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Hi Everyone.....well, it is about time I returned to Culebra....I didn't make it last year and I was highly disappointed. This year however, I plan to be there in November. I will have my Volkswagon Thing (the white one of course....lol)....I already arranged that with Dick & Cathy. With previous visits scheduled at Villa Fulladoza, Zoni Beach Estate, Villa Coqui......I was again looking for something new. Casita La Perlita caught my eye. It will be just me and my buddy and this place looks like it would suit us just fine. We are hoping to be bouncing around the island for about 10 days and are looking for a nice, clean, quiet place to lay our heads after sun filled, water kissed days. Anyone have any info on Casita La Perlita?
Hey Rob, this has nothing to do with your question, but I'm getting married Nov 14th and will be on Culebra from Nov 18-23 with my new wife. I'll be looking for your "Thing". Those "sun fill, water kissed days" sound really nice right now...
Well, firstly, congrats on your upcoming nuptials!! DUDE.....you are going to LOVE this place...I have been 5 times and try to go once a year.....
There are a few more private beaches.....some where no one even goes...hehe...perfect for honeymooners!! My absolute favorite beach is Playa Tamarindo.....anyone at Playa Flamenco can show you the trail to get there.....it is a paradise after you arrive at the beach from about a 20-25 minute hike through the jungle......
Playa Resaca is great for shell finding and nice stroll....there are too many corals there to swim......
I am sure you will have fun exploring and finding your own special place.....
I changed my dates to Nov 9-16th....so it looks like I will miss you and your new wife.....
lol....the Volkswagon thing is absolutely the most awesome way to drive around the island and I highly suggest you call Dick & Cathie to arrange a vehicle......they are these old beat up convertible volkswagon and I think they are $40.00 a day if you rent it for 7 or more days and $45.00 a day for 6 days and less.....these cars are manual transmissions and just so much fun to drive around the island.....well worth the extra dough to get one of these instead of a silly new Jeep Wrangler.....
Have fun man! I know you and your wife will!
Thanks Rob, I most certainly look forward to it! What do you normally do for food? I know there are several places to eat and a couple of stores...
For food, there is a grocery store right in town and a smaller one near the bridge in town. All meats are frozen since everything comes in on a ferry....you can usually find fresh fish near the gas station by the bridge....lol....yes, there is a tiny seafood market next to the gas station .....I usually rent a place with a kitchen and try to cook dinners about half the time I am there.....the restaurants are ok, a fun one is Dinghy Dock....but get there early, as it is popular and they can sell out of food very fast, Dinghy Dock has a salad bar that is included with the price of your meal......Club Seabourne is a bit more upscale...linen tablecloths and candles and such....might be a nice honeymoon dinner spot......there are a few more restaurants, but I am not familiar.....
Oh....Dinghy Dock is a fun spot for Happy Hour too.....
Mamacita's is decent......more expensive than Dinghy Dock, and their food is pretty good.....
There is a small bakery called Milka's by the airport and on any given day, they have a grill outside and make these bbq'd chicken kabobs that are excellent and cheap...two of these would make a meal in itself......the bakery also sells freshly made donuts every morning...but get there early if you want any....
There is a sandwich shop right in town too, that is relatively inexpensive and the sandwiches are of decent size, it is a fairly newer place and the last time I was on Culebra, the sandwiches were really good and big.........
One night, I always order a pizza from the pizza joint..I can't remember the name of the place.....it's right on the main stretch of road that leads down from the Ferry Dock....their pizza's are really, really good and the price aint so bad either......
OH....if you drink beer, there is a liquor store right by the airport where you can buy a case of beer...it is cheaper by the case...and don't walk in like a tourist straight from the States, or they will definitely over charge you. I always keep some beer in the fridge back at the place I am renting....so I can take a few with me when I head out on an adventure.....
OH...KEY POINT HERE....this is the Caribbean...so remember, the islanders are on Caribbean time.....don't show up at a place that says dinner starts at 5pm and become angry because they won't seat you right away.....or....if you arrive at one of the grocery stores and the hours posted on the door state it should be open, but it is closed....lol.....on the island, early is better....get to the grocery store early and get to the restaurants early...even if you have to wait, at least you will be able to order dinner......
I remember one year I waited until about 9pm to go to dinner and we had a very hard time finding a place to dine.....
We stayed at Casa del Sol that is on the southeast end of the island above Club Seabourn and "around the corner" from Soldado. The house sleeps 11 but the owner adjusts the price for 2-4 people. We found it on Homeaway.
Thanks Jill....is that www.homeaway.com ?
Re: Casita La Perlita
Wow, what a nice spread of info you've given me...I frequently read of people joking about the 'island' time. I think it'll be just what we need after a big wedding weekend. We plan on flying into San Juan, staying in Old San Juan (El Convento) for two nights and then 6 nights on Culebra.
Thanks again for the personal recommendations.
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
Hey Stephen!! You are quite welcome!! Old San Juan is very touristy....but I liked it....very charming and excellent restaurants too!!
How are you getting to Culebra from San Juan? Flying or taking the ferry?
Where are you staying on Culebra?
hehe....it is very exciting thinking about Culebra....heck, November really isn't that far away!
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Jill P. (---.proxy.aol.com)
Yes... www.homeaway.com found owners phone # 508 349-6417, we paid $960 for 4 people, so 2 people should be less....
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
I am pretty sure I am set with Green Villas Seastar 4A...it is right on Ensonada Honda bay and the bedroom opens onto the deck with an awesome water view......
The kitchen windows also look out onto the water and the deck is shaded.....which will be nice since we will be in the sun all day long anyways....
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Just a few short months away! We figured we'd stay in Old San Juan to see the sights for two days, then do some relaxing on the beaches of Culebra. Our plan as of yet is to get with one of the drivers recommended on this site and have him take us to Fajardo and we'll take the ferry from there. As far as lodging goes, out of what I've seen and read, Bahia Marina seems like a fairly nice place to stay. I have talked with them and they seem like an accommodating place.
Any other tips for newbies?
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
Very nice, very nice. Bahia Marina is really nice! Mike from Vacation Planners took me up there the last time I visited.....it even has a pool!
hehe...I forgot that I had dinner there....as I recall, the food was actually very good....
Two more tips.......(I don't want to tell you too much, it will be more fun for you and your wife to explore and be surprised)....
1. Get a car, it is crucial if you want to visit all of the beaches.
2. Get a map of the island that lists the beaches.....just about every gift shop will have one.....
*Too bad our dates don't overlap, I would've bought you two a drink!
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Re: Casita La Perlita
I'll give Rob a little help on his recommendations to help avoid confusion. The bakery (panaderia) near the airport is called El Patio, not Milka. Great sandwiches made on a panini press, pastries and bread. Almost identical menu but not as modern design as Pandeli, in town. Milka is the grocery down the road to the right, after you cross the drawbridge. (don't forget to wave at MJ if the cart is open). Milka has a decent selection of fresh, not frozen, meat. A couple of good restaurants not mentioned include Susie's near Milka, Barbarosa's, out toward the airport, and Juanita Bananas (pricey). The pizza place changed hands a couple years ago, and is now called Heather's. Same tasty pies.
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
Thanks Doug! Apologies for my mix up in the establishment names......It's that darn Medalla....get's me mixed up every time! :-)
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Haha, thanks guys! Looking forward to it
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Don't forget the sandwich place in town, right next to Heater's is called The Spot.
And it wouldn't be me if I didn't mention the burgers and curly fries at El Batey, though I'm hoping they have their liquor license back by the time we get back to the island.
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Happy to report that El Batey has their liquor license and the burgers are still yummy!
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
I will definitely stop in for a burger......and a BEER!! Thanks for the tip!! :-)
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Culebra MJ (---.coqui.net)
This has been one of the more fun threads to read through after not checking in for awhile. Rob and Bride (you haven't mentioned her name!!!), we'll be here to welcome you to Culebra. As was wisely said, a few hints are good and discovering your own special spots even better.
(the MJ of the cart by the bridge that Doug so kindly mentioned...don't just wave, c'mon by and chat a minute on your way to Dinghy Dock or Milka's!)
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
HEY, HEY....it's "Stephen" and Bride, NOT Rob and Bride...lol.....As far as I know I am not getting married....hehe....
I will stop by the cart by the bridge too!!....I always buy more after a few Medalla's.....so I'll be sure to stop in Dinghy Dock before visit!
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Re: Casita La Perlita
MJ, I have seen several pics of your famous cart and definitely plan on meeting you! I look forward to meeting the people of Culebra and enjoying a relaxing, no pressure, carefree honeymoon with my new bride.
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Culebra MJ (---.coqui.net)
Yikes! Sorry, Rob and Stephen...I get easily confused. But I'll be able to tell the difference face to face...Stephen will be the one with the huge grin and the beauty flashing a ring, Rob will be the guy with the Medalla in hand! That even I can figure out.
Looking forward to meeting the three of you (and yes, I know you won't all be together!).
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
LOL.....I think your additions have made this one of the more amusing threads to read!!!!
Yes, indeed, I will be Medalla in hand, probably the entire time I am there!! lol....
November 9th cannot come soon enough!!!
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Culebra MJ (---.coqui.net)
We who will be entering the H word season feel exactly the same way, Rob. By then I'll be back from my month away of family and friends in America and ready to start anew.
(um, Stephen...you STILL haven't told us your bride's name, I'm starting to wonder a little here, and so are the llama's).
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
.....funny you mention the "H"word.....my coworkers and myself have been having a disagreement in regards to the "H" season....I have tried to reassure everyone that the "H" season will be over in November and the "there is always one of those you work with" has tried to tell me that I should be worried since the "H" season doesn't end til December!
November 9-16th should be decent huh? If anything, 7 days of rain away from work and the States is sure better than 7 sunny days at work in the States.......
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Culebra MJ (---.coqui.net)
Well, sorry but your friends are right. But would I change my dates because of the potential that the week I pick could be "the one"? No. And here are the reasons. There are safe places to be. You will be safe, fed and meet interesting people up close! And have a great story to tell. And, while I'm not a math geek, neither willing nor able to do the stats, you're chances of being here during a...that thing...happens, are of course possible, and of course, not probable. September, October are more likely but - truthfully? As weird as the weather has been the last few years (like a depression right now off the east coast of the US)? I think it's all a crap shoot. C'mon down! We'll take care of you!
(and by the way, this is my H comment for the season, refer to it if you like)
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Culebra MJ (---.coqui.net)
I wasn't really clear there....Hurricane Season is from June 1 to November 30, technically. You can look up exceptions...a great site for hurricane info is   (let's see if it works this time Deb?) If it's not highlighted, copy and paste...a great site for (many) island weather info
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
Thanks for the tip....two years ago, I visited during Labor Day Weekend, (September).....and I was forewarned that an "H" was possible.....BUT....I had the nicest 10 days of vacation....it was sunny and warm the entire stay and the island itself was pretty much vacant of tourists......SO....change my dates...HECK NO...lol....I will be there Nov 9th - 16th and I hope to bring sunny days, cool breezes and moonlit nights with me! I have that kind of luck! lol......
I think it rained twice during my last trip and it lasted about 5-10 minutes each time......
Heck, Culebra will be awesome come rain or shine.....but I will hope for shine.....
I guess I could always hang out at the Dinghy Dock and drink Medalla the whole time if my luck turns sour! lol
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Wonder why that didn't work???
If this does work, the only think I did differently was open a new tab, and copy and paste the URL from the website itself with the characters in the proper place.
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Culebra MJ (---.coqui.net)
Well, I certainly didn't do that! But I think it's because you're   and I'm not! I'll just leave that stuff up to you from now on! But of course I have to try it one more time, following your instructions.... http://islandwomanculebra.blogspot.com/
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Culebra MJ (---.coqui.net)
Cool! That's the trick!! Yehaw!
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Culebra MJ (---.coqui.net)
And Rob? It's all going to be fine. I checked my Magic 8 ball http://www.mattelgamefinder.com/demos.asp?demo=mb
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Re: Casita La Perlita
I'm with you on that Rob, 8 days in the Caribbean sure beats 8 days in Indiana! Oh, and Miss MJ, my future bride is named Amelia! The llamas may no longer be concerned now :)
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
This thread brings me daily joy...honest....I peek in now and again while I am at work.
When I think about Culebra, I get all warm and fuzzy inside! lol.....
**Has anyone done anything with that monster house up on the big hill near Zoni? Two years ago, it was still a concrete shell....
...OH....Stephen, please tell Amelia we have all said hi!
......MJ...thanks for checking that 8 ball!
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Re: Casita La Perlita
The house is a goat sanctuary. And now also a WiFi transmission site. I don't think the goats mind, they get free internet.
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
OK....I just returned from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware and let me tell you, it has made me anxious to come to Culebra even more than before. Boardwalks, video games, obnoxious ladies with strollers, oh my! Not to mention, it is a bit depressing when you look at the ocean and it's brown in color!! What's up with the water on the upper East Coast of the United States?
Well, I am certainly glad it is June now....only 5 more months to go!!
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Re: Casita La Perlita
But there is no Bottle and Cork in Dewey, Culebra?!?!?
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
OK...next topic.....visiting Culebrita! As I am certain this has been a discussion topic prior, I would like to find out everyone's most current suggestions on the best way to visit Culebrita.
Does anyone have a recommendation on a service that will take visitors to Culebrita?
....4 1/2 months and counting 'til my toes touch down on the awesome island of Culebra! :-)
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Re: Casita La Perlita
I suggest Willy. He has a nice new reliable boat. Takes you out in the morning and drops you off. Comes back in the afternoon at your specified time and picks you up. Never had a problem with him. Costs about $45 to $50 pp. Be sure to climb the path to the Lighthouse Bar and Grill. Awesome view. And visit the "baths" on the far right side of the beach (facing North). You will love it. Phenomenal beach. Weekday, probably no boats anchored at the beach. Weekend, many large boats anchored at the beach with complementary loud music.
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Re: Casita La Perlita
Author: Rob Breeden (---.static.cypresscom.net)
THANKS!!! lol....Lighthouse Bar & Grill! I think I will bring my six pack cooler of Medallas just in case the place is closed! lol
I missed the "baths" last time I visited the island.....I hope to visit Culebrita during the week....I'll look for Willy's phone online and call when I arrive.