Category Archives: Living in Mexico

Pets and Mexico Real Estate Part II

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As promised, here is the second part of Pets and Mexico Real Estate

Pets and Mexico

Taking Your Pet For A Walk

Let’s not forget about the surrounding amenities that will contribute to you and your pet’s
daily activities. The Riviera Maya is one of the most pet-friendly destinations in Mexico. They go out of the way to provide as many accommodating amenities as possible. Pet owners can walk their dogs practically anywhere in the Riviera Maya as long as they are on a leash.

There are several doggy or kitty parks and walking trails in and around the area. Some public beaches along the Riviera Maya’s beautiful coastline do allow dogs. However, it would be better to check for specific hours and requirements beforehand.

Remember your pet paws

The Riviera Maya’s terrain can heat up to incredibly high temperatures. With this said, be
careful that your dog’s paws don’t get burned on the different surfaces along the Riviera
Maya. You might want to consider purchasing ‘paw pads’ before relocating. It is an unspoken rule amongst pet owners to always maintain a reasonable amount of pet control. Keeping your pet on a leash and staying out of pet-restricted areas make everyone’s life that much easier.

Veterinarians, Clinics and Hospitals.

Medical care is an essential factor when relocating to a new country. This is not only true for humans but for their four-legged companions as well. Therefore, having access to doctors, clinics and hospitals is a vital part of life. Here is a list of several Veterinarians and Clinics in and around the Rivera Maya area.● Petventiva Vet & Shop is a veterinarian clinic in Akumal that also offers pet supplies.
● Clinica Veterinaria & Sanimal Clinica Veterinaria offers Veterinarian and clinic services in Playa del Carmen.
● La Vet Veterinaria Hospital serves all of the Riviera Maya towns and communities.
● Veterinaria Pet Gar is a Veterinarian office in Puerto Morelos that serves the local area.
● Cozumel Pet Center is a Veterinaria facility with a small clinic on the Island of Cozumel.
● Vet Pet Tulum & Animal Care Plaza are 2 Veterinarian Clinics that are in Tulum.

These are just a few of the Veterinarian clinics that provide quality care in the Riviera Maya. When you establish your home base, take a few days to visit these or any other offices you might find in your area.

Pet Sitters
There could come a time when you may need to attend a special event or an important
meeting, however your pet can’t be in attendance. In this particular situation, you will need a pet sitter or walker. You have two options; they are to ask for references or do your own investigating. There are several pet sitters you can call and arrange for an interview. They are in no specific order :The Dog Walker Playa, Ami Dogs Playa del Carmen, and Dog’s Paradise (Cozumel). These three entities have a 4.6 star and above rating.

Pet Hotels
If the time ever comes where you need to be out of town for any period, several doggie hotels can take good care of your companion’s every need. Here are a few places that you could check out beforehand.
● Animal House – Playa del Carmen [4.6 stars]
● Cozumel Dog Sitter and Day Care Center [5.0 stars]
● Perrininis Nanny VIP – Pet Boarding Services [4.5 stars]

With just a little bit of effort, pets and Mexico real estate can live in harmony. People who relocated with their furry friends can create new and exciting adventures. You can walk on some of the world’s finest beaches and explore miles of unspoiled landscape. Let’s not forget Mexico’s welcoming culture and historical traditions.

Pets and Mexico Real Estate Part I

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Pets and Real Estate in Mexico

Many people include their pets in everything they do. They are a part of the family’s nucleus and are allowed to join in on most activities. When pet owners go shopping and/or run errands, they patronize pet-friendly places. It is not uncommon to see people traveling or going on vacation with their pets in tow. Throughout the decades, the hospitality industry, including food service and retailers, have readjusted their pet policies. There are still certain restrictions in place, but times are changing for our four-legged friends.

Animals and especially dogs and cats have been present since the beginning of time. It has been a historical tradition that families with kids are more likely to have pets than those who don’t. In the same token, some empty nesters grew accustomed to having a pet around the house. It seems as we get older, having a four-legged companion makes for good company.

However, what happens if you want to relocate? And let’s say that move is south of the border! You might want to know a few things about pets and Mexico real estate. It really isn’t that big of an issue when wanting to take your favorite companion(s) along with you. Pets can help you cope with anxiety when experiencing a life-changing adventure. They are always there to lend unconditional support, comfort, and confidence.

Pets and Mexico Beach

The following paragraphs will hopefully provide some basic information that will make your transition that much easier.

Documentation Needed to Bring a Pet Into Mexico

Beginning December 16, 2019, a certified certificate of health for your pet(s) is no longer needed to enter Mexico. However, this doesn’t mean you can casually come across the border and go on your merry way. The pet’s owner must proceed to Mexico’s Agricultural Health Inspection Office (OISA) for a brief inspection of the animal. The following procedures are required before official entry is allowed.

1. When you arrive at Mexico’s port-of-entry, the dog(s) and/or cat(s) must be in a clean cage(s) or carrier(s).
2. Before granted permission to cross the border, the pet(s) must be inspected and cleared for the following:
● Show no symptoms of infection are diseases.
● The animal shows no signs of ectoparasites.
● The animal has no signs of wounds or has any previous wounds healing.

Here are a few other important facts that will provide you with an easy transition.
● If your pet has an aggressive personality, you might want to consider a muzzle.
● It isn’t a bad idea to have your pet’s documented shots and medical history.
● You can only have that days’ worth of food for your pet when entering Mexico.

You can also contact Mexico’s OISA ahead of time if you have any questions or concerns. The numbers and website are 01 (55) 5905-1000 or 1 (800) 987-9879 –
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel/by-country/pettravel-mexico

Air Traveling With Your Pet 
Most airlines do accept traveling with pets, but like everything else, there are certain restrictions. Here are a few basic policies throughout the airline industry.

● The size of your pet will determine if it can travel in the cabin or the cargo hold.
1. The cabin can accommodate smaller dogs in a travel carrier that fits under the seat.
2. Larger dogs will fly in the cargo hold in an approved carrier.
● No matter the pet’s size, it must fly in the cargo hold if the flight lasts longer than 8
hours.
* Please note, it is always better to consult with your airline of choice regarding taking a pet on your trip.

Traveling pets

Finding A Suitable Property
Once you have decided to relocate to Mexico, finding the ideal home for both you and your furry companion will begin. There has to be a happy medium when looking for a place where pets and Mexico real estate come together. You should address several specific requirements before touring properties with a qualified agent. Here are a few suggestions:

● Would there be enough room for you and your pet to live comfortably?
● Is the complex – building – community pet-friendly?
● Is the home’s flooring pet-friendly?
● Are there any areas where your pet can get out and stretch its legs?

Other considerations like having a balcony, garden or patio, appropriate furnishings, and the ease of maintenance should be part of your buying criteria as well. These are just a few suggestions that might narrow down your search for that perfect home a little easier.

When researching potential homes, you might want to consider a free-standing home
seriously. The advantages would be more room and having a private outdoor space. The disadvantage would require more overall upkeep. The benefit of a condo would be less upkeep regarding landscape and building maintenance. However, depending on the size of your pet could dictate the space you need to spread out and play. You may find both types of homes in a variety of communities.

To be continued in Pets and Mexico Real Estate Part II…

Riviera Maya’s Top 5 Beaches to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

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Celebrate Valentine’s Day

On February 14th, better known as Valentine’s Day, couples will celebrate their love for one another. It also provides an opportunity for Cupid’s arrow to put together a magical relationship between two individuals. This romantic holiday is celebrated with a special dinner date, red roses, and let’s not forget the most precious gift of all, diamonds! This could include a surprise trip to an exotic destination with gorgeous beaches, beautiful scenery, and fantastic weather for the more adventurous couples.

Suppose you choose the “Exotic Destination” option for that special loved one. In that case, we have a few suggestions that you might want to consider. Arranging a surprise getaway can offer a memorable time that you and your partner can share forever. That’s why spending Valentine’s Day on one of the Riviera Maya’s top 5 beach destinations can prove to be a great choice. What better way than to spend a few days soaking up some rays and taking a refreshing dip in the Caribbean Sea’s tempered water?

Mexico’s Rivera Maya is a well-known vacation mecca that appeals to sun-seekers looking for a place to relax and forget about all the world’s problems. What makes the Riviera Maya a popular choice? Here are five reasons why you and your special mate should experience a place where many consider being the ultimate paradise here on earth.

Caleta Tankah Beach

This hidden gem is just north of Tulum off Federal Highway 307. Its rustic feel and the lack of many modern amenities keep the typical tourist at bay. Besides having sugar-fine white sand and beautiful turquoise water, Caleta Tankah Beach has a naturally formed cave that offers a cenote where you can take a refreshing dip. You can also explore several trails while enjoying the breathtaking landscape. There is a local beach club that has a full-service bar and restaurant. There is also a beachfront hotel that has enough room for almost any occasion. If you are looking for a place to escape? Caleta Tankah Beach could be your best option!

Bahía Soliman Beach

When trying to find some information regarding Bahia Soliman Beach, chances are you probably won’t come up with much. If you are looking for a beach lined with loud bars and exotic restaurants, this isn’t the place for you. However, suppose crystal clear turquoise water that brushes against soft white sand sounds more like your style. In that case, Bahia Soliman Beach could be just what the doctor ordered! Here is where you can escape the crowds. Why not spend a quiet day lying on the beach, snorkeling along the reef, and exploring the lush tropical surroundings? Bahia Soliman Beach is minutes from Tulum and Akumal. Do yourselves a favor and live life as it was meant to be.

Puerto Aventuras

If an ideal Valentine’s Day includes an exciting mix of activities, Puerto Aventuras may be the place for you! This gated community has something for everybody. After enjoying a great round of golf, you can satisfy your appetite and enjoy a refreshing beverage in the town square. There are a few resorts, a beach club hotel, and a variety of condos to rent. The glistening white sand beaches nestled around several crescent shape bays play host to calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Puerto Aventuras also has an exclusive harbor that offers a variety of day trips and sunset tours. What a great place for a Valentine’s Day getaway!

Xcacel and Xcacelito

Just 40-minutes south of Playa del Carmen is one of the Riviera Maya’s most pristine stretches of beach. Xcacel Beach serves as a nesting sanctuary for Loggerhead and White Sea Turtles. On the north end of the beach is a protected reef where you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling. Just steps away from the Caribbean Sea is Xcacelito – a freshwater cenote surrounded by an unspoiled jungle. The only amenities available are restrooms and showers. So, bring your own towels, food, and water, and personal necessities. This particular park is an eco-friendly destination. This is a great place to enjoy nature in its actual state.

Punta Allen

Punta Allen is a small fishing village located at the tip of a very narrow peninsula and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. This rustic location with its sand streets, home-based stores and restaurants, and its somewhat primitive infrastructure is what Mexico was all about before tourism. If you are a bird watcher or ‘flats’ fisherman, there is no lack of sport here. There are also plenty of virgin beaches and tropical terrain to explore. If you and your partner are experienced hikers, naturalists, and/or adventure seekers, this could be your ideal trip! This could also be an excellent opportunity to spend a couple of nights in Tulum.

Taking the time to spend Valentine’s Day on one of the Riviera Maya’s top 5 beaches will bring plenty of memorable times. These and many other beach paradises can be a fabulous place to relax and enjoy time with that special someone. The Riviera Maya and its beautiful coastal shores will create an everlasting experience for those who want to enjoy life and all it has to offer. Top Mexico Real Estate wants to wish everyone a Happy Valentine’s Day!

 

The Easiest Way to Start a Collective Compost

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Making Collective Compost

In this post, we ponder the reasons for making compost, the taboos around it, the types of compost, how they are made and what materials they carry. We review examples of collective composts and how the community can put it in practice, generating neighbor participation, and where everyone can enjoy the benefits.  Continue reading →

Hurricane Season in Riviera Maya and How to Prepare for it

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Hurricane Season

For those that live or work on the East Coast of North America, familiarity with hurricane season is nothing new. It goes from May to November. Each year, the warm waters of the southern Atlantic Ocean give rise to tropical storms and hurricanes. 

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Snorkeling: Best Places to do it in the Riviera Maya

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There are many thrilling activities to do when you’re in the Riviera Maya. One of the most interesting and refreshing is snorkeling! And there is no shortage of places for you to indulge.  Continue reading →

Family Activities in the Riviera Maya

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 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 →

Sargasso? Riviera Maya has much more for you!

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Sargasso? The Riviera Maya has many more activities for you!

If you’ve visited the beaches in the Riviera Maya in the mornings, you’ve probably noticed the piles of sargasso littering the sand. This free-floating seaweed has been experiencing a boom in recent years due to warmer ocean waters caused by climate change.  Continue reading →