Villas Santa Ines Emekarsa

We've stayed at Luxury Villas Orotava twice, for a month each time, and love it here. The complex and grounds are gorgeous, and the pool is a wonderful amenity. It's just outside Antigua, about half a mile and an easy walk into town, plus there's a free shuttle. One thing that may explain some reviews: each villa is individually owned, and the complex doesn't really manage the units or decide what's supplied inside them. If you need a broom or extra towels, for example, the complex manager may not have them to give renters. Get the individual owner's or property manager's contact details so you can ask them directly. The two owners we've dealt with have both been extremely accommodating and responsive. Our one issue is Sundays, when helicopters fly all day from the landing pad on the mountain above the villas, and it can get a little noisy.

The facilities were very clean and nice, with a heated pool. It's a quiet spot for a romantic getaway, not somewhere to go for a party. Bring your own drinks and food, since there are no restaurants close by. The location isn't great for walking anywhere, but luckily a shuttle can take you wherever you need to go.

My husband, son, sister, and I stayed nearly a week while attending our son's wedding. The shuttle was a real asset, but customer service is why I gave the place two stars. At Villa Orotava we asked the administration for clean towels and were told to call Luxury Villas, which we couldn't do. The villa hadn't been swept, and we couldn't get a broom, so there were ants everywhere. They even started crawling over my granddaughter's legs when she visited for a few hours. We were told it was okay to leave the windows open. At 12:40 AM one night, a drunk man in his boxer briefs climbed in through a window. We woke up to find him standing beside our bed. He left without any problems; he had been locked out of his room.

The staff were great, and the grounds were clean and looked after. It’s close to Antigua but quiet compared with staying right in town. The beds felt a little firm to me, though that seemed common around Antigua unless you pay more for a western-style hotel. Without a car, staff can arrange transport, or you can walk a short way to a busy area and catch a tuk-tuk or cab. Walking is fine too, but get a ride back if you’ve been drinking since the streets are for cars.