A fantastic property
Review Submitted: January 7, 2012
Date of Stay: December 2011
The description and photos didn't do the property justice! We were pleasantly surprised by how spacious the property was--we were six adults and one child (our boy, age 5), and we had more than enough room to not feel as if we were in each other's way. The bedrooms are big (each with its own full bath), and so is the pool/deck area.
The property was well-maintained and spotlessly clean, and Jose and Martha were accommodating and gracious in every way. Jose took pains to make sure that anything we left out (books, iPods, etc.) were safely tucked away, and that the gate was kept closed unless we were expecting a cab; he also made sure the house was locked up tight at night. We felt safe and secure.
Our specific observations/recommendations that might help anyone else planning a stay at Casa Martia include:
(1) have Martha cook for you at least once--she'll bring food ready to go, you just have to reheat;
(2) go snorkeling with Raul at Reef Adventures (there's a brochure at the house). Far superior to other snorkel tours we've been on over the years;
(3) ask for cab fares in advance of getting into the car. Every time we forgot to do so, we were scammed (our own stupid fault, clearly);
(4) bring (and use) bug spray. You'll be bitten way more than at a resort property, but that's because resorts are often regularly fogged with chemicals. (Personally, I'd prefer the bites to the toxins.)
(5) walk to Muerto Morelos along the beach. It's about 45-55 minutes at a brisk pace, and you'll see lots of properties. Then you can pick up provisions and cab back to the house.
(6) Croco Cun zoo--goofy name, not cheap, but a great chance for your kids to really get up-close and personal with wildlife.
Final word on cabs and location: you're NOT at a property that's an easy stroll to restaurants or other amenities; you have to accept the fact that you'll be paying for cabs (which are plentiful, and range from 150-200 pesos from the house to the town square), or renting a car. The flip side of that, of course, is that you have lots of privacy and the perks that come with it (play your music whenever and as loud as you like, get that perfect spot on the beach, don't worry about someone stealing your possessions if you leave your poolside lounger for five minutes).
We'll be back again!
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Tourists without a Car,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: We always love it when our guests enjoy our property as much as we do! We have many guests that return year after year, and is a pleasure to know that our home is a respite for many busy families. We look forward to your return!
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