Outstanding, high-end condo!
Submitted: March 9, 2010
Stayed: February 2010
We rented the penthouse for one week in March for our two families (two couples and three toddlers). Our primary alternatives were private villas near Malmok Beach. We were thoroughly delighted with this condo and consider equal to better than most private homes we have rented in the past.
Condo unit: phenomenal views, truly phenomenal (photos do not do it justice); large flowing floor layout, high-end furnishings (especially for a rental unit), well equipped (beach towels, chairs, kitchen appliances, etc.). Very family friendly in terms common spaces yet private rooms. Stylish, modern feel.
Oceania residences: it was still under construction when we were there, but it was a non-issue. Quiet, unobtrusive interior work. we are not Aruba experts, but we are sold on Eagle Beach as the antidote to hi-rise, crowded beaches up North (Palm Beach) (while still being 5 mins by car). It was never crowded and it's the prototypical, wide, soft, white Caribbean beach. For our toddlers, the multiple zero entry pools were probably the best part. We nearly had them to ourselves to boot. Although one must cross a road to get to the beach, it is also very close and easy to traverse. We enjoyed the ease with which we could go to the beach and pool, back and forth.
Mario: he deserves a special section b/c he is one of the best agents/hosts we have met. He was responsive and patient during the selection process and very helpful and easy to work with once we arrived. For example, he went out of his way to buy a Pak N Play bed and high chair for our kids to save us from transporting them to Aruba! He made check-in and check-out simple and convenient for us.
Things to consider: Oceania was very quite while we were there. We liked that, but don't expect a lot of action -- except perhaps during peak weeks. The terrace with the jacuzzi is up a flight of stairs (two flights from the kitchen) and hence a little disconnected from the people in the condo. Not a major issue, but it affects entertaining/cooking, etc. Still a huge spot with those great views. It was a second playground for our kids.
Overall, as you can tell -- we strongly recommend the condo -- both for families and for couples looking for a stylish, modern, well-furnished alternative to a private villa.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Tourists without a Car,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 12/14
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