Away from it all
Review Submitted: July 28, 2009
Date of Stay: May 2009
The house and kitchen was well equipped, with all the things necessary for a good vacation. We ended up using the kitchen for most of our stay there (10 days) because it was so far from any bigger town. The pool proved to be invaluable, as the mid-days are scorching hot. The water pressure was very weak the whole time, and taking showers was a long and often cold affair; thus, we only used the outdoor shower. Freddy (the horse caretaker) and the horses were truly the highlight of this rental property. Taking the horses to the beach was quite a treat. Please note there is no phone or internet service at all at the house, and the cell phone reception only works if you have a GSM phone. You cannot purchase a pre-paid data / phone SIM card in Costa Rica, as ICE - the state-run telephone company monopoly - won't allow it. Supposedly there is internet access at a motel in the town of Junguillal, about 10-15 away, but we had no luck there, the connection was down when we tried.
The house was clean, the landscaping beautiful, the nature splendid, the sounds of the jungle were awesome and the people are friendly. Zip-lining is a must, at Hacienda La Norma, only 10-15 away from the house, towards Tamarindo. While there, DO buy their daily made fresh Queso cheese, it is to DIE for!!!
The Arenal area (and volcano) is not 2 hours away, it's close to 4-5 hours away!! If there were some issues about the house while we were there, they were quickly resolved and addressed. The owner does not live on or near the property. Overall, we had a nice time at Rancho Tambor.
And lastly, GET AN SUV in Costa Rica, and get the insurance provided by the rental company. The roads are BAD, lots of gravel and small rocks, and a small dent in the windshield will cost you $1000 (speaking from experience).
Owner's Response: Thank you for your kind review!
The water pressure has been fixed and this is no longer a problem. The 4 jacuzzi tubs fill up quickly and we have had no further problem with the "endless hot water system".
We are located in a rural area. Shopping centers are 30 minutes away but a little, well-equipped grocery store can supply you until you can get to Tamarindo.
Thank you for your support of Rancho Tambor!
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