Casa Viva Guest Book

Soiree in the Sand

2012-01-07T11:16:00.000-08:00

Casa Viva leads LA Times story on beach-side weddings. Here is an excerpt from the story by Jennifer Evans Garner.

Crashing waves, ocean spray and a seemingly endless sun-draped horizon … the setting of an oceanside wedding ignites imagination and romance. Be it barefoot in the powder-fine white sands of a tropical island or a few miles from home in SoCal atop a cliff’s edge overlooking the Pacific, taking your vows by the sea is a surefire way to inspire an unforgettable evening under the stars among friends and family.

Jenny McGrath, 33, and Greg Merino, 33, of San Diego love to surf. So when they got married last February, there was no question that it would be on the ocean. “We’re like fish,” she said, describing how they came to choose the charming eco-luxe Casa Viva in Troncones, Mexico, just a few hours south of Los Angeles by plane. “A close friend had been to Zihuatanejo,” said McGrath, “and came back telling us of this little fishing-village-turned-surf-town that made her think of us.” McGrath and Merino flew down and fell in love with the spot immediately. Their beach nuptials among 50 of their closest friends and family included a mariachi band, fireworks and tequila toasts with their toes touching the emerald waters of the warm Pacific.

According to Casa Viva owner David Leventhal, “many couples seeking beach weddings are coming to Mexico.” He added that Zihuatanejo has sunshine about 300 days a year. He suggested that couples getting married by the sea take advantage of the location with activities like surfing, snorkeling and fishing, not to mention local shopping excursions.

Click here to read the entire article.

2011-06-05T23:07:00.000-07:00

"Saludos, no había tenido oportunidad de escribir, pero nuestra estancia con ustedes fue una muy grata experiencia y la disfrutamos muy bién. Un lugar excelente y un servicio superior, super recomendado par un descnaso pleno. Gracias y estamos en contacto para la próxima visita a tu lugar. Un placer."

Carlos

Queretaro, Mexico

Mayo, 2011

An Extraordinary Vacation - Casa Viva

2011-03-23T10:20:00.000-07:00

I just want to thank you for an extraordinary vacation, your place is the best we have ever been and Elvira’s cooking was phenomenal. Everything went out perfect, the casitas are incredible nice and comfortable. The pool area has a great view to the ocean and everything seems to be just in right place, congratulations.

Kids had a great time, they enjoyed every minute from sun rise to moon light walks at night, the full moon couldn’t be more spectacular.

We would like to return with other friends, we’ll check agendas and let you know.

Regards

Rincón Family

Queretaro, Mexico

March 2011

Totally Different and Wonderful

2010-11-22T21:05:00.000-08:00

How was our trip? It was wonderful.

You have really created quite a paradise there at Casa Viva.

Elvira, Lido and Benito was wonderful and the place is perfect.

We love Zihuatanejo....and Playa de las gatas....

The boys snorkled....it was lovely.

It was a great week and totally different then past vacations. We will definitely

spread the word!

Jenn and family

San Mateo, CA

November 2010

Nos Sintamos Libres, Sin Presion

2010-09-24T11:16:00.000-07:00

Muchas gracias por recibirnos en su hotel en Casa Viva, nos gustó mucho la arquitectura, la madera que usaron en la construcción, el concepto al aire libre de las habitaciones, el área de alberca, etc., lo disfrutamos mucho.

Felicidades por Elivira y Benito, nos dieron muy buen servicio, son personas muy sencillas que permiten que nos sintamos libres, sin la presión de ser observados.

Me gustaría me dieras los datos de la persona que construyó Casa Viva, queremos construir algo similar en la montaña. También estuve viendo la página de Playa Viva y me gustó el lavamanos de concha de mar, si tienes los datos de donde lo compraron también me sirve.

Marissa

México

September 2010

Everything Without Compromise

2010-09-20T11:12:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a place to relax and get out of the "all inclusive hotels", this is the place to be!

One of the most unique things about Casa Viva is that the construction is very well integrated with the environment, the design of the house flows naturally and it blends with the nature around; you feel part of the surrounding nature. I really liked this is an authentic project that cares about environment by using organic products; All the raw materials were found in the area and that were re utilized to make them part of the construction. All the care and philosophy used to build Casa Viva gives a very unique and different experience anyone could get from a big mass hotel; there's even an edible garden! It is great to see how this is an original proposal that steps out of the box and brings an organic and original experience into your holidays.

The staff is amazing, Benito is very friendly and will make everything possible to make your stay pleasant, and Elvira is great in the kitchen, she will cook real Mexican food with a great , if you feel like having a special dinner both will do their best to make it happen. We asked Benito to get some lobster for us and he did a great job bringing the catch of the day to us!

I really recommend it if you want to go for a romantic getaway or a gathering with friends and family, im sure in anyway it will bring everyone closer. The house is equipped with everything you need without compromising your enjoyment of nature and relaxation. I will definitely go back!

Adriana Ortega

Shanghai, China

September 2010

Casa Viva is the Best

2010-08-25T23:03:00.000-07:00

Our visit to Casa Viva was absolutely wonderful.

I truely wish we could visit more often. We found the accommodations very comfortable, I love the Common Area with the way the pool surrounds the living area; yet I have a private area to retreat to when needed.

We quickly forget about our stressful work schedules and hectic life in Houston. My son was a little older this trip and brought his girlfriend; both enjoyed the every moment we were there. The kids and my husband surfed everyday which was rewarding for all. I love to see them active and enjoy what they love to do.

All in all David, Casa Viva is the best. We will come back if you will have us. We love the grounds, beach, Troncones and the surf.

Julie M and family

Houston, TX

Aug 2010

Absolute Heaven..home away from home

2010-06-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

Granted, we had the entire place to ourselves--so that really made it special but other guests or not...it is one of the most special places I've ever been! Totally remote!! There are only three bungalows and definitely the round and square casitas are the place to be. Ocean front, always breezy and you fall asleep the sound of the waves.

My boyfriend is a music producer/director and I am a film producer, we were looking for a quiet place to write music and write treatments and we fell into heaven!

The place is beautiful designed, totally aligned with nature using mostly, if not all, reclaimed wood and natural material. You share the grounds with lots of beautiful creatures...lizards, geckos, birds and yesterday, maybe it was the full moon..but there was a family of pigs (with their little piglet) that took a stroll around the area and then two wild horses were frolicking on the beach. Gorgeous!
There is always a breeze...the weather is great. And it's MAY! We were worried it would be too hot since there are no air conditioners. But it's perfect.

Open spaces, even the bedrooms...very much like being in Thailand! You can have the wonderful staff cook food for you or you can go to the supermarket about 30 minutes away and bring your own food and cook it. The natural pool is one with the common area so it's great, you can swim and still chat with your friends in the common area. My favorites are the hammock swings and the beautiful natural wood swing around the pool.

Upon arriving here you are not sure quite what to expect going thru the town of Troncones. It's a bit abandoned looking and could seem a bit dodgy if you haven't traveled much. It's really out there! But it's totally fine and quite sweet, actually. We bicycled in the other day to the little market and bought some fruit and staples to tide us over between big shopping trips. Everyone was lovely!
Bring books and even bring your computer. They have great WiFi and a good speaker system in the common area.

Come and truly relax. The only thing to do is eat, sleep, swim and explore...and ENJOY

David the owner and everyone here is just terrific. Thank you for a wonderful experience! We will definitely be back! And can't wait to visit your eco-community at Playa Viva!

Ginny and Duncan

LA and London

May 2010

The Property is Amazing

2010-03-01T10:57:00.000-08:00

Excellent. The property is amazing… really the pictures don’t do it justice. The Jacuzzi was out but other than that and very slow hot water system all the mechanical stuff worked great. Had a three dinners cooked by Elvira and all the breakfasts were excellent. Loved the location. Will definitely recommend to friends.

Mike

San Miguel de Allende

Feb 2010

Better Than the Pictures Show

2010-03-01T10:50:00.000-08:00

We had a great week and I want to come back next winter. You have a great spot and a well planned out place. It's better than the pictures on the web show (that's a change of pace!) The friend with us chose to stay on the sleeping porch rather than the casita in the back, and I admit I would do the same. But he was happy as a clam up there. The other two couldn't be nicer.

Thanks for being there. I can't wait to come back. No more PV for me!

Daniel Cameron

San Miguel de Allende

Feb 2010

TripAdvisor Reads Traveler Tea Leaves to Reveal 2010 Trends

2010-01-12T21:46:00.000-08:00

U.S. Travelers Expect to Take More Leisure Trips in the Coming Year

Troncones, Mexico is 2010's Top Up-and-Coming Travel Destination

PRNewswire
NEWTON, Mass.
(NASDAQ-NMS:EXPE)

NEWTON, Mass., Dec. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- TripAdvisor®, the world's most trusted source of travel advice, today announced the results of its annual travel trends survey of more than 3,000 U.S. travelers. Americans are not taking the H1N1 warnings lightly, as 88 percent of respondents said they are concerned about germs, bacteria and viruses when traveling, compared to 83 percent last year. Seventy-seven percent of travelers said they are washing their hands more often on the road than they normally do, an increase of 17 percent from one year ago.

Despite the concerns over germs, Americans expect to travel more in 2010 than in 2009. Forty-one percent of U.S. respondents said they plan to spend more on leisure travel in 2010 than they did in 2009 and 92 percent of travelers are planning to take two or more leisure trips in 2010, up from 89 percent last year. Sixty-six percent said the economy will not affect their travel plans for the coming year.

Troncones, Mexico is TravelCast's Emerging Hotspot for 2010

The TripAdvisor TravelCast identifies up-and-coming travel destinations based on site data, including increases in search activity and postings for the past year on TripAdvisor.com.

TripAdvisor TravelCast Top Five World Destinations for 2010

1. Troncones, Mexico

Boasting miles of white sand beaches, Troncones is a peaceful and secluded haven nestled between the jungle foothills of the Sierra Madre del Sur Mountains and the warm tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean.

2. Nairn, Scotland

Located on the Moray Forth coast, this small seaside town enjoys one of the sunniest climates in Scotland, and is a perfect base from which to explore the Highlands.

3. El Chalten, Patagonia

Your cell phone won't work here and the town's limited capacity means you've got to book in advance -- but you'll be richly rewarded with incredible hiking in Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

4. Patara, Turkey

With a 12-mile long beach (also a national park) and an abundance of Lycian and Roman ruins peeking out of the sand dunes, Patara is steeped in both natural beauty and history.

5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

This picturesque Bavarian town is celebrated not only for its well-preserved medieval buildings and walls, but also for its unspoiled setting.

TripAdvisor TravelCast Top Five U.S. Destinations for 2010

1. Seward, Alaska

Situated at the head of Resurrection Bay on the Kenai Peninsula, this historic and picturesque town is the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, rich with wildlife, spectacular fjords and tidewater glaciers.

2. Hyannis, Massachusetts

John F. Kennedy's former Presidential retreat can be found in Hyannis, the largest and most central village in Cape Cod's Town of Barnstable, and its picturesque sandy stretches make it a fantastic retreat.

3. Hot Springs, Arkansas

True to its name, nature's geological wonders are a key feature of this picture-perfect town, which boasts natural hot and cold mineral springs in which to relax, restore and renew.

4. Chinle, Arizona

Drive around nearby Canyon de Chelly's rim roads for a bird's eye view of the spectacular scenery below, or take a tour of the canyon floor for a closer look at its breath-taking rock formations, cave art and cliff dwellings.

5. Waimea, Hawaii

Situated on the Southwest side of the beautiful island of Kauai, this unassuming beach-side town is the gateway to Waimea Canyon, the largest canyon in the Pacific, which oozes natural beauty.

Additional 2010 Travel Trends Survey Findings

Just Plane Sick

Eighty-nine percent of travelers would react if they noticed their flight seatmate was displaying visible flu-like symptoms. While 55 percent would request to be moved to a different seat, 27 percent would notify a flight attendant, four percent would put on a face mask or scarf and an additional three percent would request that their fellow passenger cover up with a mask or scarf.

Airplanes are considered the top spot to beware of unwanted microbes (48 percent), followed by public transportation (19 percent) and hotels (six percent).

Mile-High Misdemeanors

Sixty-one percent of travelers confess they have disregarded airline rules on a flight. Unbuckling seatbelts before the light is off tops the list of flier felonies, with almost half of travelers (49 percent) admitting to unclipping prematurely. Further indiscretions include moving someone else's luggage to make room for their own (23 percent), standing up before the seatbelt light is turned off (16 percent), and six percent even admit to using a forbidden electronic device in-flight, such as a cell phone or pager.

Sketchy Seatmates

Sitting next to a traveler with noticeable body odor is most likely to get travelers switching seats on a flight, with 38 percent confessing that if their neighbor was whiffy, they'd be gone in a jiffy. Intoxicated travelers take second place on the list of nightmarish neighbors, with obese travelers rounding out the top three. The survey results also reveal that 69 percent of travelers believe that passengers over a certain weight should be required to pay for two seats.

Flying Faux Pas

Children may be small in stature, but when it comes to the top travel annoyances, they deliver a mean punch -- or rather, kick. Thirty-seven percent of travelers cite seat-kicking kids as their primary pet peeve, while fliers that sneeze and cough without covering their mouth and rude seat recliners claim second and third spots respectively. Forty-two percent of travelers also expressed frustration about not having space on flights for their carry-on bags. Forty-five percent think travelers without carry-on bags should be allowed to board flights first.

Quiet Sections Preferred

Forty-one percent of travelers said they'd be most likely to pay extra to sit in a "quiet section" of a plane, while 39 percent would love to be free of kids in a "child-free section." Wi-Fi may be a useful in-flight option, but some travelers would prefer to remain altogether disconnected, with 11 percent saying they'd choose a "Wi-Fi-free section."

In-flight Indulgences

Seventy-two percent of travelers expect to pay for in-flight extras when flying in 2010, with extra leg-room top of the wish list for more than one-third (35 percent) of respondents. Twenty-six percent are most likely to pay for snacks or an in-flight meal, and more travelers plan to shell out for in-flight alcohol (23 percent) than for seat selection (22 percent) or checked bags (20 percent).

Eco-nsiderations

Twenty-two percent of travelers expect to be more environmentally conscious in their travel decisions in 2010 than they were in 2009. Thirty-two percent consider their carbon footprint when traveling, and as a result, 44 percent of these travelers choose to stay at "green" or environmentally-conscious hotels, while 26 percent choose to drive rather than fly, and 20 percent travel shorter distances. A hotel having "green" policies also factors into 33 percent of travelers' booking decisions.

Ugly Americans and America the Beautiful

There's good and bad news for U.S. travelers, with Americans voted the friendliest travelers -- but also the most annoying. Twenty-five percent of U.S. respondents consider Americans to be the most irritating travelers, followed by travelers from France (nine percent), Japan (eight percent), China (seven percent) and Germany (six percent).

Nineteen percent said Americans are friendliest, followed by travelers from Australia (16 percent), Canada (nine percent), England (eight percent) and Ireland (four percent).

Pledge Allegiance to the Brand

Fifty-nine percent of travelers said they are brand loyal when it comes to booking hotels, with the survey revealing the top three brands to be Marriott (12 percent), Hilton (nine percent) and Hampton Inn (four percent).

"If it isn't already, hand sanitizer should be among the first things travelers think to pack these days," said Christine Petersen, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. "As far as destinations to consider for 2010, Mexico offers some real bargains -- and Troncones made the top of our emerging destinations TravelCast list."

Paradise Found!

2009-10-12T20:16:00.000-07:00

Paradise Found! We have returned from a wonderful week at Casa Viva. We had 6 1/2 days of total relaxation a a reminder that life is glorious. Thank you for the wonderful meals, breathtaking surroundings and a complete lack of stress. We've got to hang with you more often!

The Sakelaris and Edwards Families

Dallas, Texas

September 2009

P.S.--Please give Manchez the dog a big hug from all of us!

Que Hermoso Es Mi País...

2009-09-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

Dias largos que se hacen cortos por las charlas con amigos y los juegos en la alberca con los niños, caminatas en la playa, fotografiando mil instantes anhelando retenerlos en mi historia.

Vacaciones sin horarios, sobremesas infinitas alberca, jacuzi,estrellas en el cielo , conchas y caracoles de colores...

rocas de todas formas..... pequeños cangrejos grandes pelícanos , iguanas verde fosforecente y uno que otro aramadillo. ¿No es el sueño de cualquier niño ?

Pescado fresco, deliciosos sopes, cocos y fruta fresca y hasta una cena de langostas......

Tiempo para sentir, compartir e imaginar..........mar, familia, amigos......NATURALEZA....

Que hermoso es mi país, que increible es Casa VIVA

Hasta la próxima mi CASA VIVA.........pronto regresaremos.....

Malú Arizpe

verano 2009

Familia Peredo, Familia Bravo y Famila Nava

Mexico

Genuine Grace and Warmth - Casa Viva

2009-08-31T13:19:00.000-07:00

Casa Viva was one of our best holiday expe-riences ever. Everything from the location, the staff, the archi-tecture of the place, the food and the pool was perfect.

Casa Viva staff members Elvira, Benito, and Liboria attended our daily requests and general needs with genuine grace and warmth. Everything what Elvira cooks was just perfect (from huge Mexican breakfasts including homemade tortillas, huevos rancheros and fresh fruits to fabulous fresh fish and seafood dishes).

Casa Viva is beautifully kept up and very clean. The sourrounding garden of Casa Viva is overwhelming and full of tropical plants and beutiful butterflies, birds, lizards iguana and crabs. Troncones itself is a very nice small mexican coast village with very nice inhabitants.

The open arichtecture of Casa Viva with beautiful vistas al mar is just amazing.

The pool where you could relax just perfectly while having a cold beer during a hot mexican day is outstanding. We stayed in the Round Casita and Tapanco (Sleeping Porach) above the living area.

We postponed our departure for three days just to enjoy our perfect holiday a little bit longer.

Christoph & Tanja

Stuttgart, Germany

August 2009

Living the Dream

2009-08-20T12:11:00.000-07:00

Casa Viva is simultaneously an understated and quietly overwhelming, lush, living-dream-residence.

Intimate, with plenty of ambiental options to retreat into privacy or mingle naturally.

Casa Viva staff members Elvira, Benito, and Liboria attended our daily requests and general needs with genuine grace, warmth, and aplomb. Elvira’s kitchen and cookery are a savory whirl and wonder of coastal / regional delights.

The grounds are beautifully kept, and alive with various butterflies, bright sonorous birds, and several species of lizards and iguana. I saw either a zoro ( fox ) or perhaps a tejón (badger) in the madrigal light , and we remain pretty sure what we heard was javelin (boar) snuffling through the grounds one evening. The lot on the North of the living area has been kept wild( by Casa Viva), as a refuge and home for the same creatures. At least 3 kinds of crickets sound off in the evening, followed shortly by bat hour, overlapping slightly with lightning bug hour.

Manzanillo Bay is a treasure for sun bathers, waders and surfers. I found surf heaven at La

Punta, from mellow to Carramba! And Mahahua just beyond is all but undiscovered and unforgettable on horseback, enough said. Troncones itself is a diminutive and vibrant small town, a harmonious blend of residents and visitors from inland Mejico and norteamericanos. All astride a dusty beach road, where diminutive land crabs scuttle across the road, claws aloft, to challenge bicycles and SUV’s alike.

The architecture and accommodations at Casa Viva are singularly beautiful and natural, which evoke the very terrain, shapes and sea around you. If you are lucky, you may see sea turtles ( overnight tracks) on the beach, or passerby dolphins in the surf.

Both sightings will be virtually assured if you take a lancha ride with “Samba” out of Majahua, for sight seeing, surfing, or fishing for Dorado, Yello Fin, or Huachinango (Red Snapper).

We remain very moved by our experience at Casa Viva. What the Hawaiians call “aloha” is alive and well in Troncones. Try to plan a longer residence and really breathe together with the place itself. We are deeply glad we did, and are already envisioning our return.

Corey & Debra Sue

Berkeley, CA

August 2009

Perfect Combination of Nature, Wild and Simple

2009-08-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

Great place, Casa Viva, we had a great time there, the beautiful view, the constant sea sound, the bungalows architecture… it is the perfect combination between nature wild beauty and simple architecture, it is very nursing; we fully recommend to come and stay here.

Teresa

Veracruz, Mexico

July 2009

Casa Viva - HQ when Visiting Troncones

2009-08-12T15:33:00.001-07:00

I own a boutique hotel in Morelia and knew about Casa Viva and David, the owner, through the internet. I did not imagine, before being there, that Casa Viva was such a charming hotel. My girlfriend and I stayed al Casa Redonda, which is an architectural piece of art. We enjoyed every corner of it and every view, including the view of the sea and its sounds. The second day we did not want to leave Casa Redonda ¡ The food and attentions by Elvira and Benito and all the staff was wonderful. There are many beaches and places to visit in and around Troncones but I recommend Casa Viva to be the main headquarters of everyone who wants to know the area.

Antonio Galvez

Morelia, Mexico

August 2009

Stress comes to die here

2009-06-22T09:53:00.000-07:00

I came across an article at CNN.com about Casa Viva and thought it would be a great place to take the family. From the moment my kids saw the pictures of the Private Casita, they were bothering me about when we were going to go.

Well, I just got home from my first trip to Casa Viva and I know that there will be many return trips. The place was better than we had hoped. Stress comes to die here. So relaxing, so beautiful. David runs a FIRST CLASS place.

Benito and Elvira are two wonderful people who make you feel at home!

My kids can be hard to please, but by the end they were requesting to trade in their mother for Elvira. HAHAHA Everything Elvira cooked for us was excellent, not a bad meal the whole time we were there.

The kids are now bothering me about when we can go back. I'm looking forward to it myself. Thank you CASA VIVA for a great time!

Adalberto, Lisa, Melissa and Nicholas

Merrillville, IN

June 2009

Best place to stay in Troncones by far - Peace, Romance, Magic, EcoRetreat

2009-06-19T00:21:00.000-07:00

This place is magical! We had the most relaxing and romantic vacation ever!

Open space right on the beach, amazing pool, hammock swings, open kitchen, architecturally gorgeous! The whole place is eco-friendly, using solar power, grey water for the plants, recycling everything. It was perfect for my husband and I, but would be fun for a group or family reunion. We looked at lots of places in Troncones, but none were nearly as nice as Casa Viva Troncones. We had the whole 'compound' to ourselves most of the week!

Food and Service: Casa Viva includes huge Mexican breakfasts including fresh fruit, yogurt, eggs, chilequiles, something different every morning! Fresh squeezed OJ, handmade tortillas, excellent coffee. We didn't need lunch after all that food. We had a staff of 3 people to ourselves. Benito washed our car without us asking!

Pool: The most gorgeous I've ever seen! Exotic birds clean their feathers next to lizards along the pool edge.

Connectivity: There are 2 bikes you can ride to yoga or into town for gelato. There's wifi - check your email sitting by the pool. Free Skype phone so you can call people in the U.S. for free.

Rooms: we stayed in the round casita. It's an open casita with king bed and mosquito netting. The shower has wood shutters that you can open to watch the ocean while you shower! The casita is very spacious - much bigger than the ones at other places. And it's situated to take in the ocean breezes at night. Very clean. Very well kept up.

Yoga: Just bike, walk, or drive the mile to your morning yoga classes at Present Moment. You can walk there on the beach.

More on Food: Get the staff at Casa Viva to make fresh fish for you for dinner instead of eating out at expensive restaurants!

Surfing: There is always surf. Rent a board at Inn at Manzanillo (5 minutes away) and

drive to Saladita or the Ranch.

We're planning a return trip later this year.

Robyn and Tom

San Diego, CA

June 09

Amazing Awesome Fun

2009-06-18T15:47:00.000-07:00

The place is amazing. The square house is awesome and we had a lot of fun in the pool and hanging in the common area. The staff was super nice and made us a great breakfast! Thanks for having us.

The Johnsons

Orange County, CA

June 2009

Mexico and No Swine Flu or Drug Wars

2009-06-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

Quiet moments

steal out from under me

on the wings of chirping birds

and crashing waves.

How is it that this place,

so alive with sound,

is yet so filled with peace.

I machete the coconut,

drinking the Divine liquid

elixer hidden inside.

Splitting it open,

I scoop out

some young, tender coco-meat for me,

leaving plenty for the myriad of birds

hiding in the bushes

awaiting their turn–

Golden-Breasted, Metallic Blue and Green, On-Fire Orange–

the list is endless.

I add raw, organic agave and water to the coco-meat,

and puree it all together,

adding vanilla and a hint of cinnamon

until it is custard consistency.

Scoop into a glass container

and drizzle with agave and cinnamon on top

and place in refrigerator.

Time to serve guests, I layer the custard

with bananas and mangoes

and spoon into individual bowls.

I love the moment of silence while mouths are filled

followed by the widening of eyes and smiles

and the groaning, “mmmmmmmmm, delicious!”

I am meant to be in a place like this.

I thrive here.

And so does all the life around me.

I can overlook the mosquito war zone of my body,

when victory has such sweet rewards.

Quiet moments and crashing waves dance together

with hot sun and cool breeze,

tart limone and pungent papaya,

sweet cocos and spicy chiles…

this land of duality

is the perfect accompaniment

to my life’s path.

I am meant to be in a place like this.

I thrive here.

And so does all the life around me.

Julia Butterfly Hill

Post on her blog about her stay in Casa Viva

June 2009

Open in the Best of Ways

2009-05-20T21:51:00.000-07:00

We had a fabulous week at Casa Viva. The operative word is OPEN.

Everything is open in the best of ways. The architecture, the staff, the pool, the view to the ocean. It's all open, and it has a way of making you feel more relaxed and open when you're staying there. I hope to return someday with my whole family.

Ted and Nancy Lewis

Eugene, Oregon

May 2009

Casa Viva Cooking Obtains "Cordon Bleu" Status

2009-05-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

We spent 6 days in Casa Viva and had a very nice and relax stay. My parents were visiting us from France and they really did enjoy this moment away from the Mexican fever crisis. David -the owner- has been very flexible with us: I changed many times my schedule and he always has been very accommodating. All the staff is very welcome and kind, and Elvira the cook is a really "cordon bleu" as we say in French!! The rooms and common area are very clean and the bungalows' architecture is amazing.

The pool is nice -even if we were not very comfortable to be in sometimes at the same time as the owners' dog!! -as we have no pets, we are not very used to it...-. I really do recommend Casa Viva for a great stay with friends or family and kids in a very confortable and nice looking and tropical atmosphere.

Aude and family

May 2009

Mexico City and France

Daydreaming About Casa Viva

2009-05-12T22:26:00.000-07:00

We’ve been back home now for almost a week and I still find myself day-dreaming about Casa Viva.

I don’t know that I have enjoyed a place more than Troncones and Casa Viva – we found the whole place really just magical.

We were in Mexico right when news of the H1N1 virus, aka Swine flu, was in all the headlines. The first part of our trip was spent worrying and it had been difficult to relax. Immediately upon arriving at Casa Viva we felt at ease.

Our kids, Gus 5 and Cate 3, could barely get their swimsuits on fast enough before jumping in the pool which they stayed in for most of our stay. Benito showed us to the Round Casita which had been made up with two little twin beds for the kids with netting over the tops that they LOVED. Our bed was also the best I have ever slept in –

certainly in Mexico, and we’ve been there a number of times now – and perhaps of any bed other than my own. Something about the netting and waves and the breeze, the soft sheets and Mexican blanket – so serene. Your staff made us feel welcome and took great care of us with Benito even washing our car after an especially dusty adventure on the back way to Saladita.

The food was outstanding – eggs, Chilaquilas, fish, shrimp, tortillas, salsa verde. We enjoyed amazing meals and Gus’s 5th birthday dinner was perfect – thanks to you and Benito for the beautiful and yummy birthday cake!

Manchas was a delight too, what a sweet puppy. He adopted Gus and Cate right away following them around and playing with them on the beach – they continued to love him even after he munched a couple hats and toys – even crying when they realized he wasn’t coming home with us.

You have created a special place at Casa Viva and we look forward to returning soon. I also would say that we were not overly worried about swine flu while there and certainly did not see anyone sick or feel like we were compromising our family’s health by being in Mexico. I am very grateful we did not change our plans and would, and will, return to Mexico with no greater fear of getting sick than I would have traveling anywhere.

Thank you, thank you for Casa Viva and your and your staff’s generous hospitality.

The Lowham Family

Jackson, WY

May 2009

Beatutiful place!!!

2009-04-30T16:45:00.000-07:00

Beatutiful place!!! We had a wonderful time, thank you so much!!

We loved Manchas (Casa Viva's house dog), it was so hard leaving him behind.

Guizar Family

Valle del Bravo, Mexico

April 2009

Heaven for the Living

2009-04-22T13:03:00.000-07:00

Visiting Casa Viva was the best vacation we've had. What a way to connect with nature, with others and ourselves. Casa Viva is the right mix of the real with the luxurious, it was all at once: tasty-healthy, natural-comfortable, social-private all to the soundtrack of the waves and performance of the pelicans. Casa Viva and Playa Viva have the winning evolving formula. We'll be back for more!

Elinoar, Gadi, Daria, Abigail
San Mateo, CA
April 2009

Tantos Rincones Agradables

2009-04-09T22:06:00.000-07:00

Ya hemos estado por segunda vez en Casa Viva y, definitivamente, no ha sido la última.

Es muy especial el ambiente relajado y hay tantos rincones agradables para descansar y disfrutar de la bonita vista que cuesta decidirse por uno. Uno se siente como si estuviera en su propia casa - mucho mejor que en cualquier hotel grande y anónimo. Jamás hemos visto un hotel tan bien cuidado y construido y decorado con tanto estilo y detalle.

El lugar también está hecho para ninyos, con una alberca perfecta, un jardín hermoso y una playa prácticamente privada para explorar.

No hay sitio mejor para escaparse de la vida cotidiana y dormirse con el ruido de las olas de fondo.

Martina y Joachim
México D.F.
Enero 2009

Laid Back and Friendly

2009-04-02T23:46:00.000-07:00

A month has flown by but our family is still basking in the glow of our time at Casa Viva. We loved the mellow beat of Troncones. Laid back and friendly.

After the tour of local restaurants we ended up asking Elvira to make us supper every night. She made the best food we had in Mexico. The kids spent hour upon hour going from pool to hot tub to beach and back again. My husband and I read quietly and soaked up as much or as little sun as we wanted. Sunrise strolls on the beach, sunsets watching the pelicans glide over the waves. It was perfect.

As for fear-mongering crime reports, we were in several parts of Mexico for two weeks, with three days in Mexico City. We never felt even the slightest twinge of fear. We asked perfect strangers for directions and help many times and people went out of their way (literally in several cases) with hospitality and warmth.

Thanks so much.

Sarah, Wil, Henri, Alice and Frances
February 2009
Abercorn, Quebec CANADA

Collecting Shells and Stories

2009-03-29T18:22:00.000-07:00

My 12 year old daughter and myself spent 8 glorious, restful, colorful, and inspiring days at Casa Viva. We enjoyed Elvira's fantastic authentic and healthy cooking, soaks in the fresh pool and hot tub while watching the sun say goodnight, reading, painting in journals, talking up a storm, walking and collecting shells and stories and having a genuine vacation.
We have never had such a great time together in such a nest of warmth and comfort. The open palapa style living was perfect. Nights were cool and breezy and we always had a good sleep to the sound of a booming surf. I recommend it highly for families with small children or teenagers.

Everyone has space and the ease of friendly protected living. Casa Viva will be a home to us again, I am sure.

Kim

Nelson, BC

March 2009

Visit Kim in Nelson, BC in her lovely little bungalow Harrop House - 7.7 Acre Retreat on Kootenay Lake

Kim Howard Watercolors

View more presentations from David Leventhal.

Bordering on Hysteria - Urging a More Rational View

2009-03-26T23:33:00.000-07:00

As a counterpoint to the constant barrage of media about the "War in Mexico", listen to this story that was on NPR's All Things Considered today. The story is entitled, "Border Mayors Say Mexico Unrest Fears Overblown" and was reported on by John Burnett.

In summary, the story starts, "Violence on Mexico's border fueled by the drugs trade has dominated news headlines in recent days. But mayors of towns and cities along the U.S.-Mexican border say the attention borders on hysteria and they are urging a more rational view."

We couldn't agree more. Please take a "rational view" and take normal precautions.

Please do not be unreasonably manipulated by the media's need to create a state of fear to sell newspapers and keep eyes glued to their newscasts.

Take Common-Sense Precautions

2009-03-25T13:26:00.000-07:00

Recently several guests have been asking us about the safety of travel to Mexico. We understand the need for travelers to get the best possible information and make the most informed decisions. One guest who will be staying with their family in Casa Viva in the next few weeks sent us a copy of this link to the US Dept of State - Travel Alert for Mexico. I have copied selected text below, for the entire text click here:

Travel Alert

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Bureau of Consular Affairs
This information is current as of Tue Mar 24 2009.
Mexico
February 20, 2009

This Travel Alert updates security information for U.S. citizens traveling and living in Mexico. It supersedes the Travel Alert for Mexico dated October 15, 2008, and expires on August 20, 2009.While millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year (including thousands who cross the land border every day for study, tourism or business), violence in the country has increased recently. It is imperative that travelers understand the risks of travel to Mexico, how best to avoid dangerous situations, and whom to contact if one becomes a crime victim. Common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where prostitution and drug dealing might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable.

We will do our best to keep you posted on any updates to this advisory. Please feel free to send us information you feel helpful to fellow travelers to this area.

Thank you for addressing your concerns with us, we take your safety seriously.

David & Sandra

Proprietors, Casa Viva

Troncones, Guerrero, Mexico

Casa Viva - De Categoria Especial

2009-03-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

Recién tuvimos la experiencia de realizar la reunión anual de nuestra compañía en Casa Viva, y podemos comentar que fue una experiencia con un nivel de servicio inmejorable a un hotel 5 estrellas, la actitud de la gente y su cordialidad nos llevaban a pensar que estábamos en un hotel de categoría especial. La vista y las instalaciones fueron ideales para cada una de nuestras actividades y sobre todo la comida resulto ser la cereza en el pastel, al tener un sazón muy bueno además de que era servida en los momentos requeridos y con un excelente servicio.

Indudablemente casa viva además de ser una excelente opción para vacacionar hoy día confirmamos que es un lugar que permite la reflexión y genera la energía para encaminar a un equipo de trabajo a los objetivos que buscamos.

Verónica

Fidelity Marketing SA de CV

Mexico, DF

Marzo 2009

Sweet Vibe at Casa Viva Troncones!

2009-02-04T14:11:00.000-08:00

Casa Viva was everything we could have imagined for our first trip to Mexico (3 weeks of rest, peace, and rejuvenation). We had everything we needed--beautiful sunsets and beach, hot tub and swimming pool, great food and caretakers (cooking, cleaning, Spanish speaking...), sweet vibe! Troncones is a perfect little beach town. We miss our little piece of paradise and hope to visit again.

Kris and Tony
San Juan Island, WA
January 2009

5-Star-Luxury-Bohemian Vibe

2009-01-27T11:12:00.000-08:00

By far and away the most amazingly relaxing holiday we have ever had!

Landing in Troncones was nice enough, and then we got to Casa Viva...We were so blown away by the surroundings, lovely casitas, AMAZING food - fancy and filling and different and home-made feeling all at the same time, Elvira is some kind of genius. PLUS had the pleasure of some lovely other guests.

The whole place is so relaxing, it has an effortless beauty, ecominded-without-being-basic, 5-star-luxury-bohemian vibe (if that makes sense). Like everyone says; we should have stayed longer... but no question, we're definitely coming back. Also, would highly recommend exploring along the coast and around the beaches (we had a car to venture out a bit) - it's hard to leave Casa Viva itself, it's so darn lovely, but the surrounding countryside & neighbourhoods are very cool too!

Lorrin & Naomi

January 2009

A Vision in a Dream

2009-01-26T21:11:00.000-08:00

Wow - we feel like we have found the perfect spot and seem to not want to leave this place.

I explained to my friend that the pool must have been a vision in a dream! Our 2 year old son is learning to swim in it and loves the shallow part which is extensive and so necessary when you have a little one.

Our room is so rustic yet with all the comforts and the unintrusive help from Benito - who cut a coconut from the tree this morning for Newton our son and Elvira who is the BEST cook for chicken Mole ( sorry for the spelling!) and lobster.

Thank you for building this place its a haven,

Debra and Jonathan and Newton
New York/London
January 2009

Casa Viva: 11 on a 10 Scale!

2009-01-14T22:10:00.000-08:00

It was a perfect trip; Lucas rated it an 11 on a 10 scale!
Fab spot, fab food, great folks, restoring & relaxing.
Also, inspiring to learn more of your vision; and meet enthusiastic Freddie & the t urtles.
Only one regret.....two weeks instead of one!
Wonderful to spend time with you and delightful to meet Sandra.
Elvira & Bonito are sooooooooo sweet! THE BEST FOOD EVER!

Namaste,

Mary and Harley and Family (and friends)
Fairfield, Iowa
January 2009

ps: going thru houston airport was a "_____"; any suggestions?

Family Vacation at Casa Viva: Scored A+

2009-01-14T21:53:00.000-08:00

What a truly wonderful vacation at Casa Viva. We wanted to let you know how fully and completely we enjoyed our stay. In fact, after the first day I was told by my very picky family that I scored an A+ on Christmas vacation planning - that was nice to hear since I try to balance what I think everyone might like and they are all very opinionated young men and women. I think we all did what we wanted to do - spend some time together, relax, read, swim, eat good food, putz around, swim some more and eat more good food.
In fact, Elvira, the cook, was a super star hit. Every single one of her meals met with a chorus of hearty appreciation. My kids were still talking about Elvira's cooking a full week later!

Our eldest daughter-who came with her boyfriend, a surfer who had been to Troncones before -summed up our vacation perfectly: "Every day we did the same thing; we ate breakfast, went for a walk, then a swim, came back, swam in the pool, ate lunch, relaxed, went for another swim, came back sat in the hot tub and had a beer, then ate dinner and went to bed." It was great! We are a family of swimmers so we were in the ocean down to the left of the house where the is an open beach at least twice a day for a couple of hours-body surfing, using the boogie boards and surfing. Quite often we had the beach to ourselves, which was spectacular. We had lots of fun together. Thank you for creating the environment for all of us to be together in such a healthy and enjoyable way.

The arrangement of the houses was also nice for us since we were able to have time apart when that was needed. We had lovely weather-cool at night and not too hot during the day.

And, we all loved Troncones-no crowds, no high rise hotels. It was like "el Viejo" Mexico of my husband's childhood, something we all very much miss.

I had one suggestion to make for you and future guests. I'm a late night reader before bed when all is quiet. To read in bed I had to use a flashlight. I'm not sure if there is a way to have a reading lamp next to the beds, but maybe you could suggest to guests that they bring an attachable book light (or headlight) with them if they like to read at night before sleeping. I did want you to know that your staff is wonderful. Elvira was friendly, efficient, made extra little botanas for my kids in the afternoon-coco, veggies con limon y salsa picante. She's great as is Benito, the caretaker. He took some of the kids to the airport the day we left and was helpful throughout the week. They are a wonderful couple-you are lucky to have them. The woman who helps clean was also friendly and discreet – you have a great staff; congratulations!

We actually met a family who had tried to rent the same week, so we were glad we booked so far in advance.

Congratulations on your idea - our vacation was rustic, earthy, tranquil, and at the same time we felt pampered in very comfortable and relaxing surroundings. We all loved the design of the houses as well as the overall design of the property. The kitchen, pool, common area design was superb - an easy place to be and at the same time allows for several different activities to be going on simultaneously. Most of the time we were all there together and never felt that we were on top of each other. The design combines privacy with shared use rather ideally. And the view at sunset - well, as they say, it was picture postcard perfect!

Good luck with Playa Viva - one day I'd love to see what you are doing there as well.

Stephens Family
Mexico City, Mexico
Christmas 2008

Un Lugar Especial

2008-11-20T12:20:00.000-08:00

Si me hubiera imaginado un lugar mas especial para pasar mi cumpleaños con mi familia no lo hubiera logrado. Tu staff fue muy amable y comimos delicioso.

También te quiero felicitar por el esfuerzo de conservar nuestras playas como lugares mágicos, yo formo parte de una fundación que se dedica ha promover el diseño sustentable en general y me da mucho gusto saber que hay gente que lo hace realidad . GRACIAS POR COMPARTIRLO!!!

Saludos

La familia Bezek
Mexico, DF
Noviembre 2008

Exceeded Expectations (yum)!

2008-11-07T20:18:00.000-08:00

Our stay at Casa Viva Troncones was adventurous to say the least. We enjoyed the quiet environment of the casa coupled with the beautiful view of the ocean from the infinity pool and the delicious food by Elvira (yum)!

Casa Viva provided us the relaxation we were looking for when we first booked our trip and it exceeded our expectations once we stayed there. There were miles of ocean to play in and no one on the beach to fight for a spot. We helped the locals release baby turtles back into the Pacific ocean, we watched surfers tackle the epic waves of the ocean and we walked into town to take in a bit of the local atmosphere.

All-in-all, Casa Viva provided us all the things we were looking for and then some. I would highly recommend staying at Casa Viva; especially if you want to get away from it the touristy places.

Andrea and Luis
Lake Oswego, Oregon
November 2008

Attractive, Comfortable, Magical

2008-11-07T16:20:00.000-08:00

As you can no doubt tell from the smiling, relaxed faces in this photo, our visit to Casa Viva was a great success. Your little piece of paradise is perfection. Attractive, comfortable, magical... and we were delighted with all the green aspects.

Elvira cooked almost all our dinners as once we'd sampled her cuisine, we couldn't resist! She was always so willing to fill our requests for every imaginable Mexican dish.

One day Peter took us to Playa Viva. We explored your new, exciting project, and we can now visualize how extra special it will be. We look forward to seeing the end result. The highlight that day was releasing about sixty tiny turtles. I find myself thinking about them... where are they now? I wish them well. I wish YOU well, too, Playa Viva is an enormous undertaking but such a worthwhile project for everyone in that vicinity, and for your future visitors.

Our Casa Viva holiday was extra special. A perfect place to pass my unmentionable birthday with my family. Thank you, thank you.

Ainslie Manson
Bowen Island, British Columbia
November 2008

Tickles Your Every Fancy

2008-10-22T11:23:00.000-07:00

For an oh-so-perfect truly sustainable getaway, there's nowhere better than Casa Viva!

This seaside resort with a constant soundscape of crashing waves is absolutely perfect. We rented the whole property for a week with a close group of friends, and had one of our best vacations ever. We spent tons of fun time laughing, eating, reading, playing games, and practicing yoga together in the common area, which boasts a beautiful pool, kitchen, a sleeping porch (where some of us actually spent the nights: it's cool and calming to be out there with the ocean sounds), dining "room" (everything is open with gorgeous thatched roofs, so that you can take advantage of the perfect ocean breeze that tickles your every fancy), and more.

Perhaps my all-time favorite thing about Casa Viva was the staff: Benito, who is always helpful but never assuming, makes a mean margarita (and went the extra mile to take a couple of us to experience the market in nearby Zihuatanejo), and his lovely bride Elvira whipped up some of the best food this San Francisco foodie has ever enjoyed! Down to the tortillas, our breakfasts, lunches, and dinners were handmade from fresh, local fare and served with a smile.

Along with the gorgeous architecture made of all sustainable materials (mostly earth, wood, stone, and palm fronds), all the hot water and lighting are powered by solar, and they recycle their grey and black water. You would never have to leave this gorgeous resort (other than long walks on the beach, of course), but if you want a little Mexican culture, there are several small restaurants and bars in Troncones, which is very popular among surfers and is a very friendly town.

We can't wait to go back to Casa Viva!

Rachael and Shawn
San Francisco, CA
October 2008

Where the Creatures Come Out to Play

2008-09-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Our time spent at Casa Viva was indescribable. Every day brought new creatures out to play with us in your beautiful gardens. We had lizards, butterflies, birds, oh my....just romping around the yard. Everything was absolutely perfect: the sunsets, the food, the peace, the neighbors. Thank you for creating such a wonderful place for people to experience.

Laura Vierthaler & Dan Stegman

September 2008

I Feel Totally Renewed

2008-07-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

I feel totally renewed. Casa Viva is a magical place, I just had the best day ever. Really let me congratulate you because of the great place you have, it is just stunning. I love the house, the place, the contact with nature. I feel like a new person. I loved to have no cell phone range, no Internet (although I know there you have Internet), no TV, no people... it was just great. I was disconnected from the whole world.

Also Benito and Elvira treated me excellent, the food was delicious. I wish I could have stayed more days, but believe me that I will go back very soon, because I would like my family to know the place and spend a whole weekend to enjoy such a spiritual feeling. I've never had an experience like that - so in contact with the nature.

Paulina Bustillos
Mexico City
July 2008

Casa Viva Was Epic!

2008-06-28T17:42:00.000-07:00

My wife and I stayed at Casa Viva for one week in late June. I can't say enough about the staff , they were great! The food was delicious, the grounds were beautiful, and the entire place was very well maintained. The pool was exceptionally bitchen! We thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the staff and students that were there from Mexico City working on projects to help benefit Troncones and surrounding areas. We loved the design of the rooms, common area, etc... As mentioned in some other review entries, the beer was cold and plentiful. We would love to return w/ our two children next year. A truly relaxing and carefree place to stay. It felt like a second honeymoon for my wife and I. Thanks for the memories that will last a lifetime!

Bill and Donnia Callahan

Cayucos, CA

June 2008

All the Beer You Can Drink is the Final Draw

2008-06-09T12:58:00.000-07:00

Below is an excerpt from a posting in the "intelligent traveler - the blog about authentic and sustainable travel" from National Geographic Traveler. To see the entire posting, click here.

A Winning Pair: Green Bungalows and Cold Beer
...I first discovered Casa Viva happenstance while tracking a story lead for this very blog about the owners' new eco-friendly resort, Playa Viva, in nearby Zihuatanejo, set to open in early 2009. Attracted by the sustainable mantra of the owners and bummed that Playa Viva wouldn't be open in time for my own trip, I was thrilled to read that their already-open property, Casa Viva, consists of three palm-thatched (and solar-paneled) bungalows designed by organic architects and built by local Mexican craftsmen with natural building materials (wood, stone, palm, clay, sand). And really, all the convincing I needed to book the place can be summed up in six incredible words: "all the beer you can drink"—listed absentmindedly among the amenities included in the room rate.

Can't Wait to Go Back

2008-05-07T22:44:00.000-07:00

We just got back from Casa Viva and had the most relaxing vacation of our lives. The house and the Casitas are beautifully built and fit so naturally into the surroundings that it makes you fell like you are in paradise. The staff is wonderful, hospitable, and attentive.
The entire villa was being cleaned constantly. Originally we planned to eat out but after tasting the organic and traditionally made food decided to take most of our food at the house. The kids had a blast in the beautifully designed pool overlooking the ocean!!!!!!
We do have an autistic daughter and she enjoyed the place so much that she was crying (sobbing) when we left Casa Viva to come home!!!!!

We highly recommend Casa viva for families with small children and anyone who needs to relax and being close to nature. We can not wait to go back!!!!

Sepi, Sam ,Elika and Nikka.
San Mateo, CA
May 2008

Casa Viva Mention in New York Magazine

2008-04-01T22:53:00.000-07:00

Here is the posting from New York Magazine

THE BEST BET

The poor, bruised dollar. It’s taken such a pummeling lately. But that means little in Troncones, Mexico, a beach hamlet 144 miles northwest of Acapulco, where the off season begins May 1, making it that much easier (and $50 cheaper) to book one of three solar-powered casitas at Casa Viva (from $125; casavivatroncones.com). Bodysurf the break right in front of the hotel, or buggy fifteen miles through palm-grove paradise to try long-boarding in La Saladita.

Casa Viva for Young and Old

2008-01-05T00:02:00.000-08:00

Our week at Casa Viva was thoroughly enjoyed by every member of our family. The age range was 3 ½ to 70! The design of your resort, Elvira’s cooking, the garden, the wildlife close by, the pools, the playa...GREAT!

Judith and Family
Northern California
Jan 08

When Time Alone is Needed

2007-12-24T22:40:00.000-08:00

Casa Viva is wonderful, regardless if you are there for a long weekend or a week long stay. This past trip was the entire family, children grandchildren and lots of fun and laughter. The best part was that we could all retreat to our private quarters when time alone was needed by all. Can’t think of a better place regardless of family size, structure and needs than Casa Viva.

Ben and Berta (and family)
Los Angeles, CA
Nov 07

Bliss!

2007-12-20T10:54:00.000-08:00

I have one word to describe my experience at Casa Viva Troncones: Bliss!

I spent 5 nights at Casa Viva at the beginning of December, and this was one of the best vacations I have ever taken (and I have traveled all over the world, staying in some incredible properties). I have never been much of a beach person, but this trip changed my mind. It was utterly relaxing and rejuvenating, and I cannot wait to go back!

I stayed in the Square Casita, which was absolutely beautiful--like something out of a design magazine. We had a great view of the ocean right from our bed and could hear the sounds of the waves hitting the shore all night long--heavenly! The casita is beautifully-decorated and there are lots of nooks where you can hang out while reading a book, like the gorgeous swinging benches made of reclaimed wood (also found in the common area).

Casa Viva is right off the ocean, and the sunsets are breath-taking. This is a wonderful location--there is a lot of stuff to do nearby (salsa dancing, yoga, meditation, great restaurants, horse-back riding), but when you are at Casa Viva you feel like you are in your own world with your own private beach. I took many walks along the beach and rarely saw more than 2 other people. There is also some great surfing just steps from Casa Viva, and I tried surfing for the first time, which was amazing!

The staff who live on the property were so accommodating and the food they prepared for us was so delicious that I couldn't stop eating!

David and Sandra paid a lot of attention to detail when it came to this property. The design is incredible, without being too opulent. I felt completely pampered, but also in touch with nature and the surrounding community--a rare combination. I was amazed at how careful they worked to design a property that is preserving natural resources and allows the property to be operated in a sustainable manner. They are really setting a great example and have engaged the local community in their efforts.

I also had the pleasure of visiting the site where David and Sandra are developing a new eco-community called Playa Viva. That was incredible and allowed us the rare opportunity to release about 400 baby turtles into the ocean through a turtle sanctuary that is being operated on the site--what an experience!

I highly recommend Casa Viva Troncones to anyone who wants to completely get away from it all while still having all the comforts of home. This trip was the highlight of my entire year!

Tina and Becky (and Sadie)

San Francisco

December 07

Just Like A Movie

2007-12-01T11:48:00.000-08:00

I stayed with family and friends at Casa Viva just after thanksgiving. I am sure you heard or saw pictures of our wedding week.

I just wanted to tell you that we had such an amazing time at your little piece of paradise!! It was like that movie the beach (don't know if you know it) when I first opened the gates for our crew they couldn't believe it and I don't think the entire realism ever soaked in.

I have a small eco-fishing lodge in BC, Canada. We are slowly and passionately converting to be more green and supporting eco tourism. It would be nice to stay in touch and here more about your new projects down south. If you ever wanted to come to the northwest for a trip at our lodge you are welcome and I know all of us are talking about starting an annual trip to Casa Viva in November, Please let me know when I will have to book a week, same as last, for next year, and have a wonderful new year yourself!

Sam

Brithish Columbia

Nov 07

heartbeat and thoughts just slow down

2007-11-15T16:36:00.000-08:00

Immediately after our first visit to Casa Viva we had only one thing on our mind. When will we return.

Casa Viva is a place that gets into your heart and spirit like no other place we have ever been. My wife and I went with 7 of our close friends and came away with reinvigorated minds and bodies. After just a few days, we became synchronized with the natural rhythms of our bodies and that of the natural surroundings. Your heartbeat and thoughts just slow down and you carry that feeling with you back to your own homes. We had the best time just talking, swimming, surfing, and sometimes just lazing about.

Elvira and Benito (cook and caretaker) really helped us out in all manners, and you just can't beat fresh tortillas with every breakfast! One of the best vacations of our lives.

Thank you, Casa Viva.

Ryan and Katheryn

San Francisco, CA
Nov 2007

First Time Swimmer, Kid Friendly Pool

2007-10-30T20:31:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at Casa Viva and enjoyed the great cooking, fine details of Casa Rodonda, and the sound of the surf crashing pool side. Our daughter Bella swam by herself for the first time in this very kid friendly pool. We cannot wait to come back again!

Daren, Lisa and Bella

Seattle, WA

Oct 2007

Surf Trip: Stoked to Come Back!

2007-08-31T19:18:00.000-07:00

I took four friends down to Troncones for a recent surf trip. Although, my buddies were sold right away on the free beer, all of us were blown away by the amazing design and craftsmanship of Casa Viva. The beachfront location was really close to the Point and only a 5 minute drive to the boats to the Ranch and A-Frames [for surfing]. With three amazing authentic meals cooked by Elvira daily, we were able to conserve our energy for heated matches of dominoes and hot tubbing. Upon my return, my girlfriend was so stoked on the pictures that it looks like Casa Viva is a front runner for our next trip. See you soon!

Pete
Del Mar, CA
Aug 07

What Resort Really Means

2007-03-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

I did a double take after five minutes of being there. When I first saw Casa Viva I had only just cruised down Troncones’s beach road. The gorgeous houses dotting the street all seemed to hint at an earthy luxuriousness, but I doubted that any of these “resorts” carried this spirit to their core. I entered Casa Viva carrying this skepticism; however, it was impossible for me not to fall in love the moment I arrived. The wood, the design, the flora, the pool: everything seemed teeming with a sense of beauty and care. I later learned that the wood was hand picked from the beach, that the roofing is a traditional thatched style, and that the very walls are made with an eco-friendly mud stucco. After marveling over a Matisse mural-replica, I looked out beyond the hammocks, the pool, the palms serenely swaying away, and saw the crashing of the waves upon the pristine beach. This was when everything came together for me and the idea of a “resort” regained its meaning in my mind… The food was amazing, and much of it is locally and organically grown. The architecture blends private and public brilliantly; it was one of the most inviting places I had ever stayed. The beds are seductive, the ocean’s tumble mesmerizing, and the breeze is always there to send you to sleep. There is so much to do in the area… Kayaking, Tree Climbing, Riding – you won’t get bored. Casa Viva is not just a good, great, or even excellent resort; it’s the kind of resort every other one should strive to be.

Gabe
Holloywood, CA
March 07