December 17, 2007

Latin America | Mexico | Puerto Vallarta

Mexican Eco-chic: Boca de Iguanas

By Buzzy Gordon

No phone? No car? No problem.

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In recent years, El Careyes Beach Resort has been the retreat of choice on Mexico’s Costa Alegre — a Pacific playground stretching from Puerto Vallarta to Manzanilla. But next month, El Careyes, which recently broke away from Starwood’s Luxury Collection, will go up against a new, upscale neighbor: Boca de Iguanas. Overlooking Tenacatita Bay and steps from the beach, the eco-chic haven has 10 “jungle suites” with outdoor rain showers, private plunge pools and ultimate disconnect (read: no television or telephones.) Plus, come spring, several new hillside cabanas will be ready, as well as an Alma Spa & Wellness Center, featuring a juice menu with fruit from onsite groves.

Environmental stewardship is tops at Iguanas: cars are banned, water is solar-heated, and “bio-climatic architecture” incorporates natural light and airflow. The resort’s “sea turtle camp” keeps an eye on local nesting grounds, and can also guide guests to the best places to spy the spawning creatures. Beyond turtle tourism, you can rappel a 100-foot-high wall, take a catamaran sail, or play with the ponies at the nearby Costa Careyes polo club, one of Mexico’s premier equine facilities.