I’ll start with the positives: Nice, quiet, safe location. This neighborhood (Xanadu) is a true, inconspicuous gated community, with beautiful homes in a perfect nestled-between-the-cliff location. It has its own private beach, and a real zen-feel. You’re central to the best beach towns, El Tunco and El Zonte with the best food and shopping options. The guards keep the gate well protected and always had two on staff (I believe day and night).
For the house, the beautiful outdoor patio area is terraced with truly breathtaking ocean views. You are literally on the cliff, looking down a 100 foot gully to the ocean. Outdoor living is the point of this house, which is why I booked it to begin with. You could stay here all day and just breathe the gentle ocean breeze, while swinging in a hammock under the lanai. Or, cool off in the pool, and lay under the hot El Salvadoran sun. It’s all good, made better with a well-designed landscape of bougainvillea, mature trees, and coastal plants. The internet is fast, BTW.
Our contact, Reynaldo, is not local but had great communication. He was both responsive and helpful. He reached out prior to the trip to ensure we were set to arrive and provide details. He definitely took care of us.
For the negatives: The house is in need of updating. Even some fresh paint would help here. But that’s not really the issue. Although it’s quaint, and really does have a feel of a lived-in home, and to some degree it’s cozy warm and inviting, it’s kind of falling apart. The beds and bedding and minimal, and beyond the master bed, the beds are super uncomfortable. We had quite the ant problem (but used to that).
Overall, I would say that you’re paying for the location and views, not the house. I feel that it’s maybe $50-$70 per night overvalue. But, If you’re looking for an amazing, safe location and if you have a party of 5 or more, this is the perfect spot.