Photo credit: www.cntraveler.com
El Zonte, a quaint town nestled along the picturesque Pacific coastline of El Salvador, approximately an hour from the capital, San Salvador, is evolving. Historically a favorite among surfers and budget travelers drawn to its serene ambiance and excellent right-hand waves, the area is now beginning to appeal to a more upscale demographic. This transformation coincides with what many see as an era of enhanced security and growth under the presidency of 43-year-old Nayib Bukele, particularly recognized for his Bitcoin-centric policies.
Pedro Querejeta, a Cuban American hotelier married to a Salvadoran, reflects on the community’s evolution: “It’s a little community of like-minded people. We’re in it for the long run.” Querejeta, who has been a frequent visitor since 1992, established the beachfront Puro Surf Hotel in 2017, notable for its sustainable thatched roof design that minimizes environmental impact through rainwater recycling. Last year, he expanded his offerings by adding the family-oriented Wave House, which features an infinity pool with ocean views, an art gallery, and shared areas showcasing locally made textiles.
Another addition to the area’s accommodations is the Al Suave House, a striking villa opened last year by entrepreneur and surfer Matt Schapiro. Designed by the innovative Salvadoran architectural firm Cincopatasalgato, this hotel boasts a bright yoga space and a unique pool that winds through the property, mimicking the nearby El Zonte River. The town’s charm is also captured in establishments like the stylishly simple Garten Hotel and the more eclectic El Xalli resort. Both venues provide yoga classes and wellness activities like sound baths, embodying the growing trend towards holistic health in the area.
As El Zonte undergoes this transformation, it reflects a broader narrative of change in El Salvador, influenced by economic developments, a focus on sustainability, and a community intent on creating a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike.
Source
www.cntraveler.com