Two weeks ago I vacationed in Playa Maderas, Nicaragua and shared a bunch of moments here. The experience hit my reset button. I woke up to the inner light within, surrounded by old and new friends. Surf, boating, yoga, community, thoughtfulness and more await you. We lived in a jungle tree canopy at Maderas Village. Three words: go there now.Direct flights from the United States can be found out of Houston and Miami. Upon landing, be prepared to drive two and a half hours to reach this piece of paradise (100% worth the drive). Family-style dining encourages new (lifelong) friends, howler monkeys are a daily alarm clock and if you’re down for some tunes or yogis you are in luck as Maderas Village is home to on-site recording and yoga studios.

Sunrise and sunset surf before or after a day on the sea. The living is easy. And breezy.

We met new local friends who day tripped us out to Playa Hermosa. A 45-minute drive from Maderas, it is equally mind blowing. All of it was an escape that brought me back in touch with the reality of being alive. Radical, heart-beating jungle beach living.

Image Credits: Jenny Graham