Category Archives: Nature

A romantic getaway to Holbox Island!

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A romantic getaway to Holbox Island: After all the Christmas festivities in Mexico, many people can feel pretty drained. Let me tell you, between kids activity’s, parties and having family in town, one could need a vacation from their vacation.

Living in the Mayan Riviera gives us a wide variety of romantic little known spots to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and our daily responsibilities: Tulum, Bacalar and Holbox, just to mention some!

We had been in Holbox many times, it’s a perfect relaxing, romance getaway!

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About Holbox:

Holbox is a small island located in the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Famous for being a whale shark sanctuary, this island is ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a tranquil setting to enjoy the beach.

Holbox is 26 miles long and about 1 mile wide, and it offers pristine beaches with white coral sand. The island is located within the Yum Balam Natural Reserve, as a result, the marine life of the island is diverse and abundant: from whale sharks, dolphins, lobsters as well as octopus, stingrays and sea turtles, just to name a few.

How to Get There:

To get to Holbox, first you need to get to the town of Chiquila. You can drive which will take about two hours from Cancun or you can take a 20 minute plane ride. Also, there is a new toll road from Playa del Carmen, but there is also public transportation available.

Once you reach the town of Chiquila, you need to find a safe parking spot for your car and then take a boat or ferry to Isla Holbox. A big boat will charge around 40 pesos per person for a 25 minutes trip to the island, if they are not available you can hire a local fisherman and pay about 250 pesos per boat (for 6 people and their bags).

Attractions:

Its shallow, turquoise waters allow people of all ages and abilities to swim at ease; ideal for snorkeling or paddle boarding. Holbox is also the ideal place to learn or practice kitesurfing, as there is always a strong breeze.

During the months of June to September, Holbox is host to the largest congregation of whale sharks: the largest known fish. These majestic creatures, which can grow up to 15 meters, come every year to feed on plankton. Because of its peaceful nature, you can swim alongside these gentle giants and observe them in their natural habitat. Swimming with whale sharks is an unforgettable experience.

Sport fishing and fly fishing is a popular activity, the ocean is full of fish such as: bonefish, barracuda, snapper, pompano and mackerel, among others. Bird watching is another popular activity, where you will be able to see: flamingos, white and brown pelicans, cormorants, reddish egrets, roseate spoonbills and herons.

There are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Holbox like horseback riding, diving, kayaking through the mangroves, kitesurf, or swim in Yalahau.

Romantic Getaways:

Here are two romantic getaway packages I found in Holbox:

Sweet Escape in Hotel Casa Las Tortugas

holboxcasalastortugas.com

Whether you are celebrating a wedding anniversary, a special birthday or an engagement, this Sweet Escape package is a perfect way to say ‘I love you’. This romantic retreat includes a surprise candle-lit dinner on the beach and some of their best spa treatments.

This Package includes:

  • Three nights in a Standard room
  • Half-board for two people (breakfast and lunch)
  • Spa package for two people (Honeymoon package)
  • Romantic dinner on the beach for two people

For only $1175 USD*

*Room upgrade on request.

*Transfer on request.

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Romantic Escape at Casa Sandra

casasandra.com

Casa Sandra is a very romantic and intimate home, conceived with art, music and coziness in mind, where every detail is created with love. This boutique hotel provides personalized service and a friendly atmosphere, allowing loved ones can connect more deeply.

This package includes:

  • Three nights’ accommodation with upgrades
  • Daily American breakfast (including one room service per stay)
  • Romantic amenities in your room
  • One hour massage per guest
  • Romantic dinner on the beach with personalized service, a bottle of wine and a special menu
  • Evening cocktails and seasonal fruit platter, one per stay
  • One hour daily golf cart rental
  • Early check-in and late check-out
  • Ground transfer and private plane, one-way each

For Only $2645 USD*

*10% Discount for locals with State issued ID

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If you are looking for an ideal romantic getaway, do not search any further than Holbox! Holbox is the ideal destination for of those looking to rekindle the spark or just recharge. Let the professionals pamper you and your significant other and enjoy everything Holbox has to offer.

Top Mexico Real Estate is your one and only stop for everything Riviera Maya, we thrive to offer our readers the best possible information. We have also helped thousands of clients find their dream home in Mexico. Live the life, Live in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Off the Beaten Path: Visit San Felipe

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The Mayan Riviera can be a crowded place sometimes; if you like adventure and want to visit some unspoiled beaches do not miss the opportunity to visit San Felipe in the neighboring state of Yucatan.

This jewel is located north of the state of Yucatan, 31 km. north of Tizimin and only three hours away from Playa del Carmen. This destination is ideal if you are planning to have a road trip and visit places like Valladolid, Tizimin, El Cuyo, Holbox and the coastal town of San Felipe

History:

This region was inhabited by the ancient Mayan and was known by the name Actum Chuleb. To this date, there are still some Mayan vestiges in the area.

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On February 5, 1853, when they separated from Panabá, the town and port of San Felipe was erected municipality and became part of Tizimin until July 12, 1935, when San Felipe was declared a free municipality.

Once the Spanish settled in the area the main activities were agriculture and cattle, which was shipped to the rest of Yucatan by way of canoes. Nowadays, the main activities are tourism and fishing.

Attractions:

San Felipe welcomes its visitors with rows of multiple colored rustic wooden houses, similar to the ones found in Chetumal and Belize, and not so much like the traditional Yucatecan Colonial architecture with stone and beams. The real estate in San Felipe is beautiful.

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In the surrounding areas it is possible to appreciate a great diversity of flora and fauna, as well as an abundance of mangroves and tropical plants. As for wildlife, there is a variety of fish, crustaceans and molluscs, among which grouper, blonde, saw, octopi, squid, conch, lobster, and others are abundant. On the land, there is a variety of species such as rabbits, foxes, turtles, snakes, gulls, migratory birds and herons, amongst others.

The main attraction in San Felipe is the beach, which can be reached by boat transfer. Once you cross the Ria, you will find a rustic tourism complex with palapas and composting toilets. It is important to be prepared as there is nothing else in that area: no shops, no chairs, and no food. Bring everything you might need such as water, food, a chair or hammock, as well as an icebox, suntan lotion, mosquito repellent and so on, especially if you are planning to stay for longer than a couple of hours.

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The beach is quiet and not very crowded, the water is also very shallow, and you have to walk out several feet to reach a decent depth. It is ideal for small children and snorkeling as the water is extremely clear and many fish and other sea creatures can be seen without any equipment.

Some other attractions in the area are:

Cenote Kambunáh

Isla Cerritos

Birdwatching

Observation of crocodiles

Sport fishing

Walking on the bay

Ria Lagartos Reserve

Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy this piece of paradise known as San Felipe; if you are looking for the house of your dreams in Mexico, let the Top Mexico Real Estate Buyer’s Representatives help your dreams come true!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

New Year’s Eve, Playa del Carmen 2015

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It is hard to believe we are already making plans for the end of the year! 2014 has gone by so fast and it has been a great year for us at Top Mexico Real Estate. Throughout the year many new and exciting projects were born, happy customers lived their dream of owning a home in paradise and our sales team grew, becoming greater than ever!

If you are visiting or live near the Playa del Carmen area, we have compiled a list of places that are offering New Year’s dinners to say goodbye to the old year and welcome 2015. Remember that good places get booked quite quickly, make your reservations as soon as possible!

I M P R E V I S T · Resto & Wine

1 Avenida Norte Entre Calle 14 Norte y 16 Norte Bis SN

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

+52 984 168 7025

reservations@imprevist.mx

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For only $130 USD you will enjoy a delicious gourmet dinner in a nice and romantic setting. Your dinner includes admission to a night full of live music and dancing at the 1st Annual Plank New Year’s Eve Bash!

Alux

Av. Juárez Mza. 217 Lote. 2 Col. Ejidal entre diagonal 65 y 70.

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

52 01 (984) 2062 589 / (984) 1471 563

info@aluxrestaurant.com

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If you want to experience a unique gastronomic experience in an amazing place, you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy your New Year’s dinner at Alux. This beautiful restaurant offers not only the best food and wine in town, but also a mesmerizing ambience: located in a subterranean palace adorned by stalagmites and stalactites and special lighting to create a magical atmosphere.

Enjoy this natural attraction unlike any other; do not forget to bring your camera. Their excellent selection of menus and extensive wine selection combined with a unique setting make for memorable destination dining.

Kool Beach Club

Calle 28 y Playa

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

01 (984) 803 19 61

eventos@koolbeachclub.com.mx

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Kool Beach Club is offering a full night of fun on the beach for @ $140 USD. This gourmet 4 course steak and lobster dinner includes a premium open bar from 9pm – 1am, New Year’s Eve party kit, DJ and other entertainment. Ring in the New Year at a Kool, hip location on the beach.

Wah Wah Beach Bar

Calle 2 Nte y Playa

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

52 984 143 6009

wahwahbeach.com

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Wah Wah offers the best party in paradise! No cover, no expensive meal, and no reservations needed! Just come as you are and have FUN! Wah Wah’s will be offering their full menu. Renato and The Jam Session Combo will be rocking the stage all night long and at midnight they will have their annual Balloon Drop.

It’s better on the beach!

Wah Wah Annual Hangover Haven

Just when you thought the party was over, celebrate the First Sunrise of 2015, at Wah Wah’s 1st Annual Hangover Haven! Wah Wah will be serving an all you can eat breakfast buffet with unlimited bloody mary’s and live music for only $220 Pesos. Wah Wah Annual Hangover Haven is from 6am – 11am on January 1st.

Rise and shine into the New Year!

Top Mexico Real Estate wishes you a Happy New Year!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…We Make it Happen!

Awaken the New Year with Yoga in the Riviera Maya

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Every year, hundreds of visitors arrive to the Riviera Maya looking for the perfect getaway: tropical weather, sandy beaches and beautiful turquoise waters!  But there are some that look for something else, a combination between a relaxing holiday and the opportunity to deepen their Yoga practice.

Yoga is very popular all over the Riviera Maya, and hotels and specialized retreats cater to the needs of a growing number of tourists that look for yoga classes, specialized yoga retreats or even teacher training courses.

10 reasons to have your yoga getaway in the Riviera Maya!

There are many Yoga destinations, but something that makes the Riviera Maya so unique is the opportunity to mix your practice with marvelous experiences, such as:

  1. Explore ancient Mayan ruins.
  2. Enjoy the many beautiful beaches throughout the area.
  3. Experience the awe of swimming in an underground river.
  4. Go snorkeling, fishing or diving… you know you want to!
  5. Connect with nature, visit the many nature reserves in the area: Isla Contoy and Sian Ka’an are excellent natural havens.
  6. Wake up early and enjoy the wonderful sunrise.
  7. Look up to the starry night.
  8. Experience the sacred cenotes of the region.
  9. Escape the cold winter back home.
  10. Meditate on the beach.

And above all, experience and learn more about Yoga!!!

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A New Year of Yoga Retreats:

New Year’s Hot Bikram Yoga Retreat

Casa Om in Cancun

December 28th–January 3rd, 2015

Ring in the New Year and cleanse the soul at this hot Bikram Yoga Retreat. This retreat is an excellent way to take care of the mind and body after the busy holiday season and celebrate the New Year. Siri Om, the retreat instructor and owner of Casa Om, has a love for yoga that is effervescent and will inspire you to new heights in your practice. Casa Om is located directly across from the turquoise blue water of the Caribbean Sea. It features a swimming pool, koi pond, ten luxury bedrooms and a gourmet vegetarian kitchen with gluten free and vegan options. The one thing Casa Om suggests that you bring to the retreat is a spirit of adventure and an appetite for fun! Are you ready to ring in the New Year at Casa Om?

PACKAGES INCLUDE:

  • Accommodation (6nights)
  • Breakfast buffet daily
  • Four Gourmet dinners prepared by the exquisite Casa Om’s chef
  • Two yoga classes per day(hot room Bikram and Yoga on the pier overlooking the beach)
  • On-site swimming pool
  • Fun day in Playa del Carmen
  • Transportation to and from the Cancun International Airport

More information:

www.casaom.com

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Revive Your Vibe: Reset Your Mind, Body and Goals

Yoga Adventures of Tulum

January 6th-11th, 2015

Treat yourself to a yoga and meditation retreat in front of the Caribbean Sea with Adesina Dowers. What a great way to start off the New Year! This retreat will help you recoup from the busy hustle and bustle of the holidays and reset your mind and body while focusing your goals for the New Year. Tulum is a yoga paradise with tranquil, crystal clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, amazing yoga, great food, Mayan ruins, and healing powers rooted deep inside the earth. Start the day with an invigorating morning practice, enjoy healthy fresh meals, followed by free time to relax by the Caribbean Sea or explore the wonders of the area. Indulge in a fabulous Mayan spa treatment, cover yourself in Mexican clay to detox and purify your skin, meditate in the sun and then wash it away in the sea. Afternoon practice is a yin or restorative to wind down the day. You will reconnect and rejuvenate yourself in this amazing Mayan land.  You know you deserve it!

PACKAGES INCLUDE:

  • Accommodations of your choice (5 nights)
  • Breakfast daily
  • Delicious and healthy lunch daily
  • Two yoga classes per day
  • 90 minute healing massage
  • Group Mexican mud meditation in the sun
  • Welcome cleansing circle with local shaman

More information:

www.yogaadventurestulum.com

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Hot Yoga Teacher Training

La Calma Resort in Tulum

January 5th–February 1st, 2015

New Years has always been a time for making new resolutions and bettering yourself. If becoming a hot yoga teacher has always been one of your dreams, now is the time to set that goal and accomplish it. You can complete your yoga teacher training in paradise. Spend four weeks at the ideally spiritual La Calma resort and get your yoga teacher training certificate in a picture perfect location. Evolation hot yoga teacher training is a 250hr course focused on teaching the hot yoga Primary Series, originally defined by Bikram Choudhury. You will explore the essentials of yoga philosophy, anatomy and mechanics that underpin this sequence – in an inclusive and intimate training environment. You will also deepen your own yoga practice through intimate posture mechanics workshops, a variety of yoga classes and individual feedback. Are you ready to immerse yourself in an intensive 4 week yoga experience that will change your life?

More information:

www.evolationyoga.com

Are you ready to trade in the cold weather and frozen tundra for balmy weather and a tropical paradise? Balance your chakra in the New Year in the Riviera Maya.

Swimming with the Turtles in Akumal

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Swimming with the turtles in Akumal is a once in a lifetime experience you cannot miss. For centuries or even millennia, turtles have nested in the rocky shores of Akumal where the eggs are left to hatch and re-start the cycle of life.

The presence of this magnificent creatures probably impressed the ancient Mayans, who called this area in the coast, Akumal; “The Place of the Turtle.”

There are seven known species of turtles in the world, and all of them are endangered species; three of them can be seen at the Akumal beaches and two of them nest on the beaches of Akumal.

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Swimming with the Turtles in Akumal: Species found in the area

LOGGERHEAD TURTLES (Caretta caretta):

Adults weigh from 100–200 kg and grow to 1.15 m in length; this species feed primarily on shellfish such as crabs and snails. Nesting season is between April and July, and females nest 3–7 times every season, with approximately 120 round, white eggs in each nest.

GREEN TURTLES (Chelonia mydas):

Adults weigh between 100–250 kg and grow to 1.2 m in length, this species feeds primarily on sea grass. Nesting season is between June and September, and female nests from 3–7 times a year and each nest contains 120–150 round, white eggs.

HAWKSBILL TURTLE (Eretmochelys imbricata):

Adult hawksbill sea turtles weigh around 80 kg and have been known to grow up to 1 m in length, and this turtle’s favorite treat is toxic jellyfish. Please note that this species doesn’t breed in this area, but some specimens can be seen swimming in Akumal.

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Swimming with the Turtles in Akumal: Participate in the conservation effort!

Since its foundation in 1993, Centro Ecológico Akumal (CEA) has had one mission:  protect nesting sea turtles. CEA runs several programs and preserve the natural environment on the Akumal coast.

Their program is operated through a government-authorized management plan for the protection, conservation, research and management of sea turtles on four local beaches. CEA staff and volunteers patrol the beaches nightly to identify and protect nesting females, their nests and hatchlings.

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VOLUNTEERING:

Volunteers are always welcome, keep in mind this is a physical job that might take a toll on your body. Also the nesting and hatching of the turtles happen mostly during after dusk, so prepare yourself for some sleepless nights.

Volunteers must be willing to cover other educational and promotional positions, and speaking at least two languages is a requirement. Prior knowledge is not required, the volunteers have to have an enthusiastic and adventurous personality and be willing to adjust to a different environment and culture.

General Requirements for Volunteers:

  • Must be 21 years of age or older.
  • There is a selection process, not all applicants are accepted.
  • There is a 2 months minimal commitment to the program.
  • There is a monthly fee that helps cover for the program expenses. The cost is $200 USD (foreigners) or $100 USD (Mexicans). The payment is due one month before the start of the program.
  • A valid passport and visa or FM3 for the length of your stay is required.
  • It is your responsibility to ensure that you have all the recommended vaccinations.
  • You should have valid insurance for medical services.

Swimming with turtles in Akumal is a dream for many, but helping preserving the species and the environment is a life changing experience.

Here at Top Mexico Real Estate we pride ourselves on promoting local organizations working to preserve the beauty of the Mayan Riviera. Visit the Centro Ecologico Akumal (CEA) website at ceakumal.org to learn more about their programs or to make a donation.

We would like to thank Quetzal for sponsoring this blog. Quetzal is a new development in Bahia Principe. To learn more about Quetzal, please click here.

Fishing in the Riviera Maya

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Fishing in the Riviera Maya is one of the most popular attractions for thousands of visitors every year. The Riviera Maya has access to the Mesoamerican Reef, the second largest reef system in the world, offering a wide variety of sea life and sea fishing experiences.

Fishing in the Riviera Maya is a year-round opportunity and there are activities for every level, from professionals to children; everyone can enjoy fishing in the Riviera Maya!

The predominant fishing season for sailfish, blue marlin, white marlin and dorado (mahi-mahi) begins in March and runs through July. In other seasons the abundant fish are wahoo, tuna, kingfish, and barracuda as well as snapper, grouper, and triggerfish. The smaller kinds of fish you can opt to cook yourself or you can pick a restaurant and let them do all the work for you!

Fishing in the Riviera Maya: Calendar

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Source: https://rivieramayafishing.com/

Note: Sailfish, Marlin and some other fish are catch and release only. Recent law bans shark fishing.

Fishing in the Riviera Maya: Locations

If you want to stay away from larger tourist destinations like Playa del Carmen or Cancun, we have three suggestions for fishing destinations:

Puerto Aventuras

Puerto Aventuras is a gated community located halfway between the popular tourist destinations Playa del Carmen and Tulum. This is a wonderful place for sport fishing, it also has its own marina and most of the fishing areas are very close; forget about long trips into the sea!

The best time to go fishing is from March to June, but there are always fish and fishing tours with year round success rates. If someone in your group is not into fishing, there is also the option of snorkeling in the nearby reef; an ideal activity for kids.

More Information:

https://rivieramayafishing.com/

Riviera Maya Fishing

US Phone: 513-410-1644

From Mexico: 984-112-1989

International: 011-52-984-112-1989

Email: info@rivieramayafishing.com

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Puerto Morelos

Puerto Moreleos is a sleepy fishing town, there are only a few restaurants and hotels in the downtown area. Puerto Morelos is located 15 minutes south from the Cancun International Airport and halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

The reef at Puerto Morelos is so close, you won’t be wasting any time before you are ready to catch something!

More Information:

https://www.puertomorelosfishing.com/

US Phone (303)325-3986

From Mexico: 01 (998)848-8819

International:  011-52-1-(998)201-9805

Cell local: 044-(998)201-9805/ Cell another city in Mexico 045-(998)201-9805

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Sian Ka’an Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Reserve is a beautiful place and you can either go fishing in deep waters or fly-fishing in the world famous salt water lagoons of Sian Ka’an.

Some of the fish that can be found in these waters are: bonefish, tarpon, permit, jack and barracuda.

Visiting the Sian Ka’an reserve is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the local

wildlife as well as the ancient Mayan civilization. Most of these tours are run by experienced guides that also live in the Sian Ka’an Reserve.

Although the primary fishing season is March through August, the year-round marine resources provide abundant schools of many species throughout the year.

More Information:

CESIAK:

https://www.cesiak.org/

Email: info@cesiak.org

Community Tours Sian Ka’an:

https://www.siankaantours.org/en/fly-fishing/

info@siankaantours.org

+52 (984) 871 22 02

+52 (984) 114 07 50

Fishing in the Riviera Maya provides year round options, whether it’s deep sea fishing or fly fishing, fishing for sport or fishing for your dinner, you are sure to catch a good time.

La Ruta de los Cenotes, off the beaten path adventures!

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La Ruta de los Cenotes is a wonderful option if you are visiting the Riviera Maya and want to experience something amazing and forget about the tourist traps. This unassuming road offers many pleasant surprises for those who dare to do something different.

La Ruta de los Cenotes: How to get there?

La Ruta de los Cenotes is the name given the road that connects the town of Puerto Morelos and Leona Vicario, in the southern state of Quintana Roo. It is located off the 307 highway, approximately 20 minutes south from the Cancun International Airport.

To get there pass the town of Puerto Morelos until you see a rock arch on the right hand side, that is the entrance to La Ruta de los Cenotes. On that road you will see signs for different cenotes or sinkholes, you just need to pick one and experience a once in a lifetime adventure.

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La Ruta de los Cenotes: What is a Cenote?

A Cenote or Sinkhole is a body of water that can be found underground, these are the only source of fresh water for the whole Yucatan Peninsula and they were considered sacred by the Mayans.

The Yucatan Peninsula is formed of limestone and when it rains the water seeps through the rock and forms underground rivers, all of these rivers run towards the sea. Since the water in these rivers are never touched by the sun, they completely lack coloration from algae or organic matter; hence the amazing colors of the water that can be seen all over the Riviera Maya.

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La Ruta de los Cenotes, off the beaten path adventures!

We have to confess that after so many years living in the Riviera Maya, we haven’t been able to explore all the cenotes in the area. There are so many! But some of the cenotes are so beautiful, I often dream of going back.

Our staff’s favorite is:

Cenote Siete Bocas:

Ruta de los Cenotes

Carretera Puerto Morelos- Leona Vicario Km. 15.5

Cost: 150 Locals, 200 nationals, 250 Foreigners * MXN Peso

We went to this cenote with some friends visiting from America, we just drove and decided to visit a few cenotes in one day. The place is run by a local family, with a very basic infrastructure, it is possible to rent swimming jackets and snorkel gear; but you can also bring your own.

Apart from a family, most of the bocas or entrances to the cenote were empty.  We picked one and down we went on some very ancient and creaky wooden stairs. My friends were panicking about the lack of restrooms and dressing rooms, but once we saw the water; they forgot all about that: it was magnificent!

Imagine swimming in a liquid topaz, the light beams coming in through little holes in the roof; forming beams of light in the water. It was paradise! If you decide to visit this cenote, it is better to bring food and drinks with you; as there is nothing to eat.

So go on and have some fun, explore our favorite spot!

Playa del Carmen: A Great Place to Find a Habit

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Now I know what you’re thinking… and shame on you!  Get your head out of the gutter.

Playa Del Carmen and the entire Riviera Maya in fact, is a great place to pick up a new and exciting habit.  A GOOD HABIT!  Or shall I say… hobby.  With its rich and diverse culture, tropical atmosphere and history-rich location, the Riviera Maya is an exciting and mystical place where one can find themselves immersed in the mystery and mysticism of this ancient and revered landscape.

Here are 3 non-conventional “habits” one can easily pick up here in the Riviera Maya:

  1. Become the next “Indiana Jones”!
    Archeology is a huge part of the life and culture, both past and present, here in the Riviera Maya. From the grand pyramids of Chichen Itza to the majestic sea side landscape of Tulum, one can find out first-hand what attracts and inspires the “Indiana Jones” types and why experiencing century old relic and temples can be so life miraculous.  The awe-inspiring feeling one get when he/she gazes upon a monument that predates most world country’s is one that can’t be described; but must be seen for any aspiring to be the next “Dr. Jones”.
  2. Become the next “Sam Malone” (Cheers, NBC)
    Now once again, get your head out of the gutter, and entertain this!  Like the unforgettable character from the beloved US television series “Cheers”, you too can be the next guy “where everybody knows your name”.  Why not try your hand at becoming and bartender?.  With more bars and nightlife per capita than any other city here in the Riviera Maya, those people with a flare for the exciting, a passion for enjoyment and an ingratiation towards the party lifestyle should try this noble and time honored profession.  Who knows, maybe you’ll turn out to be the next “Sam Malone”… and get as much “action” as he did!
  3. And lastly, become the next “Jacque Cousteau”
    The vast and virtually unexplored underwater ocean frontier is not only rich with life and discovery, but a hot and sought after hobby and profession.  Becoming a scuba instructor, and maybe just getting your scuba dive certification , can not only be fun, but research has shown that those people who work and play in, or near water have longer lifespans and have a reported 10-20 point decrease in overall blood-pressure.  Take a dive… and live longer.  Sounds good to me!

Now if you have any questions or comments about any of these unique and “life extending” hobbies, or would like some information on real estate opportunity’s that can realize these ideas here in
Playa Del Carmen, please don’t hesitate to contact us here at TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE.

And remember, here at TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE…

We make it happen!

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Getting around Xcacel – Xcacelito

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What a wonderful day to be at the beach! What about visitingXcacel- Xcacelito?

Close to the small town of Chemuyil, this beach is well known among locals, far away from the crowds and closer to the way mother nature intended beaches to be. Sand, sun and coconut trees welcome you to one of the most secluded beaches in the Mayan Riviera.

Immerse yourself in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, sunbath in the soft white sand and enjoy the sound of the waves and the breeze swaying the coconut trees.

Xcacel-Xcacelito is a nature reserve, it is protected by the federal government since it is one of the most important turtle nesting sites in Mexico and a vast area of mangroves. This reserve is about 362 hectares of pristine jungle, and one of the few beaches without major constructions.

If you go to Xcacel-Xcacelito, it is important to take your own drink and food, as well as chairs, umbrella, icebox or whatever you need. The place is quite basic and it only has a few toilets and showers available, there is no shops nearby so this is a trip you have to plan ahead of time.

Getting to Xcacel can be a little be tricky, it is not signaled on the road. It is located between Pueblo Chemuyil and Xel-Ha. There is a small sign but it is about 3 square feet, so keep your eyes open for a dirt road going to the beach.

There is plenty of things to do: from sunbathing to snorkeling in the nearby reef. Go for a short walk in the jungle and find a cenote with pristine waters or just enjoy the view and nature and relax. We are sure it is going to become one of your favorite places!!

It is important to get there early, since the closing time is enforced by 4:00 p.m. to make sure the turtles feel safe to make their nests on the beach. There is a voluntary donation of 10-20 pesos per person, this money is used to keep the place running.

What are you waiting for? Go ahead and have fun at Xcacel-Xcacelito.

-By Bea Lozano

10 Things to do on a rainy day: Riviera Maya Style

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After planning your holiday carefully and making a long list of fun under the sun activities, you find yourself stuck in your hotel. The weather forecast is not looking good and you find yourself wondering if there anything you can do.

Even though the Mayan Riviera is famous for its beaches and many other water activities, a little bit of rain shouldn’t ruin your holiday. So go ahead and find about 10 different activities you can do on a rainy day, Riviera Maya Style.

  1. Chill: After all, that is what holidays are for. Book yourself on a day spa. Spend time in the sauna, get a massage, have a mani-pedi or that body wrap you always wanted and let the staff pamper you.
  2. Get dirty: Book a day at the ATV Park, mud makes things even more fun. The roads are slippery, which makes the experience so much better. We bet you it is going to be an amazing unforgettable experience.
  3. Go underground: It doesn’t matter if it is pouring outside, go ahead and have a tour at an underground river. This is a unique experience that you will never forget!!
  4. Have a private class: There is so many things you can learn, why not try that activity you were always curious about?. Do you want to master a few salsa moves? To try yoga or pilates on a one on one lesson? Learn how to make your favorite Mexican dish?? The options are endless.
  5. Go warrior: Try Gotcha, use your strategy and stamina and defeat your enemies. The rain and slippery floor makes the experience so much more fun!
  6. Have a cultural experience: Visit a museum or art gallery, go to the theater or enjoy a good film.
  7. Try Mexican hot chocolate. Chocolate comes originally from Mexico, where it was considered an aphrodisiac. Cocoa is roasted, grinded with sugar and spices and then added to milk or hot water, you will find it is different to hot cocoa. If you are feeling particularly adventurous have the chocolate with chili, it will blow your mind.
  8. Dive or snorkel: Enjoy the beauty of the reefs and the cenotes, you won’t mind getting wet if you are already under water.
  9. Take a jeep tour to the Sian K’aan Reserve: Two words, mud and 4×4 cars.
  10. Go shopping: try a covered shopping mall, visit the local grocery store or the local market. We are sure you will find something to buy.

Having a god time is all about attitude, do not let a few days of bad weather ruin your holiday. Go around with an open mind and make sure to have fun every single day.

-By Bea Lozano

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