Villa Paraiso

Who has enjoyed staying at Villa Paraiso and what do they have to say to you? Read guest testimonials below that were added right here from VillaParaiso.info. Add your own comments. Or read guest comments added from other sites such as Trip Advisor and VRBO.

Guest: Tom and Barb( York, Pa. USA)
Date of Stay: 02/03/11 Review Submitted: 02/21/11

We enjoyed oursleves so much at your gorgeous villa and island. I hope all the people that have stayed with you and the people that will be staying have as much fun as we did. Thank you for all the special treats and good info for part 2 of our trip. You made us feel right at home. Please keep in touch and let us know how your project is coming.

Guest: Sue(Glen Ellyn (Chicago area) Il)
Date of Stay: 01/24/11 Review Submitted: 02/03/11

We had a great stay at the Villa! Angie and Steve gave us the warmest welcome along with lots of great tips for a good time. We were concerned about rain in Jan. but really lucked out. Lots of sun! Having howler monkeys, parrots, and all the beautiful nature nearby really made it a paradise escape. We enjoyed a day with Jampan Tours- snorkeling and Red Frog Beach. It was great to walk for miles and see everything around – we always felt safe. P.S. Angie’s brownies were a yummy treat! Hated to go back to frigid Chicago. Sue and Tom Chicago, IL (Glen Ellyn)

Guest: Lucy(Chicago Il)
Date of Stay: 01/12/11 Review Submitted: 01/25/11

We had a wonderful stay at the Villa. The island is absolutely amazing. The Villa is splendid and the hosts are wonderful. Everything was so much more than we expected. We hope to come back soon. Lucy and Bob Chicago, Ill.

Guest: JW(Caledon, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 12/17/10 Review Submitted: 01/27/11

This was our second stay at Villa Paraiso. As with our first trip, we found we did not want to leave when our time was up. Steve and Angie are great hosts, always accommodating. Having a private pool and outdoor area is fantastic, it feels so luxurious. The area is fantastic, with local restaurants around if you do not want to cook. Of course if you do, there are many areas to purchase food nearby in Bocas Town, which we did a few nights and barbequed. The beach is terrific right out back of the villa, as are the views and the wildlife - we watched in the afternoons as the howler monkeys swung around in the trees across the street in front of the villa. This is a great spot for a couple, and with the future addition of the cassitas, we look forward to the opportunity to stay at Villa Paraiso with friends in the future. Thanks, Angie!

Guest: SeaSarie(New York, NY)
Date of Stay: 11/24/10 Review Submitted: 12/10/10

Our trip to Bocas was wonderful and despite all the warnings of rain, it never was enough to change our plans. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves was wonderful, the number one reason why we booked a beachfront place! If the weather is good, jump at the chance to do Wizard Beach or Zapatillas, we did neither because the waves were too big, so calm seas should be taken advantage of. Red Frog was a great experience, as was Starfish Beach, truly one of a kind. The craziest and most memorable experience was spelunking in the Nividia cave in Bastimentos. Find Honky at Roots restaurant to be your guide. We went 400 meters and waded through some deep water for a one of a kind experience. All the extras here were great- the bikes, the beach equipment, the home-cooked surprises showing up at our door, all made this place stand apart from a hotel experience. All the best, I thank you Cottrell’s for your warm reception!

Guest: Happy Traveler(Victoria, B.C., Canada)
Date of Stay: 11/17/10 Review Submitted: 11/30/10

My husband and I spent five nights here on a trip to Panama celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary. I was originally looking for a hotel or bed and breakfast but couldn't find anything that appealed to me. I knew this was the place for us when I looked through the VRBO website. All our expectations were meant and after seeing Bocastown I was satisfied I made the right choice. We felt safer in Bocas than most of the other places in the world I have been. Staying a little out of town was perfect. The setting was peaceful and yet all the conveniences of town were easy to access it was only a $1 to $1.50 each taxi ride or a 10 minute bike ride. This suite is the main floor of Angie and Steve's family residence - totally private and quiet but they were both available at any time to give assistance. The suite is very clean and well maintained. They were the perfect hosts! There are a lot of activities in the area but since our primary goal was relaxation we made use of the outdoor living areas and the pool. The local cell phone programmed with numbers we would need as well as the bikes were a real treat. Others might be more interested in some of the other toys such as snorkeling gear. We used the bikes to explore the beautiful and almost deserted Playa Bluff to the north. We set out to Bogas del Drago - lots of beautiful scenery but lots of hills but unfortunately didn't have time to do the whole trip. We did the free and very infomative tour of the nearby Smithsonian. We had every intention of checking out as many of the wonderful restaurants in town but after our first night at Guari Guari spent most of our time there. Definitely make reservations at this place as soon as possible. For $19 you get four wonderful small appetizers, a main course and desssert. This is one of the best restaurants we have ever eaten at. The host and chef were both absolutely amazing. As it was only a five minute ride, we rode the bikes but a cab might be more comfortable. I would definitely recommend this property to a friend or relative. We would definitely visit again and may do so. We don't usually visit the same area twice - too many other places in the world to visit - but I do have a feeling that this is only our first trip to Panama of many.

Guest: Chris and Carla(San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 09/06/10 Review Submitted: 10/05/10

We as many others before us, enjoyed our stay at Villa Paraiso. Angie is a wonderful hostess. We found their tips and those of other visitors very helpful! Here is what we recommend: Stay as long as you can or come back when you get a chance- Bocas has a lot of offer!! If you arrive on the early flight from Albrook, come prepared for the beach (you may be able to leave your bags with Angie and Steve) because the villa is not ready until the afternoon. Go to Zapatilla Islands and Coral Cay- most amazing colored reef. Go to Red Frog Beach and Dolphin Bay – you will never see more dolphins in a single spot. The earlier you go the better! Consider hiring a local to do these tours. We did a tour with Jampan, which is owned by a Canadian, and one with a local guide (Basi) and he was awesome! While we had a good experience with both, we encourage you to hire a local to support their livelihood. Make reservations at Guari Guari as soon as possible, both locals and foreigners recommend it! Go to Playa Tortuga for the drinks but not the food. Take a water taxi to Bastimento to eat at Roots or Sonrisa del Mar for island food. Ask for the whole fish or Mixto (mix of seafood) Eat at Rincon del Sabor for local and cheap food, $10 for two including drinks and tip, you can’t beat that! Have an icy cold beer and enjoy the sea breeze at the Reef Take a break and relax in one of the benches in the park downtown. Relax and enjoy! Chris and Carla, San Francisco, CA P.S. We were engaged here!

Guest: Ryan & Bethany(Carrboro, North Carolina, USA)
Date of Stay: 08/27/10 Review Submitted: 09/07/10

Villa Paraiso was a dream vacation/honeymoon for us! Thank you, Angie & Steve for sharing your gorgeous home with us, making us feel welcome in many ways, all the great recommendations and just going above and beyond as hosts. We’ve enjoyed every minute we’ve gotten to spend here! We loved having use of the bikes and other fun toys, were grateful for the use of the cell phone you provided, and felt the location from town was a perfect distance. We also really appreciate all the attention to detail in the suite, the quality and cleanliness of everything and the perfect balance between privacy and mingling with you all – it’s been a real treat! We will be raving about this place to others and hope to make a return trip someday :)

Guest: tdm1841(Tustin, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/12/10 Review Submitted: 08/24/10

What a lovely place to stay in unspoiled Bocas. The room was wonderful – cool, comfy, and spacious. Beach out front has great snorkeling and views. Villa Paraiso was close to town for fun but far enough away to feel as if you were on your own private beach. Hope to return.

Guest: Joe&Kelly(San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 06/22/10 Review Submitted: 07/28/10

We stayed in the Villa for our honeymoon about a month ago. It was absolutely fantastic! Just a short, easy bike ride into town, it's in a perfect location. The Villa itself is very comfortable, very tough to beat having your own pool, a gorgeous porch and the ocean all within a few feet of your door. Bocas itself is a beautiful town and access to the other islands is incredibly easy (there's tons of boats ready to take you wherever you want to go.) The people are very friendly, the food is as fresh as you could ask for (there's a good chance your dinner was swimming in the ocean just a few hours before it was on your plate.) We spent a week in the Villa and felt like we could've easily stayed for a month (or longer.) I would recommend the Villa 100%. Beyond all this, Steve & Angie are outstanding hosts - ready whenever you need them but you wouldn't notice they were there unless you asked for them.

Guest: Beach lover(Magalia, CA, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/04/10 Review Submitted: 06/21/10

My husband and I are from California and we stay at Bed & Breakfasts and Vacation Homes all the time. Villa Paraiso is hands down the BEST place we have ever stayed! It turned our 7 yr anniversary into a dream vacation! Before booking I emailed Angie and Steve with many questions to make sure I wouldn't be disappointed and to learn more about the area and the things to do. I also wanted to see how good the location would be. Angie promptly emailed me back with the answers to all my questions and seemed to read my mind by supplying me with very useful extra information. The location is truly set in a paradise. You have your own villa set in a beautiful tropical location that has no neighbors on either side. This is perfect for the couple that wants to relax and have the beach to themselves. Open the front doors of your villa and walk straight to the saltwater pool (a plus for those trying to avoid harsh chlorine chemicals which will dry out your skin and hair). You'll probably rarely use this as 5 more steps away you are on your own private beach. This beach is the only real swim-able beach that we found although there are many diverse beaches within walking and bicycling distances. You're just a short distance away from a nice surfing beach and beaches that have more fish. We actually saw a rare 9-legged starfish at the villa's beach on our 1st day! There is a folder with recommendations for anything you would like to do while you're there. We went to Red Frog Beach and Dolphin Bay, which included snorkeling. We also took a $5 round-trip bus to Bocas del Drago with a short walk to Starfish beach. There were starfish EVERYWHERE! You can take a boat trip back for $1.50 or take the walk along the beach/jungle and see HOWLER MONKEYS!!! We were able to see these by ourselves and were able to get close enough to take pictures and video of a family of around 10. I was literally 15 feet away from them! That was one of the best experiences I had. If you're looking for night life, it's a short 20 min walk into town where you can eat at many diverse restaurants and visit discotechs later in the evening. It's also reachable by a $2 taxi ride. Steve and Angie provide you with a cell phone that you can use to call taxis and many other useful people. We stayed in one night and had a local, Chris, cook an enticing dinner for us. He is also one of the people you can find on the cell phone provided. The Villa Paraiso is a dream vacation!

Guest: Robertt(Holland)
Date of Stay: 05/11/10 Review Submitted: 06/01/10

We, Leonilde and Robert, a couple from Colombia and Holland were very lucky that another couple had cancelled their trip Bocas and we could stay in Villa Paraiso. We stayed there from 11 untill 14 of May, so only three days. Too short but we had no other option ! Those days, what a pity that it rained a lot, we had the feeling we were living in Paradise with our own pool, beach before the house, bicycles etcetera. Angie and Steve are the best hosts you can find on the island and their breakfast is finger licking ! They gave us the best tips what to do in this short rainy period .We went to several beaches and had dinner at the best restaurants that were really cheap !!!! All the recommendations are also written in a book that you will find in the room.. Our lovely decorated room with flowers and a basket full of drinks and sweets. We really miss this place !! Villa Paraiso, Angie and Steve, we will be back !!!! Thanks and take care !!! Leonilde y Robert.

Recommended for: Romantic getaway

Guest: Daviditas(David,Panama)
Date of Stay: 05/14/10 Review Submitted: 05/14/10

...We found it!!! Beautiful and peaceful surroundings. lots of beach, sand and sun. All nestled in a privately delightful setting. Great for a little anniversary getaway!!!

Guest: Babyloo(El Valle de Anton, Cocle, Panama)
Date of Stay: 04/22/10 Review Submitted: 05/06/10

We knew basically what to expect, being our second visit, but our hosts have improved with age like a fine wine. Our stay was more delightful than the last. The praise for the wonderful family cannot be overstated--they give you all the privacy you want, but if you don't take time to aquaint yourself with them you are missing one of the most beautiful things here. The rest is obvious, the pool, the privacy, the spacious accomodations, the flora and fauna, and oh,and did I mention the beachfront location with the tranquil lapping of the waves, the breathtakingly beutiful views? There are many things to do; or, like us, do mostly nothing. Enjoy!

Recommended for: Age 55+, adventure seekers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing, people with disabilities, romantic getaway.

Guest: Bryse(Florida)
Date of Stay: 12/12/09 Review Submitted: 04/14/10

My girlfriend and I did a tremendous amount of searching to find one of the best places in Bocas Del Toro that provides island style living, tranquility, cleanliness, and classiness all in one. Well Villa Paraíso had everything we hoped for. You even get a phone with pre-programmed numbers for all that you'd ever need on your trip. The treats supplied by Angie were incredible as well as the private chef they use. They're also a dictionary of information when it comes to Bocas Del Toro, and they know all the right people so make sure to ask questions!

Guest: vicki sw(Poynette Wisconsin)
Date of Stay: 03/28/10 Review Submitted: 04/11/10

We would highly recommend Villa Paraiso to all! There is something for everyone at the Bocas.The pictures of Villa Paraiso truly represent this beautiful unique property on the ocean.The suite is extremely clean and promotes an atmosphere of peace and relaxation. The pool , the deck and the sitting area are equally well maintained and clean. We especially enjoyed the sunrises and sunsets over the ocean that we could view right outside our door.( it just doesn't get much better than that!!!!!) The Cotrells are wonderful hosts that are always willing answer questions and to share their knowledge of the Bocas. There are plenty of good restaurants close by. Traveling by taxi was efficient and low cost. This made it easy to get to wherever we wanted to go. We would definitely recommend Villa Paraiso to friends, relatives and absolutely everyone looking to have an awesome time at the Bocas. Vicki and Brad Webster- Wisconsin, USA

Guest: D in Chitre(Chitre, Panama)
Date of Stay: 01/04/08 Review Submitted: 03/29/10

Very comfortable room and delightful family as hosts. Spectacular "moonrise" over the water. Pool area perfect for relaxing after a day of fun in the sun.