Judging by the fact that this is only the second review in four years, it is obvious that this special place is not on everyone's radar screen. In a way I say "thank goodness" as we were the only guests in residence. On the other hand, it would be nice to have others around at lunch or dinner time. The Meson is the private residence of Senor Leano whose family is the owner and developer of Isla Navidad. This was not our first visit to the Meson so we were familiar with what to expect. We were a great disappointment to Ramon and his wait staff as they were dying to be put to work doing what they do best. However, we have many friends in the Barra and Melaque area and choose to take most of our meals in the villages. However, we were treated to something very special on our final night when Senor Leano invited us to use his private palapa and enjoy a special meal prepared by his chef. We asked if we could invite three friends from Barra, which was accomodated without hesitation. The evening and the meal was an experience to rank right up there with having dinner on HMY Britannia on her farewell cruise in 1996.

If you wish, I would happily recommend the Meson for all your meals. On the other hand, if you wish to venture into the villages, there are many outstanding restaurants to be had. Our favourites are in Melaque and our number one choice is Maya!

The 27 hoyos of golf at Isla Navidad are outstanding. Not quite as spectacular as El Tamarindo but beautiful and challenging none the less. On both courses, you seldom come across other players so a quick round in two hours is entirely possible. If your wife doesn't golf, you can tee of at sunrise and be back just when she is waking up for breakfast. How great is that...!

For those who wish all the amenities of a large full service hotel, you have complete access to everything at The Grand Bay Hotel (a Wyndham property) at the top of the hill. However, word to the wise, avoid their top restaurant - Antonio's. The quality just isn't there and what you would pay for one bottle of wine, you can have an entire meal and drinks at Maya.