Guest Report

[Brenda Bell]

My husband and I stayed at this multiple-unit beach house for one week. It was very basic and rustic. It had a gas stove and small fridge and a toaster. It did not have a TV or a radio. It had open-air windows overlooking the beach. It had a beautiful deck overlooking the water with a comfy hammock. It had no air conditioning, but it was not really needed because of the breeze from the sea. The shower had warm water which was adequate. The bed had a functional mosquito net which was required if you read at night because the bugs would come into your room as they were attracted to the light. Alibaba and his wife were very gracious and accommodating.

The beach was amazing! It was private. You can snorkle and see many fishes. The beach restaurant had decent food when it was opened. There is an internet cafe nearby, but it does not have regular hours. The fishermen bring in their fresh catch daily - bring your own baggy if you wish to purchase some. The bakery ladies make awesome bread but it must be preordered or you will not get any. These ladies hate to have their picture taken so do not even show them a camera! If coming from Crown Point, I suggest stopping at the local grocery store to purchase your supplies as they are very limited in Castara.

We did not feel particularly safe walking the streets of Castara at night. It was very dark and the town is so small that the locals know you are a tourist. Most locals are very friendly, but you just don't want to take any chances.

There is a waterfall nearby that you can walk to. Just ask the locals how to get there. You can also take a short drive to the rainforest.

We enjoyed our stay at Alibaba's, but we would not go back simply because we found it too boring at night. There was just nothing to do! Some people may like that, but we didn't. Six nights felt like forever!