Mexico’s Holidays: Dia de los Reyes Magos and Dia de la Candelaria

In the United States and Canada, Christmas festivities are generally wrapped up by New Year’s Day. In Mexico, however, the festivities are far from over. Mexicans celebrate Dia de los Reyes Magos (known as Epiphany in the English-speaking world) on January 6th. This marks the day that the Three Wise Men visited and brought gifts for baby Jesus. It is tradition for families to get together on this day, exchange gifts and, of course, feast with delicious meals.

The Arrival of the Reyes Magos

Three Wise Men

One of the most important elements of the Dia de los Reyes Magos is the rosca de reyes, or the wreath of the kings. This is a large, oval-shaped cake featuring sweetened dried fruit, which represents the jewels on a crown. A small white figurine representing baby Jesus is hidden inside the cake. This mimics the hiding of Jesus from King Herod. Slices are served from the cake to every attendee. Whoever gets the cake with the figurine then has to host a tamale dinner on Dia de la Candelaria on February 2nd.

However, for children, the exciting bit takes place on the 6th in the morning. On the night of the 5th, the Three Wise Men travel by elephant, camel and horse to visit the house of every well-behaved child. They leave gifts behind as a representation of the gifts brought to baby Jesus. The following morning, children will awake early and open their presents. Many children in Mexico today get presents both from Santa Claus and the Three Wise Men.

Dia de la Candelaria: Feburary 2nd

Tamales

While the United States and Canada celebrate Groundhog Day, Mexico is looking another way. Dia de la Candelaria is known as Candlemas in English. The tradition of Groundhog Day is echoed as well in an old English saying:

If Candlemas be fair and bright, 

Winter has another flight. 

If Candlemas brings clouds and rain, 

Winter will not come again.

In Mexico however, the celebration on this day is quite different. Throughout the country on this day people dress up figurines of the Christ Child in special holiday outfits and take them to the church to be blessed by the priest, and are then carried around by their owners as part of the celebrations. Another part of the tradition is to bring candles to mass, so you might notice some beautiful examples being sold around this time in some of the shops.

A dinner gathering featuring tamales is then hosted by the person who found the figurine in the Rosca De Reyes during Dia De Los Reyes Magos. Tamales are dumplings made of masa (corn dough) stuffed with either savory or sweet fillings, and then wrapped in a corn husk and steamed – this is a staple dish for many families who often have their own secret recipes. Often this is also the day when many people take down their Christmas decorations so the added help of party attendees is very welcomed!

Become a part of Mexican culture

Retirement in Mexico

After Dia de la Candelaria things get back to normal – until the next round of festivities! If you are in Mexico during February, be sure to take part in celebrations during this time. It is a great way to experience authentic Mexican culture, as these are celebrations that are deeply important to devout Mexicans across the country. It’s a beautiful view into the culture and lifestyle of the Mexican people, and a great way to get to know your Mexican friends and family.

The best way to get involved in the culture, of course, is by living it. So, if you’re considering retirement abroad, don’t overlook Mexico. We have thousands of properties suited for all styles, needs and budgets.  Make sure to contact our Top Mexico Real Estate Buyer’s Representatives and start looking for your dream home in Mexico!

Buying Safely in Mexico e-book

Adopting a Green Lifestyle in Mexico

Over the past few years, environmental impact has become a more pressing issue. It has called for people to start making changes in their lives. Likewise, it has pushed real estate developers to consider sustainable construction to avoid damaging the planet further. In fact, Tulum was recently the first destination in Mexico to become a sustainable tourism zone. Each day, more and more people are adopting a green lifestyle to help the environment as much as possible. And it is as easy as making slight little changes at home. Because Tulum and Playa del Carmen are pushing to become sustainable communities, we urge expats, locals and retirees to start adopting a green lifestyle.

Although the Earth’s temperature has ebbed and flowed throughout the course of history, all current signs point to human activity causing a shift in its natural path. Global sea levels are rising and temperatures are surging. 15 out of the 16 hottest years on record have taken place since 2001. Fortunately, there are still opportunities for us to reverse this course. The introduction of new technologies and environmentally-friendly products have made it so that it’s more possible than ever to switch to a green lifestyle.

Simple Solutions to Help the Environment

Riding a bike

Going green nowadays does not mean going back to basics (or adopting a more bohemian or hippie lifestyle). You are not expected to live off the grid or move into a commune to lead an environmentally-friendly life. There are many ways to incorporate green practices into your everyday life. Some simple solutions are:

  • Wash your clothes with cold water;
  • Use drying racks or clotheslines instead of a dryer;
  • Take shorter showers;
  • Walk or bike instead of using a car.

Green Lifestyle in your Home

Green Energy Homes

However, you can also adapt your home for a green lifestyle to reduce energy usage. While many people still consider a green home to be too expensive, the reality is that certain things are affordable and even free (like recycling). Solar panels have become reasonably-priced over the past few years. In a sunny locale like the Riviera Maya, solar panels can be an extremely effective way to reduce your energy usage. Mexico’s primary electric company, Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE), allows you to connect your home’s solar panels into a nation-wide grid in order to more effectively reduce your usage.

Energy-efficient appliances have the ability to reduce your environmental impact (and reduce your energy bill). Even if many of these are slightly more expensive, you will still end up ahead in the money you save on energy bills over time.

Now, if you’re going all out money-wise, adding water recycling systems can also be a huge saving. Mix this up with a green wall that will enhance your home, keep you healthier and, of course, save water.

You will not only be saving on your monthly bill with your energy-efficient home, but your home value will increase. You will intrigue buyers with a home outfitted with green technologies, should you ever want to sell your home.

Invest in Sustainable Real Estate

Nuuch Allure Tulum

If you’re just considering the possibility of purchasing real estate in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, you should consider investing in sustainable real estate. There are many options available throughout Playa del Carmen. However, Tulum is ahead of the game in sustainable development at the moment. Places such as the community of Luum Zama are committed to preserving the environment. That is why developments within this community are bound, by contract, to keeping 60% of their land untouched. Moreover, developments such as Nuuch Allure also offer the possibility of adding solar panels right from the start. You can also consider Puerta Azul Tulum. It is built with locally-sourced materials that make maintenance easier and more affordable, as well as less damaging.

Earth is humanity’s only home. It is important for all of us to do our part to keep our planet healthy. After all, who would like to live in the Riviera Maya if it didn’t have its bright-blue waters, fine white-sand beaches and lush tropical jungle? Consider some ways you can incorporate a green lifestyle to keep our planet beautiful for generations to come.

New Year’s Eve Activites in Playa del Carmen

The year is coming to and end. Celebrating New Year’s Eve is the highlight of the year to many. Playa del Carmen is a great place to celebrate. There are many exciting events going on over the holidays for you to enjoy with friends and loved ones. Playa del Carmen is an exciting place to be during this time of year. You can meet friends old and new. You can hang out with expats, locals and tourists. These are some of the events going on in town.

New Year’s Eve at Mamitas Beach

Mamitas Beach in Playa del Carmen

Check out one of the hottest beach clubs in Playa del Carmen for New Year’s Eve. Your ticket will get you a three-course dinner cooked by Chef Francisco Del Piero, a bottle of sparkling wine per couple, champagne glasses, and grapes for your toast. You also get your very own party kit and, of course, performances and music all night with a special fireworks show at midnight.

A Very Tiki New Year

Welcome the new year in style at The Tiny Tiki Hut. You get three menu times, an open bar with house cocktails and beers, and party favors for just $700 pesos. Act fast, though, because space is limited and reservations close on December 29th.

Cheering at Tequila Barrel

Ring in the new year with fun at the Tequila Barrel’s New Year’s Eve party. They have several packages to choose from for groups of four people. You can get bottles of champagne, appetizers, New Year’s party kits and, of course, your grapes.

Sundowner Yacht Club

New Year’s Dinner

Imagine starting the new year with amazing Australian specialties all the way in Mexico! At Sundowner Yacht Club, you can join the New Year’s Eve Dinner with your family from 6pm to 10pm. You will enjoy delicious seafood and cocktails. If you want to stick around until midnight, consider joining the all-inclusive party starting at 10pm.

Hang Out with the Locals, Expats and Tourists

Regardless of whether you want to go to a specific event or not, you can enjoy the company of people from around the world. Head down to Fifth Avenue and check out what’s going on around there. Trust me, there are hundreds of things happening. Beware, though – lineups will be long and most restaurants will be full. Even if you do have tickets, be prepared to stand in line. Thankfully, the warm Caribbean weather makes spending time outside in the evening a much more enjoyable activity than it would be for most people in the US or Canada.

Wherever you plan to spend New Year’s Eve don’t forget to grab some grapes for las doce uvas de la suerte (the twelve grapes of luck) – a tradition that dates back to the turn of the 20th century! You must eat a grape with each bell strike at midnight on December 31st – the tradition says that doing so will lead to a year of prosperity.

Make Your Dreams Come True

Start the new year by considering purchasing that dream home in Mexico for your retirement. Swift through our special properties to find the perfect retirement haven in the Mexican Caribbean.

And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!

Benefits of Living in Mexico

How are the Christmas Holidays Celebrated in Mexico’s Riviera Maya?

Perhaps the sunny white beaches and azure waters of the Riviera Maya aren’t typically the scene you think of when Christmas comes to mind. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some incredible holiday activities for you to participate in this holiday season. Mexico takes Christmas and the holidays quite seriously. The holidays are filled with tradition, love and happiness.

Longer Celebrations

Three Kings

In Mexico, the holidays begin on December 12th with the celebrations of the Virgin of Guadalupe and officially ends on January 6th – the day of the Three Kings. Many extend the date to February 2nd or the Candlemas Day. On this day, they share atole (a traditional warm cornmeal drink) and tamales with friends and family. For those who love a traditional western holiday atmosphere with snowmen and reindeer, there will be no shortage in Playa del Carmen. Authorities line the Palacio Municipal with poinsettia plants, as well as Christmas-themed decorations each year.

Joel Roberts Poinsett was the first Ambassador to Mexico from the USA. Poinsettias are named after him. These beautiful bright-red flowers are native to Central America and specifically an area of southern Mexico called Taxco de Alarcon. Poinsett loved the way the flowers looked and brought them back to America. Now they are Mexico’s official holiday flower. In Spanish, they are known as Noche Buena, which means holy night.

The city center plaza at the Palacio Municipal is also the location of many holiday-themed events during the season. In addition to the poinsettias, there are also other themed displays often with giant Christmas’s trees and mangers. Here, you can also find delicious Mexican street food like marquesitas (thin rolled crispy wafer-like crepes filled with your choice of fillings, including Nutella, cajeta and sprinkled cheese.

Traditional Mexican Christmas

Christmas Piñata

For more traditional Mexican celebrations, you must look into the posadas. Posada in Spanish means inn, or place to stay. These parties come from the story of Jesus being born and his family asking for space at the inn. Mexicans celebrate this with traditional foods like ponche (a drink made from dried ruins and spices), rosca (a Mexican version of fruitcake) and other local delights. Posadas take place from December 16th all the way up to Christmas. Many people throw posadas at their houses. These involve a sing-off where half the party are the inn-keepers and the other half are the Virgin Mary and her family asking to be let in. When the doors open, the celebrations start. You are expected to crack open the famous piñatas during a posada. Each spike representing a capital sin.

From Mass to Dinners

There are also many activities going on throughout the city. Santa Claus often makes a special visit in the days leading up to Christmas at the Playacar Center. If you’re interested in going to a Christmas Eve church service, there are also masses happening at the various churches around the city – including the chapel on the south end of 5th Avenue. You can attend this mass at 6pm, 7pm and 8pm.

Christmas Gifts

Just like in the USA, gifts are a big part of the Christmas celebration in Mexico. Families usually exchange this over dinner on Christmas Eve. Then, children open their Santa Claus presents on Christmas Day. The last gift exchange happens on the morning of January 6th, when children wake up to open the presents brought to them by the Three Kings. On Christmas Day, you will be able to stroll down 5th Avenue and enjoy the calmness of the morning when people are still at home having dinner leftovers.

Give Playa del Carmen a Try

So, if you’re planning on spending the holidays in Playa del Carmen, you’re sure to be able to enjoy the many traditions of the Mexican people. And don’t forget to bring an open mind and big heart. Although Mexicans tend to be friendly year-round, they are specially jolly during this season.

Weekend Getaway: Punta Laguna

It’s time for another weekend getaway in the beautiful Riviera Maya! This time, we’re exploring one of the most incredible hidden treasures in the region. Punta Laguna is a small Mayan village, home to monkeys, jaguars and plenty other wildlife. So, get ready, we’re going on a road trip.

What is Punta Laguna?

Punta Laguna is a small Mayan village that sits within a 5,000-hectare, government-protected nature reserved called Ma’ax Yetel Kooh. That is Mayan for House of the Spider Monkey and the Jaguar. This reserve is home to its own unique spider monkey subspecies, along with howler monkeys, pumas, coatis and hundreds of species of birds. The village itself gives you insight into the Mayan way of life as it is lived today. You can see thatched-roof houses, cooking over open fires and freely-roaming farm animals which are reflective of the way that these families have lived for decades.

How to get to Punta Laguna

Reaching Punta Laguna is quite easy. It is located almost a straight shot from Tulum via the Coba road. Heading from Tulum, take a right at the Coba road and follow the signs for Nuevo Xcan until you see the sign for Punta Laguna.

There are no restaurants or hotels here – it is a genuine jungle village. You will, however, want to either pack a meal with your or stop for refreshments before you arrive. Along the way to the Coba road, there are a few small towns where you can stop for refreshments and breaks. You can also check out the handicrafts made by local artisans. However, we highly recommend you skip these and see them on your way back. Pack refreshments and snacks the day before. You want to reach Punta Laguna very early in the morning to avoid the swarms of tours that arrive after 9am.

What to do in Punta Laguna

Punta Laguna

While this truly authentic Mayan village is not home to restaurants or art galleries, there is no shortage of activities to take part in. At Punta Laguna, you can purchase a tour of the jungle and lagoon (reason for which it is called Punta Laguna), to experience the wildlife and enjoy a morning full of fun activities. The reason for which you want to arrive early is to take a guided tour through the jungle trails and be able to spot both howler and spider monkeys on their morning feeding migration. You will be able to spot them around 7 or 8 in the morning. The tour also guides you down to the lagoon where you can row across to then zipline over the lush jungle.

Lastly, the tour allows you to dive into a beautiful cenote. Not first without being blessed in a Mayan ceremony. At the bottom of the cenote – if you bring a waterproof flashlight – you will be able to spot a few skulls from old Mayan sacrifices practiced in the area.

The locals at Punta Laguna are very friendly. They are often more than willing to chat about their culture and daily life. Some may even invite you to have a look insider their home. However, keep in mind that if they do so, it would be considered impolite to not buy at least a small trinket from the homeowners. Many villagers are also willing to let you take photos of them – just make sure you ask permission first!

Walk through the jungle!

Most of the villagers and guides in Punta Laguna speak Spanish or Yucatecan Maya. Although some may have some limited English skills. If you don’t speak Spanish, make sure you either have a Spanish-speaker with you, or are prepared to translate using dictionaries or an electronic device.

Within the village, you will find a small walking road that passes several trails and a cenote on the way to the saltwater lagoon. You can find a dock stretching out over the water to give you a lovely view of the water and wildlife. Fishing is strictly prohibited. Swimming, however, is at your own risk, as crocodiles have been sighted in the lagoon.

Spider Monkey

There are also a number of trails available to explore. You can view the abundant wildlife from here. The entrance fee – without a tour – for each trail is 30 pesos per person. You must also hire a local guide for 150 pesos for a group of up to 10 people. Guides are experienced and have been trained by primatologists to ensure they are knowledgeable about the wildlife.

In addition to the trails and tours, there are also some ancient ruins to explore, freshwater cenotes for crocodile-free swimming and caves for rappelling.

Recommendations

Bring comfortable clothing and shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking, and possibly rappelling, hiking and swimming. So, make sure you’re covered for it all.

Don’t forget to bring some energy-packed snacks such as granola bars, and bottled water. The village has no restaurants, and it is likely you won’t find any shops around. Make sure you come prepared to avoid hunger or dehydration.

We highly recommend you bring biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent. You will be in the jungle, after all, and insects are unavoidable. Make sure it is biodegradable to avoid harming the environment.

Punta Laguna Zipline

Photo by Wiz Tours

Bring cash! If you will be buying the guided tour, paying for the walking trails or giving tips to the villagers, you must do so in cash. They will not accept any other form of payment and there are no ATMs nearby.

Most of all, however, bring your adventurous spirit! You are here to enjoy the wonderful nature of the lush Mayan jungle. Be open to learning about the lifestyle and customs of these locals. And don’t forget to snap as many photos as possible – especially of the spider monkeys! Come back next week to see where we’ll be headed next weekend!

Weekend Getaway: Campeche

It’s time to pack our bags and get ready for another weekend getaway! This time we’ll be travelling to a place that may seem straight out of a fairytale with its beautiful mansions, old-world forts and pirates! Campeche is the capital and the largest city in the state of Campeche in Mexico. While you won’t find the sparkling beaches and turquoise seas here that you might be familiar with in the Riviera Maya, you are sure to be blown away by the rugged beauty of Mexico’s western coastline of the Yucatan peninsula.

How to get to Campeche

Campeche, Mexico

While not home to an international airport Campeche is still surprisingly easy to get to by motor vehicle.

Those with their own cars or rentals will be able to make use of the comfortable highway drive from Cancun (7 hours) or Playa del Carmen (8.5 hours) by following the freeway to Merida where you will route onto Mexico 180 O that will lead you straight to Campeche.

For those who would rather not drive there are daily buses through ADO or OCC from Cancun or Playa del Carmen to Merida where you can transfer to a short 2.5 hour bus straight to Campeche.

Where to Stay

Downtown Campeche

There are a number of quaint and luxurious hotels and rentals in the area, ranging from modern luxury to ex-haciendas. Most hotels are located along the Malecon which runs the entire length of the city, however there are also a few more budget-friendly hotels in the historic center. With the lack of azure beaches in Campeche you will definitely want to ensure that you find a place to stay with a pool.

What to do

Campeche is home to some incredible historical sites, which are responsible for its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Just wandering the streets of the city will leave you in awe. Within the old town every building has been restored. Rainbow pastel homes line the cobblestone streets and will surely inspire you to have your camera out and ready with every step you take!

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Campeche was a key port in the Caribbean which meant it was a prime spot for pirates – this is the reason for the historic old town’s outer walls and fortifications which acted as protection against the omnipresent attacks.

Ednza Ruins in Campeche

There are also a number of ancient Mayan ruins in the area. Ednza is the closest major site and is about 45 minutes away. They are smaller than many of the other major ruins, but they allow more intimate sightseeing than more popular and larger sites like Chichen-Itza.

You also won’t want to miss the food and drink in Campeche which is known for its seafood. Cazón (shark) is a local delicacy and widely available. There are many small restaurants located around the city, including many in the historic center that range in price. There are also some groceries stores in the city for those on a budget who would prefer to make some meals themselves.

Whatever you decide to do when you’re in Campeche, you’ll want to make sure you bring your walking shoes. There is a lot to see and explore during your exciting weekend away!

Shopping and Eating

Shark Bread

It’s fair to say that this once colonial city offers some amazing gastronomical delicacies. You can find eateries from small cafés to extravagant restaurants and everything in between. Seafood is quite popular with both locals and tourists. Local dishes are plentiful throughout. Try some pan de cazón (shark bread), coconut shrimp, poc chuc, and others.

When it comes to shopping, you’ll be surprised at the many options found in Campeche. You can buy some textiles, clothing, hammocks and more at one of the many artisanal craft shops. Or you find gems, magnets and jewelry inspired by nature. There are, of course, a handful of shopping centers and malls, as well for a more Americanized experience.

Recommendations

Be prepared for a long road trip. Getting to Campeche can take up to 8 hours, so make sure you have plenty of activities if you’re taking the ADO bus, or things to do if you’re driving.

Most of Campeche’s larger places accept credit card. However, it is highly recommended to always carry enough cash around.

Come with an open mind. Local foods, drinks and traditions may be very different to what you’re used to. So, make sure you come with an open mind and embrace the culture of Campeche.

Learn some phrases in Spanish. Campeche is far from the English-speaking community in the Riviera Maya. Not many locals speak English like they would in Tulum or Playa del Carmen. That is not to say you won’t find someone who does and is willing to help. But it definitely helps if you can pick up some Spanish beforehand for the best experience possible.

Have fun!

Campeche

What are you waiting for? Pack your bags. We’re going on a road trip. Enjoy the colonial vibes of Campeche, soak in the culture and engulf the delicious food. When the weekend is over, head back home to your beautiful home in Playa del Carmen. But get pen and paper out. It’s time so start planning next weekend’s getaway!

The Six Rules of a Golden and Profitable Retirement

As the years start rolling about faster and faster, boomers, who are now on the brink of retirement, start to wonder how they will retire and what they will do in their retirement. The truth is, there are no rules to this and each person decides what to do with their retirement time, money and plans. However, experts have panned out a retirement plan to make it truly golden and profitable. You may call them guidelines, rules, commandments, or whatever pleases you. But these rules have helped millions of soon-to-be-retirees understand what the golden years have in store for them.

Save, save and save some more

Piggy bank

The first rule to retirement is saving money for it. Putting money into your 401(k) and IRA retirement funds is a great way to ensure you will have money to do what you please in your retirement. In fact, many people even put their IRA retirement funds to work prior to retirement by investing in vacation rental homes overseas. Any income generated from that property is put back into your IRA account, helping you create a steady flow of income that will come in very handy in your retirement. In the meantime, you can also create automatic deductions from your paycheck and join investment plans, which help put away money before you are able to spend it. Many retirees often just rely on their Social Security, which is a safety net, to say the least. It does not guarantee that you will be able to afford any sort of comfortable lifestyle. So, if you save – and invest – your money wisely, you’re ahead of the game.

Move away and find an affordable retirement spot

 

The reason why thousands of Americans and Canadians move to Mexico for their retirement is cost of living. Don’t be afraid to get up and move elsewhere. In Playa del Carmen, you can comfortably live for 50% less of the cost than you would in Sarasota, FL or Scottsdale, AZ, for example. And you might even be able to purchase a home for a fraction of the cost it would cost you back home. Mexico is the perfect spot for retirement due to its proximity to the US for quick visits back home, and it is the most culturally familiar country for those in the United States and Canada. So, get ready for that adventure abroad that retirement often promises.

Wait the correct amount to retire

Retire

You might hear of early retirement cases that are a huge success. A young man of 53 and his similarly-aged wife investing abroad and getting ready to retire after years of work. But this is not the case for everyone. Retirement should come at the right time for you. Early retirement is good when you have a fortune saved up and are certain that you have enough to live comfortably for the rest of your life. However, you need to measure your individual case. It’s quite simple. You need to give your money time to accumulate and multiply. Your Social Security checks will become smaller if your retirement is longer. So, make sure you give yourself time to fully prepare for retirement.

Think of no one but yourself

 

Downsizing is often a scary thought for people. But the reality is that you no longer need to shelter a whole family – just you and your partner. Think of yourself first, and everyone else second. Sure, you might want a guest bedroom in your Mexico home for whenever your grown children and grandchildren visit. Or if you have friends who are enjoying their retirement by traveling and want to stay with you. But there is no need to look for a 4-bedroom home with a studio, a TV room, a laundry room and all the big, lavish spaces you enjoy as a family. Retirement often means going back to basic. And that means you should think of your savings and your needs. Get rid of that mini van and switch out for a small car, or no car at all!

Plan to stay active, motivated and busy

 

Retirees often find themselves bored, not knowing where to go and what to do. If you’re used to a busy lifestyle, where you work 9 to 5, go out for business meetings or are often traveling, make sure to keep a fast-paced retirement. Except this time, there are no responsibilities, commitments or people depending on you. Staying healthy, active and busy during retirement is great for both your physical and mental health. So, make sure you plan your retirement with enough motivating activities. You might want to move abroad and spend your time traveling to nearby places. You might want to travel the world. Maybe your retirement doesn’t really necessarily mean you’ll stop working altogether. Maybe you open up a shop you’ve always dreamed of or join a club. The point is to keep yourself going and don’t let yourself disappear into your couch in front of the TV.

Make new friends and try new things

Retirement in Mexico

Retirement is a treat. It’s a reward earned from years of studying, working, caring, learning, stumbling and starting over again. So, don’t be afraid to do all those things you couldn’t when your focus was elsewhere. Travel, learn new languages, make new friends. Thousands of Americans and Canadians relocate to Mexico for their retirement and enjoy living a simple, laid back life surrounded by friends they never thought they’d have. Enjoy your retirement. You’ve earned it!

And if you’re keen on making that retirement money work for you, don’t hesitate to invest in real estate in the Riviera Maya!

Top 25 Beaches: Coco Beach in Playa del Carmen

Coco Beach is one of the most stunning waterfront locations in the Riviera Maya. White-sand beaches offer gorgeous views and provide the perfect place to lay your beach blanket. Even the most experienced sunbather might need a break once in a while. The selection of beach clubs located in the area provide opportunity for shade and refreshment. Relax on a beach lounger and have drinks and snacks delivered directly to you while you enjoy the sunbeams.

Be Still at Coco Beach

Located in Playa del Carmen’s northern end, Coco Beach is a dreamy and quiet strip of land. It doesn’t get as much attention as its counterparts. It is located past 38th street, just where The Reef Coco Beach hotel stands. A block from 5th Avenue, this beach is easy to reach but still far away from the hustle and bustle. Blue ocean waters stretching out to the horizon sparkle in the sun. The ocean provides opportunity for refreshment to those on the beach. Swimming in the beautiful waters of the Caribbean Sea is an experience that everyone should take part in. You will dry off and be ready to go again in no time, thanks to the year-round warm weather in the region.

Perfect for Aquatic Activities

In addition to sunbathing, there is also a number of activities available to those visiting or residing in Coco Beach. Adventure-seeking people might be interested in parasailing. This is a recreational kiting activity that involves a person, tied to a boat, flying in the air behind with the use of a parachute. Only from there are you able to truly appreciate the stunning vistas of the area.

The Coco Beach neighborhood is also home to several dive shops. You can register for lessons or excursions with certified trainers and guides. Diving tours are possible not only in the ocean, but also in caves or cenotes throughout the Riviera Maya.

Once you have your fill of the beach, visitors to Coco Beach can wander up to Fifth Avenue for access to even more amenities. The neighborhood itself offers everything one might need. From convenience stores, restaurants and bakeries to art galleries, clothing stores and exercise studios, there is something for everyone.

Real Estate Opportunities in Coco Beach

Retire in Playa del Carmen

If you are interested in enjoying Coco Beach’s lifestyle, then you might want to explore its real estate opportunities. There are countless beautiful properties that are great for snowbirds who like to flock away from the cold during the winter months. Moreover, they can produce an extra income from the months they are not occupying the property. However, if you wish to fully retire down in Mexico, its proximity to the beach and 5th Avenue make for a great place that has everything within easy reach.

This 2-bedroom condo, for example, is just one block from the beach. Its Caribbean style will always make you appreciate the beauty of the Riviera Maya – whether you’re vacationing in it or permanently living there.

Enjoy Coco Beach Today!

So, whether you’re visiting, vacationing or retiring in Playa del Carmen, you must visit Coco Beach. And if you love it, invest right away! This charming beach was long a well-kept secret but it is starting to garner more attention, so make sure you snatch the best retirement property while you still can.

And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!

Winter is Coming: Escape the Cold in Mexico’s Riviera Maya

Snowbird is a common term heard in North America. It describes those who enjoy traveling to warmer climates during the winter months. And, seriously, who can blame them? While most of their counterparts in Canada and the United States are spending most of the time indoors, having to stomp through cold rain and snow just to get groceries, snowbirds are cozy warm next to the Caribbean Sea. From warmer weather to annual festivals, there are innumerable reasons why anyone might want to migrate south this winter.

Run from the Snow

Snow

While there are pockets of the United States that remain on the warm side during the winter months, most of the rest of Canadians and Americans are pulling out their parkas and galoshes. This year, Edmonton (the capital city of the Canadian province of Alberta) had its first snow day on September 12th! That is a full ten days before summer even officially ended. While most of the rest of Canada and the US weren’t quite so unlucky, the winter weather will come for them eventually, as well. But, why wait for winter to come, if you can escape it beforehand?

Snow and cold is a worry far from anybody’s mind in the Riviera Maya region of Mexico. Even in its coldest month of January, temperatures average in the mid-20s Celsius / high-70s Fahrenheit. Although hurricane season lasts from May to November in the Riviera Maya, the depth of winter is safe from storms. It truly is an ideal time of year to warm up next to the Caribbean Sea.

Culture for Days

Santa Claus Snowbird

Another great reason for why any snowbird prefers to spend time in Mexico during the winter months is for the incredible culture. Día de la Revolución on November 20th is a day to mark the beginning of the Mexican Revolution. Visitors to the country can be on the outlook for parades or other street festivals taking place to mark this important day in Mexican history. On the light-hearted side, Día de los Inocentes is on December 28th. This is Mexico’s rendition of April Fools’ Day. Be careful, you might fall victim to fake headlines that newspapers often partake in to celebrate.

Of course, there is also Christmas and New Year’s Day. So, rest assured that you will not miss out on any personal traditions either. You also have the opportunity to add new traditions to your mix. For example, while many Americans or Canadians steal kisses or clink classes at the stroke of midnight, Mexicans look to las doce uvas de la suerte. They eat 12 grapes with each chime of the clock’s bell to bring good luck and prosperity for each month of the new year.

Snowbird Paradise Wonderland

Beach

Yet another reason to consider the Riviera Maya if you’re a snowbird is the affordable real estate options. There are thousands of properties out there that are perfect for snowbirds. During the winter months you can occupy them, but the rest of the year you are free to rent them out as vacation rentals, and profit from your property. There are options in Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cancun and even Merida. If you’re looking to run from the freezing winters of the north, you might as well make the most of it by investing in the region. And, who knows? You might just find your forever home here.

Between the beautiful weather and exciting holidays during the winter months of Mexico, it is no secret why the Riviera Maya is an ideal destination for anyone interested in migrating south for the winter. Moreover, it has incredible food and culture year-round, and friendly locals who are always eager to welcome snowbirds into their country.