“For me that word, ‘reciprocity’ is key to what it means to be a regenerative traveler. And how you move through the world can either be in reciprocity, and honoring the people you meet along the way and having an equal exchange, or it can be seen from an old paradigm of extractive.”
We’re in great company with David Leventhal, Co-Founder and Owner of Playa Viva, a unique Eco Luxury destination, “Where Your Vacation Meets Your Values.” With something for everyone, guests can expect to enjoy the rugged, unspoiled beauty of Mexico in the guilt-free luxury of an environmentally conscious resort dedicated to sustainability and regenerative practices.
Playa Viva was officially founded in 2008, honoring and stewarding the history of its land, instilling Core Principles and becoming an integral part of the community of Juluchuca, Mexico. Earlier this year, Playa Viva was recognized as the highest rated hotel to earn a B Corp Certification for their social and environmental impact.
To kick off the celebration of our planet Earth this month, David shares how hospitality can positively impact and transform you, the communities and ecosystems you visit, and how we all can play a part in making our planet better for the next generation.
Top Takeaways
[2:30] First a conservationist, then a “dualist” focusing on social impact and environmentalism, how David approaches travel with reciprocity.
[4:40] What led David to create a hospitality experience he wanted as a traveler himself, with a sense of meaningful community and a place where “vacation meets your values.”
[6:40] When the opportunity to purchase the land that would become Playa Viva presented itself, David soon learned about its rich history, with its nearby archeological site and turtle sanctuary.
[9:45] Playa Viva was founded on 5 Core Principles to the Ecosystem and Community it inhabits, which still stand strong today.
[18:10] Plan to experience a complete immersion in the local community through sharing meals, daily yoga, large communal lounging spaces, and local land and sea excursions.
[25:30] How to experience local life in Juluchuca, from artisanal coconut macaroon shops, visiting the children in local schools, the families behind the salt flats, and so much more.
[28:10] The importance of the local watershed and the sustainability efforts guests can not only witness, but play a part in when visiting Playa Viva.
[31:25] David shares more about the process of applying for a B-Corp certification and his surprise at and gratitude for being the highest rated hotel.
[37:50] How curiosity leads to education which then inspires impact.
Notable Mentions
- Johnny Adventures Tours
- B Corp Certification
- Regenerative Travel
- Fogo Island Inn, Canada
- African Bush Camps
