Surprisingly great:
• Our primary consideration was location, location, location.
o The view out of the family room, kitchen, deck, and tiki hut all face south toward the Atlantic Ocean. This means that sunrise and sunset both occur in our view, giving us beautiful ocean views and stunning cloud colors.
o In Marathon, we are close to several attractions, 2 grocery stores, 2 pharmacies, a hospital, and Home Depot.
• The outside cabana area would be our second-best surprise
o The landscaping was top-notch, and probably replaced after hurricane Irma devastated the area (it looks a little on the young side)
o The outdoor kitchen includes a very high-end BBQ grill we used virtually every day. Highlights include high heat and very well controlled flames. A full tank of propane was provided for our stay, and there was a surplus tank available that was empty that could be taken somewhere to refill.
o Marine quality switches in the cabana turn on LED strand lighting, an overhead fan, and pool lighting. Likewise, the overhead lighting over the BBQ are on marine quality switches.
• The Internet has been surprisingly fast and reliable. More than fast enough for all the streaming that we did (which was a lot)
• Updated kitchen and updated master bath are well done, and the tile and hardwood floors throughout are on point from a style and function perspective. The shower easily accommodates two ;-) and the inlaid pebble flooring in the shower is naturally slip-proof (we are very big on safety, and we appreciate amenities that help with that!)
• There are many decorations that add to the seaside themes
• Plenty of space for two people,, could easily accommodate 4. Many seating surfaces are available both inside and out
• The TV is large, high quality, and pivots on an arm to angle the tv toward any part of the main living area
• The stove was excellent with quick preheat and good temperature control
• The tap water tasted great (unlike many Florida locations that have a sulfur taste and smell)
• The knives are wonderfully sharp, and sharpeners are provided (yes, I’m a steel snob!)
• The washer and dryer were high quality and took care of our laundry without any drama
• The home was immaculately cleaned before we arrived
• The management company and/or owner do their best to maintain the property. While we were here, an exterminator and pool maintenance guys stopped by for their routine upkeep activities.