Our family of three thoroughly enjoy staying at Patty's home! The views cannot be beat and from everywhere on the property, you feel like you are in your own oasis! We were welcomed to a pristinely clean home, with a beautiful bouquet of tropical flowers. The pool, where our 11 year old spent most of his time, is crystal clear. While it's not heated, the sun keeps it at a fine refreshing temperature that is most welcome on hot afternoons. The newly built covered patio next to the pool provided perfect shade. We nearly lived outside on the wrap-around porch - the view is amazing, the bird varieties are beautiful, and the little lizard friends rid the porch of nearly all bugs. The porch stays dry except for the windiest of rain storms - there are few things as awe-inspiring as watching the clouds envelop the mountain. Patty invited us to enjoy the veggies that were growing - nothing as delicious as fresh picked tomatoes and spinach!
The kitchen had all that we needed. There were toiletries and a first aid kit in the bathrooms. There were lots of games (Monopoly, Dominos, Uno, Scrabble, puzzles, and others).
We lost electricity once for a couple hours during a storm, but crews were out quicker than they usually are here in NJ. A book out on the porch was all we needed anyway. We did lose water pressure several times, but the cistern backup was reliable if we needed. Keep in mind that this house is at the top of a mountain, in the middle of the island, so a little of that is a trade off for the privacy and beauty! Except during the power outage, the wifi worked well. Cell reception was consistently good, too. Unfortunately, my husband had to do some work while we were there, but was able to do so easily with the wifi and cell.
We recommend that you rent an SUV or Jeep - while a smaller car will suffice, you will be driving up mountain roads. A Jeep will be much happier than a sedan (and so will you)! We also recommend doing your grocery shopping before heading up from Utuado or Lares - we found the Econo in Utuado to be well-stocked and has good prices.
It does take a while to get to, but enjoy the ride, take in the sites - heck, you're on vacation - why rush?! PR is a most beautiful island and her residents are even more beautiful! We met so many wonderful people!!
Patty was wonderful! Very responsive! Her caretaker was also wonderful, providing wood for the fireplace/grill and making sure we had all that we needed!