This week KDHamptons received a post card from the white sandy beaches of Tulum, where Sag Harbor resident Karla Gutierrez [above] spends the off-season at her beautiful boutique hotel, Casa Violeta Tulum. “The first time I went to Tulum I fell in love with the strong connection to nature,” says Karla, “It is a highly charged, energetic place which shares some of the same healing magic I feel at home in Sag Harbor.”  Karla shares her ocean-side sanctuary, where guests come to recharge and “reconnect with their spiritual essence” in this NEW KDHamptons Travel Diary below:

KDHamptons: When did you discover the Hamptons?
Karla Gutierrez: In 2003 I met my husband in New York City, and the following year I discovered the Hamptons.  Since then, I have been spending all of my summers there in Sag Harbor. I could feel my energy shift as soon as we began driving on Route 27. My breath deepened, my chest cleared and my heart soared. Last summer we decided to move here full-time.

KDHamptons: What makes Sag Harbor so special to you?
Karla Gutierrez: I love the be connected to nature and the quality of life in Sag harbor. When I wake up in Sag Harbor I feel I am home within my self. So much nature, the water, the air and something bigger.  It’s that bigger spiritual energy that I also feel in Tulum. I also have my yoga classes with my favorite teachers who’s words inspire me, friends and family. It is like I found my rhythm again after losing it in the city. My son is in a wonderful school. He is happy and learning so much.

KDHamptons: Tell us more about Casa Violeta?
Karla Guttierez: Casa Violeta offers both natural, physical beauty and a spiritually-rich atmosphere, in which guests can connect to their higher selves. Our restaurant offers healthy food and a breathtaking view of the ocean. Our beachfront spa features many different healing treatments, including authenting Mayan massages that tap into the incredible local history. Last year, we built a new yoga palapa, where guests can enjoy the sights, sounds and aromas of the ocean, while deepening their practice with attentive, expert teachers.

Each of Casa Violeta’s rustically-designed palapas has its own unique character. From the fresh flowers to the ocean-inspired artwork, every detail has been hand-selected to create an elegant, harmonious vibe. The hippie chic style is streamlined and simple with luxurious touches that compliment Casa Violeta’s setting between the sea and the jungle.

KDHamptons: There are so many Hamptonites that are spending their off-season in Tulum right now. How do you think that connection began?
Karla Guttierez: What I know is that I have so much gratitude to the Universe for showing me the way and guiding me to create the healing paradise of Casa Violeta in Tulum and a home in Sag Harbor where I can continue to feel full and connected to nature and all the Universal Earth Energy that is so powerful here as well.

***For more information please go to: www.casavioletatulum.com and be sure to follow Karla on Instagram: @casavioleta and Facecbook: @casavioleta