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It was simply wonderful. Visited: September 2005 |
| Posted by ciagent151 |
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First of all, Hix Island House was simply beautiful! Upon our arrival, Kurt and Christianna, the property managers, gave us a brief tour leading back to Casa Triangular Matisse Unit. That was where we had the honor of spending two nights.
When we walked in the unit, there was fresh baked bread and a refrigerator full of eggs, milk, juice, cereal, butter and coffee! This place had it all!
After we finished checking out all the features of this wonderful room, I took the wife to see the BioBay. The BioBay alone was enough reason to visit Vieques and stay at the Hix Island House. Kurt gave me excellent directions to the place.
When we got back, it rained, which was absolutely beautiful and wonderful, considering there were no windows or doors in the unit. We sat back and watched the beautiful night sky as the clouds passed and revealed a night sky that would make any city slicker move to Puerto Rico.
After the storm, we went up to the roof and relaxed as we tried to guess all the constellations. When it was time to sleep, we simply surrounded the bed with the mosquito net and slept like never before. It was so peaceful!
The second day we rode around the entire island to visit the beaches and see some historical sites, like the Masonic Temple in Gringo Beach. Upon our arrival back to Hix, Christianna met us and gave us a tour of all the units, as we had one of two rooms that was actually occupied. I actually got the idea from one of the reviews I read here (thanks!).
Christianna showed us all the rooms, plus she showed us the solar panels used for heating, and the rain water cistern they use to produce their own water. We saw 11 of the 13 units, as we had one and one was rented. If I had the chance, I would take my wife back and spend one night in each unit. They all had a different feel, but were all unlike any room I have ever visited!
I can go on and on about how wonderful Hix Island House really was. I could type for days about how professional and gracious our hosts, Kurt and Christianna, were.
So to save you from reading a book about how much my wife and I loved this place and how I would recommend this place to every person I know, I will just say this: Hix Island House was awesome!
Kurt and Christianna were two of the best property managers I have ever had the opportunity of meeting. I pray our paths cross again, so I can thank them again for a wonderful honeymoon/vacation! Please tell Nana, the resident pet/property manager. We miss her. |
| 2 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Treat yourself to total relaxation and beauty. Visited: July 2005 |
| Posted by carolmor |
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Hix Island House is an amazingly beautiful experience. If you are looking for a tranquil, quiet environment that intersects with nature--and is totally designed for the comfort of guests-- this is the experience for you.
The hosts are gracious. The home baked bread each morning is delicious. The mango trees, dripping with fruit, on the way to a clean, outdoor pool . You get the idea.
This is perfect for adult guests. It is a wonderful place for couples in love and for those who enjoy a peaceful place. It is a private space, designed for your pleasure. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
It was absolute paradise! Visited: July 2004 |
| Posted by marcesamo |
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This has got to be the most relaxing place on earth.
The room was open to nature, allowing us to fall asleep to the sounds of coquis and other nightlife on the most dreamy bed possible.
The property was completely secluded and there were no disruptions -- no telephones, no radios, no television sets and even no maid service (unless requested). I highly recommend a getaway here in order to be revitalized. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Looking for peace - tranquility? Go to Hix Island House! Visited: March 2004 |
| Posted by walkerab |
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Hix Island House is an ideal place to relax and immerse yourself in a tranquil enviornment. Enjoy the tropical fruit, the gentle mountain breezes, delicious homemade bread, the ambiance and healthful food of the local restaurants.
The Studio is a spacious indoor/outdoor space with minimal yet comfortable furnishings, stocked refrigerator and luxurious linens. The private outdoor shower is a gem. John Hix and Neeva Gayle have designed a magnificent facility.
Don't miss the opportunity to absorb the natural surroundings of the pool and swim with panoramic view of the Caribbean. Also, allow time to explore the pristine area beaches and meet the local people in Esperanza.
Hix Island House offers a unique, tranquil, tropical island experience - one that should be treasured. I look forward to coming back to Hix Island House. |
| 2 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Hix Island House is a space to remember. Visited: January 2004 |
| Posted by mzimsky |
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John Hix and Neevagayle have created both an architectural wonder and a welcoming oasis on a Caribbean island that embodies all that we love about the Caribbean: aquamarine blue waters, powder sand beaches, open spaces untainted by overdevelopment, creative Caribbean influenced cuisine and beautiful weather.
It is hard to put into words the way in which Hix has integrated his finished and polished concrete structures into the landscape, but it echoes Japanese tea houses where distinctions between inside and outside no longer apply. Stay in the Matisse room, you'll never think about your physical living space the same again. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Hix Island House was inspirational and relaxing. Visited: January 2004 |
| Posted by ccastaneda |
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My husband and I stayed here for three nights in January 2004. This place was wonderful.
The rooms were totally open-air (there was a great cross-breeze from west to east in room #5) so we could wake up to the sunrise and fall asleep looking up at the stars. The room was big and had its own kitchen, which was well-equipped with nice utensils, fridge, gas range, etc.
The shower was open air as well, which was so invigorating (and yet perfectly private). The linens were terrific - the sheets were high-count cotton and bath robes, linen night shirts and beach towels were included.
We'd stay here again (preferably tomorrow!).
P.S. - For reference, we also have enjoyed high-end island resorts with spas and umbrella drinks, and while this was completely different, it was a great experience. |
| 2 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Hix Island House was a tranquil retreat. Visited: November 2003 |
| Posted by scummins |
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Hix Island House was tranquil, peaceful, Zen-like - and stunningly beautiful. Staying at the HIH was somewhat like being inside a work of art, surrounded by a work of nature.
An open wall framed our Caribbean view. I loved the open-air feel...balmy air, soft breeze, sudden rain, and then sun again and shocking Caribbean color. Most memorable were the night sounds - especially the tree frogs.
The pool, steps away, was easily the best lap pool I've ever been in. Every time we returned from a Vieques outing to the HIH retreat, we were re-surprised by its peaceful beauty. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Unique, romantic, perfect island hideaway Visited: February 2003 |
| Posted by kgfreedman |
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Unique and bold vacation hideaway where we marveled at John and Neeva Gayle's sensitivity to guests' needs and comfort. Romantic, practical, visually beautiful and delightful in its' concrete detail. The Hix's are wonderful, thoughtful hosts who have created a totally private paradise. Great lap pool, views, yoga on demand. Sleeping under the stars or preparing meals were special treats - we never wanted to leave the Inn. But we did, and the rest of Vieques was also an unexpected pleasure - quiet, gorgeous deserted beaches and quaint country roads. Very decent food available in low-key, outdoor restaurants. A real find in all respects. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Unique and romantic - a perfect island hideaway. Visited: February 2003 |
| Posted by kgfreedman |
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This is a unique and bold vacation hideaway where one experiences the architect's sensitivity to the visitors' needs and comfort.
It is romantic, practical, visually beautiful and delightful in its concrete detail. The Hixes are wonderful, thoughtful hosts who have created a totally private paradise.
They have a great lap pool, views, and yoga on demand. Sleeping under the stars or preparing our meals was delightful - we never wanted to leave.
The rest of Vieques was also an unexpected pleasure - quiet, gorgeous deserted beaches and quaint country roads. Very decent food available in low-key, local outdoor restaurants. A true find. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Hix was heaven on earth. Visited: January 2003 |
| Posted by mariana_pedraza |
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Having traveled and even lived on many Caribbean Islands, this location was the nicest location we have been to. Not to mention the ambiance and relaxed atmosphere of Vieques, Hix Island House was the epitomy of that environment.
To begin, Managers Christian and Mark were so welcoming and helpful that we felt like we were visiting someone's home! We were completely amazed at how beautiful, secluded and natural the property was.
When we arrived to our room, our jaws dropped to a view that was spectacular, and a room that was so tranquil. To add to an already amazing start, the refrigerator was stocked with everything we needed including some of the best Granola!
Everything about the place was just what you need for a vacation - no phones and no t.v. And even when there were other guests on the property, we didn't see them!
After one week at this paradise retreat, both of us left the stress and crazyness of New York City at Hix Island House and did not bring and ounce of it back with us. So if you need to get away and are sick of uninviting and conventional resorts, please don't even think of going anywhere else!
Thank you for creating a special place for the both of us! |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Extremely relaxing while communing with nature. Visited: December 2002 |
| Posted by frank1 |
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Our fantastic week's vacation at Hix Island House in Vieques, the small island off Puerto Rico's southeast coast, included yoga classes, daily swimming and exploring.
The island was still pristine where the Navy abandoned large swaths of land, and the towns had everything we needed, up to and including outstanding restaurants.
Accommodations at the Hix Island House made their own adventure with close communing with nature in the luxurious setting of Merimekko bedspreads and Phillipe Stark furniture.
The beaches were glistening white, with our choice of amount of surf depending which of the many beaches we chose. It felt as though we'd have to go half-way around the world for this luxury in this nature, but it was surprisingly close by. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Such a good time we had! Visited: December 2002 |
| Posted by dclewis |
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My wife and I were pretty much hooked on Hix Island House from the moment we drove past the "open-one-day-a-week" live Reggae bar about 300 yards down the road.
Now don't get me wrong, this was no downtown street. In this 300 yards we saw, over the week, a 4-foot long lizard, a dozen or more wild horses, and some exceptionally large white birds which I called storks and she called by their correct ornithological names (not storks).
It was an island, it was a back road and it wasn't the beach. Hix Island House was on the Colina del Sol (Hill of the Sun) and the view from our deck was of miles of Caribe.
This was one of the truly exceptional spots in the world (take it from someone with a few million travel miles).
I'll relate 7 things about Hix Island House and Vieques Island to suggest what kind of place it is:
1) They had many windows, but no glass - it was open air. The bugs were managable because of the trade winds. It was like camping at the Plaza.
2) The Bio-luminescent Bay. Think of fireflies. They were so thick that they looked like a neon light - in water. (No kidding.)
3) Fresh fruit, bean coffee, organic eggs, fresh herbs and juices in your room - every day.
4) The island ran out of gas. We were coasting on fumes. The managers of Hix Island brought us 5-gallons of gas in a can and got us out of a tight spot. (Gas came on the ferry the next day).
5) Navio Beach - bring a wave board.
6) Green Beach at sunset. Key West...Hah.
7) Saltwater fly fishing.
All of this was 'do-able' while based in an exceptionally environmentally friendly environment: Hix Island House.
This place was a real treasure. |
| 2 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
I was more than my expectations - was fantastic, romantic and gorgeous. Visited: May 2002 |
| Posted by patfisherflies |
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We arrived by Vieques Air Link on May 30, 2002 and left on June 4th. We rented a car from Martineau Car Rental and Tony could not have been nicer.
We rented the most popular unit (#1- Casa Redonda), and we were thrilled. We had Neeva Gayle's homemade bread (scrumptious!) awaiting us on arrival, and the accommodations were wonderful.
It was mimimal, cave like (at night), and having everything open to nature and the elements was a treat. We slept under the stars two of the nights.
We also shopped at Supermercado Morales and I did lots of cooking since we had the fantastic kitchen. Unfortunately, the produce - which was shipped over from San Juan - was awful! I was very disappointed with the produce in general but, trust me, we survived.
We ate at Media Luna for dinner (suggested by that wonderful manager Kathy O'Neill). It was scrumptious. Monica, the chef and owner, is self-taught (used to be a trader on Wall Street), and she creates amazing dishes. I had the sea bass.
Kathy could not have been more helpful from suggesting fun things to do on the island and stores for shopping to the best beaches. We went to Navio Beach. It was very secluded and gorgeous. Renting a bike is not an option, but you must rent a Jeep to tackle those dirt roads that lead to all the best beaches.
Pack your suitcase, then take half of it out and you should have packed appropriately. Really - I took one suitcase and basically lived in bathing suits, running shorts, and only really needed one other pants outfit. It was extremely informal and laid back.
Hix Island House was an experience I will be reliving for years to come. You must truly love the person you're with because you are entirely secluded in the hills here.
If there was a drawback at all, it was that they had a lot of rain during our stay and therefore the bugs that invaded us were everywhere. At night we couldn't turn on any lights except the citronella lanterns, or we gave the bugs a prime opportunity to "attack." Consequently, we turned in early, but were up at the crack of dawn to appreciate and welcome the sunrises.
Take advantage of the incredible pool. It is particularly romantic at night, and the entire time we were here, there was never a soul at the pool! We felt like we had the place all to ourselves.
Seeing is believing, and I will be returning to this charming island again. The people are incredibly hospitable, the beaches are spectacular, and everything is as Kathy at Hix Island House says,...."10 minutes away from everything." She's right about that. The majority of the shops are in Esperanza, and I'm not particularly fond of Isabel Segunda at night. I feel much safer in Esperanza than Isabel Segunda. Just a gut feeling. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
This was a perfect getaway. Visited: April 2002 |
| Posted by jmas11 |
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This is the first island I've ever been to in the Caribbean, and from what I understand I was lucky. It was rustic, unspoiled and beautiful.
Hix Island House reflected that ideal mix, the units were designed by internationally renouned architect John Hix, who specializes in environmentally sound architecture and a spare aesthetic. His wife, Neeva Gayle Hix, has added luxurious touches of comfort and color with Marimekko bedspreads, Frette linen sheets, homemade bread and comfortable chaises longues to lounge and contemplate the verdant view on.
The outdoor showers were wonderful, and my friend assured me, that one's modesty was concealed. I also loved that you could choose whether to cook at home (each unit had a kitchen), or go out on the island. I relished enjoying my morning coffee in privacy, and equally relished coming home to a glass of white wine and local cheese (all of which the Hixes kept stocked in your fridge), or a bowl of sweet mangoes gathered by the gardener.
The pool was calming and beautiful and I even put the yoga studio to use. Hix Island House was the perfect stress reliever. After only a couple of hours and a few laps in the pool, I had forgotten about city life and found myself wishing I could stay longer. It was aperfect getaway with perfect hosts in ideal surroundings. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
We had a wonderful honeymoon! Visited: April 2002 |
| Posted by mmorris |
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After the spinning of a wedding, the Hix House was the only place for a honeymoon.
You're at peace as soon as you arrive. There is no T.V., radio, or phones; just you and the love of your life. Time is forgotten, watches removed, new dreams are dreamt, and love is found all over.
Thank you John and Neeva Gayle for the paradise you have created. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Sublime fusion of design and ambiance. Visited: February 2002 |
| Posted by anthony |
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John Hix, master architect, winner of many environmental awards, working for the ideal client (himself), achieves a unique fusion of ambiance and spirit. Neevagayle, attuned to the psyche, provides balm for the soul. I know not is equal. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Minimalism with maximum effect Visited: January 2002 |
| Posted by edgodwin |
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If you are looking for a quiet place on a quiet island, you should certainly stay with the hosts at Hix Island House...it's spectacular. And if you are a person who appreciates attention to detail this this will become your mecca.
Beautifully designed by owner John Hix, these unique studios, built of poured concrete, are a minimalist paradise. Glassless windows frame magical vistas and function as the art on the walls. Terraces offer a place to get sun or read a book and, at night, to star gaze.
Don't worry. Minimalist does not mean uncomfortable. Frette towels in the bath, sumptuous cotton sheets on the bed and oversized heavy broadcloth nightshirts, designed by owner Neeva Gayle Hix welcome you. The remarkable pool will make you wonder why you need to even go to the beach (but visit as many beaches as you can - they're all different and wonderful).
Part best friend and part local insider, Kathy, the manager, will take care of any request with joy - that must come from island living. She'll offer advise on everything from restaurants to kayaking and the puddle jumpers that will get you to Vieques.
The word "paradise" was created for places like Hix Island House. And let's face it, it's hard to impress a New Yorker. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Bravo! Visited: January 2002 |
| Posted by Bgevinski |
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John Hix has designed an incredible environment in which one can relax and rejuvenate. The use of minimalism in his architecture amazingly frames the landscape – every window presents itself as a living painting. I spent every morning on my last visit sitting on my balcony and watching the sunrise. The smell of the salt-air trade winds mixing with that of my coffee only added to the pleasure. If only I could start every morning that way.
The attentive staff is very helpful in arranging everything from massages to dinner reservations. They know which bar on the island has the coldest beer, they bake fresh bread right on the premise, and Neeva Gayle even designed the robes in each of the bathrooms. With such local-knowledge and personal attention to details, it’s no wonder the Hix Island House feels so intimate.
I’ve completed two trips to Vieques, and not until late in the second trip was I able to tear myself away from the pool. Comfortable lounge chairs, hummingbirds darting amongst flowers, vast ocean views, and the hillside breezes soothed the senses and depleted any desire for visiting another part of the island. It’s quite possible to never leave the HIH during one’s stay on Vieques. (But if you do, I recommend snorkeling the west side of Mosquito Pier.)
I’ll certainly be back for a third, fourth and fifth visit. I highly recommend that anyone looking for a place to escape and rejuvenate do the same! |
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Perfecto! Visited: October 2001 |
| Posted by grwadv |
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During my definitely off-season trip to Vieques, I met the caring, erudite owner/architect of this jewel of an inn. He assisted me with restaurant reservations that were quite difficult due to the off season, and in guiding me to the best spots on the island. Not to be missed: the top of Mount Pirata! The Neeva Gayle bread is fantastic, as is the owners' attention to creating an environment for relaxation and separation from hectic society. A trip here will bring you back time and time again. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
Buena Vista Visited: January 2001 |
| Posted by boopies2 |
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Architectural excellence. Fantastic views. Accommodating staff. Immaculate housekeeping. You will never feel as comfortably close to nature. Don't miss this treasure. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
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| Hix Island House is a unique indoor/outdoor living adventure, night theater under the stars, created for your pleasure. The three villas (Casa Redonda, Casa Rectangular and Casa Triangular) possess the largest studio lofts on Vieques and are dramatically sited on a gentle rolling hillside, La Colina del Sol (The Hill... |
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