On arriving initially ok but over stay became a bit more and more disappointed with the overall condition of the unit as I began to notice various things. Had my wife joined us, my circumstances would've been very different. She being very particular would have insisted on my finding us alternative accommodations. Being just myself and two young men (17 and 20) who are totally indifferent to such things it was ultimately fine. Especially as location (to me) was A+++.
With that background, unit is in need of a fair amount of update, care, and maintenance. In over 25 years of staying in nicer properties I can't say that I've never seen a luxury property that didn't have one or two items that were out of place/in need of attention.
The difference being that in this unit there are many defects that have been left unattended, and seemingly for quite a while, e.g., ripped upholstery on chairs, stained upholstery, furniture with the stain scratched off, mold on chrome on bathroom floor, chipped and rusted walls in several places needing fresh paint, kitchen sink faucet handle missing a piece, broken hot tub, etc. The cumulative effect is disheartening as it felt clean but run down ala 1970's. Of course this is all subjective and based solely on what my expectations were. Others could take a different view. Again, however, in my admittedly subjective opinion, the condition of this property is not at all representative of past experiences in high end rentals or my previous stays in Aruba.
Location of course is (as expected) outstanding. This was shared with owner (Elizabeth) prior to posting who put responsibility for M&R on mgmt. Co. (Prestige) and replied: “As far as the furniture inside and out, I am responsible for. I have a container leaving at the end of August with a new jacuzzi, new outdoor furniture and sofa and dining room tables. I also put a deposit down on shades and curtains (window treatments).” In fairness to Elizabeth she was responsive and appreciated the feedback.
My expectation, however, when I come to a place like this is that it will be well-maintained and generally as nice as staying at the Ritz or similar property, albeit without daily maid service (and not like a rundown Holiday Inn). Unfortunately, in this situation my expectations and current conditions were not in sync. And so I basically was subject to bad timing, i.e., perhaps my perspective after arrival of new furniture and maintenance would be quite different.