The owners and staff of Playa Viva (whose name means “Living Beach”) promise guests “guilt-free luxury” at this beachfront eco-resort where the dividing line between the indoors and the outdoors is hard to distinguish. Common areas such as a kitchen, dining room, and yoga deck are built on platforms under thatched roofs and have open walls or, in some cases, no walls at all. Like the common spaces, the bungalow-style casitas allow guests to be one with their surroundings, with retractable walls dissolving boundaries between the indoors and outdoors. Almost all of the building supplies were sourced locally, as were design elements such as bathroom fixtures and towels and sheets. Solar energy provides both lights and hot water on the property. Eco-consciousness doesn’t signify deprivation, though; the casitas are comfortable, with relaxing hammocks in addition to beds draped with gauzy mosquito netting. Room rates include meals and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as transfers to and from the airport.
