costa rica - central america rentals

THE AREA
If you are visiting Costa Rica and want to have an active vacation and spend time on the beach, the Quepos area may be the perfect base. Quepos is about 100 miles west of San Jose, the capital, and 5 miles north of Manuel Antonio National Park -- the most popular of Costa Rica's famous national parks. The rain forest here is home to howler monkeys and three-toed sloths, and the possibilities for outdoor recreation include snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, horseback riding, sea kayaking, even whitewater rafting. For those who are more inclined toward simple relaxation, the coastline inside and outside the park offers beautiful beaches.

To get to Quepos, take the 16-minute flight from San Jose, or drive 3 hours from San Jose on a beautiful winding road through the mountains and along the coast. If you fly here directly, car rental is available in Quepos (4-wheel drive recommended).

THE PROPERTIES
Villa Carmen is set about two miles south of Quepos, on the way to the national park. The villa enjoys a secluded setting 300-400 feet above the Pacific, a spectacular location with views of the ocean, jungle, and mountains. This clifftop property features a pool and gardens with tropical plants like banana trees and bougainvillea. Inside this spacious, custom-designed villa, you will find high, beamed ceilings; fine cedar and teak woodwork and European tile; and a circular staircase to a tower observatory. The bedrooms are screened and equipped with ceiling fans. A guest house for an additional 2 to 4 persons may be available (when not used by the resident manager).

Ten minutes' walk brings you to secluded Playa la Macha beach, just below the villa. The property manager can help hire a cook or advise you on local activities. Shops, restaurants, and nightlife are available in the town of Quepos.

INTERIORS
Villa includes 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, living room, dining area w/breakfast deck, and fully equipped kitchen. The villa offers contemporary Mexican-style furnishings, built-in sofas, master bath jacuzzi, fans, TV, VCR, stereo, barbecue, microwave oven, washer, and dryer.

HIGHLIGHTS
Clifftop villa with pool, overlooking the Pacific, near one of Costa Rica's famous national parks. Fabulous recreation -- beaches, diving, rain forest hiking, and more!