Villa Mangrovia, Choroní and Morrocoy

Location

Morrocoy (Choroní and Morrocoy, Venezuela)

Description

Irina Jackson's small, simple house with pretty garden has its own jetty and boatman for trips to the island of your choice in the Morrocoy National Park. There is a small plunge pool in the garden and lounge area for relaxing in the evenings.

Activities

Birdwatching, relaxation, swimming, snorkelling. Irina can arrange (at extra cost) excursions to local sites of interest (such as the river Yaracuy or local farms) or scuba-diving at the Tucacas NAUI-approved centre for views of the coral reef.

Accommodation

6 simple rooms (with air-conditioning) are in cabanas around the gardens. Ensuite bathrooms (with electric showers providing hot water). Irina is a fantastic cook, and the price includes all meals and drinks, with picnic lunches as required, as well as boat trips to the islands.

Our comments

Ideal for honeymoons, what sets Villa Mangrovia apart is the personal attention and service. Bear in mind that as there are only a few rooms you will be treated more as a house guest than a hotel visitor, and meals and island trips will usually be arranged together with fellow guests.

When to go

All year, though note that all beaches in Venezuela get much busier during holiday periods (principally Carnival, Easter, Christmas and New Year, and summer weekends) so it is recommended that you plan your visit to avoid these periods.