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My wife and I are about to book a room at the costa bonita resort. I'm doing a little more research before I finalize. I am finding a lot mixed reviews. Many people have said this place is dumpy. What is the real story on this place? Thanks.
The general answer on this forum is that you will be much happier elsewhere. Anywhere else! I would not personally recommend it to any of my friends.
Try Bahia Marina for a resort experience.
In the past 20+ years of coming to Culebra we had only ventured to the resort once, and left swiftly as it was so not in keeping with the vibe on the island. But since January we have eaten at the new restaurant there, Michi B's, a few times and it some of the best food on the island. Maybe the tide is turning, so to speak.
I live in Puerto Rico and I visit Culebra about once a month. Like many others on this site, I can say that I fell in love with the island a long time ago. I love Culebra for many reasons...but most important, for the feeling of "peace, the total disconnection from the stress of ordinary life, and the total connection with nature and the simplicity of "real life". I have learned to enjoy and treasure the concept of "the Culebra Pace of Life". Without it, things would run at normal speed and about 50% of the "Culebra Experience" would be spoiled.
Although I am blessed with the opportunity of visiting Culebra very frequently, once a month is sometimes just not enough. Therefore I visit this site rather frequently. Somehow reading what people post helps me get into some sort of "cyber-Culebra mood". Not exactly the same as enjoying a Medalla at Mamacitas, but better than reading work related e-mail. I have read almost every post for the past couple of years...in the process "getting to know" those of you who post very often.
Every time I visit Culebra, I stay at Costa Bonita. And I stay at Costa Bonita because I own a unit. I wish I had a nice house with a view of Culebrita (Hacienda Los SueNos would be nice), but when I decided to purchase a property in Culebra (about 2 years ago), there were not many options for under $200K. I looked all around Culebra (and Vieques) and after evaluating about 50 properties, I finally decided for an apartment in Costa Bonita. Well aware of its history, all the controversy and bad reviews, I figured it was the best I could afford. After all, what Costa Bonita had to offer didn't sound too bad: a well built concrete structure, a great view of Dakiti, an amazing infinity pool, a dock, well kept grounds, and 5 minutes from my favorite beach (Zoni).
So Jeffrey, I think I can give you a good summary of "the real story of this place". Here are the highlights:
1) It used to be a resort. About two years ago (after failure of various hotel administrators) it became a condominium. This means that all units are privately owned and Homeowners Association administers the complex. As in any private complex, every owner pays a maintenance fee which is used to maintain all common areas. There is no "rich man" running it or making money from it.
2) The pool and all grounds are well kept. The complex is in great shape and there is security at night. Since it is not a resort, there are no hotel services (such as room service, daily maid, desk service, etc).
3) There is a restaurant and bar (Michi B') that operates on the weekends. Michelle, the chef, is putting up quite a show...about the very best dining in Culebra. The Chillo a la Plancha is spectacular. She's working really hard to get the place going. I encourage you to visit her and see her in action. There are no secrets, the kitchen is completely open and you can peek and see for yourself.
I have read about a thousand posts on this forum, never before replied to any. But I had to respond to this thread because I just can't tolerate to see people trying to destroy what others have built with hard work. It's just not fair. It's just: "MAL HECHO".
Want to know more about Costa Bonita? Ask me, I know all about the place. Have a suggestion on what can Costa Bonita do to be a better neighbor? Let me know. I can talk to the people that work there and I can also reach the Home Owners Association.
Recently I dared to suggest that Costa Bonita might not be as bad as portrayed by many on this forum, and was roundly attacked.
That is ok, because forums are like that, and I have a rather thick skin.
What we have on Culebra, however, is sort of a reverse elitism, wherein some of the recent "settlers" (within the last ten years or so) think their vision of the island is the holy grail and all other thoughts should be banished.
Bonita has its flaws, but it also has promise still. I own no property there, but I can see how, now that it is built, it could be a positive thing for Culebra.
It seems to me that rocks being thrown at Bonita might be better employed by filling the giant potholes at the approach to Zoni, and that instead of focusing hatred toward that development, smart people should be getting together and figuring out how to make Costa Bonita a better place. If Culebra has bright people, why can't they form an ad hoc group and have some CONSTRUCTIVE discussion?
My own credentials are lacking, having visited Culebra but a half dozen times, but I find for all its beauty and charm, it is in some ways a strange place for the types of emotions I touched upon above. My wife and I have come to know many residents and some part time visitors, and it has been an honor for us.
But I do wish a more positive, constructive dialogue could ensue.
That's a fresh perspective we've not ever encountered here before. I would like to see CB turn the corner and make something out of itself. As you said, it's not going anywhere and we that have opposed it for so long do have to accept that fact. It would much better serve the community as an attractive, well-run property than it has in the past as a sewage-filled, non-staffed, ghost town. I have recently been following a blog of a woman who moved from the States to work there. Over the years, I've met many people who have done the same, and given up and moved away. Over the years, I've made several trips out to Costa Bonita (for dinner, for functions, just to have a look around), and nothing yet has changed my mind about it. However, people like you have the potential to change public opinion. And, we see that Michelle is making something out of the restaurant. It certainly sounds like it is turning that corner. Don't be a stranger here - keep us posted on further positive developments.
Well said Alberto, I'll meet you there for a beer and some fine food.
Another valid concern is that CB is the camel sticking it's nose under the tent. There is a list of other large land developers who are working in the wings to build other such large complexes. And they point to CB and say if they built that then we should be able to build our large complex. And before you know it, you have Charlotte Amalie II.
. . .and without the infrastructure to handle it, i.e., sewer, water (everyone knows how often the water goes out), employees, etc., and therein lies the problem with large developments on Culebra. I will never understand why big developers don't get this. Oh right, because they build it, make their money and walk away after greasing whatever hands they had to to get their unlawful permits, just like Costa Bonita's original big dogs did. There are many, many valid reasons we "Culebra Purists" think and act the way we do in respect to development of and on Culebra.
So, with all respect, does it further the well being of Culebra to forever curse Costa Bonita, or would it be better to try and guide that development to a better place?
To me, that is the pivotal question.
I'm going to Culebra next week ... arriving on April 4th - departing on April 10th. I'm traveling with my 8 year old son who "insists" on having a pool on property !!! I'm considering Costa Bonita .. can you connect me with owners who might have availability for these dates?
He'll love the pool. It's very nice.
Hi I have rooms available to rent in Costa Bonita. Your son will enjoy the pool. The complex has very beautiful views, very nice restaurant with bar. Please contact me mbarco1@hotmail.com
This unit is in front of the pool with view to the Ensenada Bay:
So...the tourists who came up to me at the cart last week who stayed at CB and were appalled at the crumbling concrete and the sewage back up and attendant smell were totally off base? The people who went out to the Coors Light party there who reported sewage coming down the walls of one of the buildings were lying? One of the former managers, who tried very hard to make CB something good, who after leaving told the real story of the shoddy construction was just having a case of 'sour grapes'?
Sorry, I don't buy the above reporting, despite its good intentions. I've walked through the sludge myself. I know quite a few people who have worked there and have a different story to report than the above. There is always the 'other' side of the story and it isn't just being a "Culebra Purist" that makes truth truth. If this structure were in (m)any other place just the septic code violations alone would be enough to have it shut down.
No, it's not going away. But that doesn't mean I have to say, oh, fine, it's here and let's make it something it isn't. Unless your condo association wants to rip it apart and start over again...and from what I hear, there isn't that kind of money floating around CB. That's my two cents worth...and given inflation, we know how far that goes.
Culebra MJ...you definetely sound like someone who would spray paint "MAL HECHO" in public property...
"Septic code violations"? You're joking? Three years ago Culebra did not even have a waste water treatment plant! Would you sign up for a snorkling trip on the canal by the bridge on a rainy day? Hmmmmm...don't think so! Do you think that all houses, restaurants and shops around the bay have been magically connected to the recently installed sewage line? C'mon! Let's not talk about septic code violations in Culebra. But if interested, here's the facts about waste water treatment in Costa Bonita:
1) Each cluster has a waste water treatment plant that provides primary and secondary wastewater treatment.
2) Each plant consists of a a series of septic tanks that use pumps and bio-filters to separate solids.
3) An aerobic treatment system and indigeneous water-borne microorganisms progresively convert dissolved biological matter into solid.
4) Biological solids are neutralized and disposed and treated water is disinfected chemically prior to being re-used for irrigation 6 inches under the surface of the grounds of the complex.
5) The company that installed the wate water treatment plants is under contract and visits the complex twice a month to assure that all treatment plants are working properly and in compliance with all codes and regulations.
That being said, is it possible that at some point something failed? Probably. Is it possible that at some point one of the 42 treatment plants had a leak or some mechanical malfunction? Most likely. But what I can really ASSURE you is that the system is being monitored and in compliance with all codes and regulations. The Home Owner Association is paying a lot of money for this water treatment system. Furthermore, I would be very surprised if any other property in Culebra had a similar water treatment and water recycling system as efficient and well maintained as Costa Bonita. Perhaps if Culebra had a Green Awards Ceremony I would proudly nominate Costa Bonita's water treatment system for the big prize. Maybe the solar power generation system in the school would be a tough contender, but other than that, I like my odds against any other project.
I guess not many here are used to reading good things about Costa Bonita...well, now there is somebody from the inside posting FACTS...not bitter and biased opinions. Remember that this is no longer a hotel "representing the interests of the rich and powerful". Costa Bonita now happens to be the HOME and WORKPLACE of many hard working people. Please think about that the next time you feel inspired to trash Costa Bonita in this message board.
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Author: Culebra MJ (---.prtc.net)
I don't happen to have any spray paint, unfortunately, but I'm a MAL HECHO fan, yep.
If you read what I wrote, I specifically made it clear re: septic code violations being anywhere else BUT here, as you are correct in saying there is a sad lack of such a thing. So all your reference to it being something HERE...is moot. I'm quite aware of the water quality due to the present system, as well as the lack of hook ups to the system installed (although some homes ARE hooked up...gravity, apparently, still works).
You made a number of points about what is being done and they are good actions. Leaks, problems, etc. you mention as probabilities. So my question would be, with all that monitoring going on, why is there the same problem since the day CB opened, now going on eight years later? That is not bitterness speaking, it is just an honest question about indisputable facts. Truthfully, my only compassionate feeling about CB is the people who bought into it, not knowing what they were in for (despite the fact that CB is about as un-Culebra like a place as there could be, I can understand the desire to have a place here, regardless, when taking prices and the once hoped for amenities into consideration).
I'm glad CB can provide a home for many hardworking people. I can also separate those people from the model CB represents on Culebra, which I don't have to trash...it trashed itself from the first...with the help of the Tourism Board of Puerto Rico.
Insider and outsider views usually differ, and this is my view, as you have yours as an owner. Don't take it so personally, I regularly trash a few other places (and people, in certain situations) I think are desirous of taking advantage of Culebra thoughtlessly for their own gain without considering the long range consequences of impact. On this message board, on my blog, in the streets. So it goes. Various viewpoints give people choices in thought. That's what it's all about.
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Author: DAVID BREWBAKER (---.sub-97-151-108.myvzw.com)
I am David Brewbaker and I own and rent Casa Mango a 2 and 3 bedroom rental on Culebra across the harbor from Costa Bonita. My 1st experience at Costa Bonita was during the 1st Culebra International Heinekin Regatta. I recall free Heinekins served by the "Heine Girls", Dutch and German girls wearing skin tight green jumpsuits. I survived that torture but the place had an odor I can only describe as "fetid fecal". I met 2 of the local women, K&K, and they reported walking through some pretty soggy and malodorous lawn sludge. I believe the waste water treatment described by Alberto will not work on Culebrs where water and electricity(let alone gas) can be intermittent. The bimonthly inspection by whoever sold this treatment scheme does not fix a broken unit out of the 42 in place until they return. The only permanent solution is for CB to hook on to the sewer system with at least the black water. I am shipping 2 5HP Hydromatic Sewage Grinder Pumps to the renter of my casita that is a licensed plumber from the US. The pumps are new and worth $5000 each. CB has 160 condo units, a cost of only $62.50 per owner. Alberto probably wants to maintain the property value of his unit ($200,000?) and the association property. The pumps and the plumber are on Culebra now. Alberto please present this to your condo association and solve the sewage problelm, get rid of bimonthly "maintenance" that does not work and the cost of maintaining a system that only produces runoff to Ensenada Harbor and a lawn submerged in effluent. Dr. Brewbaker
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Author: Culebra MJ (---.prtc.net)
Now THAT is practical advice, on so many levels! Thanks, David!
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Author: DAVID BREWBAKER (---.sub-97-186-48.myvzw.com)
I can only see the sewage problems getting worse as the system ages. I remember when the owners had to carry water from the pool to flush the toilets. The sewer system is in on Culebra and CB can pump their problems away. Water flows downhill, waste flows uphill on Culebra.Join the club. Dr. Brewbaker
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Author: Culebra MJ (---.prtc.net)
The engineer who oversaw...as best he could...the installation of the sewer system told me it was not designed, nor equipped to handle a property as large as CB, that they would have to pay for a separate, different, but connecting, system. A number of ideas were tossed about, including the laying of some pipe in very sensitive areas, without elaborating. I talked to those guys pretty much 4 to 5 times a week for almost a year and know more about vacuum sewer systems than I care to. Bottom line, to coin a phrase, it's a wonderful idea, when it works.
The system here is designed for residential use only, always was. Other projects also wanted to hook into the system and were told the same thing. As it is, it isn't working below a certain level. even residentially...that old gravity sucks thing, well...I guess we can even suspend that law around here sometimes.
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David, thanks for your advice and for offering your plumber. I really appreciate your genuine interesest in suggesting a solution.
However, sewage grinder pumps are used to transfer waste water from a holding tank to public sewage lines where elevation doesn't allow for gravity to do the work. A grinder pump would be a quick and easy fix in most cases. Unfortunately, Costa Bonita is not connected to the recently installed public sewage line, so this is not an option. That' the main reason why the complex was designed with independent waste water treatment plants for each cluster. As previously explained, these three-phase treatment systems provide the capability of cleaning and disinfecting water to a stage where it can be safely re-used for irrigation purposes. This means that Costa Bonita can enjoy beautiful green grass while saving thousands of gallons of Culebra's limited water supply.
The treatment plants at Costa Bonita require expert maintenance in order to keep working properly. This has been a priority since the complex became a condo (with Home Owners association) little over a year ago. Unfortunately, this was not the case with previous adminitrators and hotel managers.
The treatment plants at Costa Bonita are currently in top shape and working properly. There is no bad smell or leaks. It took a long time, effort, and money to recondition a system that had been neglected for a long time. These treatment plants are not an experiment. it is proven technology that works. For more information refer to www.speccoenv.com
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I am familiar with Costa Bonita too, I have family that live on the Island and I visit two or three times a year. I understand Michie B's is for sale because the owners have had it. I heard they are nice people too, but they are not the first.
The owners at Costa Bonita have tried to change the image and were making some improvements in their public relations when all hell broke out over Easter weekend, when they held another massive outdoor concert and supposedly had sewer problems like they had in the past.
Why would anyone be so stupid as to allow that kind of overuse and overtaxation of an already weak sewage system. Now my cousin says the irony is that during Easter weekend they would have probably rented all their rooms anyway and had a chance to show off the "new" theme. Imagine guests having a quality experience, nice dinner, great wine, a little entertainment. But no they got the drunk and noisy experience instead. Nothing new here, more of the same.
My advice to the owners is, think a little before you approve these events, are they a positive in the long run. And quit blaming the former management, it wasn't their fault either, they were professional, they made a great effort, the
problem is Costa Bonita was poorly planned, it looks like a housing project with a nice swimming pool. As one of my Culebra friends who owns a prominent home on the North side and lives there with his wife and small children year round said years ago, "For God's sake do something, every time I enter the harbor, I want to cry, green it out, plant some trees, paint it neutral, but for God's sake cover it up"
Are you aware that most tourist's that come to Culebra literally say "What the hell is that, how did that happen" when viewing Costa Bonita from the other side of the Bay. It just looks terrible and out of place. You can do something about it, really, like my friend says, "plant some trees" break up that housing project look. That would do a lot to make amends with the locals.
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I am familiar with Costa Bonita too, I have family that live on the Island and I visit two or three times a year. I understand Michie B's is for sale because the owners have had it. I heard they are nice people too, but they are not the first.
The owners at Costa Bonita have tried to change the image and were making some improvements in their public relations when all hell broke out over Easter weekend, when they held another massive outdoor concert and supposedly had sewer problems like they had in the past.
Why would anyone be so stupid as to allow that kind of overuse and overtaxation of an already weak sewage system. Now my cousin says the irony is that during Easter weekend they would have probably rented all their rooms anyway and had a chance to show off the "new" theme. Imagine guests having a quality experience, nice dinner, great wine, a little entertainment. But no they got the drunk and noisy experience instead. Nothing new here, more of the same.
My advice to the owners is, think a little before you approve these events, are they a positive in the long run. And quit blaming the former management, it wasn't their fault either, they were professional, they made a great effort, the
problem is Costa Bonita was poorly planned, it looks like a housing project with a nice swimming pool. As one of my Culebra friends who owns a prominent home on the North side and lives there with his wife and small children year round said years ago, "For God's sake do something, every time I enter the harbor, I want to cry, green it out, plant some trees, paint it neutral, but for God's sake cover it up"
Are you aware that most tourist's that come to Culebra literally say "What the hell is that, how did that happen" when viewing Costa Bonita from the other side of the Bay. It just looks terrible and out of place. You can do something about it, really, like my friend says, "plant some trees" break up that housing project look. That would do a lot to make amends with the locals.
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You sound bitter and angry. I'm curious to know exactly what's your motive for your attacks to Costa Bonita. Specially since you never seem to miss an opportunity to add a negative remark to any discussion related to CB. It's weird because it's definitely not consistent with the "anti-flaming" philosophy that you prentended to portray in the "Juanita Bananas - Restaurant from Hell" thread.
So now you are referring to Costa Bonita as a "housing project"? You serious? C'mon! A restaurant, nice pool, beautiful views, a dock, well kept grounds, security, bar with wireless internet...that doesn't sound like the projects to me. But...then again, I can see how 41 clusters might look like a housing project...specially when looking down from "a prominent house" on the top of the mountain.
I wish I had a prominent house in Culebra...a large deck with view to Vieques, infinity pool, kids running around in nice green lawn...Wow, sounds great. But at Culebra prices we are talking about $800K plus. Too bad I could only afford a $200K second home in Culebra's "housing project".
Sunny, you can dislike the place, call it names, and try to trash it (for whatever reasons)...but every time you do it on this message board, I will do my best to get the facts straight.
Here's the list of corrections from your last posting:
1) Costa Bonita is not a hotel, resort, or housing project. It is a Condo, where owners who wish, rent their units. There was no need or intent "to rent out all the rooms during Easter weekend".
2) The Commercial area in the Condo (restaurant and bar) had live music until 11 pm saturday of Easter weekend. This falls very short of a "massive outdoor concert". Stupid or not, the homeowners association don't have much say in what the commercial area decides to do in its premises.
3) No sewage problems were reported before, during, or after the event. There was no "overtaxation of a weak sewage system". The treatment plants are working great (see previous posting for details).
4) Michi-B's for sale? Is that a fact? I will find out, and if it is, I commit to posting the asking price. If it is not for sale, then Sunny, you are just spreading malicious gossip...and if that's the case, you must have a motive.
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I understand why you are frustrated. How much is your Condo worth now.
Probably the same as you bought it for. They have been on the internet recently for as low as 165,000. How much have you spent on legal fees. Are the Condo owners paying their real estate taxes yet? I would be upset too.
A lot of people on the Island would rather see you succeed now, some think it should be bulldozed. It was a mistake, it was opposed by the majority of locals, but fast money, and the promise that you wouldn't have to make any payments because it would be so successful the rentals would pay for your mortgage, tilted your judgement. I didn't believe it when I heard it, and I looked also.
It seemed to be too good to be true, even some of the local expats figured it was a loser. I think it's better now since the owners took over. Have you paid back the tax credits you got, the tax credit that private homeowners never got and in fact they pay real estate taxes, yours is a second home too. According to my local sources, you shouldn't be getting any tax breaks now, because you are not creating new business or new tourist traffic you are competing with the
established businesses. That doesn't make sense.
Do you think it's fair that everyday people have to take up the tax slack caused by your tax credits. Is Michie B's on a tax incentive to start their business and compete with everybody else.
Have you sent a letter of apology to the community explaining you didn't design this place and that you are going to try your best to green it out (the view).
Is it true that the beach by the Condos is so contaminated that when you walk on
it you get gunk on your feet. I heard that was true from the bad sewer stories
from a big event you had (either concert or sailing) if its cleared up by now let
everybody know, the story is still going around. Maybe you or the city could have it analyzed and get that cleared up. Good Luck to you, you seem like a nice guy
in an impossible situation. Sondra (Sunny)
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Updated list of corrections:
1) No frustration here. I purchased in Costa Bonita AFTER it became a Condo. That means no "promises or tax breaks for me". No surprises either. No "tilted judgement". I love the place and every afternoon when I'm enjoying a bottle of wine in my balcony overlooking the sailboats in Dakiti I feel like I'm in Paradise. No price tag on that.
2) There are a few units still on sale by the developer. Starting price of those units is $238K. I honestly don't think that the prices have changed much in the past 4 years. As a matter of fact, that statement applies not only to Costa Bonita, but to mostly all properties in Puerto Rico, the US, and perhaps the whole world. I'm no real estate expert, but I've heard about the Real Estate crisis on CNN. I've also read some very interesting articles about it in The Economist. Now, the units that you found for $165K on the internet sound like a really good deal! Please provide the link, I have some friends that would definitely be interested.
3) Tax Credits and Real Estate Tax. There are currently no "tax credits, tax breaks, or tax slack" for Costa Bonita owners. Not my area of expertise either, but I recall this topic being discussed in the last meeting of the homeowners association. Bottom line, the tax credit expired the moment it stopped being a condo-hotel and became just a Condo. By the way, here in Puerto Rico we have a division of our overstaffed government dedicated to collecting taxes. Much like the IRS, but here it is called HACIENDA. Property taxes are monitored by the CRIM. They do an excellent job collecting money...So Sunny, don't worry about the owners making their tax payments on time.
4) Contamination on the beach. There is really no beach on the complex, but if you refer to the area by the dock, then let me explain that that area is actually the very end or corner of the Mangrove. There is even a Fish and Wildlife sign that alerts people not to traspass. Mangroves are usually moist, wet, and the consistency of the soil (and smell) could be confused with sewage. For details about water treatment, refer to my posts on this thread from 04-09-10 and 04-10-10.
5) Letter of apology. Please let me know who should I address the letter to and where should I post it. Also, besides explaining that I didn't design the place and the intention to "green it out", anything else you would like to see on the letter? Any recommendations about which colors to use when the complex is re-painted?
6) Michi-B's - Confirmed: NOT FOR SALE!!! Its actually open Tuesdays through Sundays...so anybody who hasn't tried it still has a chance to do so! I would love to see an unbiased review about the place! I hope they do great and stay in business for a very long time. Who wouldn't!!!
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Author: Culebra MJ (---.prtc.net)
I have basically opted out of this 'discussion' because it is obvious that considering anything NOT 100% positive about Costa Bonita is not going to affect its defender in the slightest. But when I read the lines "Mangroves are usually moist, wet, and the consistency of the soil (and smell) could be confused with sewage" I had to wonder how much wine was being consumed on the balcony.
Mangroves - are comprised of salt-tolerant tree and other plant species from a range of plant families. They thrive in intertidal zones of sheltered tropical shores, islands, and estuaries. So yes, they are moist, wet. Probably mostly wet.
Here's a little reading on mangroves...you know, those funky looking plant things next to and in the water, before they are taken out to have a view...
While mangroves do catch and filter sediments, the smell, in my lifetime of living near and next to (and I currently and for the last 8 years live about as close to being surrounded by mangroves as anyone could who isn't on a boat IN the mangroves) them, I can say unequivocally that mangroves NEVER smell like sewage. When the tide is very low and it is very hot, they may smell like dried out fish nets, but that's another smell entirely. The smell described to me as recently as last Easter weekend by people who STAYED at CB (though this is never addressed by Alberto) was that of sewage.
I won't even address the "There is really no beach on the complex..."
because what was ain't there anymore. And what is there is no longer worth being called a beach...
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Author: ishtuva mela (---.maine.res.rr.com)
Buried somewhere in this forum is the real problem...
it's those damn concrete power poles on the island.
They are so, well, so concrete.
Seems to me that the real natives to the island could care less about the things that "late arrivals" (some at least) are so preoccupied with.
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Author: Culebra MJ (---.prtc.net)
Yeah, I'm not a fan of the concrete poles...it's a shame they couldn't do underground but I imagine it's the expense as our land isn't exactly rock free.
You might be surprised at how the locals (native born, if you will) feel about quite a few things that the "late arrivals" find distressing on Culebra...most notable quote to me (while telling me some wonderful stories and then onto the changes since she was a girl) would be "Sometimes we feel like we are in jail," by a woman in her 80's.
The concerns of the 'late arrivals' are because of a love of Culebra and the people of Culebra...and not wanting to see it lost in a sea of sameness that has happened all over the world to every beautiful place there is for the benefit of a few and the loss of many.
I promise, I don't think many latecomers arrived here wanting to be environmental or political activists...we really do just want to save what's left...
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Author: ishtuva mela (---.maine.res.rr.com)
Can't disagree with that.
But back to those damnable concrete towers:
I suspect they will hold up better against wood devouring insects, and maybe strong winds too.
What I really want (I trust it is not too much to ask) is for that cave in the road approaching Zoni to be fixed. Public or private way, I am tired of bringing food and water to the family in its depths.
I love Culebra, I just think a lot of the belly button criticism is hugely unwarranted.
All in all, not a big problem for me.
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MJ, its not about "100% positive about Costa Bonita". Its about facts. It's about informing and educating about the changes that have been going on in Costa Bonita for the past year and a half. It's about presenting and discussing reality and not "impressions", "hear say", and "malicious gossip". People make very strong statements in s forum without realizing the impact of those words. Others, its evident, have an agenda to destroy. A place like Culebra needs collaboration, not division. I don't know who declared war on who, but there's definetely been some fighting ever since I arrived here 2 years ago. Maybe its's not a war but more like an 8 year long vendetta. And its not even about the locals. Its just a small group...but they speak so loud and make so much noise (and post so much) that it seems like many. It's time to stop. Nothing good or productive can come from that sort of behavior. It's time to start reaching out to Costa Bonita as a neighbor. Unite. Collaborate. As someone very wisely expressed on this forum: "rocks being thrown at Bonita might be better employed by filling the giant potholes at the approach to Zoni".
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Author: Culebra MJ (---.prtc.net)
Tiring, this. War? Vendettas? An agenda to destroy? Malicious gossip? And you propose facts as a means of how to inform and educate. I think we live on different planets, Alberto. On my planet, facts are things that actually happen. Things you refuse to acknowledge on your planet. But that's ok, I truly do get it now. Good luck with renting your place.
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That's the beauty of it! I don't rent my place! Only friends and family on my bed! That's why I call it a second "home"...not a business. Costa Bonita is my "happy place". And now that I think about it, you actually do me a favor by scaring away tourists! By the way, only about 20% of the owners in Costa Bonita rent their units...so even if you are in the rental business, I don't think that your "hate campaign" is necessary. Bring the loooove. Be happy. Costa Bonita IS Culebra...embrace it!!
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Author: Culebra MJ (---.prtc.net)
Good for you. Enjoy your happy place. And...just so you know, I am far, very far, from being in the rental business, but that will give anyone who knows me a very big laugh. I don't have a hate campaign; that is your word along with war, vendetta, etc. Costa Bonita is not Culebra, and never will be. But I can see how you think it is. It's all sort of hand in hand thinking. Which is to say...have another glass of wine and enjoy your view of Dakity - even if they don't feel quite the same about their view of Costa Bonita...
Just so you know, I don't think you owe anyone any letter of apology. You didn't invent CB, you just bought into it. As a friend of mine, quite involved in Costa Bonita, said..."They didn't know, they just wanted a good view at an affordable price. Try to think of them, MJ." I did. No surprises. Done.
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I found out the For Sale sign is close to Michie B's sign, so some people thought it was for sale. But they are not happy, I heard that again. Their seems to be quite a few for sale. The 165,000. ones were being sold by a Real Estate agent named Mitzy Perez who used to work there. She is still has some for sale or listed.
I don't hate the owners of Costa Bonita, never did, it was the place itself, the worst possible thing that could have happened to Culebra. It permanently destroyed/harmed the view for many people. How can you forget that when its
so prominent. It's a symbol of greed and what's wrong with the world. It wouldn't anywhere else, but in Culebra, the stark contrast between warm and friendly and the pigged out real estate look is startling.
I don't see why you are so offended, I am sure most people treat you fairly there.
I think you should take some soil samples from several places, have them taken and assessed by an independent firm and if the results are good, publish them, that would go a long way to clearing up information.
Then start planting and painting, paint some 10'x10' squares and go to the other side of the Bay and pick the colors that blend. I think everyone would appreciate the effort.
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MJ, anybody who has been on Culebra for more than a couple of hours would know that no matter what you do, you can't be very far from anything on this island. You say that "Costa Bonita is not Culebra"...well, I would like to see you explaining that concept to Flor. Flor and his crew earn their money working really hard to keep the grounds at Costa Bonita in good shape. He also happens to be the Mayor's brother, so I'm sure he will come up with some strong statements about why Costa Bonita IS Culebra.
Sunny, you went 3 for 3 with your advice for soil samples, reforestation, and picking up colors that blend. I agree on all three. That's some practical advice that works. I will surely relay the ideas to the board of directors of the homeowners association. Reforestation will take some time, but it can easily be done. The condo needs to be re-painted soon, so maybe in less than a couple of years we can come up with the money to do it. About the soil samples, let's get the Junta de Calidad Ambiental involved, I'm sure its routine procedure for them.
You see. Now we're talking! I see some "embracing" coming soon!
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Well good for you, but there is one thing more that would really help according to
my friends. Would you be willing to stand up and help the Island fight off
more big developments. I didn't mention it before because I hadn't thought of
that before myself, but it makes sense in a way. Instead of fighting the locals or dismissing the locals anger over Costa you could join them and help them by
explaining the trouble you all have been through and it is in everybody's interest to not let it happen again. At first it sounded crazy to me, but they maybe right, the good will you would pick up from the locals would outweigh the negative
that you are afraid of.
I do some real estate now and then and it makes sense to me, give them a reason to unite with you? I don't know if everyone would buy it though. Now that would really help mend things with the locals. About the Mayor's brother I called my cousin who knows the Mayor and his family, he says the Mayors brother is a construction worker and if he is working there it doesn't mean anything, he is not political and he also said the Mayor has said "Costa Bonita was a mistake"
You have an uphill battle, Good Luck
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Alberto I just noticed a Costa Bonita Condo for sale for 195,000. In case you
are interested this is the link http://www.clasificadosonline.com/UDRealEstateDetail.asp?ID=1170356
Thats still 50,000 less than they paid 8 years ago. And I think its is down
from last year. The 165,000 I mentioned were a few years ago right after
the bankruptcy. Believe it or not, I might be interested at 150,000. despite
the history. The way things are going in Puerto Rico it might go lower.
Good Luck, at least people are buying because they really want to be in
Culebra not because of some investment fantasy
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Back to those darned concrete power poles. It's a shame they didn't burry the power and phone lines back when they dug up the road to Zoni installing a water line. The biggest expense must have been digging up the road so the trench for the conduits was already there. And we all know another storm will come one day sending those poles down like so many dominos.
FWIW: I opened the last hydrant at Zoni to see if there was any water and there was nothing.
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It doesn't work like in the movies when a car runs over a hydrant and water shoots up in the air. No water is in the hydrant until an underground valve is turned on, then the hydrant valve is opened and viola!! Agua!!
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That may well be, but I am sure I have seen a hydrant that was hit
by a car and was gushing. May be it was a coincidence that the water was
turned on? Someone else please weigh in.
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shawke you are right and so am I, having grown up in the South might explain it.
Hydrants in freezing latitudes use an underground valve to keep the upper
hydrant from freezing and swelling. Warm temperature areas don't need to.
Here is the link: http://www.ccmr.cornell.edu/education/ask/index.html?quid=396
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Author: Mysia Chabert (---.bankofamerica.com)
I wonder if Jeffrey ever made it to Culebra? And if he did where did he stayed and how was it? I really hope Jeffrey and his wife had a blast no matter what.
Hopefully we will hear his story and it would be a good one.
The Tropical Life is way better!
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Alberto would you please give us an update on Michie B's?
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Update on Michi B's:
The last time I was at Costa Bonita was about 4 weeks ago. The restaurant was hosting the graduation party of Culebra's elementary school. A group of students with their parents and family had a great time and enjoyed the food and the place.
Two weeks ago the restaurant showed the Cotto vs Foreman fight. A nice crowd gathered to watch the fight, eat, and drink.
The restaurant is open only on the weekends. It has been very difficult for Michelle (the chef) to fill the place on weekdays...and even on weekends! I really wish her well and would hope that she gets the place going. Its sad to see someone working their tail off while others just sit around hoping to see her fail. Sunny, I saw your post saying that "you heard that the restaurant was closing". Thanks for another healthy dose of destructive gossip...great contribution!
I really hope that people who visit this forum will have the wisdom to identify the difference between a genuine review and malicious gossip. I will never understand how some people seem to find satisfaction in the failure of others. What goes around, comes around.
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Excellent post Alberto. How can it be satisfying to watch someone try hard and fail? Someone who gets pleasure from this never tries, never dreams, never hopes. What a waste....
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I don't think the issue is wanting the restaurant to fail; it is more a fear that the four or five other developments that are being attempted, using the same illegal and community-insensitive methods and tactics, will be encouraged to push ahead. Plain and simple, There is no way that Culebra's infrastructure can support a fully active Costa Bonita, let alone the rest of these culture-killing monstrosities.
If Michelle is a good restaurateur and citizen, I truly hope she finds a way to be successful that is in harmony with Culebrense culture.
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Author: Culebra MJ (---.maine.res.rr.com)
Doug, beautifully put. Thanks.
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Ok Doug, so you are saying that there is fear that if Costa Bonita, it's restaurant, or anything related to the CONDO becomes a success, then other big developments will try to imitate Costa Bonita's success story? You are stating that Culebra's infrastructure is so weak and deteriorated that a "fully active" Costa Bonita will cause its collapse? What is it that Costa consumes that becomes such a burden to the island? Power and water?
Well, Costa Bonita has been fully active for a long time now. To my knowledge, no power or water outage has ever been caused by Costa Bonita. I've never seen traffic in the road to Zoni either. Do you really think that 41 clusters of second home 1 bedroom units (with an occupancy rate of less than 30%) can have such impact? I hardly doubt it.
I can understand the fear of future development in Culebra...I fear it myself. I have nightmares of Culebra becoming ilke Charlotte Amalie. But the fight against development should have nothing to do with Costa Bonita. The developper actually lost a lot of money and ended up in bankruptcy...so if anything, it should be a lesson of how difficult it is to make a profitable development on Culebra. With the complex already built and fully operational, the best possible scenario for Culebra is to have a well maintained Condo...which, as in the case of any other second-home complex, will be less than 30% occupied year round. There should be no fear in that.
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No. I'm saying that Costa Bonita was built against the wishes of nearly everyone in Culebra, using unethical business practices to obtain permitting, and careless construction methods that violated USFWS regulations and property. High density developments elsewhere on the island are ready to do likewise, taking comfort from the fact that if you can "outlast" the opposition, it's ok to do as you please. There are frequent outages, power and water, on the island as it exists. Gasoline runs out all the time. The construction of these places creates, as did CB, erosion that kills coral and the other sea creatures that are the backbone of Culebra's primary economic asset, tourism. I'd suggest that, since CB is a fait accompli, you should go ahead and enjoy the wonders of Culebra like everyone else, but trying to talk up the concept is bound to be resented.
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Well I guess it's true Michie B's closed, couldn't pay the rent because there was not enough business. that is a shame because on trip advisor Michie B's was getting good ratings. I think they are a young couple who moved here from the states.
They are not the first ones to be disappointed. Something is terribly wrong there and I don't think it's the local thing anymore. Why would you bring in a stateside
chef(s) when there are chefs everywhere in Puerto Rico looking for work.
A Culebra real estate broker says part of the problem is the management, a Mr. Busch. If it is true that he terminated the lease on the restaurant due to lack of payment, then that seems to me to be very shortsighted. If the problem is rentals then the answer is rentals, a rental percentage of 30% is highly exaggerated, it supposedly is less than 20%. By cutting off the Restaurant that would further impair the rentals I think. Plus wouldn't it also impair the sales or re-sales. The bank supposedly has 50 units they can't sell. I think they should have given anyone who was willing to stay a good deal till things got better.
Alberto I do feel sorry for you, I think the place is headed for trouble again, and I agree that's not good for anyone. By the way my real estate friend said the pool
bottom was described as slimy by a recent guest. My local business savvy friend said you property owners should sit down with the bank, you are all in the same position and bargain or barter away some of the unsold units for a professional management company to come in there and straighten it out, even on a temporary basis. He assumes no one is going to want to invest anymore at this point.
I think you need a Community Public Relations specialist, someone who can set up meetings with local businesses and put all the cards on the table, ask for their advice, they know Culebra rental patterns and profiles better than you. I'm in Calif now, email me if you like, I'll be back in S.C. in about two weeks and I'll give it some more thought.
Also continuing on this board isn't going to help anybody.
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Yes regrettably this probleme is enough frequent...
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Did I hear Michie is open again?
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Re: Costa Bonita: Best I've been on Culebra
Haha. I have lived in four places since I've been here and Costa Bonita is the BEST I've been. Here are some VERY minor issues.
1. No screens on windows, no cross breeze (no windows except one side) and I don't want to use AC. So when i leave everything open, get mosquitos etc. inside some times.
2. No freezer in little frig, so have to buy or borrow ice
3. Bad road coming up the hill and all the way to town (not their fault).. it is a beautiful drive. This road is no issue for most vehicles but I have a scooter.
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Michie B is open/cooking at the Tamarindo Resort alongside a guy name Hector Feliciano, who is not only a great chef, but a comedian as well (and claims to be Jose Feliciano's brother, the musician who gave us Feliz Navidad). We ate there last week. Hector was cooking; Michelle was not there, and it was pretty darn good.
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You said it's the best, but the named a lot of reasons why most people would not call that the best. I think there are plenty of places that have screens and have freezers in their mini fridges.
How did you find the pool that has been a bone of contention for awhile, I heard the y cleaned it up for the season, was it clean enough to swim in.
How is the restaurant, I think they have a new one since I was there. What was there room rate, if not too high, I might stay there just to see for myself, plus the owners of the condo's run it, it should be better.
Do they have an overall manager now? If you have their number I would appreciate you posting it, the old one doesn't work anymore
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Author: Maria Barco Services (---.dynamic.centennialpr.net)
Well I can gladly say "Yes" there is a new Administrator in Costa Bonita. The Condominiun has improve so much. The pool is very clean, very nice. Though always remember these apartments are owned by individual owners & they have their own person to manage the apartments, so for those of you that have had the bad luck of renting with the incorrect person & have had to stay in an apartment that you have not been happy with, is not Costa Bonita is the person that manages the apartment for the owner. In my opinion Costa Bonita is a beautiful place, quiet, relaxing, most of all it has central a/c. The kids pool & the jacuzzi is now clean & working.
The dirty waters that were on the side walks it is being worked on, the green areas are very nice, it will be even nicer though it takes time to fix what someone has been letting go for so many years. I like to ask those who are interested in making Costa Bonita there home for the time of your vacation to contact me, I promise you will enjoy it, you will have a nice clean apartment, you will come back.
For those who have a bad opinion of Costa Bonita we all have the right to our opinion so yours will be respected.