What can I say? We lucked out and found a fantastic PR coastal rental! First and foremost: The gated community was very safe, as was the town of Loíza Aldea. I didn’t feel uncomfortable for one second, and we stayed there for five-six days, spending a lot of time exploring the town and its environs, and talking to people. The people of the town are amazing! I stayed in the villa with my parents, husband, and two young children. We rented a car from a car rental agency across from the SJ airport (Europcar – they’re great) and drove an easy 25 minutes from San Juan to Loíza, where Eduardo’s villa is located. On the way in, we passed a Walmart and an outlet mall, as well as many roadside stands (kioskos) selling fresh fruit and Puerto Rican cuisine. The villa itself is located in the Villas del Mar resort. The villa we stayed in was located on the first floor and was directly in front of one of the property’s gym, pools, and playground – perfect for a family with kids (although it doesn’t get very loud, so don’t let it deter you if you don’t have kids). The villa is gorgeous and very well-appointed, with comfy beds and linens. The private beach is a short walk through the property’s parking lot. There is another pool directly in front of the beach entrance, along with a bathroom and beach shower. The villa has three bedrooms and two baths, a laundry room (complete with muck sink), a full kitchen, two patios, as well as ceiling fans and AC units throughout. The owner also provides a beach cart with beach toys, cooler, umbrella, and beach towels. And Eduardo? You probably couldn’t find a kinder, more hospitable, or gracious host if you tried! He left the key for us with the front gate but came out twice (driving all the way from SJ!) when we had a minor problem with the fridge (which was easily and quickly resolved). He was very kind and attentive! What’s fun to do in the area: 1. The Villas del Mar community beach. We spent the 4th of July celebrando with resident and visiting puertorriqueños. 2. Checking out the horses and their riders in town. 3. Shopping for Vejigante masks at the roadside family-run art shop in the center of town. I’m so sorry that I didn’t spend more time getting to know the family that makes them. The masks are beautiful and very reasonably priced (much cheaper than in San Juan). Shop local! 4. Visiting the Loíza cave. 5. Seeing the beautiful church – one of the oldest in the Caribbean? 6. Beaches of Piñones to the north are beautiful. There are beaches with calm water for little kids. The drive itself along the shore was fun! 7. Kioskos of Loíza and Piñones are wonderful. My favorite: El Guariquiten (in Piñones). Try the bacalaitos, alcapurrias, & piña coladas! 8. Luquillo Beach and its kioskos. Just do it. You won’t regret it. Probably my favorite beach ever, and I’m a pretty well-traveled beach enthusiast. 9. Drive and adventure in El Yunque. As of July 2018, the entire park isn’t open, but drive through the section that’s open and explore the places to stop and swim/wade, which make the trip worthwhile. The temporary visitor center in downtown Palmer (?) has a great exhibit, good shopping, and kind people. 10. Admiring the local flora, especially the flamboyán tree. Gorgeous! My only regret is that we couldn’t be here for the town’s celebration at the end of July. Eduardo, we will return!