The minute I came through the front security gate into the compound, I knew that Casa Bella was going to be exceptional in every way. From the chaos of the city streets, I found a sense of serenity and calmness in the surrounding beauty of the homes. As I stepped through the front door of the house, the inner garden greeted me with lush plantings and flowers of every color. The red hibiscus blooms were the size of dinner plates. The kitchen was welcoming, well-equipped, functional and kept sparkling clean by the housekeeper. The living areas were spotless and comfortable. The two ground level bedrooms had private baths with walk-in showers and shared a small garden. One of my guests had limited mobility and was well accommodated. The two large upper bedrooms shared a lavish bathroom and many amenities. They opened onto a huge terrace with 360-degree views of volcanoes and the old city. A spiral staircase led to another terrace with the highest views in the neighborhood. (We enjoyed many hours on these garden terraces watching sunrises, sunsets, full moons, volcanoes and shooting stars.)

Casa Bella is actually a living museum of Guatemalan art. There are collections of paintings, sculptures and textiles throughout the property that thrill they eye and speak of the local people and their customs.

The listing description and the virtual tour were accurate. The owner provided useful information about the workings of the house. Also strategic suggestions to help make our trip enjoyable. She gave tips that aren't found in guide books and stayed in touch. She anticipated our every need, including two house mobile phones. There were no bad surprises, only happy experiences. The driver/guide she suggested was a jewel. He negotiated the city traffic and mountain roads with skill.

One of my guests asked me to mention Meson Panza Verde for a special dinner. I suggest a trip up to Tenedor del Cerro for Sunday brunch for the views, food, art and people watching. All five of us agreed that the trip to Lake Atitlan was the highlight of the trip."