Our Room:
Our room was spacious and clean, with a bright hammock hanging just outside the door and a table and chairs nearby. We had a view of the lake from the balcony. We had room number 16, which we liked, but the two best-looking rooms at Casa Elena seemed to be numbers 14 and 17. These two rooms were somewhat separated from the rest in that they were half a floor up or down from a row of rooms. They were on the lake side and therefore had better lake views, and the rooms had two windows each instead of one. Because they were half a floor different, they each had their own balcony area (versus the shared balconies of the other rooms), with hammocks, tables, and chairs.
Private or Shared Bath?
Both are available, but we paid the extra for a private bath. Our shower was nice and hot, with good water pressure.
The Atmosphere:
Señor Juan was a very friendly man. I don’t know if he was the owner or the manager, but he was a pleasure to work with. The whole place is painted a cheerful peach, and there are bright pink flowers growing all around. There is a dock on the lake for use by guests only. It is perfect for catching some sun, reading, or taking a swim.
Food and Other Amenities:
Casa Elena does not have a restaurant or laundry facilities, but there are plenty of restaurants nearby, and you can drop off your laundry just across the street at a convenience store for pickup next day.
Location:
To reach Casa Elena, come up from the boat dock, and turn left at D’Noz. It is about a quarter-mile down on the left (look for the huge peach building!).
Security:
Señor Juan kept a watchful eye from his entry-side room (glass window). The place is locked up at night. A second- or third-story room would, of course, be more secure than the ground-level rooms. I felt quite safe here, and this would be a good place for single women travelers as well.
Price:
Our room was 60 quetzeles (US$7.50) per night, but there are cheaper rooms with shared baths. The rooms I mentioned above cost more, presumably for the view and extra privacy. Room 14 costs 70 quetzales per night, and room 17 costs 80 quetzales per night.