To the lady and her husband who were selling their brother's condo on the 3rd floor of building one...i have lost your email address. could you please contact me or could someone please forward me their number or give them this message. they had an ad posted on the bulletin board. we saw the condo when we were down there.

To bll,

I believe Mr. Rivera is the site admin also. He usually give lots of pertinent info.

Felix Riviera Sr
It appears that you are the site administrator and also have a lot of experience at Playa Azul. Do you live there? Any info would be great.

/m171
Message number 170 was deleted for violation of rule #2 "to refrain from promoting other websites and REALTORS"......

I am surprised that I haven't received more answers for my questions and concerns. Anyone else out there that could help?
You can email me at : lamoureuxbonnie@hotmail.com if you don't feel comfortable saying what you have to say on this forum. Not sure why one of the responses was deleted by the topic administrator??
Happy Easter everyone!!

Hi Bll. Can't blame you for loving Luquillo. I just heard of someone interested in selling their one bedroom condo in Playa Azul 3. I look into it and post later again. (My e-mail is bane_1107@hotmail.com)

Hi all,
I was thrilled to come across this discussion forum today.I can't believe that with all the research we have done that I didn't find it until now. GREAT SITE. Have read all 167 messages. We visited this past Feb. We had a very positive rental experience,loved Luquillo,all the fabulous places we visited and all the very welcoming and friendly people that we encountered. Not to mention the amazing outlet shopping!(went home with 2 extra suitcases). We loved our vacation so much that we are now also looking into buying. There do not seem to be very many units for sale...none on this site and only two 1 bdrms with a local realtor. Are they usually so hard to come by? How long do they usually take to sell?How is the U.S.Mainland's housing crisis affecting sales and prices? What did one bdrm condos go for a yr ago? Ten years ago? A couple of investor type's here in Canada are telling my husband all the horrors of foreign investing...a big topic brought up is problems with titles to properties. We do know that most of us Canadians are not aware that PR is a US Territory and wonder whether they don't look at it like that or perhaps we are simplying it too much? Have any of you had such problems or heard of this? What is the reference to a lawsuit against owners of Playa Azul 3...these condos are for sale in that building..would this affect future owners? What about another building possibly going up that would affect people's views from bldg 3? Any advice would be great,as well as posive and negative stories about condo ownership. Renters on here are leary of owners...what about problems that owners have had with renters? Are there any Canadian owners out there?? Any comments on the local real estate company? Taking a long time to get responses to questions. Is this usual? It sounds like none of you use a management company...how can you do this? I have read that keys are mailed but how do you have the place cleaned and checked after a rental? How can you take care of maintenance issues living elsewhere? Sorry if this is too long...please help us get some of our questions answered...we would love to be sitting on the beach with all of you again. Thanks.

Hi
We did rent a condo at Playa Azul for 2009
We are looking to share or rent a car (Jan, Feb,March 2009)
Anybody know someone , you can reach me at
g.lapierre@rocler.qc.ca
Thank you for now

Happy New Year. We have been renters in Playa Azul for years and rented space in a friend's garage to store things from year to year. He has now sold the place so we are looking for a public self-storage facility near Luquillo. We need only a small unit. Does anyone know of such a facility?

We've newly rented a Condo for a month @ Luguillo Beach! Are there any reasonable places to play golf, or/and is there a driving golf range within 15 miles? I understand that a car is just about a necessity!
And how about safety?

Reply to 'la dolores',

I got to tell you that I have always wondered the same thing myself. I have one unit there and agree with you that these buildings stick out like a sore thumb. They simply do not go very well with the aesthetics of the beautiful coast. I don’t know how the developers were able to build such monstrosities. As we know, it’s more difficult to get away with this now. Although I got to say that not impossible. A couple of years back the builders of the cellular tower that’s on the corner of Hwy 3 and the Condo complex sneaked the construction of the tower on weekends and at night. I don’t know how they got the permits for that without any participation from the people that live there. As you probably know the radio waves that those towers emit are very controversial and the spot were it sits is heavily populated which presents a real hazard for the safety of people. I was always under the impression that to build those towers you have to have a clear radius the size of the height of the tower around its perimeter for in the event that it falls it doesn’t damage property. That is obviously not the case with this location.

Edited by author 08-23-2007 06:21 AM
I was wondering why the playa azul complex and sandy hill complex are the only very tall, 22 floor, condos in Luquillo. Was there some kind of regulation passed after they were built? I am aware that new contruction is not very tall. I understand that they are about 35 years old. Do you have any information concerning the history of the playa azul complex?

Edited by author 06-21-2007 07:41 PM
My goodness!

I've been searching for a condo to rent in P.R. for about ten days to take three friends of mine (all of Puerto Rican descent...none born on the island and none has ever been to their homeland...yet.). Well, I came across this site and I was thrilled for several reasons, but one thing that really made me smile was the recipe section.

You see, one of my friends was asked by his father to bring him back some "real Puerto Rican coffee". What passes for that here in the states (NYC) is usually Bustelo and occasionally, Yaucono. My friend kept asking about Yaucono because it just "sounded Puerto Rican" to him. I told him that's not Puerto Rican coffee. Yes, Yauco is known as "el pueblo del cafe", but the brand cannot be trusted. Lo and behold...CAFE REAL. YES!!! Memories of my childhood in Rincon. My grandmother putting a few tablespoons of coffee in my milk because "te ayuda a darte globulos rojos en la sangre."

Thanks for that...now...to keep searching for the perfect and affordable place away from the lunacy of San Juan to introduce my friends to their homeland.

Ray

Edited by author 04-08-2007 12:10 AM
URGENT
To all the condo owners of PAIII that were named violators in the suit before DACO. Please contact me ASAP if you are interested in joining in a class action suit to recoup expenses and for punitive damages. I have a letter explaining the proces that can be accessed via http://www.playaazulpr.com/demanda/demanda.htm. The letter is for those interested in joining in the class action and can only be accessed with a password. Please click on this link http://www.playaazulpr.com/captchaforms/pa...t1formycaptcha.html to contact me and I will give you the password to access the private messages that will be posted at the website for you. I will only give the password to those that I can be sure were victims of the frivolous suit; so please ID yourself in the email with the apartment number and your name so that I can find you in the list. Thanks.

Michael,
I don’t know about a shark net in the area of the beach in Playa Azul and La Pared. As a matter of fact, I have not been aware of any sharks in those areas, although I would think that there is always that possibility as in any ocean beach anywhere in the world. However, I want to take this opportunity to tell you about a different kind of SHARK, the developer shark. Not too far from the area of the Luquillo kioskos in the beach area known as FORTUNA BEACH a developer shark is attempting to devour that beautiful coastline beach to construct several buildings of walk-up apartments. Needless to say that, the residents of the area and for obvious reasons, are opposed to such development. They need help to fight off this shark attack. I’d like the residents of Playa Azul that were rightfully very much concerned with the development of that building across from Playa Azul 3 to get involved and join with the residents of Fortuna Beach to fight this new developer shark attack.

Felix in my reading of Playa Azul and La Pared I came across a reference to a shark net. In my walks I have not see this shark net and was wondering if it was closer to La Pared than Playa Azul. Do you know where the net is? I know there are sharks in the water so this is not the point. I would like to see this net.

To Michael Malchiodi,
To follow up on your previous question: I believe the developers of that project are not pursuing it any longer because of the costs associated with all the variances that they would need to get it approved, however, you should stay informed and ready to attend any public meetings on the subject. I’ll keep you informed of any developments in this regard, if or when I become aware.

I am not sure about a local pub to throw darts because I stay out of bars and taverns. I know that there is a ‘Cactus Rail’ Bar and Grill nearby but never been there. No, you can’t pick up the Luquillo Free Wi-Fi signal from the buildings because of the distance. The local English paper is the San Juan Star and you can pick it up at the Amigo supermarket across the street. I know that you will ONLY have one choice of cable signal and I do not patronize them because of their bad customer service and the expensive lousy service they provide. When you need it the most, during inclement weather and during power blackouts, often times the signal goes out and you are left with a bill to pay and no TV reception. You should ask the condo office; but I think they do not allow dishes on the exterior of the buildings. I don’t know why they have not made arrangements with DirecTV or Dish Network to provide a dish on the roof. At the present time I am connected thru the good old reliable RABBIT EARS which provide me a FREE signal to about 7 channels.

Edited by author 02-05-2007 04:32 PM
Felix is there a local pub where I can throw darts? Are you able to pick up the wireless connection that the town offers from the buildings? What is the local paper that everybody reads I imagine it is based out of San Juan. I am in the process of obtaining tv for my apartment. Do you have utilize Liberty cablevision of do you go with a dish.

Felix thanks for your response. I take it by your response that there stil is a possibility of the building being put up is there anyway I can find out more information regarding this. Currently I am considering buying a unit who's view would be impacted by this development thus the question.

To Michael M,
I can tell you that there is a new stretch of highway (Route 66) that you can take at the intersection of Routes 26 and 3 near Plaza Carolina. This is a big improvement that will shave off a lot of traffic lights all the way to Canovanas near the Beltz Factory outlet mall where you will get back on Route 3 east towards Fajardo. I favor this route during rush hours or when in a hurry to get to the airport, otherwise I still use the good old route 3 to avoid the $1.50 toll each way. As far as the building construction near PA3 the last I heard was that the project was too big for the lot and was not going to be too easy for the developers to pull it thru all the necessary permits, etc. I can tell you that PA2 has a new paint job, new fencing, and a fresh repaving of the parking area. Other than that I can tell you that PA3 is currently being painted and I do not know about the elevators in PA1.

Felix there was talk a year back of a new building being built on the strip of land near building 3 closer to the beach. Do you know if this building has been shelved or if it will be built in the future. In addition I understand there is a new road that makes travelling to and from San Juan easier have you used it yet? It has been 1 year since I have been there. Are there any new enhancements going on in the Playa Azul buildings I know building 1 is replacing the elevators anything new. Anyways thanks for this site I look at it all the time.

I use a wheelchair (severe arthritis has fused knees, awaiting knee replacement surgery in a year)and am interested in hearing what residents or other visitors have to say about Mar Sin Barreras, the wheelchair-friendly beach, as well as wheelchair-accessible hotels/condos and restaurants in the PA area. A friend and I are considering a visit a few months....anything at all that would be helpful is appreciated!

THanks,

Kerri
kssmith10@cox.net

Hi,
I will be staying in PA for Easter week, with my family, including my 22 month old daughter. Does anyone know of a place to rent cribs so that I don't have to bring my portable crib?
Thanks,
Lori

Thanks, Felix, for the advice. I made the trip the other day just to see how long it would take. I've been coming to PR for about one year now off and on. It is a great place with warm and fun-loving people.

Thanks,
DennyZ

To DennyZ,
You are lucky! A one year work assignment in SJ, Puerto Rico? That's more like a nice vacation. You should enjoy it. The commute from Luquillo to SJ depends on the same factors as the commute from Long Island, NY into Manhattan. There are lots of people making this commute every day to go to work in SJ. Plan on spending 40 minutes to about 1 1/2 hours and you will be fine. I am sure in one year you will be an expert in making this commute and will find the local driving idiosyncracies something to be remembered and useful.
GOOD LUCK!

Hi, I am taking a one-year work assignment in San Juan. Would like to live a little out of San Juan. Is Playa Azul too far to commute 2-4 days a week into the City? How bad is the commute? What would a 2-bedroom rental cost me? I have spent several months in San Juan, so I am accustom to PR, but have not stayed outside of the city. Any info you can provide would be appreciated.
DennyZ

I forgot to mention that posted a note on the bulletin board at the main entrance.
Also, Roberto the daytime Security guard was very friendly and helpful while I was there.

Hi,
I was in the Luquillo area last week and toured PA and am interested in buying a unit in building 1.
Please contact me at
popcornleodad@yahoo.com

Oops, I meant to say any elevator problems in this particular building.

We will be spending 2 weeks June 24-July 8 in Playa Azul #1 Apt. 1508. I have a few questions>What are the daily parking charges at PA? Any elevator in this particular building? Has anyone on this forum stayed in this apt and if so, what did you think of it? Is there good snorkeling on the beach behind PA? We will be arriving on a Festival Weekend (St. John Baptista, I believe). Will the traffic from the airport be horrendous due to this? I think I read somewhere and can not locate it, about a tour that takes you to Viques for an afternoon on the beach and then takes you out to swim in Mosquito Bay before returning you to Fahardo. Does anyone know anything about this? TIA.

Restaurants in Luquillo? And are the kiosks at the beach open daily? Best place to get beer, etc.?

My fiance and I stayed @ Playa Azul earlier this month and had a fantastic time. Our fourth-floor 2BR unit faced the ocean and was just high enough. Enjoyed the public beach to the west, the El Yunke (sp) rain forest, and a nice afternoon driving around the eastern end of the island. I'm definitely going back, and will probably stay for a while... I understand that Liberty Cable can provide a 256K connection, which I believe will support a broadband voice over IP system such as Vonage. If so, this would allow me to do my job there and the lady said they could provide that service without a contract. Compared to the cold and wet winters here in Ohio, I can't think of a better time to relocate to Luquillo, PR!!!!

/m131
Rafael,
Te invito a ti y a la gente de Luquillo a que nos envie cualquier dato, leyenda, y anecdotas de interes sobre Luquillo. Yo puedo dedicar una pagina en el website para publicar las contribuciones de nuestros lectores. Favor de enviarlas a: http://www.playaazulpr.com/contact3.htm

Conosco un lugar para comer riquisimo en el pueblo de Luquillo se llama el Rincon del Sabor tienen buenos precios

 Me encantaria que saliera algo del Condominio Sandy Hills
en Luquillo al igual que algunas leyendas de este pueblo para darle un toque misterioso ala visita de estranjeros

This message is from The Topic Administrator.

Some messages that contain telephone numbers for businesses in the Playa Azul vicinity that do not advertise on our website have been deleted. Those telephone numbers and businesses information will be allowed when they find it necessary to advertise on this website, otherwise, Sorry! but we can not offer FREE publicity.

hello, my friend and me (two ladies) are in jan-febr in puerto rico. we would like to ride horses and, if possibel, meet healers from this iland. has somebody good adresses for this and possiblities for to stay? my email: dina11111@hotmail.com

Will be staying in a condo at Luquillo Beach during Christmas week. Any recommendations on PADI dive masters and snorkelling in the area?

Edited by author 11-21-2005 09:25 AM
Jim you are the man. Thanks for the help. I will see you 3rd week of February.

Where can you do parasailing around Luquillo. I really do not want to head to San Juan to do this.

Edited by author 11-13-2005 01:10 AM
Rick,
You can take a ferry boat at the "Fajardo Embarcadero" Boat Dock to travel to Vieques and Culebra. You will have to drive into the town of Fajardo and follow signs. I don't think they go to St.Thomas. There is a link with information on our website http://www.playaazulpr.com/ferry.htm

Thank you for the information, it is very helpful..I have heard that there is a ferry that leaves Fajarda and sails to St. Thomas...Is this true?..If so where can I get info?...Thanks, Rick

There is a marina in Fajardo on the southern end of the town. The one I am thinking of is not Dos Marinas. I believe it is Marian del Ray or something like this. Regardless this is a big operation and has a number of sport activities like sailing, etc. They also have this huge parrot cage which is great for the kids.

My wife and I will be vactioning at PA #1 (Feb'06)for the 3rd straight year. We enjoy fishing. Can anyone recommend a party boat or charter boat in the area (including Fajarda).
Gracias, Rick

to jrvega: I am conservative and I love the gals at #10! To anyone coming to Luquillo, just ask around. There are a lot of local places to eat within a two mile radius of Playa Azul and the food is great. The whole fried snapper in Kiosk #2 is fantastic! Good info from jrvega about bldg 2. We had renovations to lobby in bldg 1 that was not greatly appreciated by some renters. Ask ahead.

important note to renters - building II is now under major repairs - the walls will be waterblasted, sealed and repainted, the balcony railings are being repaired/replaced, the parking ares is going to be repaved, etc, so there are a few things that may not be 100%, but only temporarily - it is a mayor repair, not just a "cover-up". make sure to contact the apt owner during the next 2 monts to make sure you are aware of what's going on so you are well-informed before arriving.

one last thing about the safety concerns, does anyone know what happened? i do, and i´ll tell you - someone from another town (metro area, specifically carolina) followed someone else to "el flamboyan" and they decided to "clean their own personal dirty laundry" while in luquillo; its that simple. yes, there is some crime like everywhere else, but it has decreased quite a bit since the new "local laws" were enacted and all places that sell alcohol now close at 12 weekdays and 2am weekends.
now to food - in the immediate area of the condos there are 3 known restaurants (one in front of the town's plaza, 1 on the street as you exit town and one in front of the local baseball park - names omitted on purpose), plus the kioskos (i like the food in kiosko 2 and 10; 2 is a restaurant and 10 is a regular kiosko with snacks, simple foods and drinks, owned by a local lady and her partner--note,10 is not for conservatives)

now that the safety issue has been addressed and then some. How about places to eat ??? I am looking to eat what the locals eat.

James how are you doing? Thank you once again for your help in April when my kids were sick. I am still thinking of buying a place in your building.

Mike Malchiodi

To all future tourists travelling to Playa Azul Condo's.
I have stayed in Playa Azul 1 several times in the past 5 or 6 years and always have had a great time. The Condo's are inexpensive Condo's, many with a million dollar view of the beach and the Rain Forest. Luquillo is a wonderful town. Don't expect to be dazzeled with expensive shops and disco's on every corner you can find all of that in San Juan, New York or LA etc. This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beach, perfect weather and experience the local culture.

Ok and here it is, LETS TALK SAFETY. I have never felt unsafe when leaving the gated area of the Condo's. The locals that I have encoutered have been friendly and helpful. Sure a few bad apples may be around (sorry folks this is not snugly wugly crime free USA). Be aware of your surroundings same as you are at home. Don't walk around flashing large amounts money (do that at the cosino, thats where they'll take it for sure). Just go enjoy and have fun.

P.S If you have plastic bags on your balcony, it's OK you can take them down, trust me the building will be just fine.

I have been going to PA since age 14 when my parents used to rent from friends in order to give me great summer vacation memories. In 1998 I decided to buy my own apt. in PA I and I have no regrets. My three children have been able to enjoy great times there and collect wonderful memories. We have spent from Summer vacations to Thanksgiving... to Christmas!! at the beach and have never had any incidents that make our stay unsafe. As in any other place, you must be careful when walking around, especially at night. I seriously plan moving to the apt. and selling my house in Guaynabo after the kids are all gone!!! ( a few more years ahead!)... that's how safe I feel there!!..

P.S. .....I am not into the real estate business and know of no rental availabilities. JPA

I have been an owner in Playa Azul condominiums since 1984, and a permanent resident since 1996. Any responsible travel guide will tell you of the basic steps needed for tourist safety. Luquillo is no different. I swim at night, walk at night and enjoy the beauty of this area without fear. The village is a wonderful place to stroll at night, and the local bars are, yes, loud and boistrous. As is any resort area do not flash jewely and money and respect the local customs. Come to Luquillo and have a good time. It is the best weather in the world, even when it is raining!

Dear dgaschen,

I feel compelled to respond to your follow-up post. Again you make it sound as if there is in fact a safety problem in the Condominio Playa Azul area. One, perhaps paranoid, local told you about an incident in the vicinity and you believe it and use this 'hear say' to justify that safety should be a concern of would-be travelers to the area. You did not witness any incidents. You are perhaps paranoid as well and refuse to accept the fact that when you travel to say, Miami Beach, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and many other destinations you must always take certain precautions.

Also you are the one that said "...the condos are just that ... condos." And I was quoting you. And you said it to support your personal contentions and claims that you were lead to believe that you were getting "CHAMPAGNE for the price of BEER". BTW how much did you pay for your accommodations in Playa Azul and did you find the condo thru this website?

I knew my posting might ruffle a few feathers, but I wanted would-be travelers to use some caution. When a local told me he wouldn't go outside the condo gates at night, I took that advice seriously and wanted to pass it along.

As my earlier e-mail indicated, I've had many memorable vacations in the Caribbean. I lived in Spain for three years and have a house in Baja California. I don't venture to any location with grand ideas of getting champagne services on a beer budget. As a previous post put it, "...the condos are just that ... condos." They are not a vacation destination.

The post also was right about taking up my concerns with the condo owner. I have personally, but didn't want to share the discussions in a public forum.

Dear dgaschen,

Your message makes it obvious that you weren't too pleased with the LUXURIOUS accommodations you were expecting as "some condo rental sites may have implied". You are quite correct about the condominium complex. "....the condos are just that ... condos". May I suggest, next time instead of condos where you get to rent a complete apartment for under $900.00 per week try renting a villa in one of the LUXURIOUS resorts at perhaps $1000.00 per night.

About the safety concerns you raise I assure you that the Playa Azul area is a much safer area to vacation than many metropolitan and beach areas around THE WORLD.

I have read all the descriptions of the condos offered for rent in this website playaazulpr.com and do not find any description about LUXURIOUS accommodations in Condominio Playa Azul. You seem to have a “stone to grind” about your stay at Playa Azul. Why don't you take it up with the owner of the condo that lead you to believe that you were getting a LUXURIOUS condo for under $900.00 per week? One can see from your writing that you are the type of person that will never find a memorable destination and you will be searching for one all your life. Good Luck in your search.

I will be saying at playa azul building I in about two months with my family. I am a little concerned about the safety post. Can you venture out at night to eat or a stroll or are you taking a chance? Please tell me about places to eat local food as well.

We just gor back from 11 days in Luquillo and stayed at the Playa Azul condos. Weather was great and the locals were very welcoming. Just a rew words of caution for traveling tourists. The condos were built in the 70s and it doesn't seem that they've done much to them since then. Yes, they are clean and the grounds are kept up, but things like no chairs around the pool, grocery store shopping carts in the lobby, and plastics bags tied to the condo railings to scare away the birds reveal that it is not the luxurious destination some condo rental sites may have implied. Safety also might be a concern. One local said there was a gang-related shooting across the street from the condos two weeks before we arrived and advised us not to venture out on the streets at night.

We've traveled to several islands in the Caribbean before (BVI, Dominican Republic, Antigua and Monsterratt)so this post isn't the ramblings of American tourists on their first excursion outside the comforts of home. Just be advised that the condos are just that ... condos. If you're looking for a memorable destination our opinion is to keep searching.

We will be taking a cruise out of San Juan and plan on staying after in San Juan for a few days before returning home. We would like to take a Carabeli Horseback Riding Tour but want a longer tour then the one offered by our cruiseline (1 hour). Where can I get more information on prices, availability and reservations?

George,
It has been my experience that horse back riding on the beach has, in the past few years, been limited to cruise line only activities. However, with the "Codigos de Orden Publico" (municipal code of public order) riding of horses on the beach is now prohibited in a lot of the Puerto Rico municipalities. Your best bet is to check with your cruise line Activities Director for the most current information.
The riding of horses, on the beach in Luquillo, is now prohibited, however, the trail rides that are scheduled for over an hour are beautiful...take a camera and enjoy!

George, I really can´t tell you if you could find that activity in San Juan (if it exists, it would be in the Piñones area, it would be in the Isla Verde area, very near the airport). I recommend you contact the Puerto Rico Tourism Department and ask them. (sorry, I don´t have a link for them, but you could try by doing a search under Puerto Rico Government and you should come up with the official govm't site which gives you links to all the main departments and agencies). Good luck.

Edited by author 06-05-2005 01:10 PM
Can anyone tell me if the Horse back riding is done on the beaches close to San Jaun. I am planning a cruise on Oct 9th and will be in San Juan from 10Am until 10pm. The wife would like to go Horseback riding on the beach. I know there is Horse Back Riding available in Luquillo, however I do not know if it tours on the beach. I do not want to climb mountains. Did that already in St. Thomas

The population of stray dogs, depends. It had gone down due to the interest in "adoption" of several people in the mainland due to a kind soul who took all the steps in order to give them a safe home (they were groomed, vaccinated and sent to the states to their homes; the local vet vaccinated them at cost and AA paid for the trip, so what they had to pay was minimal). This family has not been able to come down due to family health problems, so the number of strays go up and down, but it appears not to be as huge a problem at is was several years back.

Thank you for the reply. I hope to get back there some day. I also remember a snack truck that used to park by the beach in front of Playa Azul all the time. I think his name was Joe. Yummy! And during Easter, the people would crank tunes out of there cars in tremendous celebration. My grandfather hated it; but I thought it was just a fun display of culture. We also brought home a stray dog to the states. He was a great dog. Do they still have a large population of stray dogs?

>From: QT - jrvega <qtopic+25-9Gt9kD3SGS8@quicktopic.com>
>Reply-To: QT topic 25-9Gt9kD3SGS8 <qtopic+25-9Gt9kD3SGS8@quicktopic.com>
>To: QT topic subscribers <qtopic+subs@quicktopic.com>
>Subject: Playa Azul Discussion Forum
>Date: 6 May 2005 13:22:40 -0000
>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

c miller - "la pared" is the physical name by which an area of the town of luquillo is known; its the are where the surfers "hang-out" and prepare themselves to go surfing. the festivals in that area are either government or privately sponsored and there is at least 1 every year co-sponsored by both during the month of april. to avoid many hastles with local customs, no more wet bikini contests are held, but still the competition goes on and the music plays in the late afternoon for enjoyment. luquillo still has 2 festivals that are traditional: the one in november in which local cooks sell their tasty treats and the running competition in march (maraton malelo). as to safety, like everywhere, it got a little out of hand, but with the help of the municipal police apparently things have gone back to the "good 'ol days" when walking at night was allowed.

Sending money upfront is safe when renting a condo, at Playa Azul. The building with the greatest view is building 3. Especially the higher uo apartments. The view of Luquillo is fantastic. I recommend Luquillo forever.

Edited by author 04-29-2005 04:16 PM
My family and I used to vacation at Playa Azul annually for spring break from the late seventies until spring 1988. I haven't been there since. I miss it terribly. I was there with an old girlfriend; we were about 15 or 16, and we felt very comfortable strolling through town at night. I hope Luquillo is still the same way. Some day I hope to get back there. PR is a treasure. Do they still have the festival by Sandy Hills like they used to? I think it was called La Pared. Bands and bikini contests. Very fun. I have great memories of my visits. Puerto Ricans are the best! My mother was born in Fajardo. She needs to get back... Ah, some day!

Message for belle. Hi I have rented before with a contract and without. Usually you send the money and they send you the keys and that is it. The owners want repeat business and word of mouth business so they are not out to take your money it would do them no good.

Response To Dave L.
Hi Dave I have been to Luquillo for the last 2 years in the winter and will be buying a place this year. There is an internet cafe in Fajardo. Bascialy you go east on 3 and you take a left onto the road with the quiznos on the corner. It is down about half a mile on the right. They have decent food and serve coffee. The computers are okay I believe DSL there are about 6 if them. You will notice that many have spyware on them. I was there 7 days ago.

Thank you Felix, yes, we are renting from an owner on this website & yes, we have received a contract. I feel much more relieved, thank you again.

To Mike and Belle,
I answered this same question earlier. Here is basically the same answer. I hope it servers to help other users that might have the same concerns as well.

Are you renting from one of the owners that list their units in this website? If you are I can assure you that we (www.playaazulpr.com) have received no complaints about any of the owners listing their units in this website. If you are renting thru someone else like a realty office or thru a third party, then I couln't help you. The forms of payment accepted by owners varies and some do not accept CCs. Has the owner provided you with a rental contract? if so, then the requirements for payment should be part of the contract. I can tell you that most owners require full payment in advance and this is done because they are committing the only apartment they have to you for that period of time and they would have to remove the aparment from the market to rent it to you. You see it's different when you rent from a resort or a big hotel or a realty office with lots of rooms to play with. In the case of owners renting their units often times they only have the one unit to rent out and they want to make sure that the renter is serious about renting. If you are the type that feels safe renting from big hotels and you have not beeen able to feel secure with one condo owner then I'd suggest you let your conscience guide you. I would stay clear of REALTORS that have lots of units to rent out. We have received complaints about renters going thru some REALTORS and end up stock with lousy and dirty apartments.

I have the same concern as Mike, I, too will be renting in Playa azul building 1, has anyone ever had a problem with the owners?

Hello,
I'm renting a condo in playa azul, they want the balance of the money upfront, I feel a little afraid is this safe? I don't want to arrive in PR and have no where to stay.

/m84
To Dave L,
I am not aware of any internet Cafe in the Luquillo area. However, a short drive away at the Fajardo Walmart on Hwy 3 you will find a DMAX kiosk where you will be able to connect with your wireless laptop FREE. You will have to get as close as possible to where the kiosk is located inside the main entrance of Walmart and your laptop should be able to detect the signal. No need for a passcode to connect. I would suggest you go into the McDonalds inside Walmart get a coffee and a snack and sit as close to the entrance as possible so you can get a good signal from the DMAX kiosk. Here is the link for more information on DMAX locations http://www.telefonicapr.com/prtc/portal/ch...153_2638961,00.html
Hope this helps. BTW, I tried it and it works really good.

Does anybody know if there are any places around Playa Azul where I can use a wireless internet connection, like an internet cafe?

IS ANYONE MONITORING THIS WEBSITE?
There was no ONE single reply to our e-mails!

 A PH condo for sale has been advertised for a while.
I sent a couple of messages, but received no reply. If it is still available, I would appreciate receiving a response. If not, perhaps it should be removed from the website to avoid confusion.

Thanks, Felix

Hello,
I'm interested in staying in one of the Playa Azul condos but, am having a heck of a time trying to reach someone, how else can I get in touch with them?

Mike

Edited by author 02-18-2005 06:26 PM
To lucaya2000 Re: /m77
In my opinion you should have no problem with the language. You are going there for a month, a relatively short period of time, compared to some folks from the States that live in the island year around and dont speak and refuse to learn to speak Spanish and nevertheless get by very well. You see the people of Puerto Rico are known for their hospitality and many speak more than one language and will go out of their way to make your stay there as pleasurable as they can. I would not worry about not being able to speak Spanish. Your second question: Yes there is a Laundromat outside the Playa Azul complex and many of the condos have washer and dryers as well. And, thirdly, its very easy to get to the Playa Azul area from the airport. There is a Taxi stand outside the airport where you can check with the dispatcher as to the fare, this however, would be the most expensive way to get from the airport to Playa Azul, Luquillo. There are also all the major Car Rental companies and local companies at the airport baggage pick up area where you can shop around for the best rates. I can tell you that when I travel solo the trip costs me $3.25 from the airport by mass transit bus and then to Luquillo by "carro publico" public car. In your case I would suggest you keep checking this website to see if any car service advertise their services of private pick-up to and from the airport.

Hi.We are considering visiting Luquillo next winter for a month. Just a few basic question..Can we get by without speaking Spanish?Are there washers and dryers available at Playa Azul? Transportation options from Airport..Cost etc.Thanks in advance.Fred

Thanks Felix!

Does anyone have an update on the Electronic Library? Is it available yet? If so, what hours is it open? Is it open to anybody? Thanks!

Shannon,
Are you renting from one of the owners that list their units in this website? If you are I can assure you that we (www.playaazulpr.com) have received no complaints about any of the owners listing their units in this website. If you are renting thru someone else, then I couln't help you. The forms of payment accepted by owners varies and some do not accept CCs. Has the owner provided you with a rental contract? if so, then the requirements for payment should be part of the contract. I can tell you that most owners require full payment in advance and this is done because they are committing the apartment to you for that period of time and they would have to remove the aparment from the market to rent it to you. You see is different when you rent from a resort or a big hotel with lots of rooms to play with. In the case of owners renting their units often times they only have the one unit to rent out and they want to make sure that the renter is serious about renting. If you are the type that feels safe renting from big hotels and you have not beeen able to feel secure with one condo owner then I'd suggest you let your conscience guide you. I would stay clear of REALTORS that have lots of units to rent out. We have received complaints about renters going thru some REALTORS and end up stock with lousy and dirty apartments.

Hi all! I, like a few others it seems, am trying to figure out how to verify an owner of a Playa Azul condo. This woman does not accept credit or debit cards, only checks or money orders. The full amt being due 30 days prior to arrival. We've been emailing back & forth for quite some time now & I want to be trustworthy & send a check, but in this day in age . . . Anyway I'm a little hesitant. Is this the way it's normally done or do most people go thru a rental ofc & hold a reservation on a credit card. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

The Ocean Village Project is a proposed condominium project to be built on land requiring a zoning change:

Granting permission for a variation to build outside the governing regulations requires a public hearing:

On July 2, 2004 the Junta de Planificación of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico certified under Resolution A-46-Z, January 13, 1994, that this property [Barrio Mata de Plátano, Parcel Num. 14 in the area of Playa Costa Azul in the Municipality of Luquillo, CRIM # 092-076-008-14-000, Account # 00101270174 owned by R.J. Development SE] is zoned as a District of Conservation Resources (CR-1). On December 30 1994 the Zoning Map of Luquillo adopted [CR-1] in resolution Z-46-A-1.
1. The documents provided for DIA-PRELIMINAR Case Number 00EA2-00000-05988 in 2000 gave reference to the property zoning being changed to RT-1, in September 1999. According to the above mentioned certification this statement was and is false.
2. There are no documents provided supporting any public hearing regarding any zoning change for this property at any time from December 30, 1994 through the date of July 2, 2004 to change the zoning from CR-1 to RT-1

Therefore, it is the position of ACUCPAPAL that any zoning variation without a hearing is illegal and since the property is still zoned CR-1, the Department of Conservation Resources land usage must be upheld for the purposes zoned, regardless of ownership.

Hope this answers you questions.

what is the ocean village project

Translated and shared as requested by Mary Varela:

Vista Pública del Proyecto Ocean Village está pospuesta hasta nuevo aviso

La vista pública fechada para llevarse a cabo el miércoles, 19 de enero de 2005 ha sido pospuesta. La razón para esto es que la Junta de Calidad Ambiental (JCA) no anunció la vista en el periódico con 30 días de anticipación como requiere la ley y sus reglamentos. La JCA quedó en informar cuándo fije la nueva fecha para celebrar la vista pública. Le exhortamos a todos que estén pendientes y verifiquen con frecuencia los periódicos para cualquier novedad.

Hasta la próxima,

Mary Varela



Public Hearing On The Project Ocean Village Is Postponed Until Further Notice

 

The public hearing scheduled to be held on Wednesday, January 19, 2005 has been postponed. The reason for the delay is the Environmental Quality Board (JCA) did not announce the public hearing in the newspaper 30 days in advance as required by the law and regulations. The JCA is remanded to report as required when the new date is set to celebrate the public hearing. We ask everyone to be alert for the posting and verify frequently in the newspapers for any news [regarding the rescheduling of the public hearing].

 

 So long, until next time,

 Mary Varela

Low water pressure is due to the high water consuption during the holidays and on week-ends, in particular during the summer week-ends. This is a problem that plagues this part of the island. The infrastructure is not adequate to provide the necessary water pressure to the entire community. Most of the homes and apartments units that do not have cisterns and/or an additional pressure pump to move the water, will experience this problem. The Condominiums of Playa Azul are fortunate in having very large capacity cisterns with pressure pumps that move the water up 22 stories.

Thalia,
The next thing you can check is the piping inside your unit. Is it 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch or larger? Also and very important is to check the feed line from the street that connects into your water meter and the supply line from the water meter into your unit. If these are 3/4" or larger you should not be experiencing these problems. There has to be something else wrong for a two story toilet to not have adequate pressure. For a two story structure a 1/2" inside pipe should be more than plenty. And lastly, if you can get to see the MAIN FEED LINE from the street into the Solimar complex (this could be difficult). You and your neighbors should contact the AAA and the Solimar management office with your concerns and START ASKING QUESTIONS. You should not be having this problems in a pretty new development unless the contractors, subcontractors cut corners to save on building costs.
Hope this helps and I got to go now...

thank you for responding Felix,

We spoke to neighbors, who experienced similar problems in their two story units. We have had our toilet checked and the valves are flushing properly. How does one check for faulty or inadequte main supply to the Solimar development.
Solimar used to have great water pressure.

Dear Thalia,
Low water pressure could be caused by a number of things.
1. High comsuption during the holidays you mentioned could be a reason but I do not think so.
2. Faulty or inadequate main supply to the Solimar development.
3. Faulty or inadequate main and piping supply to your unit.
4. If the Solimar development is equippped with an emergency cistern? Is the pump and the cistern being maintained properly?
5. Are the toilet in question filling and flushing valves working properly?

I suggest you start eliminating the most obvious causes like checking the toilet in question. You should ask neighbors to see if they have experienced the same problem. If I am correct the townhouses in Solimar are about 3 stories high. I can tell you that in my condo which is 22 stories high I have not experience such a problem during heavy usage holidays like Holy Week, 25th of July and Christmas.

Low water pressure - why is there such low water pressure especially during the holiday? We have a townhouse at Solimar and can never flush our upstairs toilet. This happened during 4th of July weekend and the Christmas holidays.

Also, has the noise problem been resolved???
Who can I contact about condo listings in Playa Azul, BESIDES a real estate agent???
Any inout would be greatly appreciated!!!!
THANKS

Hi, I was wondering if anyone knows of any condos for sale at Playa Azul??? If so please contact me
andrea@cove.com
THANKS!!!!

Saludos a todos:

Como parte de la labor que ha estado realizando la Asociación ACUCPAPAL en conjunto con el Municipio de Luquillo, el Alcalde anunció el establecimiento de una biblioteca electrónica que contará con los servicios de acceso a Internet y de recursos educativos. Se informó que ya se adquirieron las computadoras y también se finalizó la instalación de alambrado eléctrico. La Biblioteca Electrónica estará ubicada en el Centro de Bellas Artes de Luquillo.

Este proyecto es gracias a unos fondos federales que gestionó el municipio gracias a la excelente colaboración y trabajo voluntario de nuestra querida miembro de ACUCPAPAL: Joyce Moya.

Para más información al respecto: Periódico Primera Hora. Miércoles, 15 de diciembre de 2004.

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Greetings to all:

Part of the work that has been carried out by the Association ACUCPAPAL, as a joint effort wi