Category Archives: Shopping

Snowbirds are Returning to Playa del Carmen

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It’s that time of year when the snowbirds start to prepare for their return to Playa del Carmen once again. Leaving behind the cold winds, rain and snow and migrate south to the sunny beaches of Playa del Carmen for much fun and well deserved relaxation.

Since your visit last year Playa del Carmen has had some changes to the Fifth Avenue. You will be glad to know that more stores have been added to the La Quinta Alegria Shopping Plaza, and there are several others due to open shortly. Unfortunately, the Body Shop has closed and remains empty right now but we are excited to see what will open next.

If you remember, last year there was a large construction site just a few steps away from the La Quinta Alegria mall, where the famous Calle Corazon used to be. Now there is a modern five story plaza called “Calle Corazon Mall”, where you will find well known retail stores like H&M -which opened one of the largest fashion shops on Fifth Avenue, plus sunglasses, cosmetics and a new Starbucks, and there will be much more to come. Above the shopping area is the upscale Thompson Hotel with 2 rooftop restaurants that are open to the public, the Cinco and Catch Restaurant, here you can enjoy a fabulous meal and some of the best views of the city.

Hopefully some things in Playa del Carmen will not change as we as locals and snow birds enjoy the simpler things too and a big hit with both is Kava Kasa. You will be happy to know that they still have a great yoga lineup and their weekly local market has not changed, you will find your fresh produce there every Tuesday morning. Kava Kasa posts their monthly yoga schedule on their Kava Kasa Facebook page and any other changes that may happen.

You will be happy to know that your favorite bars have not changed and still have their amazing lineups to keep your evenings full of entertainment and happy hours.

If this is your first year coming to Playa del Carmen as a Snowbird, there is a great online community of Expats that are always happy to assist you whether you just can’t find the right ingredient or if you are looking for fun night out.

One of the forums that is very useful is Playa Info, where you can find general information posted from where to find pink lemonade to a lists of the best happy hours in town.

Another very helpful community is the Facebook group Expats & Locals in Playa del Carmen, in this community they cover everything you need to know for daily living in Playa del Carmen and are eager to meet new people, they even arrange nights out which is a great way to meet new people and expand your social group.

Welcome Snowbirds Old and New!

Centro Maya, Shopping in the Valle Bambu Neighborhood

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We usually don’t think of a mall as a community center or defining a specific community.  Yet, Centro Maya in Playa del Carmen most certainly does define the new community sprouting up around it.  Real estate buyers will do well to consider this community, for the following reasons:

The mall offers many services and conveniences 

There is a large supermarket, City Club, a movie theater, a food court, several furniture and appliance stores (including a newer, upscale European store,) clothing, shoes and jewelry, and a variety of other shops.

Easy access, good transportation 

The mall is right next to the highway offering quick access to the international airport, ecoparks and the many attractions that the area offers.  A nice, wide boulevard offers direct access past the mall and into the community.  The mall is also a taxi hub, making it easy and quick to get good transportation to any part of town without having to wait.

The beach is just a short drive away

The beach is about a 10 minute drive away.  Those who enjoy biking can get there in about 15-20 minutes. And, of course, you have to remember that these aren’t just any beaches – these are Playa del Carmen’s beaches, among the finest to be found!

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There are excellent properties at good prices

A large master development is taking shape behind the mall.  There is a variety of properties, including lots, luxury homes and also simple homes.  For some examples of the real estate options in the Valle Bambu neighborhood, please click here. All offering the full benefits of this community. In this location, you can expect to get even more for your dollar than in downtown!

It is quiet and natural

The community has been designed to have plenty of trees, tree-lined boulevards, parks and nature integrated into the residential development.  As well as a new bike/walking path around the neighborhood.  This community offer parks, plenty of green space, a school, shopping and family friendly entertainment.

It is well designed

The layout of the roads, the visual appeal of the communities and all other aspects have been designed to create a relaxing environment for a quiet but active lifestyle.  The road layout offers quick access to the highway while still offering privacy.

There will be sports facilities

At the center of the community there will be sports complex for the community to use.  Combined with bike trails and an appealing outdoor atmosphere make it easy and enjoyable to keep fit!

This community offers many amenity’s, benefits and good prices, as well as easy access to Playa del Carmen’s best mall.  Be sure to consider it as one of your Playa del Carmen real estate options.

photo IMG_0652_zpsyovghraa.jpg And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Things to Do in Playa Del Carmen on a Rainy Day

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Like every good tropical region, the Riviera Maya has one long rainy season. It starts in June and runs all the way through October. However, this does not mean that every day is a rainy day! While most days you will be able to enjoy the beautiful, paradise beaches, outdoor activities, site seeing, and much more, you should also plan (and pack) for occasional rainy days.

Most people come to the Riviera Maya because it’s a fully outdoor holiday, but there is plenty to do and enjoy while it’s raining outside. And worry not, because rain tends to fall strongly for an hour or two and then stop completely, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beach, 5th Avenue, or anything else. Just carry a poncho (or umbrella) with you!

Here are some fun things to do in Playa Del Carmen on a rainy day:

Go to the Movies
Believe it or not, most movies screened in Mexico are in their original version and subtitled. Only children’s movies are dubbed. You have plenty of films to watch in either of the two movie theaters found in Playa del Carmen: Cinemex in Centro Maya, or Cinepolis in Plaza las Americas.

Go Shopping
Since you’re already in Centro Maya or Plaza las Americas, you might as well go shopping. Both malls are not as big as you are used to back home, but they have plenty of shopping and food available. Another option is visiting the new Quinta Alegria plaza located on 5th Avenue. This plaza is open but offers shelter from the rain to walk around.

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Have a Long Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner
It doesn’t matter what time it starts raining at…visiting a restaurant and enjoying a long and relaxing meal is a great option while the rain falls. You could visit any one of the many restaurants on 5th Avenue, or somewhere off the beaten path, and try some delicious Mexican, Italian, French, gourmet, street, or even German food!

Go Dancing!
12th street is waiting for you, regardless of rain. If it’s raining at nighttime (or party time), don’t stay in just because of the weather. Once you reach 12th street you will find plenty of choices between bars and clubs to dance the rain (and night) away!

Go on a Tour
Visiting cenotes, going on ATVs, or visiting Río Secreto and Xplor are great options for when it’s raining. You’ll be getting wet anyway. Rio Secreto is a beautiful underground river and cenote, perfect for any weather. Xplor is Experiencias Xcaret’s adventure park – zipline, swim through rivers, and have fun…rain or not! Most ATV tours include visiting a cenote and riding through fun filled and muddy paths!

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Discover a Café 
Playa del Carmen is full of uniquely designed, delicious coffee and teashops. Find one that you like and spend a rainy afternoon reading a book and enjoying a Mexican brewed coffee or tea. You can also find cookies, breads, cakes, and other sweet things to enjoy with the drink of your choice.

Get a Massage
You know you’ve been thinking about it since you arrived in Playa del Carmen. You’re on vacation and you deserve a massage. So what better time to get one than when it’s raining outside? The sound of the rain and the relaxing music at the spa will surely allow you to let it all go, relax, and enjoy. Playa del Carmen is full of spas waiting for you…get off 5th Avenue and find one that is not as expensive and that will leave you feeling more relaxed!

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Stay In 
Seldom do you get to enjoy a day of relaxation in the hotel. Pamper yourself, order room service, turn the TV on and watch a movie. You may not be getting the full Playa del Carmen experience through it, but you will definitely feel ready for your next adventure day in paradise!

There is no reason to feel frustrated because your holidays are “ruined” by the rain! Never forget that Playa del Carmen is much more than paradise beaches, and that there are plenty things to do in Playa Del Carmen on a rainy day.

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-owned, locally based real estate company, leader in the Riviera Maya. If you are thinking of retiring or relocating to paradise, feel free to contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives who will happily guide you on your path to becoming a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Shopping in Cancun & the Riviera Maya

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If you are traveling to Cancun or the Riviera Maya, shopping might not cross your mind. However, this area has a wide variety of shopping centers and stores. As a rule of thumb the price for designer’s clothes and electronics are somewhat higher than in the United States, but you might find a great deal or some unique articles that cannot be found in America; liquors, cigars, etc.

Here at Top Mexico Real Estate we have made ​​a list of our favorite malls in Cancun and throughout the Riviera Maya. If you are looking for a souvenir, sporting goods or clothing; we are sure you will find it in the nearest mall.

Shopping in Cancun

There are several shopping malls in Cancun, offering everything one could possibly need. Some of them have movie theaters, casinos and supermarkets; however we are focusing in the ones closest to the beach, hotel and tourist area. Get a little shopping therapy in Cancun.

La Isla

Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 12.5, Cancun, Quintana Roo

This mall is located within the hotel zone, so it is pretty easy to find. This beautiful shopping center has a view of the Nichupte lagoon, waterways and open areas that allow you to enjoy the Caribbean breeze.

This is one of the most popular malls for visitors and locals alike, it is always packed on the weekends. Some of the stores that you can find here are: Liverpool, La Boutique Palacio, Ultrafemme, Zara, Benetton, Thai, Starbucks, Italianni’s, Massimo Dutti, among many others.

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Luxury Avenue

Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13 Mza 53 Lote 8, Cancun, Quintana Roo

Bring your wallet and your credit cards, this shopping mall specializes in luxury brands and offers specialized services such as a concierge or shopping assistant. Luxury Avenue is located in the hotel zone, it offers a wide variety of luxury shops and elegant restaurants and offers Tax Free or Tax Back options, if you’re visiting from abroad.

This mall is for those who want the very best, it boasts shops by international designers such as: Fendi, Burberry, Coach, Tous, Mont Blanc, Cartier and Swarovski.  Visit their page to receive more information about their fashion shows and special offers.

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Shopping In Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen has many shops offering everything from A to Z. In Playa you will find beautiful outdoor malls, shopping centers and the famous 5th avenue a pedestrian only street lined with shops, restaurants and bars.

Quinta Alegria

Location: 5th Ave. and Constituyentes Ave., Downtown, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

This mall is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of prestigious shops and restaurants. Located on 5th Avenue and Constituyentes avenue is easily accessible and its open plan lets you enjoy the Caribbean weather and the sea breeze.

Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at great shops like Nike, Levi’s, Bebe or Forever 21 or enjoy a delicious Starbucks coffee or a glass of wine with some tapas in La Europea Deli and Wine store.

La Quinta Alegria is the place to shop in Playa del Carmen!

Paseo del Carmen

10 & 1st Ave. south between 36 and 37, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Conveniently located at the end of the 5th avenue near the ferry station, Paseo del Carmen is a traditional shopping place for locals and visitors alike. It is ideal to have alfresco meals and margaritas, stroll under the native trees and relax to the sound of the fountains.

Some of the shops that you’ll find in this mall are Zara, Pull and Bear, Oakley, Starbucks and many others. We are sure you will love this location!

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Enjoy the Riviera Maya and Cancun real estate. Relax on the beach, take in some sights, eat at amazing cafes and restaurants, and go shopping. This area provides a plethora of luxury, souvenir, specialty and unique shops… sure to empty you wallet and fill your suitcases.

The Famous Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue – Food, Shopping, Entertainment, Future!

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Tourists from all over the world come to Playa del Carmen for the beautiful beaches and unlimited doses of sunshine!  But there’s something else that makes this chic beach town a little extra special!  The Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue is a well-known and well-loved pedestrian walk way in Playa del Carmen, housing some of the best in dining, shopping and entertainment in the entire Riviera Maya!

When I first came to Playa del Carmen many years ago, there was not much to be said of the 5th Avenue. In fact, Playa was simply a small fisherman’s village where you can find plenty of simplicity!  Now times have changed, and now Playa is an ultimate tourist and retirement destination, with many conveniences and plenty of entertainment!

Why we love 5th!

The Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue is a mostly pedestrian walkway made of cobblestone and a ton of charm! You can spend the day people watching, take a nice walk, go for a jog, grab a book and enjoy a nice quiet morning at Starbucks, go for a delicious breakfast, grab a coconut refreshment, purchase an excursion, splurge on a shopping spree, indulge in a massage or spa treatment, braid your hair, you name it!

The Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue is a place for everyone to enjoy the things they love all in one beautiful pathway!

Love in the form of food!

One of the features that makes Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue so popular is the wide array of delicious National and International food options!  You can find everything from fine Italian dining, to authentic Mexican food selections, to French bistros, to Argentinian steak houses, to incredible sushi and great pizza!  The dining options range from classy fine dining selections to casual and affordable!  But no matter the price, it’s all great!

Shop your little heart out!

The Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue has everything from cheesy souvenir shops to high end luxury shopping, and everything in between!  If you forgot your swimsuit, broke your sunglasses, or love the feel of a new dress, or pair of heels, you can find it here!  You can find familiar stores like Nike, The Sunglass Hut, Forever 21, Roxy, Nine West, Pandora, The Body Shop, as well as plenty of small specialty boutiques and name brand shopping!

Be Amused! 

Believe it or not the Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue is filled with entertainment day and night!  You may notice mariachis, local musicians performing your favorite tunes, and Fire Show performers showing you their talents right on the street!  If you are walking down the 5th at night you are sure to come across bars showcasing live band performances.  Stop, have a drink, and relax enjoying great laid back entertainment!

Have Faith! 

Right there in the southern end of Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue, is a cute small little church where many go to enjoy mass, to find a quiet peaceful moment or to celebrate life or love!

The Future! The Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue has been an ever changing and ever moving project over the years, and it is expected to continue to grow!  Recently the town completed a major expansion of the beautiful cobblestone walk way, far to the North of Playa, and is it expected to continue even further to accommodate easy access from new residential neighborhoods and resorts in the area.

Within the next couple years we are sure to see added retail, entertainment and dining options fill into the new section of the 5th Avenue!

In this moment we are waiting to see what will become of the old Calle Corazon, and other areas that have been recently bought out by a major investor, coming with plans to add new major retail and hotel options.

If you have never been to this famous staple of Playa del Carmen, is surely a must do if you are in the Riviera Maya this season!  It is the perfect meeting spot, and a place to enjoy, during anytime of the day or night!

New Mall Making Holiday Shopping in Playa del Carmen a success!

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Just in time for the holiday season, we are finally seeing Playa del Carmen’s newest and most anxiously awaited project now completed and ready for the high season and Christmas shopping in Playa del Carmen!  If you haven’t already guessed, I’m talking about the new Quinta Alegria Mall, located directly on the 5th Avenue in the heart of Playa del Carmen!

For many months we have heard countless rumors about what stores we would see welcomed to Playa del Carmen.  There were many hopes of an H&M and Victoria Secrets, as well as a Cheesecake factory and other beloved American Brands.

While some of these rumors did not prove to be true we still have a final result that is pleasing to many expats who live in Playa as well as favored shopping options for tourists!

So what can you expect to see added to your selection for shopping in Playa del Carmen this holiday season?

  • Sanbourns! Mexico’s well known and loved department store and restaurant selling everything from books, to sunglasses, to perfumes and makeup, to DVD’s and electronics!
  • Victoria Secret Beauty! The VC name is making a mark in Playa for loved fragrances, makeup and accessories!  Sorry ladies, this VC is mainly for accessories!
  • Levis! Perfectly fitting for some cooler Playa nights ahead with their nice selection of denim jeans
  • Columbia! Well-loved brand for outdoor active wear and apparel
  • The Body Shop! We’ve seen it in Cancun but now you can find the best of your favorite lotions, shower gels, hand soaps, sprays and mineral make up items here in Playa!
  • Forever 21! Most anticipated opening among the female crowd in Playa del Carmen.  This Forever 21 has two entire floors reserved for clothing and accessories for women!
  • Bebe! High end clothing store for women well known in the United States

Along with some of these great new additions you will also find some repeats such as the Nike store, Marti Sporting Goods, Mister Tennis, Oakley, Watch my Watch, Sunglass Hut, La Europea, Harley Davidson and Starbucks and more!

The mall itself is a beautiful and attractive addition to the 5th avenue with a very appealing open air design!  If you have been able to walk by these days you will see the beautiful Christmas tree lit up and plenty of pretty white lights inside making it a pleasant new landmark in Playa del Carmen!

Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping in Playa del Carmen this season!

Want to Know What an Ancient Mayan Market Looked Like? Try Playa del Carmen

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Have you ever wondered what an ancient Maya market looked like?

 

Sure, there are “modern” Mayan markets in the Yucatan Peninsula – they are only “modern” in the sense that they exist in the present age.  But we all know that things have changed over the past 500 – 1000 years.

 

Fortunately, the Mayan’s ancient civilization was well documented, and combined with archaeological research as well as the culture’s own tradition, it has been possible to set up an ancient Mayan market, in Playa del Carmen!

 

Xcaret, a theme park just on the south edge of town, hosted the event.

 

I had the chance to go! Take a look at the pictures:

 

Notice the ancient Mayan garb of the vendors:

 

These are almost hairless dogs that the ancient Mayans and Aztecs kept:

 

If you ever get the chance, go to a market like this one – it’s quite the experience!

 

-by Bea Lozano

 

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