Old Spanish Gem: The House That Love (Re)built

The Mission is a very special place. The house and the decor have a lot of personality; the house is ecclectic and it will be a delight for those who appreciate places/things with character and history. The Mission has everything you can possibly imagine to make you feel comfortable and at home (a computer, printer, CDs, movies, games, cleaning supplies, basic ingredients in the kitchen; they have truly thought of everything!). Alan and Paul go out of their way to welcome you and make sure you have a pleasant stay. The house is ideal for a family vacation/reunion. We had lived in Miami, so we were looking for the local experience. The garden was a delight, which is beautifully lit at night (you really cant tell how special it is until you see it!). The house is centrally located and just minutes away from major spots (Downtown, Brickell, Little Havana, Coconut Grove, Soouth Beach and the Gables). The neighborhood certainly celebrates the Latin culture, and the grocery store around the corner has everything you need for less than half the price of a regular supermarket. The house is perfect for small kids/family and they even provide a pack and play. The price/cost of our stay does not compare to the quality of our time at the Mission.

For their attention to detail, their love and care for the house and their guests, it is truly a delight to have been able to stay at Paul and Alan's. We loved our time at the Mission, and we hope we can be back there soon.

Paul & Alan are gracious hosts and have put together a great place to stay. The location is excellent with quick, easy access to the sights and places in Miami - Dade. You can be at a nearly unlimited number of restaurants in less than 10 minutes. The neighborhood is eclectic. Some might be a little intimidated but we found it to be agreeable and friendly, especially on evening walks. The "Mission" house is beautifully decorated, clean, comfortable and very well equipped. The original art is a special and appreciated touch along with the great library. We heartily recommend this lovely property and we will be back.

We dug The Mission. It seriously feels like you're just going to your own beach/vacation house as everything you might think to put in such a home is provided--full kitchen, towels, bedding, books, miami guidebooks, games, take-out menus, movies, satellite TV, washer/dryer, computer/printer w/ internet, etc. (...but no wireless, though?) Paul and Alan are totally low-key, too, so you don't have to worry about them getting in your way. Plus it's got major character: Paul is a primo painter and has pieces hanging throughout the house. Alan is...well, I'm not sure what you call it, but "he's good with lights!" ...like, ambient lights. The house and backyard has tons of thoughtful lighting to set the mood just right. The hosts definitely won't bother you, though. We just spent a bit more time with them because we had a lot in common and they are very knowledgeable about the area.

This not a beach house, per se, as you can't walk out the door and be on the beach. I would recommend this more for someone looking to explore Miami or simply as a getaway home. The beach is VERY close, but is a drive rather than a walk. We went to the beach three-ish days of our week-long trip + South Beach, Key West, Vizcaya, Children's Museum, Little Havana. We did have two small children (1 yr-old & 2 y-old) at the place which didn't prove too difficult, but we had to keep an eye on them (I say this as the uncle--their parents may have thought otherwise :).

The neighborhood may sketch out some people on first sight, but it is really fine. My bro-in-law ran all through it a couple mornings, and we walked all along Calle Ocho multiple times. And there's a sweet bakery right on the corner (literally about 50 ft. away).

Overall, this was a totally unique and comfortable place that makes for a good jumping off point for anything in/around Miami. We really enjoyed our stay!!!