“Settling in and finding your perfect home in Mexico”
After moving to Mexico and starting your new life, getting settled in will take a few weeks or possibly months. Looking for your first real home in Mexico will require you to search out an area that you feel works best for you and any accompanying companions. Talk with your Top Mexico realtor regarding your wants and needs. They will show you properties that will fit within your criteria.
It is very easy to get lost in the moment, especially in an unfamiliar environment and culture. Steady yourself and try to understand that selecting a home in a foreign country is much different than in the United States. It is highly advisable to spend a month or two renting in an area that you could be considering. Get to know what is available in the neighborhood. Establish communication with a few of the locals and most of all, make sure it fits your lifestyle.
After getting comfortable with your surroundings and you are ready to take the next step, here are several basic options to consider when purchasing a home in Mexico:
Discuss what your likes and dislikes are with your agent regarding your current neighborhood. They may have similar communities that could fill any voids you may have.
You need to decide if a stand-alone home or condo best suits your needs. Take into consideration if you have pets, children and/or how much attention you want to give to yard care and/or pool.
Be specific on your desired layout including number of bedrooms, baths and overall floor plan.
Do you want to be close to everything? Do you enjoy your privacy? How close to the beach or jungle do you want to be?
Tell your agent what your budget is and if there is any flexibility to it. Don’t forget to add any HOA fees if looking at complexes or gated communities.
Playa del Carmen has plenty of surrounding communities and neighboring towns that have lots of new developments. Buying new construction does have its benefits. You can select your own colors, fixtures and in some cases, make minor changes to the floor plan. Preconstruction sales can also offer discounts that can equate to more bang for your buck. Your agent should have insight regarding new construction going on or planned in your desired area.
If you like a particular area and there really isn’t any current developments happening, there might be some new – unsold homes/condos not listed yet. Sometimes there are some finished properties that the sale(s) have fallen through and will be back on the market. Developers want to quickly unload them so they can move on to other projects. Again, your real estate agent can help you locate these types of homes/condos.
There are always plenty of well-built and establish homes/condos throughout the area. If you are somewhat open on a style and floor plan, there is a wide variety of inventory to choose from. Most of them come furnished, updated and turnkey. All you have to do is add bits and pieces of your own personality and ‘voilà’, you have a home! Buying in an established community can offer mature landscape, plenty of added amenities, and neighbors who can lend a helping hand getting you settled into your new neighborhood. This is a good recommendation when moving to Mexico.
No matter if you choose a home or condo, it will be the beginning of your new life. The tropical weather, beautiful Caribbean water brushing against white sand beaches, the swaying palms, and a lower cost of living will pamper anyone’s dream of utopia. You are almost there. Reach out and grab ahold of a piece of paradise. You will not regret moving to Mexico!
America’s most awaited day is here! Today we all gather to celebrate America’s Independence Day. If you’re away from home but you still want to celebrate this remarkable date, don’t worry, Playa del Carmen has many places that host amazing 4th of July parties.
Don’t miss out this incredible experience and live the 4th of July in Playa del Carmen!
Las Hijas de la Tostada ($$): If you want to celebrate 4th of July with a Mexican touch, then this place is the right one. Join Las Hijas de la Tostada and celebrate with some tequila, tostadas and tacos.
Where? 5th Avenue with 38th – 984 803 0823
Blue Pointe Grill ($$): BBQ ribs, Hotdogs and hamburgers is how Blue Pointe Grill will celebrate the 4th of July! Enjoy the happy hour from 3pm-6pm and eat Tacos at 2×1. Don’t miss out this delicious grill.
Where? Calle 34 with 25th Avenue – 984 148 0747
Wah Wah ($$): Right in front of the Caribbean Sea is where this beach Bar is located… and this is where the fun happens! Today’s party at Wah Wah will be totally amazing. If you bring your American ID, you will get one free shot! Plus, there’s live music and the drinks are on the house.
Where? Calle 2 and the sea – 984 143 6009
Zenzi ($$): Enjoy an all you can eat BBQ for only $190 pesos! Visit Zenzi from 4 pm- 8pm and enjoy live rock music while eating a delicious BBQ and drinking some beer. Celebrate the 4th of July in front of the beautiful Caribbean Sean.
Where? Calle 10 and the sea – 984 803 5738
Keel Restaurant and Beach Club ($$$): Want to experience a beach party? Then this is where you want to celebrate this date! Keel Restaurant has an amazing 4th of July offer: drinks 2×1. Enjoy a BBQ grill for $350.00 pesos/person. Enjoy the Independence Day listening to rock live music and drinking tequila.
Where? Calle 8 and the sea – 984 236 6717
Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen ($$$$): This fancy resort will be hosting an incredible party. Find a special 4th of July menu, 2×1 drinks, live music, cocktails and mixology with flair, and of course, an Uncle Sam magician! Your kids can also enjoy a full day program of activities! How amazing is this? Come here to celebrate an all American 4th of July party.
Where? 1st Avenue with Calle 26 – 984 875 1234
Andaz Mayakoba Resort ($$$$): Join them for a special 4th of July pool party. Enjoy a classic BBQ with beer, cocktails and live music! This is a kid friendly party. Come here with your family and celebrate from noon to 6 pm.
Where? Carretera Federal Chetumal- Puerto Juárez Km 298 – 984 149 1234
Have a wonderful 4th on July and from all the Top Mexico Real Estate: Happy Independence Day!
The third in a series of topics: “What to do with your current home and belongings”
Before retiring and moving to Mexico from your present homestead, lots of difficult decisions will need to be made. One of many is what to do with all your worldly possessions. If this includes owning a property, you need to decide if you are going to sell, rent or keep it for when you visit family and friends. I would suggest to sell it, especially if you are looking at purchasing a home in Mexico.
If you’re moving to Mexico and you make the decision to sell your current home, then hiring a good realtor should be on the top of your list of ‘things to do’. Having a “to do list” is another highly recommended element for a successful relocation. Once you find a qualified buyer, then the real work begins. But first, you will need to place your proceeds from the sale of your property into an account that will guarantee easy accessibility. When you arrive in Mexico and your dream home suddenly appears and falls directly into your lap, your money will need to be readily accessible.
The time has come for you to choose what or what not to keep. This includes, but is not limited to furniture, housewares and other miscellaneous items. Economically speaking, shipping furniture abroad usually doesn’t have any financial advantages. If you have any heirlooms of substantial size, it is recommended to pass them onto family members. You will most likely want to purchase stylish furniture that will coordinate with your newly acquired Mexico home.
Many of your kitchen ware and cooking aids that you are currently using in the United States aren’t always readily available in Mexico. So keep this in mind when selecting certain items like specialized utensils, thermometers, and pots and pans. I would suggest to pack and ship most of these types of things. But don’t go overboard by taking everything including the kitchen sink! If you have taken the time to shop in or around the Playa del Carmen area, you should have a good idea what is available.
If you are moving from a multi seasonal climate and have an abundance of cold weather clothing, leave it at home or get rid of it all together. Playa del Carmen has two temperatures and they are warm and hot. Heavy footwear or boot type shoes are also not necessary. A pair of tennis shoes, casual dress shoes, and plenty of flip flops and sandals are the norm. If you do get chilled in weather that dips slightly below 80 degrees, then a light hoody will be more than adequate for those ‘cooler’ tempered nights.
There are always a few knick knacks, personal pictures and crafty hobby materials that mean more than life to you. If they fit into a suitcase and stay within the given weight limit, then pack it and take them with you. You will probably have a surplus of inventory that needs to be transported. Take time to decide which items have first priority and take them on the first go ‘round. Usually 4 to 5 pieces of luggage per trip are manageable. Most people normally have to return back to the states for one reason or another. During this second trip, have your remaining items either boxed up or in suitcases and bring them back with you. Always check with your airline to be sure you know the exact size and weight limits. Just don’t stand there, get packing! Your new life is waiting for you!
The second in a series of topics: “Making sure all your paperwork is in order”.
When retiring to Mexico, it’s highly suggested to have all your affairs in order and that includes paperwork. We aren’t just talking about passports, immigration papers and other legal border crossing documents. The postal service in Mexico is much different than it is in the United States. There are really no mailboxes or daily postal service. The post office is usually located in town and will accept letters and packages that need to be sent. Plan on the items being mailed reaching their destination in three to five weeks. Courier services such as UPS and Federal Express are your best bet for sending and receiving packages or other needed correspondences.
Of course you will need immigration Visas, resident permit(s), work permits – if applicable, and other documentation which you should have researched ahead of time. It is a very good idea to still have an address in the US where miscellaneous mailings from your financial institution(s), tax purposes, applicable insurance companies or other necessary correspondences can be delivered. We would suggest that you forward your mail to an immediate family member with the same last name. You just never know what might show up in the mailbox.
Call you credit card company(s) and give them the new address where you will be receiving any paper documents. You can pretty much do everything online that involves any of your accounts. With some companies like banking institutions and your cellphone provider, you can actually have a ‘Live text chat’ with a representative online. Arrange to receive paperless invoices and/or statements with the companies you deal with frequently. This is especially advised for all your financial institutions. Receive any monthly statements via your email. You can pay bills, receive direct deposits, and transfer money from one account and/or bank to another if set up ahead of time.
If you keep any policies regarding health, vehicle and/or property insurances, make sure the companies know that you are out of the country. Tell them you need to receive statements, policy changes and new cards via your email. It is always recommended to take several copies of all your important documents with you. In the same token, also have “original copies” put away somewhere that can be easily accessed in an emergency and sent to you upon request.
Other possible paperwork needed would be pet certificates, children’s birth certificates, and any United States bank issued letters and/or information that will help you open a new account(s) with a Mexico bank as well. When dealing with so many on-line accounts, always have your passwords with you and tucked away in a safe place. Getting locked out of accounts when you are living abroad can sometimes create a problem when recovering and/or resetting passwords.
Once you make sure all your paperwork and important documents are in order, this will make your transition into living in Mexico more easy. Also, knowing your documentation is straight will let you have a relaxing retirement in Mexico! Don’t forget to read our first series of topics “Preparing yourself physically and mentally”.
The Riviera Maya is home to one of the fastest growing cities in Latin America: Playa del Carmen. It also hosts millions of international tourists each year, through its abundance of all-inclusive resorts, luxury hotels and strong vacation rental market. There is so much fun to be had in the bustling tourist scene of the Riviera Maya.
Is this all the Riviera Maya has to offer? Or is there another side to this place? Can you find peace and tranquility? Nature that is unobstructed by man? Beautiful places where one can experience and connect with nature? Well yes, you sure can!
The Riviera Maya literally has so much to offer, even a thriving ecotourism scene. Below is a list of the top 6 ecotourism destinations in the Riviera Maya!
Akumal (Turtle Sanctuary)
This hidden treasure is apart of a small community just 39 km from Playa del Carmen, and 105 km from Cancun. Akumal Bay is home to an array of fish, coral, and sea turtles. It’s a true paradise that allows you to be one with nature and swim amongst the sea life.
They have protective measures in place to protect the marine wildlife, especially the sea turtles. Snorkeling tours are great to learn about the habitat and different species that live there. Or, you can bring your own gear and go out on your own. Make sure to wear a life jacket though, they are mandatory to protect the sea floor from diving destruction. An experience like this is truly special, you can learn about the habitat and connect with marine life.
Cancun, MUSA (Museo Subacuático Del Arte)
Another beautiful eco marine zone is, “The Underwater Museum of Art” in Cancun. This place is a true spectacle of the interaction between environmental science and man-made sculptures. The whole museum shows how beautiful and powerful a marine biosystem is, by creating a complex reef structure with thriving marine life. Experience the beauty by glass bottom boat, snorkeling or scuba diving.
Bacalar (Eco Friendly Escape)
The most secluded, non-touristy, eco friendly place is probably Bacalar, also known as “The 7 Color Lagoon.” You wont find all-inclusive giants here. Accommodations consist of eco friendly hotels and resorts. Many of them utilizing alternative energy sources. It’s a beautiful place to take a boat tour of the lagoon to see the colors, wildlife and thriving ecosystem. Or you can simply rent a kayak or paddle board to explore on your own.
Cozumel (Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park)
This national park is located off the coast of Cozumel and is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, which is the second largest coral reef system in the world. The park is home to several species of sea life that are under some degree of protection. It’s an amazing place for avid divers and snorkelers. With the crystal-clear waters far away from shore or any man made structures, it makes for a wonderful and clean experience.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere
This place is fully committed to protecting the area and its fragile ecosystems, being a World Heritage Site and the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean. That being said, there are many environmentally friendly tours to bring people into this region’s spectacular wildlife and awe-inspiring Mayan ruins. Here you will be able to find snorkel tours, nature encounters, bird watching, Mayan ruins and fly fishing expeditions.
Isla Holbox
Holbox Island has 21 miles of white sand beaches and is part of the Yum Balam Ecological Reserve. Its a quiet piece of paradise in the north of Quintana Roo and boasts natural beauty through its scenery and wildlife. Here you can experience an array of things, from swimming with whale sharks to bird watching, there is something for everyone.
There you have it, the top 6 ecotourism opportunities in the Riviera Maya. A destination as bustling and busy is this, still has plenty of relaxing and peaceful attractions for the eco-tourist enthusiast.
You have asked, we have listened… Here are our 5 favorite destination spots in the Riviera Maya to retire.
Please read below, as to why we choose these specific places in the Riviera Maya! We hope we made your retirement decisions a little easier for you!
Playa Del Carmen:
We have voted Playa del Carmen as our top best destination spot to retire in the Riviera Maya because it has everything. From miles and miles of white sandy beaches, to Brazilian steak houses and some of the best Mexican cuisines you can find. Most importantly, it is well equipped with fantastic medical care, dentistry needs, among other health care practitioners. Salons for those who like to get freshened up every now and then. Wonderful cafes scattered around the town, with free wireless internet access available to their customers. Playa del Carmen at one point was the fast growing city in Latin America. It is located in the perfect spot. Only 45 minutes away from Cancun International Airport, which is convenient for friends and family to come for a visit. It is also only 20 minutes away from some amazing eco-parks. Akumal and Tulum are only minutes down the highway. If you are looking for a perfect place to retire, Playa del Carmen is highly recommended. You want a gated community, with access to the beach and a common pool area to use on your own time? Well, Top Mexico Real Estate can find you a place that meets all your needs.
Tulum:
Let’s talk about the beautiful-serene town of Tulum. The distance between Playa del Carmen and Tulum is only 45 minutes and 1.5 hours from Tulum to Cancun. Making it very accessible to reach a bigger city for your different needs. Tulum is famous for their turquoise waters and white sand beaches, but on top of that… their Mayan archaeological site from the 13th century. Tulum’s national park is situated to overlook the beautiful Caribbean Sea. This archaeological site is one of the most fascinating Mayan walled cities in the world. Although Tulum is not as big as Playa del Carmen, it still has all the main necessities you will need such as: Doctors, Grocery Stores, Salons, Restaurants, Beaches and more. The real estate marketing in Tulum is growing every day! This eco-friendly, hippy loving beach town will surely put a smile on your face as long as you are here!
Bacalar:
Bacalar is known for it’s seven color lagoon pictured above. It is located 40 km north of Chetumal, which is the closest big city. Chetumal is where you go if you want to take a boat across to Belize. From Playa del Carmen it takes roughly three hours. Bacalar is one of our top destinations because it is the epitome of pleasure. You feel like you’re in the jungle, mixed with this incredible lagoon. It is a hidden paradise off the beaten path. There is vacant land for sale around the area if you are looking to build.
Akumal:
Have you heard your friends or family members talk about that cool little fishing village, where you can snorkel with large sea turtles for free? Well yes, that would be Akumal! This amazing small town has a great coral reef, where you can see lots of colorful fish, big turtles and other interesting sea creatures. Akumal is only 25 minutes away from Playa del Carmen, making it very easy to commute back and forth when needed. It is a small, beachfront neighborhood in Mexico. There are a lot of North Americans that have property in this area.
Cancun:
Yes, we can’t forget about Cancun. A great city with all the amenities you would ever need. Not many big cities are surrounded by some of the top rated beaches in the world. Not to mention restaurants with world-class chefs, and some of the best shopping in the world. Of course Cancun has a wide selection of medical care and real estate. Being the big city like it is, makes it easier for you to find the best places and necessities for the best price. If you are into golfing, Cancun is a golfers dream. If you like culture and history, Cancun is filled with it. Although it is a big city, it is still enriched with Mayan civilization. Cancun is also known for it’s fishing. There are way too many things to do in Cancun to include everything, but it is definitely a place to enjoy if you like having all your necessities in walking distance from you as well as the beach.
We hope you enjoy one of our top five best destination spots in the Riviera Maya for your retirement, and you see for yourself just how amazing life here in Mexico really is!
The first in a series of topics: “Preparing yourself physically and mentally”
Imagine waking up one morning in a place that now you call home. How would your body handle a different environment where your diet would change and your physical abilities could be challenged on a daily basis? These are things you need to be prepared for when you decide to live in Mexico for any length of time. This isn’t a bad thing by any means, but needs to be taken into consideration nevertheless.
When at home life becomes a routine and your body grows accustom to a systematic pattern. When changes suddenly interrupt your biological and mental time clock, it can make for a rough going. So it is very important to begin the reprogramming process before your new life’s adventure starts. The following recommendations will make your transition into living in Mexico much easier. It will also help you put your best foot forward with the locals.
Let’s talk about the body’s ‘Physical’ ability and how it will react to Mexico’s tropical climate, adverse heat and terrain. Mexico’s near perfect weather is filled with lots of sun, plenty of humidity and warmer temperatures. If you have been thinking about dropping a few pounds or starting a daily exercise plan, this would be the time to do it. If you are investing in Mexico real estate and are looking to be close to everything, most likely you will be walking to all your favorite spots.
There are days where there are nice breezes, and then days there are not. Walking is a great way to easily get around Playa del Carmen. Being in shape cuts down on exhaustion and fatigue. Be careful to not get dehydrated and drink plenty of bottled water. For every adult beverage enjoyed, drink water in between. In the beginning, limit your exposure to the sun. Get acclimated to being in the elements – usually two, maybe three weeks is suggested.
Different foods can sometimes disrupt your digestive system. Mexican food is one of the most desirable cuisines in North America. The special spices that flavor this inviting cuisine consist of a variety of peppers, sauces and other authentic ingredients. A way to combat not upsetting your stomach and/or creating indigestion is to – a) not over eat, b) don’t consume a lot of alcohol and then eat, c) get use to spicy foods slowly. Work yourself into the local menus. Your body will adapt. Just give it time.
Your ‘Mental’ ability is the other half of your body that will need to adjust to a new life style. There are several similarities between living in America and Mexico. But again, there are a lot of surrounding elements that are very unfamiliar to all your senses. One of those elements is the language and the barrier it forms. Knowing some Spanish is a benefit that will relieve a great deal of stress. Walking around in an unfamiliar environment and hearing people mostly communicate in a language that isn’t fluent to you will mess with your mind. Concentrate on learning the speech.
When you visit Playa del Carmen’s stores, restaurants and other social gatherings they will have a structural likeness to back home (US), but that’s as far as it goes. Product merchandising, availability/choices, unit of measurements and cost will appear foreign to you. For example, converting pesos from the US dollar (USD) can sometimes be cumbersome. In the food marts and grocery stores, meats and solid substances are weighted in kilos (2.2 lbs.) Liquids are measured in liters (just under 4 liters is a gallon). You can install a very simple app on your mobile device that will calculate monetary exchange and weight and measurement conversions with a few simple key strokes.
Mexico’s retailers, including food, homewares or other necessities, can at times be limited in choice. If it’s a product you need immediately, you will sometimes have to get creative with what they have to offer. But don’t fret over it. When the exact item becomes available, and it will one day, buy it for the future. Do like you would do at home and shop multiple outlets and local stores. What one store doesn’t have, another might.
Have you ever heard the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover”? This is so evident in Mexico and especially when roaming the streets for a place to eat. Don’t let the outside façade trick your mind into judging its quality of food, because what’s behind it will surprise you. You will find some of the best dining experiences in places that seem run down and minimalistic. These family run eateries will serve up some of Mexico’s finest culinary delights with service that can’t be matched anywhere. Not to mention at a very affordable price!
When relocating to a country that has so much history and traditions like the Yucatan cities, it can sometimes slip our mind regarding specific “Do’s and Don’ts”. It is well advised to study the culture, important historical facts, and traditional holidays and celebrations beforehand. This will help you understand why native people to the region do certain things. Knowing more about their history will also earn you respect within the community. When talking with a local, don’t be afraid to ask questions regarding their traditions; they will be more than happy to explain everything you want to know and more.
All the above information will alleviate lots of confusing situations when mingling with the town’s people. Your emotions will be peaking on both ends of the spectrum. Being prepared is an important key to less stress physically and mentally when spinning your life in a 180 degree angle. Learning a different way of life will advantage you in so many ways. The effort spent will pay off two fold.
If you are visiting or living in the Riviera Maya, you can’t miss the opportunity to spend a day in this amazing Caribbean island. Isla Mujeres is the perfect spot to take a trip with your partner or your family. Only a short ferry trip away from Puerto Juarez, Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a place you must visit.
This popular destination’s name translated from Spanish means “Women Island”. And a lovely island it is. The tropical landscape blends perfectly with the Caribbean waters that surround its beautiful glistening shores. The swaying palms and gorgeous weather is just two of a thousand reasons why you would choose a getaway to Isla Mujeres. You can reach this unique Mexican island by taking the Ultramar ferry from Puerto Juarez, Cancun. If you are planning to bring your own transportation, there is a ferry that transports vehicles from one port to another.
Once you arrive on this dreamy island, the frontage road that follows along the shoreline offers various open-air restaurants, boutique shops, and services such as golf cart rentals and excursions. The parkway thoroughfare will eventually lead you south towards more of the Island’s natural sites. If you want to set out on your own, grab a self-guided map and rent a golf cart for the day and do some exploring. It’s hard to lose your way on an island that is 4.3 miles long and a half a mile wide.
Don’t let the size of the island fool you. There are plenty of places to see and things to do in Isla Mujeres. You can snorkel through and around an underwater museum, experience the Dolphin Discovery or visit the turtle farm to just mention a few. If sipping on your favorite beach beverage while working on your tan or relaxing under a palapa is more your style, Playa Norte (north beach) is the place to be. Let the servers cater to your thirst and snacking needs.
When your day is winding down and it is time to relax, Isla Mujeres Centro has a pedestrian friendly street that offers plenty of choices to dine on fresh seafood, tacos and other Mexican food cuisines. The ocean breeze and glowing sky from the sunset creates a magical evening for all to sit back and enjoy. If you are staying on the island, there are a variety of accommodations that will fit everyone’s specific needs.
Isla Mujeres is a great place to have a vacation home, an investment property or a combination of both. With the increasing popularity of the Yucatan Peninsula being a vacation haven, more and more tourists are flocking to the area. Isla Mujeres is one of those destinations that is experiencing incredible growth. No matter if it is summer or winter, people want to see this quaint island paradise. It might be time to start thinking about investing and living in Mexico!
Life in Mexico is full of adventure, great weather… and delicious food. If you’re visiting or if you are thinking to retire in Playa del Carmen, here is a list of 5 restaurants that you must visit!
Zenzi Beach Bar & Restaurant – This beachside eatery is located at the end of Calle 10 Norte and is situated directly on the beautiful white sandy beach in Playa del Carmen, along with Mexico’s beautiful Riviera Maya. You also have the advantage of looking out over the gorgeous Caribbean water as you enjoy your food and spirits.
Zenzi appeals to a large expat and retiree crowd who mixes well with the many locals who also come to enjoy the restaurant and its laidback ambiance. Almost every afternoon and evening you can listen to live music being played from one of Playa del Carmen’s many talented musical groups.
The atmosphere is very beachy and offers plenty of open air seating. After the sun goes down, accented lighting around the palm trees provides an intimate feel with music and conversation happening in the background. Take your shoes off and feel the cool sand between your toes!
The menu offers a variety of appetizers, sandwiches and dinner entrees. The food is very well prepared and is complimented with great service. They also have a full bar that will prepare your special request or a menu to select an alcohol or non-alcohol beverage.
Zenzi is a great place for family and friends to get together, where couples can meet or just drop in for a quick bite or a cool refreshing drink. Sit back and enjoy the music while you’re relaxing in paradise!
Restaurant Fah Bar – Fah Bar is a unique restaurant that sits directly on the world famous Quinta Avenida (5th Ave), between near the corner with Calle 10 Norte. Fah offers lots of exciting street action that includes everything from break dancers to traditional mariachi music, to jugglers. It is also a great location to people watch from your street side table, booth or the open air dining area.
The off street dining area provides a tropical forest like feel with an oversized tree that provides a natural canopy but still allows the outside in. They have a variety of seating choices that consist of tables and chairs to padded sofa duets, and a back wall with bench seating that faces the bar, dining and stage areas.
Entertainment is provided most every afternoon and evening. The music mixes very well with any mood. The menu is quite extensive and offers a cuisine that can be found in many fine dine restaurants. The service is very courteous and complete with complimentary servers who assist the waiters in keeping your needs met.
The drink menu offers some unusual cocktails served with or without alcohol. If you are an exotic connoisseur of martinis, you must try the cucumber martini or any of the other creative beverages. The relaxing atmosphere will provide a subtle comfort that can’t always be found in similar eateries.
Pez Vela – Another great 5th Ave. restaurant and bar is Pez Vela. It is probably one of the longest standing eateries on Quinta Avenida, with an astonishing 28 years of existence. They must be doing something right to be around for that long. You can find this restaurant on the corner of 5Th Ave. and Calle 2 Norte.
They are more of a casual – lets hangout restaurant and cantina. Their walk up “U” shaped bar has swing seating that offers quick service and a full drink menu. Their clientele ranges from locals to vacationing singles or couples, to expats looking for a casual conversation. The atmosphere of the open air corner bar kind of reminds you of a Mexico version of ‘Cheers’.
The restaurant offers curbside dining which is great for people watching and other activities that are constantly passing by. There is an inside dining area, as well as a mezzanine that is ideal for group parties or a special occasion get together. The motif is traditional Mexican with a flair for color, and yes there is a big screen TV for watching your favorite sporting event.
The food is true Mexican but has its own special flavor. They have received awards from the Federal Tourism Board regarding their quality of cleanliness and kitchen preparation – a big plus for delicate stomachs. Their menu is fairly simple but covers all the desired dishes normally wanted when visiting Playa del Carmen. The service is friendly, prompt and very attentive. The prices are budget friendly and offer great value.
El Oasis – El Oasis on Calle 12 Norte between 5th and 10th Avenidas is an eye-catching location. The eatery is a true seafood venue with an extensive menu of top notch dishes. They aren’t a high capacity restaurant like a lot of their neighboring peers. They do have a fully stocked bar, but their main focus is Seafood cuisine!
You have a choice to either be seated street side, on a small open-air covered patio or dine inside. The décor is styled very elaborately with a strong emphasis on a nautical theme. The walls, ceiling and seating are painted with bright colors that provide quite a novel experience.
The menu goes from ‘A to Z’ in seafood choices and cooked any way you want it. They pride themselves on fresh lobster, ceviche and their signature shrimp tacos. The food is plentiful, served hot and fresh and is extremely delicious. They serve a small cup of seafood chowder as an appetizer that will arouse your taste buds and tease you for what is ahead. The service is excellent with a smile every time they visit your table.
They do have a small bar area that offers Happy Hour specials, but not really known for having a cocktail hour crowd. However, they serve up a mean margarita that is crafted at your table with ingredients that you would never have imagined being in a margarita. It is actually served to you in a mortar type bowl with an accompanying straw. If you enjoy good seafood in a unique setting, then a visit to El Oasis is a must.
Casa Sophia – Located on Avenida Aviacion between 10th Ave. & 50th Ave (Highway 307), Casa Sophia is a great place to have some good Italian food, great conversation and enjoy a glass of wine. Its cuisine is prepared authentically as if coming from its own origins.
The restaurant and bar is a stone’s throw away from Playacar and is very popular with the locals, as well as the area’s expats and seasonal residents. It has multiple dining sections that include a glassed in dining area with a full bar, two open air covered patio areas, and a smaller indoors area near the deli counter.
Its ambiance is simple but casual and very comfortable. The menu is very detailed with some of Italy’s finest dishes. Their pizzas and pasta are handcrafted with true Italian style. They also have a variety of wines that compliment any meal. The table settings are reminiscent of the old country where dining is an art of ambiance and food combined. The service is exceptionally friendly and delivered in a professional manner.
Casa Sophia is somewhat off the beaten path and offers no significant similarities to its peers that reside beachfront or on Playa’s Quinta Avenida. There is no hustle and bustle or lapping waves or street entertainers. Just a relaxing setting for family, friends or couples wanting to enjoy a conversation. The pricing is very reasonable for the exceptional quality of food served. They accept pesos and USD only.
Enjoy Italy in the heart of the Riviera Maya!
Do you have any other recommendations for eating out in Playa del Carmen?
I’m sure you have heard stories of folks who come down on vacation and return having purchased real estate. And then there are folks who sign a long-term lease and move a container full of furniture. But maybe for you, the idea of living in Mexico is elusive. You wish moving down here but cannot pinpoint the best place for you.
The good news is that there’s an easy way to explore your options about moving to Mexico, and it happens to be free. It’s called house sitting and it’s a very good way to explore your options for a move to Mexico. Instead of a hotel, house sitting allows you to stay in a “real” home, similar to what you might consider for yourself when you move. You can stay there long enough to see what it’s like to live there, while you are informing yourself, meeting people, exploring various neighborhoods and forming your own opinions about the town.
House sitting is typically a no-cash exchanged relationship in which a sitter receives a place to stay in exchange for keeping the home occupied while the owner is away, plus other responsibilities as required. In this “win-win” relationship, house sitters have an opportunity to see what daily life is like. Typically the homeowner introduces their house sitter to neighbors and friends, so there are people to get to know, and opportunities to benefit from their experience, plus enjoying the lower cost of living of their new host country.
If you want to know more, there is a website that brings homeowners in Mexico together with people like you who might want to house sit for them. It’s www.HouseSitMexico.com and easy to use, highly functional website that offers two types of interactive maps of Mexico (helpful as you get to know the country), sophisticated search capabilities, private messaging and email updates of new house sitting opportunities.
If you want to learn more about house sitting, visit the HouseSitMexico website and contact them for more information.
