I like to start with the "cons" when reading a property review. In this case, there are no real cons so instead, I'll divide my notes from our week-long stay into "Unexceptional" and "Exceptional".
Unexceptional
- the furnishings: thoroughly comfortable and nicely furnished, but the vibe struck me as "luxury early 1990s". Not bad at all, just maybe ready for a bit of a refresh. Our one real complaint was that the dining room was rather poorly lit, which is only ever an issue if you are eating with a larger group after sunset (we ate many of our meals on the balcony).
- the kitchen: roomy and spacious, with all the basics you will need for cooking and enjoying relaxed beach meals. Just don't expect gourmet chef caliber equipment.
- noise: the condo itself IS very quiet, and we had minimal but pleasant interactions with other guests. Only thing is, the neighbor is a resort hotel which tends to pump out music between approx. 11am and ~10pm. Sometimes this was resort fiesta style beats, with classical wedding music some evenings. I personally didn't mind the "free music" and even enjoyed it most of the time, with the exception of one spoiled afternoon siesta. The resort does observe quiet time, but only expect it nights and mornings, not during the day.
Exceptional
- the view / balcony: the view from the enormous balcony is the defining feature of this condo. And what a view! From the first morning light over the ocean to the gentle moonscapes, to the shimmering turquoise water in between, each day offered a unique masterpiece, and sometimes it was all we could do to wrench ourselves off the balcony to go enjoy an activity.
- amenities: the amenities are beautiful -- an infinity pool complex with shower, plenty of beach seating/lounge chairs, dock, and several places to put in the water
- snorkeling: some of the best on-shore snorkeling of of our trip. We saw rays, a starfish, and more.
- security: staffed by friendly, helpful guards and we felt more safe than at home
- location
Other
- The property manager was great. We never met her, but corresponded by WhatsApp almost daily. She answered all our questions and even helped us arrange a private chef service one evening. That was a fun experience that let us interact with a local chef and enjoy a homecooked meal for about the same price as going out to a restaurant... and we had leftovers for at least 2 lunches.
We checked out yesterday and are missing it already! 5 stars!