuzi with an incredible ocean view!!! Life of rich and famous !! C'est un endroit fantastique! Une vue imprenable sur le pacifique et une maison à faire rêver! Il faut y vivre pour le croire!

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Guest Guy Gouin
Date of stay 02/15/09
Review Submitted 02/15/09

We had a great welcome. It's a beautiful place with an amazing view! Thank you Mary and Bill!

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Guest Sue 4
Date of stay 01/10/09
Review Submitted 01/10/09

Thanks for sharing your Casa with us. We relaxed and rested in the peaceful surroundings and fantastic views! Laurie and Sue. Feb.4 2007

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Guest Doug & Karin Pruss
Date of stay 03/25/07
Review Submitted 03/25/07

Thank you Bill and Mary for a wonderful vacation. Your helpfulness and special attention were very much appreciated. The house was perfect for our needs, the spectacular view cannot be understated and we enjoyed the pool and spa immensely.

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Guest Stephen2
Date of stay 01/10/07
Review Submitted 01/09/07

From the moment we arrived the views just kept us captivated! Not only are there just amazing views of the ocean, but also of the incredible mountains on the other side of the house - sunrises and sunsets are both not to be missed! Bill and Mary were great hosts and it was nice to have them close to answer questions about Lo de Marcos. Looking forward to return as soon as possible! On a scale from 1 to 10 - definitely a 10!

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Guest Doug S.1
Date of stay 12/05/06
Review Submitted 12/05/06

WOW!!! We are so happy we booked with Casa Blanca! Close to Puerto Vallarta commercial tourist stuff (like fine shoe shopping, etc.) but far away from tourist!! The 45 minute drive north from Puerto Vallarta is worth the trip. Everything is cheaper the further north you go. The local people of Lo De Marcos are wonderful and will help you with your fresh seafood orders. The beaches are beyond compare. Casa Blanca was easy to stay in, comfortable, and the crown jewel of the town. Perched over the Pacific, it commands your attention as thee best vantage point around to view the ocean and jungle. We are eager to return. Thanks Bill for your onsite attention and Polly for ease of booking!!

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Guest Suzie and Steve
Date of stay 11/28/06
Review Submitted 11/28/06

Casa Blanca is lovely in November! High on a hill, catching every warm breeze to cool and move the still, humid air of coastal Mexico, the house has comfy beds and a bright open floor plan with exotic views and surround deck access. Infinity pool has breathtaking views of jungle flora, happy birds, long beaches and ocean beyond and offers every opportunity to cool down and relax in the clear fresh water. We spend hours in the pool, at frequent intervals, before breakfast and after dinner. We cooked delicious meals with super-fresh oysters, shrimp, and local fishes (shucked, deveined and fileted by friendly locals upon request!) all easily and inexpensively available in the small, friendly town of Lo De Marcos. Also enjoyed incredible variety of fruits, beer frig at bar, and large well-stocked kitchen. Onsite managers offered useful info and helped us whenever asked. Excellent vacation spot to share with friends. Highly recommend and HOPE TO RETURN SOON!!!!!

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Guest Robert Johnson
Date of stay 05/31/06
Review Submitted 05/31/06

If you like Mexico, you will love Casa Blanca... High on a hill with gorgeous views of the ever-changing Pacific. Cool ocean breezes,bright & open floor plan. Close enough to fine dining and beautiful beaches, far from noisy nightlife. Gracious hosts who will share their knowledge of the area. Enjoyed every minute. We will return as soon as we can. Thanks so much Bill & Mary!! Rob & Jen 5/31/06

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Guest Deborah3
Date of stay 05/30/06
Review Submitted 05/30/06

Casa Blanca is a wonderful vacation spot. Views are spectacular, pool is refreshing. Plenty of space and ammentities. Very Tranquil! Can't wait to visit again.

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Guest Leslie Collard
Date of stay 04/08/06
Review Submitted 04/08/06

3-20-2006 What a great time we had! Casa Blanca was just what we needed to get away, after a busy ski season... Enjoyed the beach and playing in the waves. The property and Casa has so much room to relax and enjoy! Wonderful infinity pool and jacuzzi, with great views. We even got to see a baby calf take it's first steps. Thanks again, Leslie!

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Guest Maria 2
Date of stay 03/14/06
Review Submitted 03/14/06

The view is spectular! The birds are so much fun to watch. The whales were pretty cool. The restaurants in the area are very good. Cannot get fresher seafood than from the beach. The house is so comfortable and you fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean. The beach is only a few minutes walk. The people in Lo De Marcos, and surrounding areas are so friendly and sweet. This was one of the most relaxing and wonderful vacations I've ever had. Thank you so much.

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Guest comment entered by owner

Guest THE MEXICANS
Date of stay 01/02/06
Review Submitted 01/01/06

BILL, WHAT A GREAT HOUSE YOU AND YOUR ASSOCIATES HAVE. THE VIEWS ARE SPECTACULAR, THE POOL WAS WONDERFUL. HOPE YOU WILL LET US COME BACK.THANKS AGAIN

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Guest comment entered by owner

Guest Wendy
Date of stay 12/26/05
Review Submitted 12/25/05

WHAT A GREAT HOUSE,BEST VIEWS OF ANY HOUSE WE HAVE RENTED.POOL WAS GREAT.HOPE WE CAN COME BACK.

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Vacation Rentals by Owner

Tranquility- in Lo De Marcos, Mexico [#74970] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (31)

Exquisite views

Exquisite views

Trip of a Lifetime

Trip of a Lifetime

Lovely Time Away from Snow and Cold

Lovely Time Away from Snow and Cold

Vacances sympatiques à Lo de Marcos

Vacances sympatiques à Lo de Marcos

Hats off to Casa Blanca

Hats off to Casa Blanca

Most Incredible Location

Most Incredible Location

Casa Blanca is Paradise!

Casa Blanca is Paradise!

Great house

Great house

Chill out in Mexico

Chill out in Mexico

Great escape

Great escape

simply put a house in paradise

simply put a house in paradise

Had a blast

Had a blast

Relaxing Retreat in Lo De Marcos

Relaxing Retreat in Lo De Marcos

Most memorable life experience's

Most memorable life experience's