Medical Tourism in Mexico: Why You Should Consider It

Posted on June 12, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Medical tourism is becoming a preferred choice for North America, especially the United States. With the rising cost of medical expenses throughout the marketplace, healthcare in Mexico is becoming an industry that is rapidly gaining international attention. Many Americans cannot afford or do not qualify for health insurance back home. Likewise, many treatments are not covered for those who do qualify. This has pushed Americans to seek treatment in other areas. Mexico is an obvious choice do to its proximity, amazing destinations and incredibly low costs. In fact, it is reported that medical treatments in Mexico can cost about 80 percent less than in the US.

Medical Tourism on the Rise in Mexico

Last year, the Association of Medical Tourism announced a 10 percent increase in the medical tourism market. Surgeries such as knee and hip are the ones that have risen the most over the years. Patients are in search of other medical markets, such as dental care. Over 15,000 people seek medical treatment in Mexico yearly, and the number is quickly rising.

Medical advancements and quality treatments given in Mexico have steadily increased. Ongoing research and development is also credited with increasing the recent influx of people traveling for medical purposes. Doctors in Mexico are highly qualified and are often studying procedures and treatments that might be hard to find elsewhere. This is especially true in the Yucatan Peninsula, where many doctors target American and Canadian markets.

The Yucatan Peninsula

Merida, capital city of Yucatan, is the most populated metropolitan city in the region. It reaches approximately one million people. Although it is known for its colonial charm and historical roots, Merida holds another very important title. Merida is the undisputed healthcare capital of Southeastern Mexico, according to The Yucatan Times. Beyond its fine arts and cultural diversity, it has a high-level medical infrastructure that provides numerous public and private hospitals, clinics and various research institutions. Tourists also recognize Merida for constantly updating and modernizing its laboratories that attribute to its advanced studies and research.

The city also has the highest concentration of specialists in the geographical region. Most of the resident doctors studied in the United States and speak fluent English. Others know multiple languages. Merida’s doctors see patients coming from Central America, all of North America, and other parts of the world, as well. They provide services and a variety of medical procedures which allows them to offer specialized treatments that other countries offer at much higher costs.

High-Quality Services in the Riviera Maya

Medical tourism has grown plenty in the Riviera Maya region for the same reason. More and more highly qualified doctors move to the area to offer their services at prices that are less than half than you would find up north. The quality of hospitals and clinics has also increased dramatically, and Cancun is offering more specialized treatments.

Whether you’re seeking a simple procedure while on vacation, or actively traveling for treatment or surgery, the Yucatan Peninsula is definitely the go-to place. In fact, 85% of Americans that have received some sort of medical attention in the region have reported a higher level of personalized care. Experience teaches doctors in the Southeastern region to undestand medical tourism. They know how families react to different procedures in an unfamiliar environment.

Low Cost and Top-Notch Services in paradise

Healthcare in Mexico is a rapidly growing industry that generations billions of dollars annually. Statistically, most of Mexico’s medical tourism come from the United States and Canada. The main reason for this is the little to no delay in scheduling procedures. Moreover, patients value the unmatched cost and the short and inexpensive travel time by plane. Moreover, who would refuse to get better after surgery in the beautiful Riviera Maya?

The skyrocketing cost of healthcare and the overcrowding of public facilities and institutions in the USA are forcing people to look elsewhere. Economic indicators are pointing towards alternative solutions that will instinctively increase the demand worldwide. Establishing a health provider(s) abroad is no longer a farfetched idea. It’s a practicing concept that is gaining momentum by the day.

Weekend Getaway to Merida

Posted on June 4, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Forbes magazine named Merida the American Capital of Culture in 2017 for the second year in a row. This makes it the only city to hold the title twice. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, this colonial city is just a three-hour drive from Playa del Carmen by car. Merida is one of the oldest cities in Mexico and has been occupied fully throughout the years. Because of this, it holds many traditions. You will notice the old stonework and architecture as you take a stroll through the city.

Culture, History and Gastronomy

Visitors know the Yucatan Peninsual for its gastronomy. Merida has an abundance of small markets scattered throughout the city with all the gastronomical delicacies your palate can imagine. If you’re more hands-on, you can try one of the many cooking classes offered by Mayan chefs. It makes for an interesting day spent in the kitchen and a good switch up from walking and hanging on the beach.

Because it is a colonial city there are many museums around to tell the story of its past. The Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Merida is the best one. Here, you will find interesting information about the Yucatan’s history and its many fascinating artifacts. If you enjoy photography, you may also want to visit the Museum of Anthropology and History. It is found within a mansion on the large Paseo Montejo. The museum features stunning photography.

The Mayan connection with the underworld

Besides walking around the city and visiting the museums and markets, there are many fun activities for nature lovers. There are plenty of cenotes around the outskirts of Merida. The Mayans used the cenotes as consecrated wells to connect with the gods. They would perform offerings and mystical ceremonies. Many of the cenotes surrounding Merida can surprise you with hidden artifacts, or even skulls of the sacrifices they made.

You will find a lively city full of culture. The squares in Merida often feature musicians and food in the parks. They are great places to spend the day, having a picnic and enjoying the beautiful scenery that Merida provides. People from Mexico are very friendly and welcoming, and they will welcome you into the city with a warm smile and open arms. They love speaking with foreigners, opening up their shops and even their homes to share an afternoon. Don’t forget to visit the many historical churches in the city. They are worth visiting and make for great photo opportunities.

a sacrifice to please your stomach

If by the afternoon your stomach is claiming a sacrifice for itself, visit one of the many ice cream parlors. The Soberteria Colon is perhaps the most famous one, followed by Pola. Locals and tourists know these ice cream shops for their delicious desserts and cool ice creams for a hot day. Speaking of which, beware of the heat! Merida can reach high temperatures and given that it is half an hour from the coast, there is not much ocean breeze to cool off with. Stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid a heat stroke!

Merida is a great place to visit during the holidays due to its many fun parades, markets and festivals. Day of the Dead is an especially neat time to visit the city. Locals make quite a celebration of the life of those who have passed. It is a sight to be seen. In the end, it doesn’t matter when you visit, Merida will have something to offer. A weekend getaway may result in you wanting to spend more time there. Retirees living in Playa del Carmen can visit Merida easily. It makes for fun weekend trips throughout the year.

merida: the best getaway

Unlike the Riviera Maya, Merida is not lined with five-star resorts, which means accommodation is focused more towards small boutique hotels and apartments. This allows for a more intimate and authentic experience, far from the Americanized one you might be used to in Playa del Carmen. And if you are eager to keep coming back, you might want to consider purchasing a vacation home.

How to Reduce Plastic Waste

Posted on May 29, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

When you take the decision to retire to the gorgeous turquoise corner of Mexico, the Riviera Maya, you take on a commitment to live an eco-friendly life. There is little point to retiring to a heavenly paradise only to see it soon destroyed by the amount of waste produced. Plastic waste is a hazard to this beautiful coastal region. In fact, it’s a hazard to the world as a whole. That is why it is always important to pick up whatever waste you see lying around. Every bit helps and makes a difference to our environment. So, if you’re committed to keeping the Riviera Maya every bit as pristine as you first saw it, you can reduce plastic waste starting with yourself.

Avoid Plastic Straws

Plastic straws are creating more and more waste around the world. Imagine the amount of waste created by all the people that visit the Riviera Maya on a daily basis that are drinking their cocktails with fancy straws. These simple drinking tools take one thousand years to decompose. Fortunately, many bars, hotels and restaurants in the region have banned their use. And you should at home, as well. If you’re insistent on drinking with a straw, make a one-time investment into a metal straw that you can wash and reuse endlessly.

Say No to Plastic Bags

You will notice many supermarkets sell fabric, reusable bags at the check-out point. This is a strategy to get people to minimize the use of plastic bags. Whenever you go grocery shopping, take something with you to carry your items. Many people opt for taking backpacks, others take market baskets. Whatever suits you, avoid leaving the shop with a shopping cart full of plastic bags.

Buying in Bulk reduces plastic waste

This saves you both money and trips to the shop in the future. But it also helps reduce plastic waste. When you purchase items in bulk they most likely come in cardboard boxes, which can easily be recycled.

Make Other Small Adjustments

When you’re buying products for your home make sure you always pick the ones that will make the least impact on the environment. For example, when purchasing a razors, invest in a good one that will require only the blades to be changed, instead of a disposable razor. Other household goods can also help reduce plastic waste. Purchase reusable water bottles and other cups. Even if you insist on purchasing your morning coffee from the closest cafeteria, bring your own cup instead of using a disposable one.

Contribute Positively to the Community

Retirement allows you for more time to contribute positively to the community. Participate in beach clean ups and recycling marathons. Many groups and organizations are often posting about these events on social media. Make sure you keep updated and participate as much as you can.

You might think that one person cannot make a difference in reducing plastic waste. But that is all it takes. It is one less person harming the environment. Influence your peers around you to do the same. We will be reducing plastic waste faster than we can imagine. All it takes is for you to make the decision to keep the Riviera Maya waste-free. That way you, and many more generations to come after you, will be able to continue to enjoy the gorgeous turquoise waters, the delicate white sands, and the hundreds of wildlife that also call this place home.

If you’re ready to retire to the Riviera Maya and commit to a clean lifestyle, we recommend you check out some of our eco-friendly and sustainable properties in Tulum such as Nuuch, which has installed solar panels to reduce energy waste, as well.

What to Look for in a Retirement Home

Posted on May 28, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Life can hardly get any better than sitting on the beach enjoying the cool ocean breeze. The palm trees above are gently swaying in time with the Caribbean Sea’s gentle waves, slapping against the white sand beach. You are just about to delight your palate with your favorite beverage. Then you suddenly wake up to the sounds of trucks and loud pipes outside. You look up at your bedroom’s plain white ceiling and think, “I’m dreaming again”. This gets you thinking about retirement more than ever. Where will you invest in a retirement home? Well, if your dreams are any indications. It should be in the Caribbean. But, that’s not all, the question truly is, what should you look for in a retirement home?

Whatever you decide, we’re sure it won’t include listening to loud vehicles in the morning or waking up to the same old routine. Instead, it will be more like living in a permanent dream vacation. You will be in a place that will allow you to live and do the things you truly want for the rest of your days. But first, you need to find a location that accommodates your needs. Let us help you with some useful suggestions in what to look for in a retirement home. These are intended to provide an interim itinerary that can jumpstart your search.

Find a Location That Meets Your Expectations

If you are looking to be close enough to Playa del Carmen, without the hustle and bustle of the city’s endless action, then think about looking just outside the city’s central district. There are many surrounding communities that have easy access to the heart of Playa del Carmen, such as El Cielo. It’s easy to catch a cab, drive or walk to all of Playa del Carmen’s most popular places. You are close to shopping centers, restaurants and other daily attractions.

If you want to be near or in the middle of the action, choose a location that can offer direct access to amenities. You can step out onto Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue, or in Tulum’s hotel strip. This places you steps from the beach and turquoise waters. It is always suggested to briefly stay in the approximate area(s) you are thinking of purchasing in. That way you can offer more detailed information to your trusted real estate agent when discussing your ideal location and needed activities.

Set a Budget That You are Comfortable With

Determine an allotted dollar amount that won’t create pressure or a financial burden on your retirement budget. Avoid the need to constantly think that the cost doesn’t matter, because it’s your retirement. Many retirees lose focus on their planned itineraries when they first experience paradise. There are plenty of condos and homes that will meet, and even exceed, your wants and needs. If you can justify the extra expense or cost, then go for it. But remember, you can always upgrade further down the road, as well.

Is a Condo or a Free-Standing Home Better?

There are advantages to both a condo and a single dwelling. A stand-alone home offers more privacy and more room. And in most cases, it has yard space to do with as you wish. Having a single-family home usually has a garage and plenty of space to park more than one vehicle. But there are other factors to consider such as maintenance and upkeep, which is usually more than in one condo. When you are away for a period of time (if you are a retiree snowbird), you can’t just lock the door and leave. You have to make sure your home is secure, the yard is cared for, and the pool is take care of (where applicable).

A condo is usually a part of a bigger complex. Its exterior and common areas are part of the association’s responsibility (which you pay for, of course). You can leave your home for an extended time and all you need to do is lock the door. There will be people around upkeeping the property and its amenities. On the other hand, there is less privacy beyond your front door. Parking can be troublesome if you have more than one vehicle, as well. Depending on the complex, there is rarely any covered parking, unless you pay extra for it. These are things to consider when looking at both a condo and a free-standing home.

You Need a Real Estate Agent to Find Your Retirement Home

Nothing really happens until you find a qualified and trustworthy real estate agent. Many inexperienced retirees don’t take the time to research and find a reliable agent to guide them through the process. Especially when they’re doing it in a foreign country. When you start looking for an agent to represent you, make sure they are skilled in working with American and Canadian buyers and that they know the ins and outs of purchasing a home abroad.

Now it’s time to sit back and enjoy your golden years in paradise. Whether you’re looking for a laidback lifestyle in Tulum or an upbeat, activity-packed adventure in Playa del Carmen, it’s up to you to decide what you want from your retirement.

5 Summer Activities to Enjoy in the Riviera Maya

Posted on May 22, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

It feels like it was just yesterday that we were celebrating the beginning of a new year. The truth is, the year has gone by really quickly, and summer is rolling around faster than we imagined. Although Playa del Carmen and the surrounding Riviera Maya offer summer-like weather year-long, there are a few summer activities that can only be enjoyed in, well…summer. Whether you’re a permanent retiree in the gorgeous Caribbean city or a once-in-a-while visitor, these are some things you definitely need to get around doing this season.

Swim with Whale Sharks

Whale shark season comes around once a year during the summer. These gigantic, but gentle, animals are a sight to be seen. The season kicks off at the end of May and ends at the end of August. But the best month to go see them is July. They come by as part of their migration route and you can see thousands of them swimming calmly together. Many tours take you to see them. Make sure you follow rules accordingly. Although these animals feed off plankton, they are as big as a school bus, so make sure to keep your distance.

Volunteer with Turtle Nesting

Sea turtles are an endangered species, which is why in the Riviera Maya we are strong believers in conserving them. Many conservation groups and organizations work hard to monitor the nesting season, making sure as many hatchlings as possible make it out to sea and giving them a greater chance of survival. You can always volunteer to help during the season, which starts in mid-June and runs until November. NGOs are always looking for extra hands to mark the nests, release the hatchlings, and help with other duties. It’s an experience that will transform your life for good.

Visit Heaven

We all know that the Riviera Maya is heaven on earth, but there is an actual place called heaven. Cozumel is a wonderful and beautiful place for nature lovers. El Cielo is just off the coast of the island and it is only accessible by boat. This means you can spend the day cruising through the clear blue waters gliding above the sea. Founders named it El Cielo due to the amount of starfish sitting on the ocena floor. Moreover, plenty of stingrays, fish and sea turtles love the calm waters of this heavenly place. Take a family tour and enjoy the unimaginable wonders of Cozumel.

Visit Holbox Island

This gorgeous island off the coast of Quintana Roo is definitely a must-see place. The best part is its laidback charm and slow-paced life. Even more so than Tulum! During the summer season, when the whale sharks are the word of mouth, there are other slightly less known tours that include the gentle giants, but don’t end there. While cruising to find the whale sharks you’ll be able to spot dolphins, turtles and flying fish. However, after swimming and eating delicious ceviche, you’ll be able to see hundreds of flamingos.

it’s summer, so Relax and Unwind

If all of the above seem like too much work, then you can always pick the obvious option: lounging at a beach club with a drink in hand. We get it, waking up at 5am to go on a tour to see giant sharks is not for everyone (although definitely worth it). So, if you’re not heading off on one of the abovementioned adventures, hit up your favorite beach club early in the morning, get a bucket of beer and kick off the day with a sun-kissed nap. There is something for everyone in this slice of heaven.

It might be time to consider retiring in paradise if these are activities you could enjoy. There are plenty of things to visit throughout Quintana Roo and the Riviera Maya, as well as the whole Yucatan Peninsula, so retiring here means not a day of boredom and always a day of awe. Start checking out the best retirement properties in Playa del Carmen, we’ve got you covered.

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season in the Riviera Maya

Posted on May 15, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Hurricane season is around the corner in the Riviera Maya. Strictly speaking, the season kicks off in June and ends in November. But you shouldn’t be alarmed. A major hurricane hasn’t hit the area since Wilma in 2005. It never hurts to be prepared, however, in case things get tough. And although most hurricanes occur in the area during August and September, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

We know what you’re thinking…how can I ever actually be prepared for a hurricane? Trust us on this one; there are many ways you can prepare beforehand. You might have never given this much thought because you didn’t need to, but it’s best to keep this things in mind and be ready for anything.

In fact, preparing for hurricane season is easier than you might think. If you follow these next five steps, you and your family should be safe.

PROTECT YOUR HOME

Photo by DAVE GATLEY/FEMA News Photo

It’s important to protect your home from a hurricane. This means installing hurricane-proof windows and doors, and maybe even a roof. At the very least, get roof clips. If it’s possible, having an underground room is essential in case of an emergency. If you are building, use concrete to prevent strong winds and rain from ruining your house.

HAVE AN EVACUATION PLAN

You may never need it; but in case you do, it’s best your family plans out an evacuation route. Hurricanes will hardly warn you in advance, so it’s good to be prepared. Evacuation plans require thorough thinking and finding a safe place to evacuate to when needed.

GET ENOUGH SUPPLIES

Once a hurricane hits, there will most likely be no water or food. Supplies will be scarce everywhere, so you’ll want to have supplies and an emergency kit in your house. Buy non-perishable, canned food in advance and have at least a few extra garrafones (water jugs) laying around in case of emergency. Medical aide and supplies will be scarce, too, so get a first aid kit. And don’t forget extra batteries and flashlights in case electricity is cut out for a while.

CHECK YOUR HURRICANE SEASON INSURANCE

Homeowners often overlook this, but it is equally as important. Making sure you have the necessary insurance to cover you in case of a hurricane will save you money down the road. This applies both for medical insurance, as well as for your house, car, and belongings.

GET YOUR CONTACTS AND ELECTRONICS IN ORDER

If antennas drop, there won’t be any way to reach other people. But in case they’re still working, it’s best to have your contacts and electronics in order. Make sure you have extra non-plug batteries at hand to charge your phones or tablets in case you need to reach out to emergency services or other friends and family.

There are many more things to keep in mind when you live in the Riviera Maya and hurricane season comes around. While nothing will happen, most likely, it never hurts to be prepared. Make sure to be constantly checking the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) for updates about hurricanes and cyclones. And as long as the sun is out in Playa del Carmen, get out there and enjoy this beautiful paradise you call home.

Top 3 Neighborhoods to Retire in Playa del Carmen

Posted on May 11, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

You are coming up on those well-deserved golden years and have decided to retire to the beautiful beach town of Playa del Carmen. That’s an excellent decision. Retirement south of the border isn’t only more affordable, but also gives you a higher quality of life. Strolls down the beach, delicious lunches and dinners, the ability to travel to amazing destinations that are just a car ride away. Thus, Playa del Carmen is definitely the perfect place to retire to.

But, given that there are so many neighborhoods in the area, it feels almost impossible to pick the right one. We have been helping clients find their perfect home in Playa del Carmen for over a decade, and we’ve certainly picked up insider knowledge of which neighborhoods consistently attract buyers. Property in these three best-selling areas might have a more significant initial cost, but the value of your property will increase at a faster rate. And if you’re a snowbird retiree, you can always benefit from renting out your property when you’re up north.

We have chosen these three neighborhoods as the best ones to retire to in Playa del Carmen.

RETIRE TO A PRIVATE BEACH Enclave

One of the most popular areas in Playa del Carmen, and where many expats live, is Playacar. This beautiful gated community has a professional golf course, access to the beach, and plenty of commercial zones. There is really no reason to leave the area. The subdivision is safe and walkable. The best part is that its main entrance leads into the world-famous Fifth Avenue. There, you will find an array of amazing restaurants, shops, bars, and much more.

The Real Estate Engine of the City

Little Italy is the beating heart of Playa del Carmen. And it is one of the best-selling neighborhoods in the city. It is an ideal place for walking around everywhere, especially since it is lined with mature trees offering a breezy shade. Those looking to make the most of the city should consider this area. It is near the beach and surrounds Fifth Avenue. Besides, who would refuse living in an area lined with Italian restaurants?

El Centro of Playa del Carmen

The Downtown area of Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular ones, as it is close to everything. From supermarkets to medical centers, to the most visited touristic areas, you will find it all here. It is a great compromise between convenience and affordability. Downtown is an exciting location to explore Mexican culture and mingle with the locals and there are plenty of excellent available properties around.

Keep in mind that there is no such thing as the perfect area to live in. Therefore, options depend on your budget, lifestyle and wish list. Visiting the neighborhoods at different times and talking to local expats is a great way to learn about the pros and cons of each neighborhood. Above all, you need the find the right fit for YOU.

You can also get in touch with our Buyers’ Representatives to learn about available real estate options in Playa del Carmen and for further information on each neighborhood.

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

Bacalar: The Must-See Pueblo Magico of Quintana Roo

Posted on May 7, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

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!

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula: Gaining Independence

Posted on May 4, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

There is plenty of visual evidence regarding Spaon’s influence in the Yucatan Peninsula. Spain conquered and colonized the Yucatan cities in the early 1500s, continuing their reign for the next three centuries. In this final episode of our Yucatan series, we will provide short briefs detailing historical markers from then until now.

Miguel Hidalgo: The First Step to Independence

Miguel Hidalgo was a Roman Catholic Priest who had had enough. In 1810, he became disgusted with the treatment of the poor that lived in the area. The Spanish government surpressed the Mexican people trying to make a living in their own country. Miguel Hidalgo called upon his fellow countrymen in what was to become Mexico’s most famous speech, The Cry of the Dolores. He organized and lead the revolt against the Spaniards with nearly 90,000 farmers and civilians armed with unconventional weaponry. The well-armed Spanish military eventually stopped them at the Battle of Calederon Bridge. The opposition finally captured Hidalgo and executed him on July 30, 1811.

During the French Revolutionary Wars, Napoleon’s mighty forces finally penetrated Spain and its rule over Mexico. In the meantime, the Yucatecans began to yearn for freedom. The Mexican drive for independence was in full swing after the death of Miguel Hidalgo. Opposing leaders were eventually imprisoned or executed. However, the stride towards freedom was survived by guerilla war tactics, led by Vicente Guerrero. Consequently, it all started to take a toll on Spain’s remaining military presence. The elite and monarchy who relocated to what was known at the time as New Spain began to show support for the rebels and the independence for Mexico.

INDEPENDENT MEXICO

Mexico claimed its independence on September 27, 1821. The country celebrates their independence on September 16, the day of the Cry of Dolores in 1810. The people of Mexico formed the Mexican Empire upon independence. At the time, this included the territory of Belize. However, in 1824 the Monarchy-styled government gave way to the First Mexican Republic. Mexicans had to defend their freedom over financial matters on May 5th, 1862, which is known as Cinco de Mayo. At the Battle of Puebla, against all odds, the Mexican army amazingly defeated a well-trained and equipped French (Empire) army.

Beacuse of this, Mexicans were living in a struggling country, desperatly trying to recover. Spain had torned Mexico from its native roots and thrown into a turmoil by centuries of foreign occupation. After gaining its independence, establishing a government, and rekindling centuries of interrupted traditions takes time. Mexico had to reestablish before entering into a two-year war with the United States in 1846. Mexico finally settled on 31 federated states and is the fifth largest country in the Americas. It is also the 13^th largest independent state in the world.

Valuable History in the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula holds so much valuable history, along with its ever-important topographic environments. From its dense jungles to arid plains and beautiful coastline that hugs the Caribbean Sea, the Yucatan Peninsula has earned the reputation as a must-visit destination. In the 60s and 70s Mexico started to be an exotic retreat for many of the United States’ rich and famous, which continues today. Unsurprisingly, Mexico’s economy positions part of its financial stability around many elements, tourism being an important one.

When visiting the area, knowing a little bit about the history of the Peninsula and its Mayan ancestry will help you understand its deep rich culture. The Yucatan Peninsula offers plenty of family entertainment that includes exciting adventures, ancient ruins, and world class beaches. Don’t forget to enjoy other such amenities like fabulous cuisines, a festive atmosphere, and warm welcoming from the Mexican people as well.

Read our previous articles, Spain’s Conquering of the Yucatan Cities and Capital of the Yucatan Cities to learn more about Mexico’s amazing history.

At Top Mexico Real Estate we have the most fascinating properties throughout the Yucatan Peninsula for you to enjoy the rich history the region offers. Be it new popular areas like Playa del Carmen or old charming places like Merida, we can find your dream home for you.

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

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula – Spain’s Conquering of the Yucatan Cities

Posted on April 18, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Spain’s conquering of the Yucatan cities

In 1531 Spain discovered the ancient town of Chichen Itza. This pre-Columbian city – Terminal Classic period – circa AD 800-900, was one of the largest Mayan cities of its time. With Spain slowly conquering the surrounding cities, an alliance of eastern providences formed a resistance and launched an attack on the Spanish held town of Campeche. Spain ended up returning to Campeche in 1541 – 42 and set up a town council. Again, the eastern alliances put together an offensive attack in 1546. Their efforts this time around were to no avail and defeated rather easily in one battle. This marked a complete conquest of the region – northern Yucatan.

With total Spanish dominance, religion became the focus of the Roman Catholic Church. In the 17^th century, the Franciscan Missions were in full stride converting the ‘pagan’ worships of the remaining indigenous Mayans to Catholicism. Meanwhile, in 1697 Spain finally defeated the city of Nojpeten – the Capital of Guatemala. This historic event marked the last native kingdom in the Americas to succumb to Spanish rule.

Spain now controlled most, if not all of the Yucatan state

The colonizing of the Yucatan was in full swing. The migration of the curious, opportunist and adventurous Europeans started to flood the area. The Yucatan’s terrain can be somewhat between its beautiful shoreline and the semi-arid inland areas. The western and northern coastlines offer white-sand beaches and Caribbean fed waters that flow into the Gulf of Mexico.

Several parts of the Yucatan’s topography aren’t so forgiving. To the south is the state of Campeche and to its east is Quintana Roo. Between these two border states lies a variety of terrain. This was an ecosystem that isn’t all that familiar to the settlers who arrived at the new-found land. The inner-arid landscape can be difficult to navigate. Especially when you come from lush rolling hills, wooded areas, and a mild to a cooler climate. With the peninsula being surrounded by water from the west, its protruding tip and eastern points, the summer months are uncomfortably hot and very humid.

Mayans opposing Spain’s conquering presence

Newcomers to the settlement had to always be cautious whenever traveling outside their residing city limits. Even though the indigenous natives knew they had been defeated, there were still several pockets of rebelling Mayans who opposed Spain’s conquering presence. The Spaniards preceded to dismantle many of the Mesoamerican civilization’s sacred temples. They used the carved stones to build many of Merida’s structures that still remain today. They also relentlessly imposed Catholicism on the Mayan people. This created unsettling tension between the exiled Mayan religious leaders and the Catholic priest.

Finally, without going into more detailed events, by the 17^th century, Spain now had the right to declare the Yucatan Peninsula as part of its vast empire that spread across America.

This is a good place to end our second article in the three-part ‘Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula’ series. The final episode will give you a look at how and when Spain released its hold on Mexico. Their independence was well deserved after spending several centuries of repeated efforts to free themselves from the Spanish and French rule.

Read here our previous article “Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula – Capital of The Yucatan Cities“