Eleven of us journeyed to Samara for the Christmas holiday, hoping for a place to relax and enjoy family time after an unsettling year of covid. Our expectations were met in spades!
The house itself is beautifully laid out. Bedrooms and kitchen line the well-sized pool, w/ all-outdoor (roofed) living space in between. Views, through gardens, above pool, overlooking the ocean and ever-changing horizon are spectacular - changing w/ the movement and colors of sun, clouds, moon, stars. Waking up, seeing the light, hearing birds and howler monkeys, feeling the air, was joyous! (We also rented the second house, which was perfect for two toddlers and a nanny.)
Maria suggested Estiven Arias, a local chef, who delighted us with 3 dinners and 2 breakfasts. We asked for Costa Rican fare and he did not disappoint! (He also runs a lunch take-out place with tacos, burgers, etc.) Estiven was professional, talented and put his heart into each event. For Christmas, he and his helpers brought their own lights and Santa decorations, adding much to the festivity of the evening!
We enjoyed cooking in a few nights and trying some of the local restaurant fare - Gusto on the Beach and La Dolce Vida -- wonderful! (One thing, for planning - there is no oven but we preferred grilling anyway. Stove top and toaster oven are provided.)
Johnny and his sister, Aryeri, are very helpful and keep the place clean and orderly...and Maria is very responsive to emails.
We found that a rental car was helpful (only 3 days since we had not pre-ordered). The beach is close but we had two toddlers-steep uphill was a challenge. Town is only a 15-20 minute walk, but with lots of groceries, we preferred wheels. Cabs were difficult to get - perhaps because of the week. Golf carts could have been a good solution. However, we made it all work! (Super China best big grocery; don't miss Casa Maxou gelato in "food court" across from Gusto; fresh fish -neighborhood at bottom of hill.)
We enjoyed a few fun pre-planned activities. With Samara Adventures - a sunset cruise, which ended up including an hour+ with the first whales of the season - and the Samara Trails hike. We loved True Blue Vue for massages. All were hits...as was hanging out at Gusto and La Dolce during days on the beach (with lounges, cushions, food and drink - perfect!). Surf boards are easily rented-$10 and the surf is perfect for beginners.
We loved our time at Casa Lumenez and highly recommend it !!
