We absolutely loved our 8-night stay at Casa Maganda - the property is incredible, but even more importantly, the people who support the property are what really sets this apart. The home itself has a wonderful layout. The master bedroom and bath is what you read about in architectural magazines. The extra large master shower is surrounded by windows - the lower half of which are frosted - that give an amazing view to the surrounding rain forest. It's a surreal experience showering, during a rain shower, or at night when the grounds are nicely lit. My kids loved the inner atrium. Very relaxing to read in the internal garden while the rain comes down above your head. The home has every convenience you could want. The wifi needed to be reset a few times, but in general, speed matched what I get at home. The modern kitchen was a plus, as we cooked about half our meals at home. The outdoor space is even better. Scarlet macaws were a constant presence, their call an easily recognizable signal to get the camera ready. And the pool and grill were used frequently (it was a nice touch that the staff put out pool toys for the kids on the first day).
As great as the property is, the people is why you rent this place. Costa Rica is a beautiful country, and the people friendly (pura vida!), but its still a poor country (by American standards) and security may be a concern for some. The home is equipped with a security system, and there is a security guard who monitors the property from dusk until dawn. Even with a 5-hour power outage our last night, we felt safe and secure. Plus, Buck, your point of contact when on site, is very responsive to phone and text. He checked in with us several times the week we were there, and responded promptly to every text (for example, the gas grill did not have a propane tank, and Buck had one delivered within a few hours). He organized our zip lining excursion, and even brought us tangerines from his garden. He's a reassuring presence for anyone who's not rented a home in foreign country before.
All in all, we had an incredible stay at Casa Maganda! It's conveniently located, right down the road from Carara and the Tarcoles River, and a short day trip away from popular excursions like Manuel Antonio and Tortuga Island. The owners take care of the property, and between Buck, Nelson, and Noylin (daily cleaning service was a HUGE plus - she even did our laundry without us even asking), you are never without the help you need.