This was our first trip to Mexico and we wanted to avoid congested, glassed in and impersonal high-rise resorts. Yet we also wanted comfort. Playa Viva fit the bill and provided one of the most unique, rejuvenating, and personalized trips our family has taken. The accommodations are simply magical. There isn't a single pane of glass, key, or door, which engenders instant ease and interaction with the fresh breezes, pounding surf, and birdsong. Our room was the perfect size for my husband and 9 year-old-daughter, and its open air shower, panoramic view of the beach and "eco-luxe" amenities (including a shared, shaded porch for morning reads and sunset views) made it feel as though we spent 5 days in a fancy treehouse. The beach is private and endless in both directions, the number of guests is small (no more than about 15), and the staff creates a communal feeling. This meant that my daughter freely meandered about on her own, reading, helping herself to hibiscus agua fresca and tea, and waiting for the turtle handlers to bring a box of hatchlings for releasing into the ocean! (So much better than paying for a resort "kids club" with crayons and hokey nature walks.) I cannot say enough good things about the staff and the chefs/cooks. I miss Johnny's fresh pina coladas and margaritas at sunset, as well as organized yet relaxed approach to organizing outings (we went kayaking on a mangrove nearby). The meals were healthy, fresh, and spectacular (Arman grilled lobster on Christmas!). I asked if I could watch Olga make salsas, and she invited me into the open kitchen. Julia, the General Manager, could not have been more welcoming or accommodating. And I really liked that she joined us at the table on occasion. It all feels humane and kind (a wonderful alternative to the faceless staff that often work at beach resorts). Most days we body surfed, took walks on the pristine beach, looked at bioluminescent algae on the beach at night, and enjoyed communal meals with others. The mosquitoes got fierce at times, but as my daughter (who was bitten quite mercilessly) said, "We were enjoying everything too much to let it get in our way." She actually teared up at the airport on the way home! This place is special without question and draws guests who understand that resorts don't have to diminish the environment -- rather, when they are well designed, they can bring us closer to it. Thank you to David Leventhal and the entire staff of Playa Viva! Regresamos!