Category Archives: Playa del Carmen

Enjoy the Summer in the Riviera Maya

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The summer is here, and we are so excited to enjoy the beautiful Caribbean weather, the warm calm water at the beaches and the cool water in the Cenotes. The Riviera Maya is so beautiful this time of the year, even when it rains and the jungle turns a brighter green and the smell of exotic flowers are in the air.

If you are lucky enough to live in paradise, you know that summer is here! Kids are almost out of school and you can see them enjoying the common areas like the pool or the playgrounds, family and friends are gathering to enjoy life and share some food under a Palapa.

Invite your friends and have a BBQ!

People moving to Mexico are looking for a slower pace of life, for a relaxing lifestyle. What better way to enjoy the Riviera Maya than to hosting a BBQ party with your friends and family or this is the perfect excuse to make new friends by inviting some neighbors.

If you are lucky enough to have a big patio or a beautiful common area with a pool… this is the perfect setting to host your party. If cooking is not your thing, keep it simple with some drinks and delicious homemade guacamole or salsa.
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What about having a party in your common area?

This Puerto Aventuras property is located on the golf course and it features the perfect party worthy common area with a swimming pool, grill area and a palapa.

Share a Bowl of Delicious Guacamole

Authentic Mexican Guacamole Recipe
Ingredients
Makes 4 servings

  • 3 avocados – peeled, pitted, and mashed
  • 1 lime, juiced (strain the juice or remove the pits before squeezing it)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (disinfect before using)
  • 2 roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 Jalapeño/Serrano Chile
  • Optional – 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper (if you don’t like spicy food, exchange the chile for cayenne pepper or a dash of Tabasco Sauce)

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Directions

  1. In a medium bowl, mash together the avocados, lime juice, and salt. Mix in onion, cilantro, tomatoes, and garlic.
  2. If you are using fresh chilies, cut lengthwise and remove the seeds, then proceed to cut it in small pieces, stir it in the guacamole. Substitution, add in cayenne pepper/Tabasco Sauce.
  3. Refrigerate for 1 hour for best flavor, or serve immediately.

If you like cooking and are looking for a property where you can host a party with a spacious open floor plan kitchen, dining room and living room that flow to a large balcony, with amazing views of the Mayan jungle and common areas, take a look at these beautiful condos located just outside of Playa del Carmen. Look at all that space!! You can perfectly set up a table, chairs and even a big cooler full of cold drinks for your guests.

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Look at the size of these balconies! If you like this property click here!

Top Mexico Real Estate is a local company based in Playa Del Carmen, we have over a decade experience helping foreigners find and purchase the house of their dreams in Mexico. If you are considering purchasing a vacation, investment or retiring to Mexico, please let us find you the property you have always dreamed of.

We Make It Happen!

Things to Do in Playa Del Carmen on a Rainy Day

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Like every good tropical region, the Riviera Maya has one long rainy season. It starts in June and runs all the way through October. However, this does not mean that every day is a rainy day! While most days you will be able to enjoy the beautiful, paradise beaches, outdoor activities, site seeing, and much more, you should also plan (and pack) for occasional rainy days.

Most people come to the Riviera Maya because it’s a fully outdoor holiday, but there is plenty to do and enjoy while it’s raining outside. And worry not, because rain tends to fall strongly for an hour or two and then stop completely, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beach, 5th Avenue, or anything else. Just carry a poncho (or umbrella) with you!

Here are some fun things to do in Playa Del Carmen on a rainy day:

Go to the Movies
Believe it or not, most movies screened in Mexico are in their original version and subtitled. Only children’s movies are dubbed. You have plenty of films to watch in either of the two movie theaters found in Playa del Carmen: Cinemex in Centro Maya, or Cinepolis in Plaza las Americas.

Go Shopping
Since you’re already in Centro Maya or Plaza las Americas, you might as well go shopping. Both malls are not as big as you are used to back home, but they have plenty of shopping and food available. Another option is visiting the new Quinta Alegria plaza located on 5th Avenue. This plaza is open but offers shelter from the rain to walk around.

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Have a Long Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner
It doesn’t matter what time it starts raining at…visiting a restaurant and enjoying a long and relaxing meal is a great option while the rain falls. You could visit any one of the many restaurants on 5th Avenue, or somewhere off the beaten path, and try some delicious Mexican, Italian, French, gourmet, street, or even German food!

Go Dancing!
12th street is waiting for you, regardless of rain. If it’s raining at nighttime (or party time), don’t stay in just because of the weather. Once you reach 12th street you will find plenty of choices between bars and clubs to dance the rain (and night) away!

Go on a Tour
Visiting cenotes, going on ATVs, or visiting Río Secreto and Xplor are great options for when it’s raining. You’ll be getting wet anyway. Rio Secreto is a beautiful underground river and cenote, perfect for any weather. Xplor is Experiencias Xcaret’s adventure park – zipline, swim through rivers, and have fun…rain or not! Most ATV tours include visiting a cenote and riding through fun filled and muddy paths!

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Discover a Café 
Playa del Carmen is full of uniquely designed, delicious coffee and teashops. Find one that you like and spend a rainy afternoon reading a book and enjoying a Mexican brewed coffee or tea. You can also find cookies, breads, cakes, and other sweet things to enjoy with the drink of your choice.

Get a Massage
You know you’ve been thinking about it since you arrived in Playa del Carmen. You’re on vacation and you deserve a massage. So what better time to get one than when it’s raining outside? The sound of the rain and the relaxing music at the spa will surely allow you to let it all go, relax, and enjoy. Playa del Carmen is full of spas waiting for you…get off 5th Avenue and find one that is not as expensive and that will leave you feeling more relaxed!

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Stay In 
Seldom do you get to enjoy a day of relaxation in the hotel. Pamper yourself, order room service, turn the TV on and watch a movie. You may not be getting the full Playa del Carmen experience through it, but you will definitely feel ready for your next adventure day in paradise!

There is no reason to feel frustrated because your holidays are “ruined” by the rain! Never forget that Playa del Carmen is much more than paradise beaches, and that there are plenty things to do in Playa Del Carmen on a rainy day.

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-owned, locally based real estate company, leader in the Riviera Maya. If you are thinking of retiring or relocating to paradise, feel free to contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives who will happily guide you on your path to becoming a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Coco Beach

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Beach #7 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Coco Beach

More than 2 million visitors choose the Riviera Maya for their holidays every year, making it the second most popular destination in Quintana Roo not too far behind from Cancun. Once a sleepy fishing village, Playa del Carmen has become a hot destination for tourists looking for beautiful beaches and a cosmopolitan vibe.

Playa del Carmen has many different neighborhoods and each neighborhood has its own beach, from the popular Mamita´s beach to the least known areas in the outskirts of Playa del Carmen; every one of these have special characteristics that make it special and different from the rest.

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Coco Beach: General Information

Coco Beach is near the Colosio subdivision and for years it was an area visited almost exclusively by local families, as there were no touristic services in the area. Time has changed that, as the city sprawls more and more visitors have made Coco Beach their favorite spot.

Access to Coco Beach is easy nowadays, as there are roads and it can also be reached via 5th Avenue. There are also plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars in the area, in case you would like to grab something to eat or drink.

The access to Coco Beach is free, you can bring your towel, food and drinks, and relax on the beach all day. There is also the popular Canibal Royal Beach Club, which has a lounge area as well as food, drinks, showers and restrooms for their customers.

Coco Beach: Getting There
48 North & The Beach in Colosio
Between Flamingo Rd. and  Albatros Rd.
Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Walking: If you are walking on 5th avenue head north towards Cancun, once you reach Calle 48 turn right and walk a block to the beach.

Driving: From the Federal Highway 307 take the CTM Avenue exit and turn towards the beach (east).

Coco Beach: Things to do

  • Coco Beach is a perfect place to get in some people watching, sun tanning and relaxation.
  • There are plenty of fishing boats in the area, you can contact one of the fishermen that are always in the area for a tour or go on a fishing trip.
  • The water at Coco beach is very calm, an ideal place to practice water sports like snorkeling, paddle board or kayaking.

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Coco Beach: Recommendations

  • There are no bathrooms in the area, you will need to go to one of the local restaurants or bars in order to use their facilities.
  • If you decide to bring your own drinks and food, also bring a bag for your trash and make sure not to leave anything behind when you leave.
  • Do not forget to bring your biodegradable suntan lotion and insect repellent, as harsh chemicals harm the coral reef and the local fauna.

We hope you enjoy your visit to Coco Beach. It is a nice beach to catch some sun and relax at. Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check all of the other beaches on the list. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

If you have been dreaming about owning a home in Mexico, we are here to help! Our company has over a decade of experience in helping foreigners purchase their dream property in Mexico in a timely and legal manner. It all starts with a dream, browse our beautiful properties and find the ideal property for you, our team of certified realtors are going to be there for you in every step of the process.

If you like the Coco Beach area and are interested in purchasing a vacation home or retirement home, Coco Beach has gorgeous real estate options from beachfront luxury condos to beautiful homes, please feel free to contact any of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives! Browse our beautiful properties; we are sure you will find your dream home.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Colosio Beach

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Beach #12 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Colosio Beach

Playa del Carmen is the most popular destination in the Riviera Maya and its famous for its vibrant international community, white sand beaches and upscale hotels. Once a sleepy fishing village, Playa del Carmen has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the world; according to the 2006 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records.

Playa del Carmen is located about 40 minutes south of Cancun, and it offers its visitor miles of pristine beaches. Each local neighborhood has a favored beach, with its own attractions and crowd.

Colosio Beach: General Information

Colosio Beach has been a local favorite for many years, it is only a few steps north from other popular spots; but it feels like a world away because of its quiet and serene nature. It is located at the bottom of the Luis Donaldo Colosio Avenue (calle 72), a mile long area of undeveloped beach; an ideal spot for those looking for a more private and quiet setting.

Lately, there has been more and more condos and hotels being built in the Colosio Area, so do not miss the opportunity to visit this little corner of paradise.

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Colosio Beach: Getting There

If you are in Playa del Carmen you can get to this pristine beach walking along the coast line, Colosio beach would be located north of popular sites like Playa Mamitas.

If you are driving or take a cab, take Federal 307 highway and head north, once you get to Luis Donaldo Colosio avenue (the one with home depot in the corner) turn right and drive to the end of the road.

There is a small entrance at the end of the road, and two more on the sides of the Meliá Paradisus La Esmeralda Hotel.

Colosio Beach: Things To Do

The charm of Colosio beach is its quietude, so feel free to walk, meditate or even practice your favorite yoga pose. You can also get a beautiful tan and enjoy some quality time with friends and family.

Remember this is a beach favored by the locals, so it is going to be busy on the weekends and holidays. Entire families take advantage of the beautiful warm weather; it is amusing to see several generations of a family spending time together and playing in the waves.

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Colosio Beach: Recommendations

If you are planning to spend the day at Colosio beach here is some recommendations:

  • Bring your own drinks and food, there is nothing close by and you will have to walk half a mile to get to the closest hotel or restaurant.
  • There are no toilets in the area, if you need to go plan to leave with plenty of time.
  • Do not bring valuables, the area is secluded and there is no security in the area.
  • Some parts of this beach are rocky, so bring your water shoes to protect your feet.

We hope you enjoy this beautiful beach, one of the spots for locals in Playa del Carmen. Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday and watch the best beaches in the Riviera Maya Videos! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check out all the options. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate is a local American-Owned company, which specializes in helping foreigners become homeowners in Mexico. If you are looking for a second home or to retire in paradise, feel free to contact a Top Buyers’ Representative! Browse our beautiful properties; we are sure you will find your Mexico dream home.

We make it happen!

Shopping in Cancun & the Riviera Maya

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If you are traveling to Cancun or the Riviera Maya, shopping might not cross your mind. However, this area has a wide variety of shopping centers and stores. As a rule of thumb the price for designer’s clothes and electronics are somewhat higher than in the United States, but you might find a great deal or some unique articles that cannot be found in America; liquors, cigars, etc.

Here at Top Mexico Real Estate we have made ​​a list of our favorite malls in Cancun and throughout the Riviera Maya. If you are looking for a souvenir, sporting goods or clothing; we are sure you will find it in the nearest mall.

Shopping in Cancun

There are several shopping malls in Cancun, offering everything one could possibly need. Some of them have movie theaters, casinos and supermarkets; however we are focusing in the ones closest to the beach, hotel and tourist area. Get a little shopping therapy in Cancun.

La Isla

Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 12.5, Cancun, Quintana Roo

This mall is located within the hotel zone, so it is pretty easy to find. This beautiful shopping center has a view of the Nichupte lagoon, waterways and open areas that allow you to enjoy the Caribbean breeze.

This is one of the most popular malls for visitors and locals alike, it is always packed on the weekends. Some of the stores that you can find here are: Liverpool, La Boutique Palacio, Ultrafemme, Zara, Benetton, Thai, Starbucks, Italianni’s, Massimo Dutti, among many others.

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Luxury Avenue

Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13 Mza 53 Lote 8, Cancun, Quintana Roo

Bring your wallet and your credit cards, this shopping mall specializes in luxury brands and offers specialized services such as a concierge or shopping assistant. Luxury Avenue is located in the hotel zone, it offers a wide variety of luxury shops and elegant restaurants and offers Tax Free or Tax Back options, if you’re visiting from abroad.

This mall is for those who want the very best, it boasts shops by international designers such as: Fendi, Burberry, Coach, Tous, Mont Blanc, Cartier and Swarovski.  Visit their page to receive more information about their fashion shows and special offers.

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Shopping In Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen has many shops offering everything from A to Z. In Playa you will find beautiful outdoor malls, shopping centers and the famous 5th avenue a pedestrian only street lined with shops, restaurants and bars.

Quinta Alegria

Location: 5th Ave. and Constituyentes Ave., Downtown, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

This mall is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of prestigious shops and restaurants. Located on 5th Avenue and Constituyentes avenue is easily accessible and its open plan lets you enjoy the Caribbean weather and the sea breeze.

Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at great shops like Nike, Levi’s, Bebe or Forever 21 or enjoy a delicious Starbucks coffee or a glass of wine with some tapas in La Europea Deli and Wine store.

La Quinta Alegria is the place to shop in Playa del Carmen!

Paseo del Carmen

10 & 1st Ave. south between 36 and 37, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Conveniently located at the end of the 5th avenue near the ferry station, Paseo del Carmen is a traditional shopping place for locals and visitors alike. It is ideal to have alfresco meals and margaritas, stroll under the native trees and relax to the sound of the fountains.

Some of the shops that you’ll find in this mall are Zara, Pull and Bear, Oakley, Starbucks and many others. We are sure you will love this location!

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Enjoy the Riviera Maya and Cancun real estate. Relax on the beach, take in some sights, eat at amazing cafes and restaurants, and go shopping. This area provides a plethora of luxury, souvenir, specialty and unique shops… sure to empty you wallet and fill your suitcases.

Find Your Dream Home with Mi Casa es tu Casa!

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The Riviera Maya is a dream come true for expats looking to invest in a vacation, retirement or investment real estate property in paradise. Thousands of Americans, Canadians, and others, flock down to Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Tulum, and everywhere in between in the search for their perfect paradise getaway home. And there’s no blaming them! With its beautiful stretches of white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and year-round tropical weather, everyone wants to be a part of this sought after slice of paradise.

To make the buying process easier, fun, and entertaining, the Top Mexico Channel launched an original series called “Mi Casa es tu Casa with Thomas Lloyd”, following the journey of couples who are down here trying to find their dream home. The show follows real people on their international adventure of finding the perfect real estate property in Mexico with the help of Thomas Lloyd, real estate expert.

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As a viewer you will be able to follow through the whole process of finding a home. From talking to the guests and finding out what their wish list is, what their concerns are, and what type of property they are in search of, to the actual delivery of the keys. As host Thomas Lloyd puts it, this is an adventure of a lifetime!

Officially premiering in December 2014, the show has gained popularity with expats and people looking to move down to Mexico. The premiere took place at a movie theater, attracting a great audience who enjoyed the first episode, “Golf Living in Paradise”, with popcorn and sodas. Amongst the present people were the host, Thomas Lloyd, the producers, and even the guests from the first episode!

The series blends the perfect ideal of property, process, lifestyle, and neighborhood. After watching a couple of episodes you will be longing for the day when you make your move to the amazing Riviera Maya.


You can watch the 4th episode, “Life’s a Beach” at the Top Mexico Channel website – where you will also find videos about real estate and lifestyle in the Riviera Maya, as well as the top tips of the week by Thomas Lloyd which will give you greater insight on the process of buying real estate in Mexico. In the 4th episode you will meet Terry and Steve, a couple from the United States who dreams of a beachfront condo so they can have breakfast in the balcony while looking out to the Caribbean ocean. Sounds like everyone’s dream! Amongst their hobbies are scuba diving, relaxing, and hanging at the beach. Check out the episode to see if Thomas Lloyd and the Top Mexico Real Estate team can come through and find the perfect place – and neighborhood – for the Evans.

Mi Casa es tu Casa will help you find the perfect neighborhood, suited for your lifestyle, needs and wants – your Caribbean dream home will follow!

Want to see more about Mi Casa es tu Casa and the Top Mexico Channel?

Check out their website and their YouTube Channel! Every month a new episode is released and you can be featured in one… “but you gotta get down here first” (in the words of host Thomas Lloyd). If you’re looking for a paradise home, you can browse through the thousands of options on the Top Mexico Real Estate listings website and contact one of our Top Buyer’s Representatives who will guide you through the process – and put you in contact with the Mi Casa es tu Casa crew if you want to appear on an episode!

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Remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Reef Beach

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Beach #14 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: The Reef Beach

Many of the amazing resorts along the Riviera Maya have beautiful and breathtaking beaches. Unfortunately, although the beaches are public, accesses tend to be private, so it is hard to reach them unless you are a guest of the hotel. However, many of these big resorts want to give everyone – not just their guests – the beach resort experience they can offer.

That is why you will find day passes and night passes at most big resorts down the coast of the beautiful Mexican Caribbean. And The Reef Playacar is no exception. The Playacar neighborhood is located in the south end of Playa del Carmen and hosts some of the most beautiful beaches you can find in the Riviera Maya.

Because Playacar is a private community, you need to address that you are visiting The Reef Resort and that you are going for a Day Pass so they let you through. The Day Pass has a cost of $53 USD per person and gives you full access to the hotel’s facilities – including, but not limited to – the pool and beach club. Meals and drinks are included throughout the day (9am to 6pm). If you are looking to enjoy an experience worth hundreds of dollars for a much lower price, then The Reef Playacar Day Pass is the resort to go to.

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The Reef Beach: Getting There

As mentioned above, the Reef Beach is located within the private community of Playacar, which is located in the south end of Playa del Carmen. There are two entrances to Playacar; one on the Federal Highway 309, the other one is on 10th Avenue.

Driving: To reach the 10th Avenue entrance from Cancun, you need to take the Federal Highway 309 towards Playa del Carmen. Upon arriving in Playa del Carmen, you will pass the overpass bridge until reaching a stoplight where you will see Centro Maya to the right, and Sam’s Club to the left. At the stoplight make a U-turn and drive to the outside lanes. Take a right at the Holiday Inn hotel (Diagonal Aeropuerto Street) and drive down that road all the way until the end, where you will reach 10th Avenue South. Take a right; that is the entrance to Playacar. Once you have gone through security, drive straight for about 4 minutes and find The Reef Resort on your left.

If you want to reach the entrance on Federal Highway, drive past the stoplight and take the next U-turn. Incorporate into the outside lanes. You will find the entrance right before the Hospiten hospital.

Taking a Taxi: A taxi from Cancun will charge you around $800 mxn to drive you to Playacar, but there are other options to reaching the Reef Resort. If you are staying in another hotel in Playa del Carmen, they will charge you between $30 and $80 mxn – depending where you are at.

Public transportation:

Colectivos: If you are coming from the north, you need to take a colectivo heading to Tulum and have it drop you off at Centro Maya. Carefully cross the federal highway to the entrance of Playacar. If you are coming from the south, a colectivo towards Playa del Carmen will drop you right near Hospiten. There is no public transport within Playacar, so if you are taking a colectivo you will need to either walk, or take a taxi to reach your destination.

Buses:  There are no buses that drive you to Playacar, so this time, taking a bus will not be an option. The easiest way to reach is by taxi.

The Reef Beach: Things To Do

As with every big resort, The Reef Playacar, has an array of family-fun activities to offer. With your day pass you are allowed to make use of all the hotel’s facilities and activities (some with extra cost).

  • Swim in their amazing pools and enjoy the meals and drinks included the wonderful service.
  • Lay on the beach beds with a beer in hand enjoying the wonderful blue ocean.
  • Rent one of the activities offered such as kayaking, snorkeling, and more.
  • Walk around the hotel looking for their many activities: restaurants, aquatic sports, entertainment, pools, relaxing, and so on.
  • Enjoy a wonderful meal on the beach, or by the pool, already included in your day pass.
  • Once it is 6pm and you are ready to leave the hotel, you can enjoy Playacar’s shopping malls with souvenirs and cafés.

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The Reef Beach: Recommendations

You will be in one of the high-end tourist destinations of Playa del Carmen. Things within Playacar (specially the resorts) are expensive. There isn’t a lack of services; you will find everything you need both inside and outside the resort. However, here are some recommendations:

  • Everywhere you go, always take money. Whether you are inside the hotel wanting to rent out an extra activity, or walking around Playacar wanting to take home a souvenir, you will need the extra cash.
  • Bring sunscreen! If you forget to bring sunscreen you will find yourself needing to purchase one within the hotel. That will not be cheap.
  • Although there are many activities to do within the hotel, bring a book, iPod, kindle, or whatnot. Laying by the pool for a couple of hours may result boring if you don’t have anything to entertain you.
  • Enjoy the food and drinks included in your day pass. You are paying $53 USD per person, make the most of it.

The most important thing, like we always say, is having fun and enjoying your day at the beach. The Riviera Maya is bathed with many beautiful white sand beaches, each special on its own – so go ahead and make the most of your day at the Reef Beach! And if you love it so much, you can always come back and make a reservation for a romantic dinner on the beach!

Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check out our options. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate is the number one website in real estate in the Riviera Maya and throughout Mexico. We help foreigners find the home of their dreams in the Mexican Caribbean. If you are looking to invest in a vacation, retirement, or full-time property, check out the options we have for you by browsing through our website or contacting one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. They will gladly walk you through the purchasing process and help you become a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen

Driving in the Riviera Maya: FAQ’s

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You have planned everything and are feeling more and more ready for your trip to the wonderful Riviera Maya. If you are planning a discovery trip you have booking your flight and hotel and you start to wonder what about transportation?  Should I take a taxis or bus or should I rent a car? Maybe you are planning to move into your beautiful, new real estate property and you have packed everything up and you find yourself wondering how will I get around? Should I use public transportation or should I bring my car with me or should I invest in one when I get there.

The answer to those questions are always going to be different, depending on the objective of your trip, the places you are planning to visit and the length of your stay. In a previous article I talked about how to get around using a taxi or public transportation. Let’s discuss owning or rent a car and driving in the Riviera Maya.

Here are some of the frequently asked questions we have received from our clients planning a trip to the Mayan Riviera.

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1.  How safe is it to drive in the Riviera Maya?

In general, the Riviera Maya and the Yucatan Peninsula are very safe, the roads are in good condition and there are clearly marked road signs along the way. There are a few check-points in the outskirts of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, mainly the police are trying to deter people from smuggling drugs or other forbidden articles; they might ask for your documents, they may ask to check your trunk and then send you on your way.

2.   Do I need to get a special driver’s license?

No, if you are a tourist just make sure your driver’s license from your home country is valid. If you want to be extra-cautious you can get an International Driver’s Permit, but it is not required.

3.   What do I do if I get stopped by the police?

Above all, keep calm; have your documents ready such as your driver’s license, ID, Tarjeta de Circulación* and proof of insurance (*circulation permit for the car, if your car is rented this documents should be in the glove compartment).

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4.   Is it safe to get my car into Mexico?

That depends, many people have done it and had no trouble at all and some have shared horror stories. There is some crime on the northern border of Mexico, if you are coming from the U.S. or Canada, it might be safer to ship your car and less of a hassle then driving your car across a foreign country.

My friend recently drove a newer car with American plates from the U.S. all the way to Riviera Maya without any problems. They said that they always felt safe and never saw any signs of violence or danger during their drive.

If you are considering bringing your car, you need to consider the following:

  • If I get stopped by the police do I know my rights? Do I speak enough Spanish to understand and be understood by the police?
  • Am I planning to drive all the way back to my home country?
  • A foreign car cannot be sold to a Mexican citizen, if you are planning to sell it and fly back home you might have to leave your car, unless you find another foreigner willing to buy it from you.
  • Is this car a popular brand or style in Mexico? Can I find a garage, parts or services for it?
  • Am I planning to stay for longer than six months? Am I going to drive to the border to renew the 6 month permit for my car?

5.   What do I have to keep in mind while driving in the Riviera Maya?

Driving tests in Mexico are not as strict as in other countries. I got my Playa del Carmen driver’s license by taking a 3 hour theory class, passing a theory test and a driving test that was basically driving around the block once.

Once in the Riviera Maya you need to keep the following in mind:

  • There are a lot of people that ignores the most basic driving laws, be extra cautious when driving in cities like Cancun and Playa del Carmen. There will be people trying to overtake you on the left lane, people trying to make a right or left turn from the center lane, people ignoring your indicators when you want to park, etc.
  • The Mayan Riviera gets millions of visitors every year, and they are unfamiliar with the roads. As a rule of thumb, if you see a car with red digits you’ll know it’s a rental, give that person extra space to maneuver and figure out where they want to go.
  • Cancun and Playa have lots of one way roads, keep your eyes open for signs or incoming traffic. Do not trust your GPS, sometimes it will try to send you on a one way street!
  • Taxi drivers are the worst, they drive like maniacs, stay away from them!
  • There are a lot of people traveling on bikes, mopeds and motorcycles: keep your eyes open as they ignore all the rules: they might try to overtake you from your left, move forward when the traffic is stationary going in between the cars and so many other maneuvers. Be careful!
  • Keep your eyes open for TOPES (speed bumps), they lurk everywhere and can damage your car. Sometimes they are unmarked and can seem to come out of nowhere. You can find them in the cities, in the little towns and even on the main road that connects Cancun and Tulum (Highway 307).

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Here at Top Mexico Real Estate we aim to provide you with the best information about living in Mexico.  If you are considering buying a property, we have the perfect home in paradise waiting for you!

We are a local American-Owned company, and we have helped thousands of foreigners become homeowners in Mexico. If you would like to make your dream of having a home in Mexico a realty, please contact us!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

The Long Awaited Home Depot Opens in Playa del Carmen.

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When possible, we try to buy our DIY materials and equipment in local shops, but sometimes we couldn’t find what we needed or the selection was limited; so we were forced to go to Cancun to get whatever we needed.

As I have said before, living in Playa del Carmen can spoil you. It sounds terrible when you have to say to your family or friends living overseas, ”Oh well, my weekend was ruined I had to go to Cancun!!”

Anyways, we were excited to see a Home Depot being opened here in Playa del Carmen, on the corner of Carretera Federal and Luis Donaldo Colosio. This is the 109th store opened in Mexico, the second in Quintana Roo. It brings 100 new jobs that benefits local families.

home depot playa del carmen

We are sure both professional builders and weekend DYI -ers are excited to have this store in our city. Home Depot offers all sorts of products and materials to build, remodel or decorate your Playa Del Carmen Property.

The governor Roberto Borge Angulo leaded the official traditional “board-cutting ceremony”, surrounded by government officials, suppliers, customers and the general community. After the ceremony The Home Depot donated 100,000 pesos in construction materials to the local branch of “Save The Children”, to help kids in need.

The store looks like any other Home Depot in North America; however it is interesting to see the differences in products that are available. Also, most of the Mexico real estate properties are sold missing closets, kitchens and appliances so Home Depot offers a huge section of products to furnish these areas.

home depot playa del carmen

Expect a highly knowledgeable staff that speaks Spanish, there is also some English speaking staff members that can help you to find the right product for your home. Since it is hurricane season, it is a good opportunity to buy materials to weatherproof your home: seals for doors and windows, sealing paint or cool roof coating.

Visit our local Home Depot to find everything you need to remodel or decorate your dream home.

Home Depot – Playa del Carmen
Carretera Cancun – Tulum km 55
Or for locals is the corner of Carretera Federal and Luis Donaldo Colosio
Playa del Carmen
C.P. 77712
Phone number: (984) 871 5800
Hours of Operation
Monday-Saturday 7:00am-10:00pm Sundays 8:00am-10:00pm

Now if you have any question of this or any of the TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE properties we have listed in Playa Del Carmen, The Riviera Maya or anywhere throughout Mexico, please feel free to contact any of our TOP MEXICO EXPERT SALES TEAM and we will be glad to help you find your very own piece of paradise.

And remember, here at TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE…

We make it happen!

Dental Tourism – Riviera Maya, Mexico

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The Riviera Maya, Mexico is one of the most beautiful and sought after vacation destinations in all the worlds. Whether you are attracted to the white sand beaches and crystal blue waters of the Caribbean, the wonderful Mexican / Caribbean blend of cultures or the hypnotic, tropical vibe, the Riviera Maya is a place that needs to be seen to be believed.

Now at about this time of year, people from the United States, Canada and the world for that matter are beginning the process to making vacation plans for the winter to escape the cold, harsh winters of North America, Europe and Asia. So now, at this time, I would like to introduce to you a new concept in vacation packages that is revolutionizing the industry…

Dental Tourism

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Now as I am sure you already know, dental and medical prices are quite simply ‘out of control’ in most places around the world… while quality of the work itself relatively stays the same.
So what gives?

Well according to recent studies, increasing insurance premiums and frivolous lawsuits worldwide have raised the operating cost of doing business to mammoth proportions, forcing many dental practitioners to increase their prices. While some others studies suggest that ‘good ol American greed’ is to blame for the rising cost of dental work.

Whatever the case may be, we do have a solution for you: Dental Bio-Esthetics… accredited, trustworthy and skilled dentistry here in the Riviera Maya!

With state of the art equipment, cutting edge technology and an incredibly skilled and dedicated staff, Dental Bio-Esthetics in Playa del Carmen, headed by Dr. Michelle Spears, DDS (a licensed, practicing and skilled dentist from the United States) is making the dream her dental practice slogan “We can make you smile again” a reality for many people in need.

… And did I mention… at a fraction of the price of all other dental institutes worldwide!

Now, you and your family can have it all: a wonderful and exciting vacation for the whole family and the confident and beautiful smile you always wanted! And all at the same price you would spend for just the dental procedures alone in the United States and Canada.

At Dental Bio-Esthetics, they can craft you a comprehensive treatment plan, coordinate transportation to and from the Dental Bio-Esthetic while in Playa Del Carmen, arrange for transportation to and from the airport and coordinate your flight and hotel arrangements depending on your specific needs and wants.
Dental Bio-Esthetics… “Re-think the dentist chair!”

Now if you have any questions about getting in contact with Dr. Michelle Spears, DDS at Dental Bio-Esthetics here in Playa del Carmen – Riviera Maya, please feel free to email her at
info@dentalbioesthetics.com
or visit her website at www.dentalbioesthetics.com.

See you in Paradise!!!!!!!!

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