El Arco Vacation Packages

We refused to check in and had to find other local accommodations. The directions were off by 1 mile, requiring getting locals to help find the place. When we got there we found 1) No way to secure our belongings, since door locks were not working, 2) no A/C in the main rooms and 90 degrees without fans, 3) Open access from the public beach, 4) cockroaches, 5) bad neighborhood without the listed local restaurants and shops, 6) Poorly maintained pool, barbeque, and other amenities. Host responses were slow and unhelpful. We are dealing with Expedia for a refund.

My 5 stars rating is based on my 12 nights stay in mid Oct, here’s what we experienced: 1) The food was mostly native cuisine, it was yummy and healthy, In the buffet area, there were usually 2+ kinds of meat (fish, beef, chicken, pork) at lunch and dinner with side dishes like rices, pasta, vegetables, casava, beans. I loved their fish, “Sopa de res” (ox tail soup), the cheese slices and of course the “pupusas” (on weekends). The buffet restaurants are set-up “al fresco” style, one by the ocean and one by the estero both have amazing views! 2) Their staff, starting with their manager (Jose V. F.) and the rest of their staff (restaurant, room, bar) really went out of their way to ensure you had what you need and were happy with your stay. 3) Drinks, this one was interesting for me because they offered no wine! instead, they offered the best drinks I have tried with rum/vodka/tequila and of course beer! I strongly suggest you try “orchata” or “cebada” with rum. Another interesting thing was that since this resort’s model is part “private membership” (locals) and part “all inclusive packages” (for foreigners), there was never a line-up at the bar because the private-members had to pay for their drinks. 4) The beach, I loved the huge waves! and no vendors at the beach even though the beach is public. 5) The “estero” (estuary), we had an amazing tour of the “estero”; it's so big looks like a small lake!