OCEAN VILLA 'CASA EZULWINI' ON NICARAGUA'S PACIFIC COAST

I just returned home to the States after having spent a combined two full months at Casa Ezulwini -- once during March 2012 and again in July -- so I feel well-qualified to recommend the property to anyone looking for comfort and relaxation in a splendid setting.

Everything inside and around the house is done with great care and deliberation. Its owner has seen to it that only the best experience is ready and waiting for those who choose this property over other homes down the road or even across the country. Some examples:

-- Sparkling infinity pool, always clean and polished, with unexcelled views over the Pacific Ocean. In my opinion, this is the best part of the whole deal.

-- Well-equipped kitchen with separate dining area. This is not just a basic Latin American "cocina," but a place in which the owner has obviously placed a lot of emphasis and consideration for the enjoyment of both his family and guests

-- This same emphasis extends to bedrooms and baths, all air-conditioned, comfortable and spacious

-- Highly efficient staff. These folks look over the house while unoccupied, but more importantly they help out whenever a guest has needs: grocery runs, minor repairs or fixes, advice on places to visit and/or day-trips, and so forth. While they don't hang out at the house (the house is utterly private and the staff respects that), they're only a phone call or email away and when asked for help, they respond quickly -- as in NOW

-- For the guest who cares to keep in touch with the outside world, the fast in-house Wi-Fi network and TV set with its array of satellite channels answer the need

-- Security is important to me, and not once did I feel jeopardized or potentially compromised. Several layers of security cover the grounds, and at all times I felt as safe there as I do today in my own home

-- The owner genuinely cares about his guests' experience, is cooperative, competent, communicative, fair and honest

So, after spending two months there, I feel I've done your homework for you. Save yourself some research and go with Casa Ezulwini. You'll be pleasantly rewarded.

This is a beautiful home with gorgeous views, exquisitely furnished, including original Nicaraguan artwork. We enjoyed the private beach, both using the kayaks or just relaxing in the beach chairs and hammocks. We caught enough Mahi Mahi fishing with Fidel one morning to eat during our entire stay. The location provides easy access to Rivas, San Juan del Sur, Iguana Beach, Granada, Isle de Ometepe, just to name a few. The cute beach town of Gigante is within walking distance. The owners are very knowledgeable about the area, as well as all of Nicaragua and are happy to assist in planning activities and answering questions. We'd highly recommend it ! Deb and John Mitchell

We had a very pleasant stay at the Casa Esulwini. The house was very well maintained, and more luxerious and spacious than what we expected from the photos. The location was unique and we enjoyed the sunsets, to watch the birdlife from the veranda, and listen to the sounds from the surrounding forest including howler monkeys. We strongly recommend this property, and hope to come back soon.

Finn Salvesen, Norway.