From the moment we set foot in Flamingo's newest master planned community, Mar Vista Estates, we knew that we had entered a land which was indeed “A World Apart” and a “Paradise Found”as the project's literature touts. Mar Vista is a gated, master-planned 750 Acre environmentally friendly project which combines a harmonious blend of the most splendorous works of nature with a beautifully crafted master plan for a secure and luxury lifestyle on the gold coast of Costa Rica .

The developers have set aside much of the land as a nature reserve.” There are numerous seasonal rivers and waterfalls. “When we first toured this magnificent property, we felt as though we had entered “the valley that time forgot.” Although only a short five minute drive to the beaches of Brasilito and Flamingo, the property does indeed have the look and feel of a land which is a true Costa Rican Paradise.

The developers are committed to achieving a truly ecologically harmonious blend of the works of mankind with the wondrous works of Costa Rican nature. There are strict environmental standards which have been adhered to in order to blend the community sustainably into the rich local ecosystem. The developers have initiated a reforestation program to restore endangered species of trees native to the region such as Ron Ron, Coco Bolo Caboa, and Tempisque.

The property has a fabulous nature reserve which is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna. There are two varieties of monkeys, pizotes, deer, armadillos and numerous species of birds. The valley is a beautiful example of a dry tropical forest ecosystem which has been vigourously protected by the developers. There are hiking and biking trails which wind throughout the nature reserve for your enjoyment.

The large estate size home sites are “one acre plus”, and are tastefully placed in a low density manner along the ridge tops. Most lots have unimaginably breathtaking sunset and ocean views. Many have incredible mountain and waterfall views as well.

Surrounded by mountains on three sides; the lots are artfully sculpted into the topography and sport incredible panoramic Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island and Conchal Bay and Flamingo Marina views. You feel as though you have risen above the turbulent problems of our world and entered a world of peace and harmony straight out of the stuff dreams are made from.

The design themes of the homes will be neo-Mediterranean or Colonial with the colors of the exterior finishes limited to soft earth tones in order to blend in with the colors of the natural environment.

There are jogging and bike riding paths built into the valley along side of each river. There are two natural artesian pools which are spring fed. Each are at the base of beautiful waterfalls.

The first clubhouse, picnic and barbeque area will be completed in 2009. Also planned for April 2009 we will be initiating the construction of our first estate home. A gorgeous Neo Mediterranean 11,000 square foot home designed by renowned Costa Rican Arquitect Franz Beers. Look for it in the July 2010 issue of Architectural Digest. Additionally planned for 2009 will be two tennis courts, a putting green and a pitching green complete with sand-trap.

Additional amenities planned for 2010 will include a full-service Spa and Health Club complete with Gym, Pilates, Yoga, Jacuzzi, Steam Room, Sauna, Free-form infinity Pool with incredible Ocean and Bay views and a waterfall. There will also be a Bar and Fine Dinning Restaurant as well as an Internet Café.

The neighborhood is fast becoming the “Costa Rican Riviera” as several Five-Star Resorts complete with Golf Course and world-class recreational amenities are looking to establish themselves in the neighborhood. Flamingo will be home to the largest full-service marina in Central America . The newly released master plan for the Flamingo Marina includes a beautiful promenade for pedestrians along the beachfront as well as a full array of boutiques, shops and restaurants around the marina proper.

The lots we visited were surprisingly large and affordable. Its no wonder why their Phase I lots have already been sold out! The mountain-view lots start at $199,000 range and the ocean view lots starting from $229,000. The developers will even offer their own in-house financing plan which is a rarity in today's marketplace.