Hotel: Utopia Village

Utopia Village is the latest of a number of deluxe resorts that have opened in recent years on the island of Utila, which is best known as a haven for backpackers looking to learn to dive on the cheap. In fact, Utila has some of Central America's best diving--including excellent opportunities to spot whale sharks, the largest fish in the sea--so it's a wonder the champagne crowd didn't come sooner. Utopia Village is located several miles outside of Utila town, on the island's sparcely-developed southwestern shore. The resort has sixteen guestrooms, each boasting minisplit air-conditioners, polished wood floors, and luxury linens and bedding. The hotel's stone and wood construction is a bit lodge-like from the outside, but artsy details like dark hardwood bedframes and glass basin-style sinks lend a contemporary feel indoors. Large shared balconies have views of the ocean and inland forest and hills, while a rooftop terrace is perfect for enjoying the sunset. The beach here, like much

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Utopia Village is the latest of a number of deluxe resorts that have opened in recent years on the island of Utila, which is best known as a haven for backpackers looking to learn to dive on the cheap. In fact, Utila has some of Central America's best diving--including excellent opportunities to spot whale sharks, the largest fish in the sea--so it's a wonder the champagne crowd didn't come sooner. Utopia Village is located several miles outside of Utila town, on the island's sparcely-developed southwestern shore. The resort has sixteen guestrooms, each boasting minisplit air-conditioners, polished wood floors, and luxury linens and bedding. The hotel's stone and wood construction is a bit lodge-like from the outside, but artsy details like dark hardwood bedframes and glass basin-style sinks lend a contemporary feel indoors. Large shared balconies have views of the ocean and inland forest and hills, while a rooftop terrace is perfect for enjoying the sunset. The beach here, like much of Utila, is mostly rock and broken coral; the hotel has a few lounge chairs for sunbathing, but you'll need water shoes for getting in and out of the water, or just use the hotel pier (an infinity pool is in the works and will be a great addition). Diving is the main draw here, of course, but Utopia Village also has professional fishing guides and full spa services. Guests can book all-inclusive packages--dive, fish, spa, or combination--or book their lodgings, food, and activities a la carte.

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