Reviews of Property: Beachfront Tropical Villa, 'Bahamas Pura Vida' A True Island Paradise
Description
Villa, 2000 sq. ft.,
2 Bedrooms, Sleeps 4
2 Bedrooms, Sleeps 4
Facilities
beach, waterfront,
garden,
terrace,
air-conditioning,
internet access
Steve and Cindy DuBose
828-622-3518
Speaks: English
10 Reviews of Property 176378 in Double Bay, Bahamas
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1
Exceptional Rental
Review Submitted: April 21, 2009
Date of Stay: December 2008
I have stayed at Pura Vida a couple of times already, and for many reasons. The most obvious is the island of Eleuthera itself. All you have to do is look at pictures of the island to see its natural beauty and appeal. What sets Pura Vida apart is the quality of the home and amenities provided. The house sits overlooking beautiful reefs on the atlantic side of the island. Double Bay is by far my favorite stretch of beach on Eleuthera. Being on the atlantic provides a steady breeze in the summer, while the caribbean side gets much hotter. The small keys a ways out from the beach break water to create one of the few places you can get a nice breeze and calm water rich with coral reefs.
The house itself is unusually well built and maintained for a rental. It was impeccably clean every time I arrived. All of the appliances are top notch, and there's a nice standing BBQ overlooking the beach perfect for grilling the day's catch (there's excellent fishing on the reefs, just check what's in season.) Plus they've got books on local marine life so you know what your catching. There's a nice TV and sound system with lots of channels, although I have a feeling it doesn't get used much in a place with so many better things to do. High-speed internet is a big plus as well. If you get tired of fishing, swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and laying on the beach you can always tour the island, there's lots of great info and maps they leave for you to help with your exploring. They really make it easy to feel at home and relaxed, the ultimate stress-free vacation.
You can really tell Cindy and Steve love this home, it shows in every aspect. This is not a typical rental house, but I will continue to go back as long as it remains one. Writing this is just making me ache to return! I hope it won't be long.
Clark
The house itself is unusually well built and maintained for a rental. It was impeccably clean every time I arrived. All of the appliances are top notch, and there's a nice standing BBQ overlooking the beach perfect for grilling the day's catch (there's excellent fishing on the reefs, just check what's in season.) Plus they've got books on local marine life so you know what your catching. There's a nice TV and sound system with lots of channels, although I have a feeling it doesn't get used much in a place with so many better things to do. High-speed internet is a big plus as well. If you get tired of fishing, swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and laying on the beach you can always tour the island, there's lots of great info and maps they leave for you to help with your exploring. They really make it easy to feel at home and relaxed, the ultimate stress-free vacation.
You can really tell Cindy and Steve love this home, it shows in every aspect. This is not a typical rental house, but I will continue to go back as long as it remains one. Writing this is just making me ache to return! I hope it won't be long.
Clark
The Great Escape
Review Submitted: August 7, 2009
Date of Stay: May 2009
We planned this childless get-away with our good friends, hoping for a true relaxing vacation. Our goal was a comfortable place, good food, and beautiful scenery. As we arrived we noticed that the website pictures didn't do justice to this wonderful home. Not only was the lay-out perfect for 2 couples, its decorations and appointments were wonderful. From the cookware to the linens, Cindy and Mike obviously prepared it for themselves. We felt right at home immediately.
We came to love the caretaker, George. He was extremely friendly, helpful and always busy around the house. He even showed us how to clean bone fish that we caught with nearby villagers. He couldn’t have been more polite and respectful.
The view from the house and the bright blue-green water was simply picturesque. We couldn't imagine a nicer place to sit for hours reading and listening to the sounds of the ocean. We took full advantage of it!
We all hated to leave at the end of the week. But our goals for the trip were all exceeded in every way. We already have recommended not only Eleuthera to our friends, but Pura Vida specifically. What a place to recharge!
Thanks to Cindy and Steve for sharing their wonderful home with others. It was Heaven on Earth, albeit just for a week.
We came to love the caretaker, George. He was extremely friendly, helpful and always busy around the house. He even showed us how to clean bone fish that we caught with nearby villagers. He couldn’t have been more polite and respectful.
The view from the house and the bright blue-green water was simply picturesque. We couldn't imagine a nicer place to sit for hours reading and listening to the sounds of the ocean. We took full advantage of it!
We all hated to leave at the end of the week. But our goals for the trip were all exceeded in every way. We already have recommended not only Eleuthera to our friends, but Pura Vida specifically. What a place to recharge!
Thanks to Cindy and Steve for sharing their wonderful home with others. It was Heaven on Earth, albeit just for a week.
Owner's Response: Melinda, Ed, Susan and john:
We are so happy to receive your email and hear what a great time you had at Bahamas Pura Vida! It is such a special place and we miss it every day we are away. Please come again and all the best!
Steve and Cindy
We are so happy to receive your email and hear what a great time you had at Bahamas Pura Vida! It is such a special place and we miss it every day we are away. Please come again and all the best!
Steve and Cindy
Guestbook Comment
Review Submitted: April 19, 2009
Date of Stay: April 2009
My husband and me spend our honeymoon in "Pura Vida" from 26.02.09 til 06.03.09. It was really wonderful, great, sunny, clean.... everything we looked for. The reservation was easy to handle and very satisfying. Steve answered every Email as quick as possible. George, the housekeeper, and Murray, the gardener, were very nice. The house has everything you need. A great equipped kitchen, very clean rooms and furniture, and a wooooooooooonderful master-bedroom with exclusive oceanview (oceanview also from the kitchen and the livingroom!)...so.. the villa is directly on the beach :) But the first morning we woke up..... we were kissed by the sunbeams of an ultimative sunrise.. a little bit early *g* but...... it was so wonderful.... i cant explain :) It was our honeymoon there, and i can say that it was the honeymoon i ever dreamed of. Perfect location, perfect house, perfect handling.... just everything perfect. If you ever think about visiting Eleuthera we can unhasitating recommend this villa!! Steve and Cindy,... thank you for sharing your paradise with us! Sabine and Mirco Sch. Dortmund / Germany
No Place Like This Home
Review Submitted: April 18, 2009
Date of Stay: November 2008
I have been to Pura Vida three times. The first time I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the wide, pinkish white, long and totally private beach, the finely crafted and constructed house, which is also well appointed, and the beautifully groomed grounds, which only a proprietor of a thoughtful, peaceful type could have designed. It was a great exploration trip of the whole island from that point on with peaceful Pura Vida at its base. It felt good to come back after a long day of curiosity seeking travels. The second time the exploration was limited to areas near Pura Vida, an intensified search for the feel of our neighborhood. Notice I am using the word “our”. The third time was pure Pura Vida. I did not want to stray far from the house or our beach. Pura Vida had become our home away from home. First class accommodations, and after exploring the whole island...finally simply saying “there is no place like home”.
My Fantasy
Review Submitted: October 12, 2008
Date of Stay: January 2008
If you have not been, Eleuthera is the ultimate island paradise: beautiful beaches and friendly people not on a time clock. If you have been, you should know that Pura Vida is one of the loveliest properties on the island; you feel secluded but not remote. I have stayed at Pura Vida on two occasions, and hope to relax on the double chaise overlooking the Atlantic many more times. After an afternoon on the chaise, it is a five minute ride to see the sunset on the Caribbean side. A couple of the best restaurants I have ever been to are close by, but the gourmet kitchen at Pura Vida makes it easy and tempting to just dine in on the fresh fish and lobster that can be obtained right off the boat at Governors Harbor. The house is immacculate and has all the amenities one could desire. The fact the owner is a contractor shows through in the construction and craftsmanship. The gardens are lovely, private and brimming with flowers and fresh herbs. If you wish to stay wired to the "real" world it can be done here, but why? If you want to engage in outdoor activities, there is plenty to occupy. But, you may find yourself just wanting to pretend you are a permanent resident of this lovely island and welcoming home. I could not be more pleased with the island, the location, the house or the service of the owners and people who care for the property.
Pura Vida - Excellent!
Review Submitted: August 26, 2008
Date of Stay: August 2008
We've been vacationing in Eleuthera for over 20 years as we honeymooned there. Of all the places we've stayed on the island, Pura Vida stands head and shoulders above the rest.
When you enter Pura Vida you are surrounded by a tropical paradise.. coconut, papaya, orange, lime, mango, palm, and passion fruit trees! The fruit was delicious.
Upon entering Steve and Cindy's home, it feels like yours! You notice the great layout and decor, the excellent workmanship, the kitchen where everything you need is only fingertips away, the internet, the beach view/access and the cleanliness throughout. The home if very well equipped indoors and out (kayaks, snorkeling gear, central AC, internet access)
Equally impressive is the way the owners give you information (if you have not been there before) to make you feel at home and enjoy what Eleuthera has to offer.
George Petty (builder and caretaker) and Murray (gardener) were excellent in offering advice and assisting during our stay.
The only thing you need when you stay there is more time! Cindy/Steve, thanks for allowing us to share your home.
When you enter Pura Vida you are surrounded by a tropical paradise.. coconut, papaya, orange, lime, mango, palm, and passion fruit trees! The fruit was delicious.
Upon entering Steve and Cindy's home, it feels like yours! You notice the great layout and decor, the excellent workmanship, the kitchen where everything you need is only fingertips away, the internet, the beach view/access and the cleanliness throughout. The home if very well equipped indoors and out (kayaks, snorkeling gear, central AC, internet access)
Equally impressive is the way the owners give you information (if you have not been there before) to make you feel at home and enjoy what Eleuthera has to offer.
George Petty (builder and caretaker) and Murray (gardener) were excellent in offering advice and assisting during our stay.
The only thing you need when you stay there is more time! Cindy/Steve, thanks for allowing us to share your home.
Owner's Response: Randy and Judy:
It was great speaking with you by phone as you planned your vacation. Of course, we are elated at how you enjoyed your stay at Pura Vida. We have enjoyed creating a special place we can love to come to and then share with others!
All the best!
Steve and Cindy
It was great speaking with you by phone as you planned your vacation. Of course, we are elated at how you enjoyed your stay at Pura Vida. We have enjoyed creating a special place we can love to come to and then share with others!
All the best!
Steve and Cindy
Pura vida is for you!
Review Submitted: May 15, 2008
Date of Stay: April 2008
We could not wish a better place where to stay. The villa is very, very full equipped and it's so charming! You'll feel at home, waking up in the morning just with the sound of the sea and the view of the sun rising. We were a bit unlucky with the weather (it was quite windy during our journey), but I would sincerely recommend this place which is so full of love...and vegetables! Yes, you'll find tomatoes, carrots, bananas and more in the garden that is full of thousands of beautiful flowers too. And the owner Cindy is so sweet: she managed to take care of us without being there, because she left in the villa so many maps, books and piece of advise about the island!
The villa is on Double Bay, which is in the central part of the island so that it's possible to reach by car all the beaches of the island, up to the north and down to the south: beautiful Ten Bay is just a few minutes away on the caribbean side. We visited a different one every day during our journey. I would recommend a car anyway!
So, don't think too much abou it: you found the right place in Eleuthera!
The villa is on Double Bay, which is in the central part of the island so that it's possible to reach by car all the beaches of the island, up to the north and down to the south: beautiful Ten Bay is just a few minutes away on the caribbean side. We visited a different one every day during our journey. I would recommend a car anyway!
So, don't think too much abou it: you found the right place in Eleuthera!
Owner's Response: Annalis:
We are very happy you enjoyed your stay at Bahamas Pura Vida! Eleuthera is a beautiful and magical place. Sometimes it is windy but usually if it is windy on one side of the island you just go to the beach on the other side. The island is 110 miles long and about an average of 2 1/2 miles wide so from Pura Vida which is on the beautiful Double Bay beach it is only 5 minutes to Ten Bay beach on the other side of the island.
Thanks fo comingall the way from Italy to Pura Vida. Again, we are glad you a had an enjoyable vacation and welcome you back at another time!
Steve and Cindy
We are very happy you enjoyed your stay at Bahamas Pura Vida! Eleuthera is a beautiful and magical place. Sometimes it is windy but usually if it is windy on one side of the island you just go to the beach on the other side. The island is 110 miles long and about an average of 2 1/2 miles wide so from Pura Vida which is on the beautiful Double Bay beach it is only 5 minutes to Ten Bay beach on the other side of the island.
Thanks fo comingall the way from Italy to Pura Vida. Again, we are glad you a had an enjoyable vacation and welcome you back at another time!
Steve and Cindy
Excellent rental!
Review Submitted: April 3, 2008
Date of Stay: March 2008
The photos of Pura Vida simply do not do this exquisite beach home justice. The house is beautiful, well decorated and comfortable. The kitchen is a gourmet cook's delight. When we arrived, the house was immaculate, there was a bowl of freshly picked vegetables on the kitchen counter, and fresh flowers throughout the home. The beach is lovely and our daughters (9 and 11) loved playing in the surf. The water is clear and shallow, with virtually no current. Snorkeling in from of the home was very good. The location of the home, in the center of the island, is a wonderful spot from which to explore both the north and south ends of Eleuthera and the proximity to Governor's Harbor is very convenient. Don't miss Island Farms for fresh produce and home-baked bread. I have already recommended this property to a friend and her family and will do so again!
Owner's Response: Lezlie:
We are glad you had a great time and enjoyed your stay at Pura Vida. We had so much fun creating this tropical caribbean retreat and spending time there. It is wonderful to hear how it has brought happiness to others as well. We look forward to having you come back again and of course welcome your friends also.
Thanks
Steve and Cindy
We are glad you had a great time and enjoyed your stay at Pura Vida. We had so much fun creating this tropical caribbean retreat and spending time there. It is wonderful to hear how it has brought happiness to others as well. We look forward to having you come back again and of course welcome your friends also.
Thanks
Steve and Cindy
Pura Vida
Review Submitted: February 25, 2008
Date of Stay: February 2008
This was the fourth year we've stayed at Double Bay. It is a great location on Eleuthera, centrally located on the island. We've alway stayed at a different house each year but this year we found the perfect house. Pura Vida is far and away the nicest house we've stayed at or seen. Everything from the layout to construction to the furnishings is first rate. The kitchen is cook's fantasy equipped with the finest of everything. Snorkeling is great right out front of the house and of course Double Bay beach is the best. George the caretaker and Murray the gardener are great, both very consciencous. Definately the most relaxing vacation ever. Thanks Steve and Cindy.
Owner's Response: We are so happy your experience at Bahamas Pura Vida was so rewarding. Our desire is to create a true tropical island retreat to fully enjoy and experience the beauty and tranquilty of this Carribean paradise. We welcome you back again in the future.
Honeymoon - like i ever dreamed of
Review Submitted: March 17, 2009
Date of Stay: February 2009
My husband and me spend our honeymoon in "Pura Vida" from 26.02.09 til 06.03.09.
It was really wonderful, great, sunny, clean.... everything we looked for.
The reservation was easy to handle and very satisfying.
Steve answered every Email as quick as possible.
George, the housekeeper, and Murray, the gardener, were very nice.
The house has everything you need.
A great equipped kitchen, very clean rooms and furniture, and a wooooooooooonderful master-bedroom with exclusive oceanview (oceanview also from the kitchen and the livingroom!)...so.. the villa is directly on the beach :)
But the first morning we woke up..... we were kissed by the sunbeams of an ultimative sunrise.. a little bit early *g* but...... it was so wonderful.... i cant explain :)
It was our honeymoon there, and i can say that it was the honeymoon i ever dreamed of. Perfect location, perfect house, perfect handling.... just everything perfect.
If you ever think about visiting Eleuthera we can unhasitating recommend this villa!!
Steve and Cindy,... thank you for sharing your paradise with us!
Sabine and Mirco Sch.
Dortmund / Germany
It was really wonderful, great, sunny, clean.... everything we looked for.
The reservation was easy to handle and very satisfying.
Steve answered every Email as quick as possible.
George, the housekeeper, and Murray, the gardener, were very nice.
The house has everything you need.
A great equipped kitchen, very clean rooms and furniture, and a wooooooooooonderful master-bedroom with exclusive oceanview (oceanview also from the kitchen and the livingroom!)...so.. the villa is directly on the beach :)
But the first morning we woke up..... we were kissed by the sunbeams of an ultimative sunrise.. a little bit early *g* but...... it was so wonderful.... i cant explain :)
It was our honeymoon there, and i can say that it was the honeymoon i ever dreamed of. Perfect location, perfect house, perfect handling.... just everything perfect.
If you ever think about visiting Eleuthera we can unhasitating recommend this villa!!
Steve and Cindy,... thank you for sharing your paradise with us!
Sabine and Mirco Sch.
Dortmund / Germany
Owner's Response: Sabine and Mirco:
We are so happy you enjoyed your honeymoon at Bahamas Pura Vida! All the best to you both in your life together and we hope you will back again.
Thanks!
Steve and Cindy
We are so happy you enjoyed your honeymoon at Bahamas Pura Vida! All the best to you both in your life together and we hope you will back again.
Thanks!
Steve and Cindy
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