How to Survive the Riviera Maya’s Summer Heat Wave

Meteorologists warned locals and tourists in the state of Quintana Roo of an upcoming heat wave in the next few days that will be breaking records. The Solidaridad Civil Protection warned of roaring temperatures that will reach 38°C (100°F) but have a thermal sensation of 47°C (116°F). According to the director of meteorology in Solidaridad, “the heat wave is due to the inclination of the earth that causes solar radiation to arrive perpendicularly and is a period of time, which is fixed from July 15 to August 24, but in itself, does not have an exact date for it to start or end.” Moreover, humidity will also be at its highest, and the rainfall at its lowest. With news of the rising heat, many people may wonder how to prepare accordingly to avoid heat stroke, sun burn or anything more serious.

Drink Plenty of Water

Water

Obvious, we know, but many people like to hydrate with beer. And while it’s definitely a nice and refreshing drink, water helps you replenish all you sweat from the heat. If you’re leaving your house make sure you bring bottled water with you everywhere, and replenish when you’re at a restaurant, bar or beach club. Caffeine and alcohol, while enjoyable, can contribute to dehydration. So, try to steer clear from them.

Eat Right

While we’re on the subject of staying hydrated, there are foods that will help you replenish and re-energize your body. While others contribute to the loss of water. With the heat, you need to eat moisturizing foods such as cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelon, and others. Of course, you can’t deny yourself other delicacies, just make sure you’re consuming these, as well. Also try eating in smaller portions throughout the day. Large meals can raise your metabolism, which in turn increases your body heat. The less you eat during one sitting, the less heat you’ll create.

One Word: Air Conditioning

Another obvious one, perhaps, but try to avoid walking out on Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen at midday, for example. Try to stay in closed places where you can cool off and if you really want to take a stroll make it short, through the shade and stop at stores, bars or restaurants to cool off from time to time. And while your electricity bill might go up slightly over the summer months, it’s best to stay cool at home, as well.

Dress Smart

White clothes

You might want to stay away from darker colors while you’re putting up with this summer heat! Black fabric transmits heat to the skin, rising your temperature. Light colored clothing with lighter fabrics will be your best friend during this heat wave. The best color to wear is white, of course, as it rejects heat and helps you keep cool.

Take Advantage of Paradise

Hey, you’re in the Riviera Maya! Go cool off in the gorgeous turquoise waters and enjoy the beauty of the area. Be careful, however, and make sure you wear plenty of sunscreen to avoid sun burns and skin cancer. Make sure it’s biodegradable and apply it 30 minutes before you plan on swimming. Rash guards and hats are also your best friends when taking a dip in the ocean.

Avoid the Outdoors During Peak Hours

Doctors highly recommend avoiding being under the sun between 12 and 4pm as these are know as the peak sun hours. Especially when the sun is scorching hot and there are heat waves it is more important to avoid being out at this time. If you can’t avoid being under the sun then, make sure you’re wearing plenty of sun screen and alternating between sun and shade to avoid skin problems.

Keep Your Pets Safe

Beach dog

Avoid tragedies by keeping your pets constantly hydrated and only taking them out for walks really early in the morning or after dark. The heat of the streets and sidewalks can hurt their paws and exercising them during peak heat times can give them heat stroke as well. Give them enough cool water or cold treats (like frozen peanut butter and banana).

You Can Beat the Heat Wave

By following the previous advice and keeping yourself cool at all times, you’ll be able to take this heat wave like a breeze. Most importantly, however, you need to know the signs and ask for help when you start feeling dehydrated. Headaches, muscle pain, cramps, exhaustion and thirst are just some signs of heat stroke. Ask for medical assistance and head over to a cool and shaded place as soon as possible. Make sure you are given cold water both on your body and to drink. If there are any other major signs, call 911.

5 Things You Can Do to Escape the Caribbean Heat

We understand this summertime heat can be a little irritating. There are days when all you want to do is stay somewhere with air condition. But, this could actually be boring. Besides, when you live in Playa del Carmen, you must learn how to handle the heat. It is okay to stay locked in home with A/C once in a while. However, there are so many places where you can go to freshen up while you have fun outdoors. Let’s take a look at some options to escape the Caribbean heat!

 

The first thing you can do is visit a beach

Well, this one is clear! There are so many beautiful beaches all along the Riviera Maya. We recommend to bring an umbrella, a large blanket, drinking water, snacks, sunscreen and a chair. This will help you stay fresh and away from the sun. Whenever you want to rest, you can sit under your umbrella. And if the heat takes over, you can run to the sea and cool down Don’t forget to bring a book or something to stay entertained and enjoy the beach to the fullest.

Caribbean heat

Have a wonderful day at a cenote

A freshwater sinkhole, also known as cenote, is a perfect way to fresh up. Its cold water will help you to feel better and escape the Caribbean heat. Also, most cenotes are covered, so you can stay away from the sunlight and avoid a sunburn. There are many cenotes you can visit, and most of them are not expensive. In addition, if you want to have an adventure and enjoy a cenote to the fullest, you can rent diving equipment and have much more fun.

Caribbean heat

Enjoy a delicious ice cream on the 5th Avenue

What’s better than taking a walk on the Fifth Avenue? Well, having an ice cream while walking all along this amazing street. There are plenty of ice cream shops that offer delicious flavors and also, beverages if you’re not really in a mood for an ice cream. Once you decide what kind of dessert you’re having, it’s time to enjoy the 5th Avenue! This pedestrian street offers so many shopping stores, restaurants, spas, among many other things. The world-famous 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen will surely keep you entertained and, sometimes, away from the Caribbean heat.

Caribbean heat

Have an amazing adventure at a theme park

There are plenty of options to choose from! Each theme park in the Riviera Maya offers different amazing activities. You can have a relaxing day at Xel-Ha or an incredible adventure at Xplor. And if you want to have a family day, Xcaret could be the perfect place. Alternatively, there are some other companies that offer great tours which include zip-line, ATV and a cenote visit. Choose one or more of these activities and have fun while you freshen up.

Caribbean heat

Swim in one of the many hotel rooftops in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is home to several hotel rooftops that are open to the public even if you’re not a guest. However, most of these rooftops will ask you to eat something or have a drink. Therefore, make sure to bring some cash, so you can enjoy your food and/or beverage while you sunbathe and refresh in the swimming pool. This exquisite option could end up being your weekend getaway plan!

Caribbean heat

Now you that you have these ideas in mind, go outside and enjoy all the activities the Riviera Maya has to offer! As a result, you will escape the Caribbean heat whilst having an astonishing journey. Additionally, you will get to discover more incredible places in the Riviera Maya and see why people define it as a paradise.