"What stands out to you about this place as you arrive? Set on 13 acres of fruit trees, whispering pines, and palms, on Vieques, Hix Island House consists of five geometric concrete buildings—triangular, round, square, and rectangular—that fit into the natural surroundings despite their modernist design. A hilltop location in the center of the island affords views of the ocean in all directions. The very definition of seclusion—there are no phones, TV, or Wifi—the property serves as the ultimate place to hole up and opt out. What's the backstory? An eco-friendly pioneer on the island, Hix Island House opened in 2000. Toronto architect John Hix, inspired by the Japanese concept of Wabi-sabi, built the hotel with conservation and responsible living at the forefront of the design. Solar and wind energy power each building, and cisterns capture rainwater. So what are the rooms like? This tropical home-away-from-home has 19 huge, loft-like, polished-concrete spaces, all austerely decorated with wood furnishings and small pops of color. All but two have outdoor showers; all have kitchens, patios or terraces, and garden or ocean views. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? Wi-Fi is complimentary, but the catch is it's only available near the front desk,. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? Management stocks kitchens with breakfast items (eggs, cereal, juice, coffee and tea, milk, jam, fruit, and homemade bread) daily. What type of travelers come here? Conservationist conversationalists taking some me-time. What's the surrounding area like? Your neighbors are coquis, hummingbirds, and trade winds. A 25-minute flight from San Juan, or a seven-minute flight or 90-minute ferry ride from Ceiba, Vieques is known for its beautiful beaches, bioluminescent bay, and galloping wild horses. Hix Island House is a 10-minute drive to the town of Esperanza and beaches, 20 minutes from Isabel Segundo, seven minutes from the airport, and 20 minutes from ferry terminal. Any other hotel features worth noting? A 50-foot long pool with panoramic views provides a central point. Yoga classes are offered in a scenic pavilion for guests and non-guests. There's no A/C throughout the houses, but their hilly location and abundance of greenery draws cool breezes. The hotel supplies chairs, towels, and snorkeling equipment for beach trips. Sprawling La Casona at the top of the property is available to rent for events (up to 80 people). Bottom line: why are we picking this hotel? This is a well-designed, modernist retreat that's right for anyone looking to get off the grid—and off Instagram—for a few days." - Kathleen Squires
