Keeping your house cool without skyrocketing energy consumption can be challenging in the scorching heat of a Mexican summer. At places like Merida Real Estate, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum Real estate, the temperatures often exceed 90°F (32°C) during the peak summer months. Therefore it’s crucial to find effective cooling solutions that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Tag Archives: Riviera Maya
The World Environment Day
When was the World Environment Day set?
Climate change is a very real threat to our world, and we are already feeling many impacts across the planet. The Riviera Maya, for instance, with the recent super blooms of sargassum. Continue reading
Family Activities in the Riviera Maya
Family Activities in the Riviera Maya
One of the best things about the Riviera Maya is that there is something for everybody! If you prefer quiet relaxation on the beach, you can find a spot on the unending miles of pristine white-sand beaches. Continue reading
Riviera Maya, Best Diving Experience!
Riviera Maya offers a diverse dive-site portfolio for scuba diving, from big-animal encounters to western Caribbean coral reefs.
How to Survive the Riviera Maya’s Summer Heat Wave
Meteorologists warned locals and tourists in the state of Quintana Roo of an upcoming heat wave in the next few days that will be breaking records. The Solidaridad Civil Protection warned of roaring temperatures that will reach 38°C (100°F) but have a thermal sensation of 47°C (116°F). According to the director of meteorology in Solidaridad, “the heat wave is due to the inclination of the earth that causes solar radiation to arrive perpendicularly and is a period of time, which is fixed from July 15 to August 24, but in itself, does not have an exact date for it to start or end.” Moreover, humidity will also be at its highest, and the rainfall at its lowest. With news of the rising heat, many people may wonder how to prepare accordingly to avoid heat stroke, sun burn or anything more serious.
Drink Plenty of Water
Obvious, we know, but many people like to hydrate with beer. And while it’s definitely a nice and refreshing drink, water helps you replenish all you sweat from the heat. If you’re leaving your house make sure you bring bottled water with you everywhere, and replenish when you’re at a restaurant, bar or beach club. Caffeine and alcohol, while enjoyable, can contribute to dehydration. So, try to steer clear from them.
Eat Right
While we’re on the subject of staying hydrated, there are foods that will help you replenish and re-energize your body. While others contribute to the loss of water. With the heat, you need to eat moisturizing foods such as cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelon, and others. Of course, you can’t deny yourself other delicacies, just make sure you’re consuming these, as well. Also try eating in smaller portions throughout the day. Large meals can raise your metabolism, which in turn increases your body heat. The less you eat during one sitting, the less heat you’ll create.
One Word: Air Conditioning
Another obvious one, perhaps, but try to avoid walking out on Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen at midday, for example. Try to stay in closed places where you can cool off and if you really want to take a stroll make it short, through the shade and stop at stores, bars or restaurants to cool off from time to time. And while your electricity bill might go up slightly over the summer months, it’s best to stay cool at home, as well.
Dress Smart
You might want to stay away from darker colors while you’re putting up with this summer heat! Black fabric transmits heat to the skin, rising your temperature. Light colored clothing with lighter fabrics will be your best friend during this heat wave. The best color to wear is white, of course, as it rejects heat and helps you keep cool.
Take Advantage of Paradise
Hey, you’re in the Riviera Maya! Go cool off in the gorgeous turquoise waters and enjoy the beauty of the area. Be careful, however, and make sure you wear plenty of sunscreen to avoid sun burns and skin cancer. Make sure it’s biodegradable and apply it 30 minutes before you plan on swimming. Rash guards and hats are also your best friends when taking a dip in the ocean.
Avoid the Outdoors During Peak Hours
Doctors highly recommend avoiding being under the sun between 12 and 4pm as these are know as the peak sun hours. Especially when the sun is scorching hot and there are heat waves it is more important to avoid being out at this time. If you can’t avoid being under the sun then, make sure you’re wearing plenty of sun screen and alternating between sun and shade to avoid skin problems.
Keep Your Pets Safe
Avoid tragedies by keeping your pets constantly hydrated and only taking them out for walks really early in the morning or after dark. The heat of the streets and sidewalks can hurt their paws and exercising them during peak heat times can give them heat stroke as well. Give them enough cool water or cold treats (like frozen peanut butter and banana).
You Can Beat the Heat Wave
By following the previous advice and keeping yourself cool at all times, you’ll be able to take this heat wave like a breeze. Most importantly, however, you need to know the signs and ask for help when you start feeling dehydrated. Headaches, muscle pain, cramps, exhaustion and thirst are just some signs of heat stroke. Ask for medical assistance and head over to a cool and shaded place as soon as possible. Make sure you are given cold water both on your body and to drink. If there are any other major signs, call 911.
Bacalar: The Must-See Pueblo Magico of Quintana Roo
We are certain that the golden years are meant to be enjoyed relaxing. That is why when retiring to the gorgeous beach town of Playa del Carmen, taking day trips to visit other areas of the Riviera Maya is a must. Bacalar, for example, is a great place to start.
Seven Shades of Blue
Four open cenotes form the seven-color lagoon of Bacalar. These are waterholes that join the sea through mangroves. You could stand at the edge of the lagoon and actually count the seven different shades of blue the lagoon has. It stays true to its name. This Pueblo Magico is just a 3-hour drive south of Playa del Carmen. That’s why it is perfect for a one-day trip getaway. However, if you’re not too keen on driving back, there are plenty of options for accommodation by the lagoon that are magical to say the least.
In fact, we highly recommend you stay overnight on a weekend. The lagoon is at its most beautiful during and after the sun sets. The light of the sun going down highlights the seven shades of the lagoon, making it a sight to behold. Don’t forget to pack your camera to capture this amazing moment.
If you plan on doing an overnight trip, take your time stopping by some of the towns along the way to see the best of the Yucatan Peninsula. We highly recommend you stop for breakfast at the market in Felipe Carrillo Puerto. Once at the lagoon, and depending on whether you stay overnight or not, you can rent a kayak or a paddleboard to enjoy the lagoon from within. It’s a great way to explore the lagoon. There are also catamaran and boat rides that can take you around the lagoon for approximately 500 Mexican pesos.
Bacalar’s Deep Cenote Azul
Bacalar is also home to the Cenote Azul–one of the deepest cenotes in the area. It has an approximate diameter of 200 meters and 90 meters of depth. It is pitch black but makes for a great swimming experience. Visitors can spot the cenote all the way from the highway, as well as its surrounding lush Mayan jungle.
The waters in Bacalar are translucent and very blue. They are best enjoyed from a lagoon-edge swing or from the pier. There are plenty of places to rent a paddleboard or kayaks, although it is best to go in the morning when the waters are truly calm.
Pubelo Magico is a correct description of this gorgeous little town just 30 minutes from the city of Chetumal. Bacalar is a great place for snorkeling and exploring shades of blue you’ve only dreamed of before. And the culinary experience doesn’t hurt, either. While there, also take a tour of the Fuerte de San Felipe, an old fort built to keep pirates away from the town.
Bacalar is just a car ride away from some of the most sought-after retirement spots in Latin America. Tulum and Playa del Carmen are perfect for anyone planning to enjoy their golden years under the sun with a margarita or beer in hand.
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!
Enjoy Spring Break in the Caribbean – Visit the Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya has been a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, and especially from North America looking to have some fun in Spring Break. Sadly, there are so many concerns regarding if Mexico is safe to travel or not, that the influx of tourists has decreased in the last year or so.
For those lucky enough to live in the area, we are aware that this might sound quite scary… but still, the feeling around our community is that this shall pass and the government efforts to preserve the Riviera Maya as a safe area for tourists will succeed.
The 2018 Spring break is getting closer and closer and we are looking forward to seeing our dear friends and family from the US and Canada. A nice and affordable option is to get to Mexico on a cruise…directly to Cozumel.
Cozumel is a little island just off the coast of Playa del Carmen, and it is considered safe, unlike other areas in the Riviera Maya. So if you are thinking this might be an option, have a look at some of the deals we found!
4-Night Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans
(Carnival)
Start Spring Break at New Orleans and party all the way down to Cozumel!
Date: March 8/22, 2018
Price: Starting at $314 per person
If you want to enjoy an epic experience, this cruise will be unforgettable. Enjoy the French flair of New Orleans and hop into this cruise to enjoy everything Cozumel has to offer: the pristine waters of the Caribbean, scuba diving and many more cool activities.
Cozumel is so amazing and so close to Cancun and the Riviera Maya, we are sure you will find yourself scrambling to see and do everything there is.
7 Nights Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston
(Royal Caribbean)
Date: March 4, 2018
Price: Starting at $624 per person
Book a cruise at the Lone Star State and be in the hottest spots in the Caribbean
Even though Texas might not be considered the hub of Spring Break fun, South Padre Island is a popular destination for many wanting to enjoy the crazy nightlife and fun. There is also another option, to take a cruise and visit amazing destinations all over the Caribbean.
This Royal Caribbean Cruise will visit Cozumel, Georgetown in the Cayman Islands and Falmouth, Jamaica… a once in a lifetime trip to create amazing memories.
These amazing trips are so affordable and stress-free, we believe is a fun way to travel to Mexico and other areas in the Caribbean. Another advantage is that the cost includes transportation, accommodations, and meals, so you are more in control of your expenses.
We would love to hear about your plans for Spring Break, have you ever taken a Cruise?
Happy traveling, from everyone at The Let’s retire in Mexico team
Best Places to Celebrate Thanksgiving Day in the Riviera Maya
Thanksgiving has become an increasingly important celebration in the Riviera Maya, as the number of North American visitors keeps growing every year. It does not matter if they are a residents, snow birds or just tourists, they all celebrate Thanksgiving Day and local restaurants are getting ready to serve the best fare of turkey.
There are thousands of restaurants in the Riviera Maya, so how do you find a homey traditional dinner? Top Mexico Real Estate is always looking to provide the most relevant and accurate information, so you can find the best places to have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner in the Riviera Maya.
What do we mean by the best? The most fancy? The most expensive? The one that pays us a fee to publish their names? No! We are listing the restaurants that have crowds waiting for their dinner, the one that has a fanbase among the local expats, the one that will transport you from the sandy beaches of the Caribbean to whatever home is.
Our top picks for Thanksgiving Day Dinner are:
Wah Wah: Thanksgiving dinner on the beach
Wah Wah is a big favorite, among locals, expats and tourists. This restaurant in Playa del Carmen offers cold drinks nice casual food and live music. If you are looking for a beachfront venue for your dinner, Wah Wah is the place to be.
This year there will be a delicious menu that includes: Turkey, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Cabbage Rolls, Glazed Carrots, Garlic & Butter Squash, Deviled Eggs, Stuffing, Pumpkin Pie, Apple Pie, Fresh Bread, and Cranberry Sauce!
Wah Wah’s buffet dinner will have a cost of $300 pesos per person, and there is going to be a special 2×1 in Margaritas. The food is going to be served from 4 until 7 in the afternoon.
If you want to have a delicious Thanksgiving dinner here, please contact Wah Wah.
Mom’s Bar: The homey Thanksgiving dinner in the place where everybody will know your name
Mom’s Bar is another popular place to have Thanksgiving dinner, and traditionally they offer a delicious traditional menu. This year, they are having a Thanksgiving buffet dinner on November 23th 2017 at 7:00 P.M.
The buffet will be served only for 60 people, so it is important to make reservations ahead of time. The dinner will cost is $275 pesos per person. However, keep in mind that the menu doesn’t include drinks, therefore you must purchase them separately.
The buffet includes:
- Oven Roasted Turkey
- Smoked Ham
- Mashed Potatoes & Turkey Gravy
- Stuffing
- Green Bean Casserole
- Creamy Cole Slaw
- Cranberry Sauce with Almonds & Raisins
- Dinner Rolls & Butter
- MOM´S Double Chocolate Rum & Almond Cake with Iced Cream
If you want to contact Mom’s Bar and make reservations, visit their facebook page.
Turtle Bay Cafe: A delicious Dinner ready to take home
Turtle Bay is located in Akumal Bay and it is one of the best places in the Riviera Maya. Also,the food is incredible and their pastries are to die for.
The secret of their flavor is using a Mayan technique to cook the turkeys, as they are cooked in an underground oven or pib. This allows the birds to cook at a very slow pace, while retaining all its juices and flavor.
Nonetheless, if catering doesn’t work for you, you can also pick one of the two available times to have dinner at the restaurant.
Here is a menu, if you’d like to have a look:
Thanks for reading our blog and we hope you have an amazing Thanksgiving day. Please let us know if you know about another venue to enjoy Thanksgiving Day. We would love to hear about your plans, and share this information with other readers.
Happy Thanksgiving Day, from the team at Let’s Retire in Mexico!
As a token of our appreciation, we have included a special guide filled with Insider Tips for the Riviera Maya. Click on the link below to download this incredible guide with all the best spots to eat, shop, swim and adventure in the Mexican Caribbean!
5 Beautiful Secret Beaches You Must Visit in the Yucatan Peninsula
It’s not a secret; Mexico has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Each year, thousands of tourists choose the Yucatan Peninsula as their destination for incredible vacations. This place has become a favorite destination for both, tourists and Mexicans.
Once you land in Mexico, any beach you visit will look extraordinary. It’s guaranteed that you will never find an ugly beach in Mexico, but when it comes to the Caribbean, you are standing in paradise. The white sand that almost feels like powder and the beautiful crystal-clear waters will hypnotize you. Walking along the beach, while you take a sunbath and freshen up with the sea breeze, is an unforgettable experience.
Since most tourists come to the Caribbean beaches to look for comfort, some beaches tend to be too crowded. This could actually be ideal for people who want to have fun and party. However, for those who want to relax and enjoy, a tranquil beach would be perfect. Luckily for those people, the Yucatan Peninsula has many virgin beaches; most of these beaches are kept secret and are much less crowded.
Here are the 5 most beautiful beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula:
Caleta Tankah, Tulum:
This beautiful beach is located on the Highway 307, on the way to Tulum. It is a 43-minute drive from Playa del Carmen and 1 hour 30 minutes from the Cancun airport. The entrance to this beach is not easy to see, so it’s really important to be alert and observe the way.
Once you’re in, you’re going to drive a small path towards the beach; it should be less than a minute. The entrance fee is $150 pesos, and it includes access to the beach club. Right here you can choose a spot, leave your things and relax. This location has a restaurant, so you can order delicious food and beverages for a reasonable price. It’s important to mention that Caleta Tankah has limited space, so it is highly recommended to arrive early.
A wonderful thing about this place is the beautiful inlet “caleta”, where fresh and salt water collide. However, the whole beach itself is stunning, from the beautiful white sand to the amazing crystal-clear waters. Also, Tankah is home to a cenote. You can dive into this freshwater sinkhole and freshen up a little.
El Cielo, Cozumel:
You may have heard of this fantastic paradise located just a short drive from downtown Cozumel. This place is perfect to do some snorkeling in its crystalline waters that allow you to appreciate the bottom of the sea. El Cielo has become one of the favorite destinations for people who visit this island.
To arrive to this paradise, you have to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. Once you get to Cozumel, you can buy a tour that includes activities such as snorkeling. It is also possible to book a tour through a website. If you decide to acquire a snorkeling activity, don’t miss the opportunity to watch the starfishes; a highly interesting activity El Cielo has to offer. The white sandy beach and the turquoise water will make you never want to leave the Caribbean.
Xcacel, Tulum:
The turtle sanctuary, located 40 minutes away from Playa del Carmen, is also home to a cenote. This hidden jewel is another paradise the Yucatan Peninsula has at your disposal. Its name is Xcacel and it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Quintana Roo. The entrance fee to this beach is $20 pesos.
Why is Xcacel so special? Let’s begin with the fact that it is a turtle sanctuary. Each year, between April and October, thousands of turtles arrive to nest along this beach. If you’re visiting Quintana Roo during these months, you can volunteer for one day and witness the birth of hundreds of turtles.
Another beauty in this place is the amazing freshwater sinkhole, known as cenotes. “Cenote Xcacelito” is perfect if you want to cool off in fresh water. It is located a few steps away from the beach, in the middle of the jungle. Run to the cenote and escape for a while from the Caribbean heat. Xcacel is definitely a beach you must visit at least once.
Boca Paila, Southern Tulum
Boca Paila is an incredible fishing village located in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. This is a dream for anyone who is a nature lover. In the same way, any adventurous lover would enjoy a night camping here.
Besides being a gorgeous beach, Boca Paila has a giant lagoon, which is actually ideal for fishers. Thanks to the fact that Boca Paila is located in a protected area, this beach is still virgin. As a result, it is not crowded and noisy. Thus this beach is ideal for a tranquil and relaxing getaway.
Also, if you decide to stay the night and camp here, this would happen under the starry sky. From here, you will be able to appreciate nature as you’ve never done it before. This heavenly site doesn’t have any kind of service, so we recommend bringing water, food and a tent. Please remember to keep the beach clean!
Punta Maroma, Northeast Playa del Carmen
Punta Maroma is definitely among the most beautiful beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula. This site has become a favorite destination for newlyweds. For those who enjoy a beach that is not very crowded, this is the perfect place.
Punta Maroma offers a tranquil and peaceful ambience. People who commonly visit this beach, consider it a giant crystal-clear pool. Here you can admire the beautiful landscapes with gorgeous colors next to the calm Caribbean Sea. Since this beach is not crowded, you will be able to enjoy this paradise for yourself. Punta Maroma has a large range of lodgings; here you will find camping spots, eco-friendly hotels and fancy villas.
If you’re intending to visit this place, Punta Maroma is located 35 kilometers from the Cancun International Airport. As a reference, it’s between Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen.
So take your things and visit these beautiful and amazing beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula. Don’t forget to take your camera with you and photograph the stunning landscapes.
Have an incredible getaway far from the city and close to nature. Enjoy the Caribbean to the fullest.
Thriving Ecotourism in The Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya is home to one of the fastest growing cities in Latin America: Playa del Carmen. It also hosts millions of international tourists each year, through its abundance of all-inclusive resorts, luxury hotels and strong vacation rental market. There is so much fun to be had in the bustling tourist scene of the Riviera Maya.
Is this all the Riviera Maya has to offer? Or is there another side to this place? Can you find peace and tranquility? Nature that is unobstructed by man? Beautiful places where one can experience and connect with nature? Well yes, you sure can!
The Riviera Maya literally has so much to offer, even a thriving ecotourism scene. Below is a list of the top 6 ecotourism destinations in the Riviera Maya!
- Akumal (Turtle Sanctuary)
This hidden treasure is apart of a small community just 39 km from Playa del Carmen, and 105 km from Cancun. Akumal Bay is home to an array of fish, coral, and sea turtles. It’s a true paradise that allows you to be one with nature and swim amongst the sea life.
They have protective measures in place to protect the marine wildlife, especially the sea turtles. Snorkeling tours are great to learn about the habitat and different species that live there. Or, you can bring your own gear and go out on your own. Make sure to wear a life jacket though, they are mandatory to protect the sea floor from diving destruction. An experience like this is truly special, you can learn about the habitat and connect with marine life.
- Cancun, MUSA (Museo Subacuático Del Arte)
Another beautiful eco marine zone is, “The Underwater Museum of Art” in Cancun. This place is a true spectacle of the interaction between environmental science and man-made sculptures. The whole museum shows how beautiful and powerful a marine biosystem is, by creating a complex reef structure with thriving marine life. Experience the beauty by glass bottom boat, snorkeling or scuba diving.
- Bacalar (Eco Friendly Escape)
The most secluded, non-touristy, eco friendly place is probably Bacalar, also known as “The 7 Color Lagoon.” You wont find all-inclusive giants here. Accommodations consist of eco friendly hotels and resorts. Many of them utilizing alternative energy sources. It’s a beautiful place to take a boat tour of the lagoon to see the colors, wildlife and thriving ecosystem. Or you can simply rent a kayak or paddle board to explore on your own.
- Cozumel (Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park)
This national park is located off the coast of Cozumel and is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, which is the second largest coral reef system in the world. The park is home to several species of sea life that are under some degree of protection. It’s an amazing place for avid divers and snorkelers. With the crystal-clear waters far away from shore or any man made structures, it makes for a wonderful and clean experience.
- Sian Ka’an Biosphere
This place is fully committed to protecting the area and its fragile ecosystems, being a World Heritage Site and the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean. That being said, there are many environmentally friendly tours to bring people into this region’s spectacular wildlife and awe-inspiring Mayan ruins. Here you will be able to find snorkel tours, nature encounters, bird watching, Mayan ruins and fly fishing expeditions.
- Isla Holbox
Holbox Island has 21 miles of white sand beaches and is part of the Yum Balam Ecological Reserve. Its a quiet piece of paradise in the north of Quintana Roo and boasts natural beauty through its scenery and wildlife. Here you can experience an array of things, from swimming with whale sharks to bird watching, there is something for everyone.
There you have it, the top 6 ecotourism opportunities in the Riviera Maya. A destination as bustling and busy is this, still has plenty of relaxing and peaceful attractions for the eco-tourist enthusiast.
