We had an amazing stay at Villa Mer and will definitely return. The location is awesome. We spent almost all of our time at the pool, as the rancho right next to it provides shade and a great eating area. We ate all of our meals there and played cards every night, all while listening to the surf crash only metres away.
The reason I gave only 4 stars is because there are some things that need to be addressed to justify the price.
1.There is no hot water. Not a big deal, but this should be stated as we were expecting it.
2.The ants in the kitchen can be brutal. On our first day, the kitchen counter was swarmed with thousands of ants because we ate before we cleaned up. I found a can of Raid in the laundry and sprayed the 3 main entry points near the counters. This needs to be done at least once a week, and you can't leave any food out - ever.
3. The dishwasher doesn't clean the dishes. I don't like doing dishes while on vacation. It needs to be replaced.
4. Need a plug for the kitchen sink so you can fill it with boiled water to wash dishes.
5. No real oven, just small toaster oven.
6. Needs gas BBQ.
7. Showers in the main baths make a mess. In the house, water runs into the bedroom. Separate indoor shower by pool must be used.
8. Need more than 1 spatula and need scissors, salad tongs, measuring cups/spoons.
9, Sliding door locks are difficult to operate.
10. Should have some information about the area and the property in a binder to help with orientation when guests arrive.