Playa Viva (Eco Luxury destination)

Playa Viva (Eco Luxury destination)

Playa Viva (Eco Luxury destination)

Project Number: 2022-KA220-VET-89ACFE12

Best Practices

Playa Viva (Eco Luxury destination)

Mexico

(Non European countries)

Playa Viva (PV) is a sustainable boutique hotel in the Costa Grande region of Guerrero, Mexico.

PV’s regenerative model focuses on achieving both environmental and social impact. On the one hand, PV’s conservation projects centre on sea turtle protection, watershed regeneration, mangrove reforestation, regenerative agriculture and transformative visitor experiences (tourism). On the other hand, PV’s Social Impact Programme pays special attention to health, education and economic empowerment.

The facility is completely off-grid, i.e. the hotel is powered 100% by solar energy and the water comes from its own well. In fact, PV is located near “Juluchuca”, a town that is somewhat remote from other areas in Guerrero, MX. For this reason, the hotel has its own organic garden with a variety of seasonal vegetables and seeds. PV also sources products locally and supports local farmers who supply milk, cheese, fruit, beans, maize and eggs. This farm-to-table approach at PV means that guests can enjoy fresh, healthy food that is free from harmful chemicals and additives. In summary, this farm-to-table approach, along with other regenerative practices, not only enhances the guest experience but also creates a model for responsible and regenerative tourism that can be emulated by others in the industry.

Benefits

Playa Viva (PV) is an example of regenerative tourism with different practises aimed at improving the resilience of local ecosystems. On the one hand, PV operates with a 100% off-grid solar system complemented by a 6kWh LP gas generator and uses LEDs or CFLs for minimal environmental impact. Taking into account the principles of permaculture, PV creates a self-sustaining ecosystem that relies on sustainable agriculture and avoids industrial production. Intelligent water-saving measures ensure minimal consumption and the replenishment of local aquifers with clean water. The natural design of their facilities and local craftsmanship allow for a natural airflow that avoids air conditioning and promotes a venturi effect for cool rooms. On the other hand, PV’s “farm-to-table” menu emphasises healthy Mexican food sourced from their own organic garden and local communities. Guests can partake in the farm-to-table experience by picking their side salads from PV’s private orchard. This approach not only provides fresh, chemical-free food, but also supports local farmers and allows guests to immerse themselves in the local food culture. PV’s presence in the remote town of Juluchuca in Guerrero, MX, goes beyond economic sustenance to provide jobs, capacity building opportunities and environmental education activities. This holistic approach contributes to social cohesion and promotes a healthy community and resilient ecosystem where both residents and visitors can thrive.

Key Success

In short, PV key success factors are: a solid strategy with clear goals and a team of well-prepared professionals who implement these strategies to ultimately create the perfect environment to foster engagement among the people in the surrounding area.

“The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein”

Project Number: 2022-KA220-VET-89ACFE12