Chill out in tropical paradise in Nosara, Costa Rica.

Thatched-roof pavilions in jungle gardens, hidden courtyards reflecting pools and temple carvings, covered open-air walkways, wide verandas and smooth wooden decks, living spaces that invite the landscape inside … these are all elements of the world-wide architectural phenomenon known as "Bali Style."

The mere mention of Bali evokes thoughts of tropical paradise. Bali is more than a small Indonesian island; it's a tropical state of mind. That "Shangri-La" vision has carried Bali's rich imagery far and wide in modern tropical architecture, furniture, art, and garden landscaping.

Tropical architecture design works with the elements of nature to achieve living comfort in hot, humid and wet climates. Balinese design is known for mirroring and blending in with its surroundings. Wood, bamboo and natural stone are used generously, earth tones dominate, and steeply pitched thatched or clay-tiled roofs with big overhangs help protect interior spaces from the tropical sun's brightness, as well as gushing rain showers. Living spaces open to gorgeous, lush green gardens, lofty mountains, or beautiful coastlines. The spirit world is very important in Bali, and their homes call to mind relaxing, meditative energy.

To simulate Bali's beautiful landscapes, this highly-popular architectural style uses inner courtyards set off by wooden decks, pools and water features – creating a harmonious relationship with nature.

Bali-style architecture is exceptionally popular in tropical Costa Rica. A spectacular example of Bali-style architecture is L'acqua Viva Resort & Spa at Playa Guiones, by Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula. L'acqua Viva means "live water," which is a key element flowing throughout the property. Hotel buildings and guest suites seem to float on abundant water mirrors, ponds and pools. Triangular pitched roofs sport wide thatched overhangs. A large elevated wooden deck by the pool provides space for sunning, along with shaded areas for when you need a rest from the heat.

L'acqua Viva Resort & Spa is located one kilometer from the fine white sand beach of Playa Guiones, known for great Costa Rica surfing. L'acqua Viva is part of the Enchanting Hotels group of Costa Rica. The best way to reach Nosara and Playa Guiones is to take a domestic flight from San Jose or Liberia to the Nosara domestic airport.

Article by Shannon Farley