We stayed at Cinco Sentidos for 5 wonderful nights, after reading all the terrific reviews here on TripAdvisor. Our 'unique' perspective is that 2 of those nights were in the 'Grand Suite' (#5) and 3 were in the 'Junior Suite' (#4) during the same visit.
A week or so prior to our visit, I'd arranged for the 'split-up' scenario with co-owner Araceli and it turned out to be a wonderful choice. Our first two nights were spent in that spacious 'grand' suite, situated on the top floor with the highest view of the bay. Sunsets, a spacious soaking pool, hammock, private sunning chairs, a lounging couch, a gargantuan bathroom and shower, and an air-conditioned bedroom: all were magnificent. We had a refrigerator stocked with water, soda and Cororitas on arrival - plus a hearty batch of tortillas with salsa and guacamole - so there was nothing lacking at all.
Sunsets are phenomenal, gazing out across a glistening bay, but mornings are equally wonderful -the chirping birds (including a caged canary) and rustle in neighboring bushes (an aguana visited several times) and so are evenings (humming crickets and frogs and the gentle strum of music and breaking surf on Playa La Ropa below).
After two nights we moved downstairs to #4, which was equally magnificent. The patio was huge, the shaded pool plenty big enough and the entire suite was air-conditioned, although bathroom windows open to the pool (and a gorgeous view of the bay) and sliding doors expand the sitting space out to the patio in cooler times of day. Beds on both floors are comfortable; I slept soundly all 5 nights (I prefer a firmer bed and these fit the bill).
Location is up a rather steep hill from Escénica La Ropa, so be prepared for a short somewhat arduous hike up the hill - and watch your step on the gravel going downhill. Taxis, however, were easy to call (never waited more than 2-3 minutes), just ask Araceli, Heiko, or any member of the staff (although most speak little/no English ("¿Me llamas un taxi, por favor?")). 40 peso rides into El Centro are the norm - although it seemed to vary 5 pesos either way depending on the cab driver.
OK, rooms are terrific. Breakfasts? Equally so - every morning was special and different - from savory spreads like huevos/puerco (eggs/ham) burritos to camarones (grilled shrimp) quesadillas to sweets like 'Fantasy Island' Pancakes - and ALWAYS a huge plate of fresh fruit and a tall pour of juice (orange, papaya, cantaloupe, depending on the day). I'm now addicted to piña!
Araceli is a warm and inviting host, happy to speak of her love of the town and region, her home - we had a genuine hug and 'thank you' as we departed. Heiko was, during our stay, recovering from major surgery and has, for now, removed himself from the day-to-day kitchen work that many past reviews have commented upon - regardless, he is on-site and helpful with calling taxis or reserving food (in our case an order from nearby Jungle Pizza on our first night); we wish him well in his recovery. All the staff was friendly and attentive, but special 'thanks' go to Judith, always quick to smile and a magician with her daily towel-and-flower artwork on our bed.
All in all, Cinco Sentidos is a very special place, one that earns our highest recommendations. We'd gladly return at a moment's notice!
Room Tip: The Grand Suite is very nice, but #4 is equally as fabulous for less cost.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.