| Date | Rating | Comment
[Guest Comments: 24 positive, 0 negative]
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| 02/09/09 |
Positive
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| Now we know why you call it your "dream home" Monica! What a wonderful place to stay. The view over the valley to the ocean is awesome, the house itself it beautiful and the location near the beaches, and transportation to Vieques and Culebra were great. Thanks for a very enjoyable place to get away from our northern winter for a week! |
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Alan and Mary Jean Green, Greendale, WI |
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| 07/11/08 |
Positive
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It was an absolute pleasure to stay at Monica's
place in Ceiba. It was in the perfect location and
our group was able to see so much of the island.
We visited the island of Culebra, took surfing
lessons in Luquillo, kayaked in the Cabezas the San
Juan nature preserve, hiked the Toro Negro
Rainforest, visited Old San Juan and explored Caves
in the Tanamá River area. There is SO MUCH to do
on this beautiful island. Coming "home" to Ceiba
was wonderful. Our group of 14 people rented the
entire house and enjoyed pancake breakfasts on
the gorgeous deck overlooking the ocean. There
are wonderful restaurants in the area, and the
coqui frogs will lull you to sleep. Best of all, Monica
made everything so easy and accommodating. I
hope to travel with my family to Puerto Rico in the
near future. Without a doubt, we plan to stay in
Ceiba. Thank you for everything Monica. |
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Elizabeth |
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| 04/10/08 |
Positive
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| What a gorgeous home! We couldn't have been more pleased with our stay. The photos on the website are wonderful, but they don't do your home justice, Monica! It was exactly what we were hoping for, and then some. While the weather didn't always cooperate with our plans to visit the nearby islands, we were thrilled to have sucha a spacious, beautiful place to stay. The views are incredible! Thank you for sharing this amazing house with us! |
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Ruth & Wayne, Edina Minnesota |
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| 04/25/07 |
Positive
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Hidden Paradise is just that - it's a beautiful house in the perfect location. Close to the Rain Forest, the beaches and the islands, but quiet and restful. We had a wonderful respite, and Monica is graciousness personified. We had a wedding vow renewal ceremony and Shayla and I could not be more pleased with the party.
Aida kept the house clean, fed the super dogs and cats and catered for our reception - she deserves special mention.
An outstanding vacation, including sailing, fishing and sightseeing, we'll recommend it to all our friends, and next time we'll bring our golf clubs!! |
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Robert Taylor, Stafford, VA. USA
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| 01/22/07 |
Positive
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Monica, what can I say but 'THANK YOU'. We had an incredible time.
It's been over 20yrs since I last visited Puerto Rico, so coming back and having our family reunion at the house was PERFECT (6 families, total of 15 people).
We rented both floors. The view from either floor is breath taking. You can see the valleys, the ocean and the little islands across.
Your home has everything one would need to live in. Monica, you thought of everything.
The house is decorated so beautifully, a wonderful feel of not just Mexican style but of true Latin taste. The sweet smell the breeze brings in day and night I'll never forget. Being sung to every night by the coquies was perfect too. Each room with its own AC unit was a great idea. And we had no problems with bugs.
The house is close to everything. 15-20 minutes from Luquillo Beahces, Fajardo, the ferry in Fajardo (which we recommend your guests take), casino, the Rain Forest, shops, restaurants, supermarket, banks, etc. Even Old San Juan isn't so far away (30 to 45 minutes). Ponce is an hour-n-half away and we were able to visit my family there.
We loved every minute of our trip. My children have memories to last them a life time and your home in Ceiba made it all possible. I'm so happy I found it in VRBO. God Blessed us abundantly!
Suggestions for future guests: Rain Forest, El Morro, a ferry ride of 90 minutes to Culebra ($3 per adult)(gorgeous beach), kayaking at night at the bio bay in Fajardo ($45 per adult), any and all fried food stands you see! Don't stay anywhere else, come to Ceiba, it beats staying at any hotel, I promise, its true.
We hope to visit PR soon and not let so much time go by again as the last.
Thank you again for everything!
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Mimi, RSM, California |
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| 11/22/06 |
Positive
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I am way late on posting this; my husband and I stayed in Feb 2005 and were so in awe we can just now gather our thoughts to comment... :-)
The house was gorgeous and well-kept; the views of the ocean were spectacular; we even managed to find the tiny coqui! The best vacation and best deal on a vacation rental, EVER!
Thanks, I hope to return soon! |
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Jennifer, Athens GA
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| 04/21/06 |
Positive
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Our group of 4 adults and 5 kids, ages 9-14, had a lovely week at Monica's house mid-April. Photos do not capture how beautifully situated the home is on the mountainside, with excellent views of the ocean, islands, etc. With the changing angle of the sun every time we looked out it seemed to be a new panorama, all gorgeous.
The house (we stayed on the top floor) is lovingly furnished and seemed roomy even for our large group. There were 2 TV's & 2 DVD's, which made our young people happy during quiet times. Lots of English-speaking channels and a bunch of DVD's on hand too!
The wrap-around porch was like another room, and there were no problems with mosquitos. The orientation and altitude of the house made air conditioning unnecessary. The house was spotlessly clean, well maintained and the neighborhood very nice and safe.
There are a couple of beach chairs, umbrella and rafts for use at the beach. I suggest you bring your own beach towels, as the ones at the house are too nice for beach use. You are surrounded by the flora and fauna of the rain forest. The coqui frogs can be loud if you are a light sleeper, not to mention a neighboring rooster and the chorus of dogs (which we adored!) I'm a light sleeper and so brought earplugs and it was fine.
Essentially, I don't know why anyone would stay anywhere else when coming to Puerto Rico. Monica and Milito are charming people with big hearts. They stayed downstairs for most of our visit and it was nice to have them around for consulting about activities. |
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Anonymous, Radnor, Pennsylvania
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| 04/17/06 |
Positive
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I rented the downstairs portion of Monica's home in
March 2005 along with my sister, her boyfriend,
and my son. We had such an incredible time that
we returned in April 2006 and rented the top
portion of the house with more family members.
Monica's house is beautiful and just being able to
stay there is like a vacation in itself. Feeling the
ocean breezes and listening to the coquis in the
evenings is like a wonderful dream. The location is
breathtaking, and the proximity to the beaches,
islands, and rainforest make it an ideal vacation
home. Monica and Milito are both so friendly and
warm and helpful with any questions. Since we've
returned from our vacation, 2 of my coworkers have
expressed an interest in the house just from
hearing about it from me, and I have given them
the web site to look at. I would not hesitate to
recommend the house to anyone, and I'd love to
return! My 5 year old son is already asking when
we can go back! |
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Jennifer Smith, Chicago, IL
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| 01/03/06 |
Positive
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There is no more friendlier and relaxing place on Earth than Puerto Rico and this home epitomizes all of this and more. We spent our Xmas holiday in this mountaintop retreat and were swept up by the gorgeous views and hospitality of our hosts. Monica's description of her home on the website is totally accurate and actually does not do it justice. The home is a blend of cosmopolitan and rain forest charm. You have all the comforts of home for a very modest price and there is no comparison with the resorts nearby in terms of accommodations and view. We will be back.
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Lynne, Alex and Morgan, Windsor, CT |
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| 07/25/05 |
Positive
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| I stayed for one week at the house in April and loved every minute of it. Monica and Milito are wonderful hosts, the house is gorgeous and it is convenient to everything that you want to do. I rented the upstairs unit with my sister and 4 year-old nephew, and we had a wonderful time. If you open the windows and doors in the afternoon, a perfect breeze cools the entire unit. We rented a car and visited El Yunque, Luquillo Beach, Culebra Island, Old San Juan and just drove around taking in the island. I generally don't use all the amenities at the high-end resorts, so this was perfect for us because it forced us to get out and find our way around Puerto Rico, which made for a wonderful adventure. The other advantage is being able to cook whenever you feel like it and you can even whip up your favorite drinks in the kitchen. We are already planning our trip for next year and thinking about renting both units for the entire family. |
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Erika, Baltimore, MD
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| 07/12/05 |
Positive
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AMAZING! I rented the downstairs floor from June 17 through June 22. The house was so beautiful and very clean. I loved staying there. We are already thinking about going back with my family and renting both floors!! My aunt passed by and fell in love with it, she couldn't believe that I had found such a pretty house.. I almost liked staying there as much as I liked going out! The views were breathtaking. Monica was very sweet and helpful. She didn't mind helping us with directions to nearby beaches. I will definately be staying there again!!
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Jeni, Hialeah, Fl
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| 07/08/05 |
Positive
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| OH MY GOODNESS!!!Words cannot describe the incredible view and how at home Monica and Milito's home makes you feel. The view from the upstairs balcony is unbelievable. The entire home is absolutely beautiful. Monica and Milito make you feel very comfortable to be in their home. All the attractions are so close by and the locals make you feel very welcome. If you have any questions regarding any of the information that Monica leaves for the must sees on the island she is always happy to help with directions or suggestions. One of the places everyone must visit is the small restaurant called "El Timon" located 10 minutes from the home. Located at the intersection where there is KFC & Burger King and there is also a shopping plaza with an Amigos grocery store. El TImon has everything from fresh pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and excellent media noches and also a sandwich called "El Timon" (excellent). You must stop in. Now that you have your breakfast and lunch set up this is the itinerary we followed: 1. Luquillo beach (snorkel, sunbathe, and eat at the local kiosk)2. Seven Seas beach by Wyndam El Conquistador if you are a strong swimmer and like to snorkel ask the lifeguard for suggestion you just might meet a local who likes to swim out to the reefs. Bioluminescent by kayak Peter as a tour guide. 3. El Yunke (wear comfortable shoes and wear your bathing suit to swim under the waterfall). 4. Charted a boat from Kurt at Puerto Rico Divers Supply for a family snorkel and scuba diving trip. Kurt even brings drinks and snacks. 5. Culebra Island get to the ticket booth by 7:15 a.m. even the locals go out every day. Must rent scooters from Thrifty EXCELLENT way to see the island. Flamenco beach is also a must and local shops. 6. Horse back riding in Luquillo even if you've never been on a horse this was great!! The reason we mentioned all of the above is to let you know how many things were so easily accesible to the home. The house being the center of our vacation made all of the recreational activities even more enjoyable. Even if you decide not to do anything the home alone is vacation worthy in its own right. Paradise on earth. Thank you so much Monica and Milito. |
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Viviam Longcore, Vero Beach, FL/USA
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| 05/10/05 |
Positive
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| We rented the upstairs for a week in early March and LOVED it! The house is lovely, spotless, and well-equipped. This is SO much nicer than a touristy resort or a confining hotel room. If you like the glitz of San Juan, this probably isn't the place for you (a heavy traffic drive), but if you're looking for a location convenient to beaches, the rainforest and other sights, with the comfort of home, book it immediately! |
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Nancy, Amherst, Massachusetts
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| 04/25/05 |
Positive
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| Our family of 7 stayed upstairs the last week of March. The house was great, the yard was gorgeous, and everything was exactly as pictured on the website. Monica & Milito went out of their way to be accommodating. We enjoyed hiking the rainforest, the bio bay, and a day sail with Roberto. We would definitely consider staying here again! |
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Melanie Selvey, Springfield, Missouri
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| 04/04/05 |
Positive
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| My family and I LOVED staying in your home. It was absolutely BEAUTIFUL! My only regret is that we didn't stay longer. We enjoyed the "rent a pet" option too. My Dad said that the nicest thing about the house was its' owners! He was right!! THANKS for Icacos. |
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ivonne, Littleton, CO
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| 02/27/05 |
Positive
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| We stayed our first week at the beautiful El Conquistador resort but definitely were not disappointed when we got to the house. The house is beautiful, beyond expectation, the view and yard take your breath away! Meeting Monica was like meeting a friend you haven't seen in a while and Miguel was friendly and very helpful. We highly recommend staying at this house to enhance your visit to Puerto Rico. We drove #3 to Ponce and loved the scenery. If you take a catamaran to Culebra use the company who advertises the Island Flyer. If you meet the captain, Tito, say hi to his friends from Canada! Go to Rosa's for a great meal and definitely go to Luquillo Beach. Should our travel plans ever include Puerto Rico we would definitely try and stay at this house again. I already miss the sound of coqui frogs, roosters and the feel of the trade winds blowing through the bedroom. Don't take just our word for this experience, try it! |
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Len & Colleen Huber, Regina, Saskatchewan - Canada
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| 02/21/05 |
Positive
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| We rented both floors of this house earlier this month in order to accomodate 3 generations of family. It is a great place to stay! The house and gardens are beautiful and well maintained. The picture on the website just can't do justice to the spectacular view of the ocean and islands. And the owners are extremely gracious and helpful. |
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Susan, Cincinnati, OH |
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| 01/24/05 |
Positive
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Our family spent a wonderful week in the upstairs house. Great views, sounds of "coquie" tree frogs at night, fun dogs to play with, convenient to beaches, safe and relaxed environment. Monica and Milito made us feel like family. We highly recommend this as a rental and hope to return to paradise again!
Nearby, go to El Yunque rainforest, night kayaking in the phosphorescent lagoon, the islands of Vieques or Culebra for a day, and we really liked Luquillo Beach and the food vendors just past the exit to the beach. |
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Steve and Joan Holden, Hudson, Ohio
330-656-1671 |
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| 01/13/05 |
Positive
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| Heaven, that is all we can say!!The view was unbelievable. Excellent facilities. Beautiful gardens and serenity, the house is amazing!!! We liked it so much we stayed four months!!!The owners are great!!Now we are friends, great place!!! |
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Lorna & Jimmy, Pembroke Pines, FL
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| 09/16/04 |
Positive
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| Our familiy stayed in the house for a week and we loved it! The view from the house was fantastic and relaxing. The breeze was very soothing. You could just stay in the house and it would be a great vacation. The owners were very friendly and helpful. The house (upper one) was decorated very nicely. We were very pleased with our stay. |
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Anonymous, Belle Mead, NJ |
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| 08/02/04 |
Positive
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| Very nice spacious home with a view of the islands off the east coast. Home owner was very friendly and helpful during our stay. I am very glad we decided to rent this house for our 10 day visit. I wouldn't change a thing. |
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Anonymous, Broken Arrow, OK
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| 07/09/04 |
Positive
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| My husband and I decided to take our anniversary vacation in Puerto Rico but did not want the hustle and bustle of tourism. We stayed in the two bedroom villa which had a breathtaking view of everything , sky, ocean etc. The ambiance was perfect for what we were looking for...quiet time to be together. We visited several beaches, went snorkling and enjoyed plenty of the native foods! The property owners were friendly, helpful and all around great! We look forward to returning to Ceiba with our family to visit our new friends! |
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Susan and James, Neptune, NJ
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| 07/06/04 |
Positive
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I was originally going to stay in a hotel, but the thought of spending a whole week in a bland room with 2 beds and a tv didn't really appeal to me, and so I decided to rent a house for my family. I was so happy that I found this place. My family and I loved our stay here. The view from the house is stunning. You can see clear to the ocean. It is surrounded by lush tropical flowers, palm trees and a velvety green lawn. The rooms are large and airy, and there is always a soft breeze coming from the ocean. The rooms are clean and charming with plenty of closet space and drawers to unpack. We could all spread out and not feel cramped. And I really appreciated having a laundry room. It was great to be able to wash our bathing suits and beach towels so they would be fresh for the next day. And it
was nice to have a well stocked kitchen
to cook in, so we didn't have to eat out all the time. We highly recommend
this hidden paradise. |
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Denise McAvoy, Phoenixville, PA |
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| 03/14/04 |
Positive
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| We found this place by accident but what a great find! We had reservations at a San Juan "3 star" hotel that we cancelled to move here. This is a "5+ star" facility if only because of its fantastic view. It is also very spacious, modern, clean, well equipped and well maintained inside and out. While there is no pool, you are only minutes away from several beaches. The nearby marina has a great restaurant, scuba diving and fishing charters. We found it fit our needs to a "T" and recommend it to anyone who wants to get away from the hustle of the city and spend quiet time in the PR countryside. Great facility for spending a week or two before or after taking a cruise ship out of San Juan. |
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Dick and Joan Coulson, Hot Springs Village, AR
5019223352 |
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