Safety in the Yucatan Peninsula to Receive a $70-Million-Peso Investment

Although international media often portrays Mexico as a highly dangerous country, this is not the case in many of its beautiful states. We wouldn’t recommend wondering into places such as Guerrero, Michoacán or the northern border. But other destinations like Puerto Vallarta, San Miguel de Allende, Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum are quite safe. In fact, it is so safe that many expats have chosen these major cities as their forever homes. Safety in Mexico has long been an issue. However, the government has put forward efforts constantly to keep tourist destinations as safe as possible. There is no need to worry for your safety in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Safety in the Yucatan Peninsula Comes First

Merida Mexico

Just recently, the Fund for Strengthening of Performance in Public Security Matters announced that they will be giving just over $70 million Mexican pesos worth of public security to the Yucatan Peninsula. They will be investing around $14 million of these in Merida alone. The four main municipalities in the state of Yucatan will receive just over $120,000 for security measures. This includes Merida, Progreso, Tizimin and Valladolid. The capital will be put forth for possessions to strengthen the presentation of the municipalities and the state of the public security.

Authorites are required to make the millions of annual tourists feel safe and protected in the tourist areas. This is because Mexico has experienced higher crime rates in certain areas, mainly amongst opposing drug cartels. Safety in the Yucatan Peninsula has risen concerns about whether traveling to the country is a good idea or not. However, tourist destinations are far from being dangerous.

Over the past 10 years only four major kidnappings have occurred in the state. Mexico certainly has some red-alert states. We cannot deny that. But in general, Mexico is quite a safe country in comparison to major cities in the United States or Europe. The efforts that the government is putting in to keep safety in the Yucatan Peninsula at bay are major. This is mainly due to its tourism-driven economy. That is why it comes as no surprise that places such as Merida, Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum keep growing in tourism (a 4.3% in Quintana Roo, according to SEDETUR), and in real estate sales.

The Yucatan Peninsula is Still the Perfect Getaway

Safety in the Yucatan Peninsula

The southeastern region of the country continues to paint an image of relaxation, rejuvenation and of self-discovery. Here, you can find your dream home in the tranquility of the Mayan jungle, steps away from the turquoise Caribbean waters without ever having to second-guess yourself or your surroundings. The Yucatan Peninsula continues to grow and continues to put forth the life you’ve always dreamed of.

 

Where to Buy Groceries and Necessities in Playa del Carmen

One of the first annoyances many expats and retirees face when settling for their new life in Playa del Carmen is finding where to buy things. When relocating to these new places it is important to do some previous research on where all the necessities are located in reference to where you will be living. If you are making the Riviera Maya your forever home, you will surely be in need to find certain things along the line – more than just groceries. From grocery stores to malls to car dealerships, you will find it all in the region. Even more mundane things such as going to the cinema or knowing where to buy fruits and vegetables is important. Here is a list of where to buy things throughout Playa del Carmen.

Grocery Shopping

A routinely activity, grocery shopping is very easy in Playa del Carmen. There are many large supermarket chains throughout – both national and international – where you will find locally-sourced and imported goods. La Mega and Walmart are great for quick shopping. You can find anything from alcohol to groceries, clothing, souvenirs and electronics. Although you might be familiar with Walmart, this is focused on a Mexican market and not always carries the same products you are used to back home.

Here is a list of the largest and most popular grocery shops:

La Mega

Walmart

Chedraui

Soriana

Super Aki

Aurrera

Medical Centers and Hospitals

It’s important to know where to get medical attention, whether it’s for a quick check-up or an emergency. As expats and retirees, we highly recommend you always go to a private clinic or hospital for any medical needs. As to where to buy medications and other things, there are many pharmacies throughout the area, as well as inside large hospitals.

Hospitals and Clinics

Hospiten Hospital

CostaMed

Playa International Clinic

Hospital San Carlos

Consultorio Clinic

Cruz Roja (Red Cross)

Pharmacies

Similares

Farmacias del Ahorro

YZA

Car Dealerships

If you’re thinking of bringing your car down to Mexico, you should definitely check whether the brand you’re driving is available in Playa del Carmen, or at least Cancun. That way, if you need to put it in for a check-up or need to replace any parts, you will be able to visit the dealership. For those who want to purchase a car in Playa del Carmen, it is also best to know what dealerships are available and what cars they carry – it often varies from other countries.

Here are the most popular dealerships in Playa del Carmen:

Volkswagen

Nissan Playa del Carmen

Toyota Riviera Maya

Ford Riviera Maya

KIA Playacar

Shopping and Entertainment

Expats are often looking where to buy clothes, sports accessories, perfumes and lotions and other things. There are plenty of shopping centers with great local, national and international stores, as well as plenty of entertainment options. You will find movie theaters, cafés, shops, supermarkets, furniture stores and big stores like Sears.

Cinepolis

Centro Maya

Quinta Alegria Shopping Mall

Paseo del Carmen

Plaza Playacar

Calle Corazon

Plaza Las Americas

US Consular Agency, Playa del Carmen

For any needs about visa requirements, passports or any other assistance you may require while living in Playa del Carmen you will need to visit or call the US Consular Agency located in Plaza Progreso on the Federal Highway 307, local 33.

Everything is different in Playa del Carmen than it would be back home. That is why knowing where to buy things or find the help you need is important. As you settle into your new life, you will slowly start finding quirky and odd stores throughout the many neighborhoods. You will find restaurants, cafés, shops, bars, and more that you will start to frequent.

If you’re just beginning to consider your retirement to paradise, make sure you check out the hundreds of listings we have for you. And if you’re ready to start seeing properties, give us a call. We’re here to help you!

Rainy Season in the Riviera Maya and How to Make the Most of It

Despite the Riviera Maya getting 300 days of sunshine each year, it still gets plenty of rain. The rainy season run from June through November; however, it does not rain every day. Hurricanes, when present, usually land between August and October, although they are a rare sight. Tourists are often baffled with what to do when it’s raining in the region. Firstly, it’s important to point out that showers usually don’t last very long, which means you can quickly resume outdoor activities. Funnily enough, “Playa del Carmen weather” is the most common search in Google.

Not a Fan of Rain? No Problem!

Beach rain

If you want to avoid any sight of rain, you have to travel to the region during the hot, dry months. That means anywhere between December and June. However, if a little rain doesn’t bother you, you should definitely visit any of those other months. You will enjoy the Riviera Maya just the same. There are plenty of things to do when it rains – including swimming! But, be aware, if there is lightning and turns into a thunder storm, steer clear of being in the water.

You need a positive attitude during rainy season. Many people often complain about not having enjoyed their stay at Playa del Carmen due to the weather. Unfortunately, that is out of anyone’s control. A positive attitude will be your ticket to enjoying your visit to the region when it is raining. Whenever the drizzling starts, head on over to one of the many shopping centers. Get a coffee, watch a movie, window shop and just wait for the rain to stop.

Start Taking Up New Activities

Rio Secreto

If you live in Playa del Carmen, using the time it rains to go to the gym, yoga, or even grocery shopping is a great way to spend some time outside your house. There are also casinos available for those who wish to give gambling a go. It’s the perfect place to spend a rainy day at. Lastly, you could always use it as an excuse to go get pampered at a spa.

However, outdoor activities are also quite fun whenever it’s rainy season. Places such as Rio Secreto, which is made up of natural caves and underground rivers, are even more fun when it’s raining. Xcaret, or any of its other 6 parks, are also great with a little drizzle. Since you’ll be wet most of the day anyway, you might as well make the most of it. There is no room for boredom in paradise. With so many fun activities for you and the family during the rainy season, there are no excuses.

Don’t Let the Rainy Season Ruin Your Visit!

A few drops of rain will hardly ruin anybody’s visit to the beautiful Riviera Maya – don’t let it ruin yours! The world is yours and there are many opportunities and activities if you visit with an open mind. Make the best of your retirement in paradise!

Xcaret Announces Two New Parks in the Riviera Maya

Xcaret Park is perhaps one of the Riviera Maya’s most sought-after tourist attractions. It offers a wide selection of activities that are impossible to see in just one day. From swimming in the ocean, to visiting the massive aquarium, and checking out the butterfly den and seeing the jaguars and panthers, it has everything for a fun day-trip for the family. It is the size of over 40 football fields and has all types of water activities on offer. However, its most popular attraction is the Mexico Espectacular show they put on at the end of the day.

The owners of Xcaret, however, have not just stopped at that. In total, they have opened six parks and one archeological tour. They are Xcaret, Xel Ha, Xplor (and Xplor Fuego), Xichen, Xenotes, Xoximilco, and Xenses. At the moment, their seventh park, Xavage by Xcaret, is under construction and is due to open in December 2018. For three years in a row now, Xcaret has received the Best International Theme Park Award by American travel companies, making it one of the most important Mexican-owned companies in the world.

A New World of Adventures

Xel Ha

The new park, according to Experiencias Xcaret General Director, Miguel Quintana Pali, is a whole lot of new extreme. It will be located right next to Xoximilco near the Cancun International Airport. The 25-million USD investment is going towards the implementation of a mountain and a fast white-water river to make the park one of the most exciting to experience.

Another Addition for Xperiencias Xcaret

Moreover, the group is now preparing to add yet another park to their portfolio. Authorities have recently approved a full-blown water park called Suut Há Water Park by Experiencias Xcaret. The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources permitted the construction for the park in March of the upcoming year. Their goal for the water park features a 40-meter high slide, many swimming pools, canals, and lush green areas with a capacity of over two hectares.

Xplor

The water park will be located near their Xplor Park in Playa del Carmen and is set to cost approximately 1 billion Mexican pesos. It will create close to 200 new jobs. The Riviera Maya offers plenty of activities to enjoy their natural resources. But missing out on any one of the Xcaret adventure parks is a mistake. Especially for those that live in the Riviera Maya!

If you want to make this paradise your retirement home, reach out to us today. We’ve got experts waiting to help you find your dream home.

Mexican Holidays and Traditions: Everything You Need to Know to Celebrate

Whether you’re living full-time or part-time in Mexico, engaging in its many traditions is a great way to get to know the culture. Many people recognize Mexico for its beautiful white-sand beaches and picturesque Caribbean Sea. But there is much more than just that. The culture in Mexico is like no other. Its gastronomy is diverse and delicious. Unsurprisingly, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage. You will be enriched in the heritage and the Mexican holidays and traditions, regardless of where you decide to spend your retirement. Here are the most popular Mexican holidays to celebrate throughout the year.

Mexico Independence Day

Mexico Independence Day

While many confuse it with Cinco de Mayo, Mexican Independence Day is actually celebrated on September 16th. They became independent from Spanish governance in 1810, now marking 208 years of freedom. This is one of the largest celebrated Mexican holidays throughout Mexico, comparable to July 1st in Canada or July 4th in the United States. During this time, you will see Mexicans proudly wearing the colors of their country: red, white and green. The celebrations include parades, fireworks and dances in many cities. At home, locals prepare an array of traditional dishes such as pozole and chiles en nogada, which are the trademark foods for the holiday.

At 11pm, the President comes out to the balcony at Mexico City’s National Palace to give the Grito de Dolores. Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave this famous speech at the town of Dolores in the early morning of September 16th, 1810. This marked the beginning of the fight for independence. The President repeats the speech each year, while Mexicans cry back “viva” after celebrating famous names that brought the independence to Mexico. At the end, he yells “Viva Mexico” three times, ringing the bell, marking the beginning of the celebration. The Municipal Presidents of major city squares replicate this tradition, as well.

Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead shrine

This is perhaps one of the most widely known Mexican holidays across the world. Mexicans do not grieve death like other countries do. In fact, death becomes a celebration of someone’s life and is very colorful. Day of the Dead takes place on November 1st and 2nd. Locals celebrate Dia de los Inocentes (Day of the Innocents) on the 1st, which celebrates the life of children who have passed. The second day is Dia de los Difuntos (Day of the Dead), which celebrates adults.

The holiday celebrates all loved ones who have passed by visiting them at the cemeteries with the whole family bringing them offerings of their favorite stuff in life. The central piece is the pan de muerto (day of the dead bread), which is a bread that resembles a bone structure. Sugar skulls are also a popular snack. Mexicans put up shrines throughout the house and office with pictures of the lost ones and their favorite foods and drinks. Mexicans widely believe that during these two days the dead are allowed back into the living world. They get to spend time with their family, but only those whose family set up a shrine with their photograph.

Christmas and Posadas

Christmas piñata

While Christmas is a world-wide holiday, Mexicans have a unique take on it. Mexico is a very Catholic country, and so they do the traditional posada fiesta. Posada means inn or lodging in Spanish; however, during the nine days leading up to Christmas, they become a celebration of the biblical story of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. Families and friends get together to reenact the journey. The family divides itself in two, one staying inside the house and the other outside. The people outside represent Mary and Joseph on their journey, while the ones inside are the ones who will allow them to stay the night so Mary can give birth to Jesus.

There is a lot of caroling and other rituals that take place. While not many people today actually celebrate Catholicism, it has become a trademark tradition that will never disappear. The posada is not only centered on the journey, but on spending time with loved ones. Matriarchs make plenty of food and drinks to go around. They bring out the piñata later to take a swing at. You will find star-shaped piñatas with seven points, representing the seven deadly sins. By breaking it, you are symbolically breaking free from sinning. People fill the piñatas traditionally with fruits such as sugar canes, oranges, jicama, and others. However, today, people put their own spin to it by adding candies and other things.

The Posadas and Christmas time in Mexico are a true celebration of the culture. You should definitely witness it in all its glory and learn about the comradery that is born from this tradition. This is definitely one of the most celebrated Mexican holidays.

Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo dance

The first thing to do is open with a disclaimer. Cinco de Mayo is not actually a nation-wide celebration, and it is, by no means, Mexico’s Independence Day. In 1862, Mexico was under French governance. Mexican troops defeated one of the largest French armies at the time, during the battle of Puebla, on May 5th. While Mexico lost the war, the battle spread a sense of much needed pride throughout Mexico.

Funnily enough, the quick outpouring of celebrations didn’t start in Mexico itself, but in the United States. When Mexican-Americans received word of the small victory, they fired their guns into the air and celebrated their Mexican heritage. However, the state of Puebla does celebrate Cinco de Mayo every year. Locals even get the day off from school and work. Years later, in the mid-1900s, Corona Beer was looking to enter the American market and launched the Drinko the Mayo campaign. This brought the holiday back into the eye of many people, who started celebrating it since.

Mariachi Music

mariachi

If you have been to Mexico, you are probably aware of what Mariachis are. These musicians are everywhere throughout Mexico. They liven up family reunions, restaurant dinners, weddings, and other celebrations with their traditional Mariachi music. You will recognize Mariachis due to their studded attires and large hats. The tradition dates back to the 18th century and, since 2011, the musical expression is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

With so many lively and colorful traditions, Mexico is a great place to live at year-round. Almost every month there is a celebration taking place. When there isn’t something marked in the official calendar, you can trust Mexicans to make an excuse to celebrate something. If you want to experience these Mexican holidays and cultural traditions with locals and in their true expression, it’s time to start considering retirement in Mexico. Take a look at all our properties in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya.

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

Where to Learn Spanish in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen has increasingly become a haven for retirees and expats. With such a large community of foreigners living in the city, it comes as no surprise to know that many of the local people speak great English. However, for those living here – whether it’s part time or full time – it makes sense to get in on learning the language of the country, as well. The great thing about learning Spanish is being able to communicate with locals on yet another level. Spanish is such a fun and versatile language which can open up great opportunities for your future. Just as there are many teachers out there spreading their knowledge in English, many are sticking to their roots and teaching Spanish to foreigners. Here are the best places to learn Spanish in Playa del Carmen.

Learn Spanish with Don Quijote

Learning Spanish

Don Quijote is an informative language school in Playa del Carmen that offers many different lessons. They offer Intensive 15, Intensive 20, Intensive 25 and Super Intensive 30. Each number represents the number of classes you can take per week. They also offer summer camps, Christmas programs, group classes and much more. You can learn Spanish, and more about the school here.

Taan Spanish School Playa del Carmen

Taan is the Mayan word for speak. This Spanish school is run by local Mexican teachers in Playa del Carmen. They offer classes for all levels and are the only 100% Mexican school in the city. Their classes kick off every Monday, which makes it rather flexible for accommodating your schedule. Taan Spanish offers a fun approach, stepping away from the classroom setting. They teach in different places around Playa del Carmen as a way to also get to know the city. By switching up the scenery, they believe their students will learn Spanish better.

Apple Language Courses

Apple Language Courses is a language school that consists of 10 open-air classrooms. They allow a maximum of seven people per class for a more hands-on training and one-on-one lessons. You can choose to have 15, 20 or 25 lessons per week. The neat thing about Apple Language Courses is the ability to add a salsa or cooking class to your Spanish course for free! This will allow you to benefit from learning Spanish and thinking outside the box.

International House Riviera Maya

International House Riviera Maya perhaps is the most well-known Spanish school (besides Berlitz). They have schools in most major cities in the world and teach a wide range of languages. The courses spread from beginner classes to Business and Medical Spanish classes. They are very flexible in schedule and are even available online. This will allow you to refresh your Spanish before you arrive or after you leave Playa del Carmen.

Regardless of which institution you decide to invest in, you should definitely learn Spanish. Although many people speak English in the region, being able to communicate in the native language will take you a long way when traveling, meeting locals, making friends and even getting discounts. Besides, speaking a new language can never hurt anyone!

Street Art in Playa del Carmen: An Emerging Art Scene

Every visitor that comes to Playa del Carmen will comment non-stop on the beauty of the beaches, the friendliness of the locals and the vibrant nightlife. However, a quick stroll away from the tourist area reveals a colorful and artistic beach town. Concrete turns to art in front of our eyes day after day, leaving messages of peace, love and discomfort. The city’s street art scene is fantastic. Artists flock from around the world, leaving their mark on the concrete walls. That way they make sure a piece of them stays with Playa del Carmen. The town is painted throughout all its corners in beautiful colors. All you need is to step away from your comfort zone to discover the story of the city through its murals.

Street art is not graffiti

Street Art Playa del Carmen

When you start strolling towards the center of the city, or if you drive by the Federal Highway’s high bridge, you will start noticing the street art. This is art that locals paint and stencil on the walls. It’s not just a scribble; it’s not graffiti. These paintings take hours upon hours to create. They all tell a story, as well. There are benches along the walkways where locals and tourists enjoy spending some time relaxing and taking in the vibrant surroundings that artists have created. The more local beaches also feature beautiful paintings on the backboards. Playa del Carmen truly is an explosion of color.

Street art in Mexico should come at no surprise. The Mexican traditions are always very colorful and expressive. From language to customs, the country is generally a festive and outspoken place. Whether you are wondering around the tourist areas of Playa del Carmen or you veer off the beaten path, you will be able to find a bright corner to surprise you.

art and culture gaining momentum

Imagine being emerged in such a scenic culture which slowly gains momentum as more than just beaches and spring breakers. Imagine being surrounded by picturesque art and beautiful people and having the ability to walk outside your house and find yourself submerged in a street art gallery. One will never know the culture just from a photo. You must experience it on your own. What are you waiting for? The beach is beckoning you and our specialists at Top Mexico Real Estate are here to find your perfect retirement property surrounded by the amazing street art scene in Playa del Carmen.

A Quick Guide to a Mexican Golfing Retirement

A Quick Guide to a Mexican Golfing Retirement is a contribution by Chrissy Jones.

With some of the best all-inclusive golf resorts in the world, it’s natural to assume that Mexico takes its golfing seriously. With 11 of these courses based in Cancun alone, it’s a haven for the golfing enthusiasts. The real estate market also loves golf courses. Because of this, they add a significant amount of value to the properties in the area. For retirees, good properties and plenty of golfing is the perfect combination. Mexico offers some of the best retirement spots, now with the added advantage of including a swing at golf.

Golfing Paradise at Baja and Las Palomas

Mexico is not necessarily known for its golfing. But an increased focus in the sport has resulted in two of the top ten golf courses in Latin America to be in Mexico. Jack Nicklaus designed the first, Cabo del Sol in Baja. At 36 holes, this is not a course to be trifled with. The second is designed by Forrest Richardson and is based in Las Palomas. This course features 18 holes, which is perfect for a quick round on a Sunday. Both Baja and las Palomas offer retirees the ideal mix of real estate to keep their purses and comfort levels satisfied.

No Need to be a Pro

Bahia Principe Golf Course

Retirees who wish to take up golf as a hobby after retirement don’t need to worry about learning the perfect swing or putt. Plenty of beginners are retirees. In fact, many of the gated estates and resorts offer beginner golfing to their residents. This is a trump card on the real estate front. You can find many of these residences in the Riviera Maya, such as this one in Bahia Principe. Retirees don’t have to worry about starting out their golfing hobby in retirement, as many of them do. This is because many retirees never had the opportunity to take up a hobby before due to lack of time. Residents can request golfing lessons at the local golf courses. Participants can decide when they’re ready to go out on their own.

Luxury is Part of the Package

From the Tom Fazio signature golf course in Chileno Bay to the Jim McLean Golf School at Banyan Tree Mayakoba, luxury and golf go hand in hand. Sprawling residential resorts that offer more than just great views are the ideal location. Here, retirees can rest their wandering feet on Mexican soil. These destinations offer other spoils such as spa access and exclusive outdoor activities, as well. For retirees, this all comes at affordable prices and the temperate weather is a bonus.

From the sprawling beaches that provide the perfect backdrop to a great day’s golfing, to world-class accommodation, retiring in Mexico is one for the young at heart. With fresh greens and crisp lawns, there has never been a better time to take up golf.

Retiring to Mexico: The Best Choice for You

When you’re thinking of your retirement, there are many things to consider. Amongst those, is the ease with which you will be able to move around. This means actually living in a city that is relaxing, close to everything, and where transportation is at hand. A place that requires you to drive everywhere most likely means traffic, and nobody wants to deal with such things during their retirement. It’s your turn to sit back, relax and enjoy. That is why retiring to Mexico has so many benefits. In fact, it is one of the top destinations in the country for Americans and Canadians to spend their golden years.

There are many benefits to retiring in places such as Playa del Carmen. Not only do the big expat communities help each other out constantly, but the quality of life is impressive. Walking everywhere is easy, everything is nearby, there are plenty of things to do, and there is also a great infrastructure.

Medical Assistance

Medical Tourism

One of the perks of retiring to the Riviera Maya is its top-notch medical industry. Many English-speaking professionals work here and cater to the well-being of American and Canadian expats. Retiring to Mexico means having the best possible medical care at hand with many private clinics and dentist’s offices available.

Money Goes A Long Way

The Mexican peso is constantly fluctuating and the dollar gains more and more strength against it. While that may be bad news for our Mexican friends, it is a great opportunity for Americans and Canadians. Dollars will go a long way here not only because of its value but because living in Mexico is very cheap in comparison to other countries. Not only when it comes to real estate but also with simple things such as a meal out in a restaurant, or grocery shopping and even transportation.

Retiring to Mexico Increases Quality of Life

The Riviera Maya is a friendly and welcoming place. It is home to a close-knit community that will help you find anything or recommend places to visit. Many people will also willingly volunteer to help you in translating documents, instructions, or anything else you may need. But because Mexicans are so friendly and open to foreigners, the quality of life is much better, too. Friends are found around every corner. Great food is served in every restaurant. Beers and cocktails flow by the beach nonstop. Activities to do include swimming, snorkeling, diving, yoga, fishing, and many others that keep everyone young at heart.

Moving Around in Mexico

If for some reason you decide to use a vehicle, there are many trusted rental cars that offer incredibly low prices in comparison the USA. Renting a car to pick friends up at the airport, or to get around is an easy and affordable process. However, the transit system (bus and colectivos) are very reliable, timely and good. There are a few terminals scattered around the Riviera Maya that will take you anywhere and bring you back.

Year-Round Warm Weather

The weather in the Riviera Maya is very consistent with the sun always shining and warm temperatures throughout the year. The average temperature is 28°C, while it can fluctuate anywhere between 22°C and 36°C. The weather makes it a great place to retire due to the amount of activities one can enjoy under the sun.

All in all, there is no reason to avoid retiring to Mexico. It is affordable, fun, friendly, beautiful, and offers a great deal of Americanized standards that you are used to. Shopping is easy and cheap and moving around either driving or in public transportation is no hard feat. Mexico is definitely the number one choice for you to retire.

Organic Markets in Playa del Carmen

Eating healthy and buying organic foods has become trendy in today’s society. It has become important for people to eat right, making sure they do not consume pesticides or harmful toxins. Luckily, Playa del Carmen is a great city to live in if you want to focus your habits on being healthy and leading a cleaner lifestyle. In this vibrant town you will find many restaurants offering organic options, a signature many people live by. Most places in North America offer cheap food options, but in turn, these are unhealthy. When you live in a place where healthy options are more affordable, it makes it easier to transition into this lifestyle. Here are some of the best organic markets in Playa del Carmen where you can find fresh food for good prices.

The Best Organic Markets in Playa del Carmen

Organic Market

DAC Market

DAC is located on 30th Avenue, just north of Constituyentes Avenue. It is open Monday through Saturday from 7 am to 8 pm, and Sundays from 7 am to 2 pm. The market offers a wide arrange of fresh fruits and vegetables and an abundance of other delicious items such as fresh meat and seafood. This is a rather traditional market where you can find a variety of items that are also available in supermarkets.

El Pueblito Mayakoba Farmer’s Market

You will find El Pueblito Mayakoba within the eco-friendly, luxury resort of Mayakoba. However, anyone can visit the market. It is open every Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm, which makes for a great afternoon spent browsing through the many items on display. Find fresh and organic produce, home baked goods, art, and much more available here.

El Arbol Playacar Market

Fresh produce

The market El Arbol within the gated-community of Playacar is a tranquil place that offers more than just food. You can enjoy the beautiful environment, peaceful music, and a variety of organic products all in the same place. The market is open every Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm right on Tulum Avenue in Playacar’s Phase II. Throughout the week, you can find delicious bread and vegan food at the local, as well. This is one of the most complete organic markets out there.

El Jardin de Todas Market

Located on 80th Avenue and 3rd Street South, this quaint little market is open every Friday from 9 am to 12 pm. If you’re an eco-lover, you’re in for a treat. Here you can find many tasty organic products and handmade goods to help support the local communities. Make sure you get there early as it works on a first-come, first-serve basis. This is a great place to socialize and buy from local vendors. Everything is always fresh and their products will have you coming back every Friday for more.

If you’re ready to adopt that healthy lifestyle you’ve always been after, make sure to check out these amazing organic markets in Playa del Carmen. The truth is, the general environment in this beautiful coastal town is the perfect place to go fully organic. And if you want to go the extra step, you can also point your efforts towards recycling and leaving a clean life.