The Riviera Maya Film Festival is Bilingual!

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Living in Mexico can be a challenge if you don’t speak the language, and this can have an impact in your entertainment options. Even in a town like Playa del Carmen, which has a big expat community and where, in general, it is very easy to move around and communicate in English, most of the times the entertainment and cultural events are targeted towards the local community, leaving you with few options to attend.

An exception for this is the Riviera Maya Film Festival 2016. We have been attending some of the screenings and it’s been very refreshing to see that the movies in Spanish include subtitles in English, while those films in a language different to English or Spanish include subtitles in both languages, making it easy for the expat community to be part of this festival and enjoy the events.

Take a look at the program and feel free to attend these events, knowing that you’ll be able to enjoy the movies.

In Playa del Carmen the events are being held in the Teatro de la Ciudad, Cinemex (movie complex in Centro Maya shopping mall), and some at the beach. There are also events scheduled in Tulum, Cancun, Puerto Morelos and Isla Mujeres. If you’re interested in knowing more about the Riviera Maya Film Festival 2016, you can see the full program here.

Besides the availability of English subtitles and the variety of venues and schedules, there’s another very interesting detail about the RMFF: all the events are for free! So all you need to do is to get there on time to be able to get a seat.

Please be aware that both the opening and closing ceremonies are really popular. There’s a red carpet and many guests, usually actors, actresses and directors, both Mexican and non-Mexican attend these ceremonies. If you choose to attend any of these events, consider that even getting there early doesn’t guarantee being able to access the venue. So, unless you have a special pass, we would recommend you not to attend these ceremonies, and just enjoy the regular program.

Check the Riviera Maya Film Festival website to see the details, movie synopsis and much more.

Enjoy the festival!

Now if you want to learn more about property in the Riviera Maya or any of the TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE properties we have listed anywhere throughout Mexico, please feel free to contact any of our Top Mexico Buyer’s Representatives 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!

Celebrating Canada Day in Playa del Carmen

Yesterday was Canada Day and Canadian expats, tourists and non-Canadians alike gathered at the Blue Parrot beachfront bar to celebrate! For those non-Canadians thinking to themselves… What is Canada day? Well, Canada day is the national day of Canada, celebrating the anniversary of the July 1, 1867 enactment of the British North America Act (today called the Constitution Act), which united three colonies, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and the United Province of Canada into a single country called Canada.

So happy 148th birthday Canada!

You might be asking yourself, why celebrate Canada Day in Playa del Carmen?

The Playa Time wrote that, “Mexico is the second most popular destination for Canadians, attracting 25,000 snowbirds every year. Approximately two million Canadian tourists came to Mexico last year, and around 50,000 Canadian Mennonites live in Mexico out of which 25,000 have dual citizenship.”

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Playa del Carmen is home to people from all over the world and has a large Canadian expat community. From year round retires to those just wanting to escape the winter cold and enjoy some fun in the sun. But no matter how long one has been living in Playa del Carmen… you can’t take Canada out of a Canadian. Their Canadian pride runs through and through. This was evident by all the folks that came out yesterday to enjoy the festivities, have a taste of home and celebrate Canada Day in Playa del Carmen.

Related: Why Mexico Consistently Ranks One of the Top Destinations for Retirees

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The Canada Day celebration was sponsored by The Playa Times which is owned and operated by a Canadian citizen who wanted to bring this festivity to the local Canadian expat community. The guests enjoyed a barbecue cookout with Canadian specialties such as poutine (French fries smothered in a rich brown grave and topped with homemade cheese curds what took a whole day to perfect) and Canadian sausage… all which were enjoyed by the participants! Additionally, a live band was covering popular Canadian artists throughout the event along with carnival games and other activity to entertain the kids. Fun was definitely had by all.

 photo Canada Day 4_zpsffhgm0ru.jpgNot being from Canada myself, by the end of the party I was feeling the true Canadian spirit and felt truly welcomed into the Canadian family. I felt the urge to belt out a verse from, “O Canada! Our home and native land!”… but don’t worry I held myself back.

Related: Cancun Real Estate Celebrates July 4th & Canada Day

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So fear not, there is no need to miss out on native nationality celebrations in Playa del Carmen as there is a huge expat community. Yesterday many Canadian expats, Canadian tourists and non-Canadians alike gathered to celebrate the “Canuck” spirit in the Mexican Caribbean. Canada Day, what a wonderful holiday.

Behind the 9th Travesia Sagrada Maya (Sacred Mayan Journey)

For thousands of years, the ancient Mayans would pay respects and prayer to the goddess of fertility, Ixchel. Every year, they would take off from the Polé market (known today as Xcaret), and row all the way to Kuzamil (or the Island of Cozumel, as it’s known nowadays). Brave oarsmen and women would row in Mayan canoes facing the wild Caribbean ocean, risking their lives, to bring offerings to Ixchel and be granted favors in return.

As the years went by and the Mayan civilization slowly disappeared, many of its traditions disappeared with it. However, the Xcaret Park, which is located right where the market was, decided to continue commemorating the old traditions of the Mayans by reliving this sacred and spiritual ritual. For the past nine years, the Travesia Sagrada Maya (or Sacred Mayan Journey) has seen hundreds of modern oarsmen and women bravely cross the ocean and pay tribute to Ixchel and the old civilization we’ve all come to know and love.

(Related: Read more about the history of Travesia Sagrada Maya here.)

Of course, Top Mexico Real Estate did not want to miss out on the opportunity of being part of this, so they chose one brave participant from the Marketing office to take part in this journey. Julio Salinas, designer, took a step forward and volunteered himself for this spiritual pilgrimage that will change his life forever.

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“I decided to participate because I had the chance to see this great event in 2014, and I was motivated by the drive and emotion that the participants delivered that year, and the passion with which they were willing to relive the history and tradition”, shared Julio. And rightly so; training sessions have been ongoing for six months, where they have worked “resistance, concentration, swimming, sailing, and we went through different filters to prove that we were ready to achieve the goal”, he said.

Six months of physical and mental preparation – the journey can take five hours to complete, depending on the wind and ocean’s conditions of the day. The journey does not end in Cozumel. Here, they rest for the night after a spiritual welcome ceremony, and take off the following morning to return to Xcaret. Amongst the things that they have learned, Julio emphasizes on the importance of keeping these traditions alive. These are traditions that “have lost strength, language, and communication through time”.

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Teamwork is another key element in this journey. While spiritually the pilgrimage might be personal and unique to each individual, the physical journey to the island of Cozumel, and back, relies on teamwork. Ten oarsmen ride in each canoe, and they are unable to finish if anyone of the gives up. “The most important thing is to learn from your team and to support it. While we trained, motivation and communication became very important elements”.

While the tradition is very rooted to Mexico, it is not only a journey where Mexicans can participate. Over time, more and more foreigners have decided to be part of a tradition that was very important to the ancient Mayans. Many travelers or people who have moved to the Riviera Maya indefinitely from other countries want to be involved in everything to make them understand the history and culture of this beautiful country. Julio finds it especially joyful to see that foreigners are taking part. “It’s nice to see that not only Mexicans are interested in being part of the Journey, as many foreigners […] have joined this party full of tradition and history”.

You can be part of the oarsmen’s journey by joining them in the farewell ceremony on Friday 22nd of May, at 6am in Xcaret. If you are located in Cozumel, you can receive them around 1 or 2pm in Chankanaab Park and participate in the Sacred Mayan Journey Dances for the Lady of the Moon (Ixchel). You may also bid them farewell and a safe journey back to Polé the following morning (May 23rd) at 9am. For those located in Playa del Carmen, you can watch the sacred Mayan celebration and receive the brave oarsmen at Xcaret around 1pm, as well as enjoy all that the park has to offer.

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“The idea of completing the journey makes me feel great emotion and great satisfaction, because it’s been a long preparation”, Julio shares. As part of our team, it makes us feel great satisfaction, as well! Every participant of the Journey will return changed and with great spiritual stories to tell of their sacred pilgrimage to see Ixchel.

Top Mexico Real Estate is the leading real estate website in the Riviera Maya. If you are looking to be part of the land that has seen thousands of traditions born, and relived, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Top Buyer’s Representatives who will gladly help you in your personal journey to find the perfect paradise home.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Travesia Sagrada Maya: Celebrating Old Mayan Traditions

For thousands of years, the ancient Mayans went on a sacred pilgrimage to worship and pay respect to Ixchel. Also known as Ixchebelyax, she was the goddess of fertility, water, health, and vegetation. Fertility of the lands was one of the most sacred things for the Mayan civilization, as they lived off their lands both for trading and for survival. In the Travesia Sagrada Maya, an annual ritual where brave oarsmen and women crossed the ocean, they brought offerings to Ixchel in exchange for granting special favors for their lands and families.

The chosen people to embark on the journey were priests and elderly women. Children, young women, and other priests or men did not take part. Painted in black (for fasting), white, yellow, blue (for sacrifice), and red (for war), they got ready early morning as the sun barely rose. Their journey started in Polé main shipping port (which is what we know today as Xcaret).

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The word Polé derived from the Mayan word for merchandise (p’ol). The port was were the trade networking happened, making it one of the most important places for the Yucatan Mayan civilization. It was also used as a harbor to conquer inland and a starting point for the sea routes they developed.

From Polé, they would navigate for hours until reaching Kozumil (known today as the island of Cozumel). The journey itself was a transition for the oarsmen and eldery women involved. The ocean, just like the cenotes, was an entryway to Xibalba, or the underworld, which would represent a “transition to the beyond” for those sailing. The Caribbean Ocean’s importance went beyond that, as it was the greatest source of transportation and food for the ancient civilization.

The rituals had a specific structure which was not to be broken. Food deprivation, insomnia and sexual abstinence (in other words, fasting) were the sacrifices made in order to purify the soul. The priest or oracle at the time would determine the date and time the ritual would take place. He would also decide which members (other priests) would participate in this spiritual celebration.

The ceremony was celebrated with steam baths, alcoholic beverages (Balché and Chicha), prayers, perfuming with incense, devotion, music, singing, dancing, special food (corn, turkey, dog meat and cacao, mostly), and the sacrifice of a living being (whether it be animal or human), amongst other things. The sacrifice was of upmost importance, because this would link men with the divine gods, making the journey sacred.

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The canoes in which they rowed were filled with offerings for Ixchel. Offerings ranged from foods, plants, animals and humans. The importance of Ixchel was grand, as without fertility existed no agriculture, and agriculture was the base of a civilization that was wealthy and valuable.

For years after the Mayans slowly disappeared, their traditions went uncelebrated. However, nine years ago, Xcaret decided to relive the sacred Mayan journeys experience and the spirituality that was once so sacred to their ancestors. Aiming to create a link between the cultural identity and today’s inhabitants of the Yucatan Peninsula, they have reestablished the ancient practice of the Travesia Sagrada Maya or Sacred Mayan Journey.

Hundreds of brave oarsmen, from children to elderly, locals and foreigners, train for six long months, physically and mentally, in order to row for hours until reaching Cozumel. They will depart on Friday 22nd of May, at 6am, as the first rays of sun rise over the horizon and will arrive in Cozumel around 1 or 2pm. A sacred ceremony celebrating the Lady of the Moon (also Ixchel), will take place that night in Cozumel.

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Their early departure from Cozumel back to Xcaret will take place on Saturday 23rd of May, and Xcaret will be expecting their return at 1pm with a celebratory and spiritual ceremony to commemorate the oarsmen, the goddess Ixchel, and the ancient civilization that taught us this practice.

You can be a part of the celebration, as well, by being present at the farewell and welcoming (plus, you get to enjoy the park!). You can read all about the program and how to be a part of it here.

And to bid farewell and a safe journey to the participants who are devoting their strength, emotion, and spirit to what was once the most sacred journey of the Mayans, here is a poem written by C. Hawthorne Flaherty called “Diary of an Oarsman” (source).

“We row;

fire in our muscles,

salt in our eyes,

wind at our bow,

and sun on our skin.

 We burn and burn, until we have nothing more to burn.

We row and row until we can’t row any longer – then we row on.

We row and row beyond the vigor of our bodies until we row only with our hearts.

We row and row beyond the courage of our hearts until we row only with our souls.

We row and row beyond the spirit of our souls – beyond ourselves – until we row only with each other. 

Each and every stroke is one moment of choice – one choice after the other – we transcend the limits of what was impossible just one stroke before. 

You are not the Rutter-man for 13 hours of the journey.

You are not the Rutter-man for 156 hours of training.

You are the Rutter-man in moments.

You are the Rutter-man in the moments when you have lost sight of land and still you choose a course.

You are the Rutter-man when, despite absolute exhaustion, you hold the line against the current.

You are the Rutter-man when you have nothing left, but you still give. When you find laughter in tears, find joy in suffering, the will to persevere when others have lost heart. 

You aren’t the Rutter-man when you think you can’t do it; you are the Rutter-man when you do.”

Top Mexico Real Estate is a local American-owned real estate company, leader in its field in the Riviera Maya. If you are looking to retire or find a second home in paradise, feel free to contact one of our Top Buyer’s Representatives who will gladly help you, just like they have helped hundreds before, to find your very own slice of paradise.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

The Fourth Annual Riviera Maya Film Festival

The fourth edition of the Riviera Maya Film Festival just wrapped up their event in Playa del Carmen, which was the host to the opening and closing ceremonies as well as several galas. The Riviera Maya Film Festival brings art, glamour and movie stars to this tropical paradise. This year Anton Yelchin, Ashley Green and Aaron Paul were in attendance. Over a hundred screening of national and International films were showed in the movie theaters, at the parks and on the gorgeous beaches in Playa del Carmen.

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The Riviera Maya Film Festival will continue its special touring program at in select city throughout the Riviera Maya from May 13th – June 6th. Here is a list of the venues and screens where you can enjoy the Film Festival.

Puerto Morelos May 13th -17th May

Location: Unico Beach Club
Address: Av. Javier Rojo Gomez SM2, Mz2, Lote 2 cp 77580

Wednesday May 13th
19:30   “Incomprendida” / “Misunderstood”  Dir. Asia Argento Time: 1hr. 43min.
21:30    “Los días no vuelven” / “Missed days” Dir. Raúl Cuesta (1hr. 14min.)

Thursday May 14th
19:30    “Ícaros” Dir. Pedro González Rubio (55min.)
21:00    “La Maldad” / “Evilness” Dir. Joshua Gil (1hr. 25 min.)

Friday May 15th
21:00    “Los muertos” / “The dead” Dir. Santiago Mohar Volkov (1hr. 28min.)

Saturday May 16th
19:30    “Alexfilm” Dir. Pablo Chavarría (1hr.)
21:00    “El regreso del muerto” / “The return of the dead man” Dir. Gustavo Gamou (1hr. 30min.)

Sunday May 17th
19:30    “La princesa de Francia” / “The princess of France” Dir. Matías Piñeiro (1hr. 7min.)
21:00    “Resultados” / “Results” Dir. Andrew Bujalski (1hr. 45min.)

Cancun May 20th -24th

Location: Park Los Palapas
Address: Calle Margaritas on the corner of Tulipanes in Centro

Wednesday May 20th
19:30    “Incomprendida” / “Misunderstood” Dir. Asia Argento (1hr. 43min.)
21:30    “Los días no vuelven” / “Missed days”  Dir Raúl Cuesta (1hr. 14min.)

Thursday May 21st
19:30    “Juanicas” Dir. Karina García Casanova (1hr. 18min.)
21:00    “Plan Sexenal” / “Sexennial plan” Dir Santiago Cendejas (1hr. 26min.)

Friday May 22nd
19:30    “Muchachas” Dir. Juliana Fanjul (1hr. 4min.)
21:00    “Memoria oculta” / “Hidden memory” Dir. Eva Villaseñor (1hr.)

Saturday May 23rd
19:30    “El señor de las tres caídas” / “Lord of the three falls” Dir. Roberto Olivares Ruiz (55min.)
21:00    “Noche de resurrecciones” / “Night of the resurrection” Dir Raúl Rico (1hr. 12min.)

Sunday May 24th
19:30    “A las escondidas” / “Hide and seek” Dir. Joanna Coates (1hr. 22min.)
21:10    “Resultados” / “Results” Dir. Andrew Bujalski (1hr. 45min.)

Isla Mujeres May 28th -30th

Location: Playa Posada del Mar
Address: Av Rueda Medina 15, Centro – Supmza. 001, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R.

Thursday May 28th
19:30    ***TBD***

Friday May 29th
19:30     “El silencio de la princesa” / “The silence of the princess” Dir. Manuel Caribe (1hr. 24min.)

Saturday May 30th
19:30    “Elvira, te daría mi vida pero la estoy usando” / “Elvira, I would give you my life but I’m using it” Dir. Manolo Caro (1hr. 34min.)

Tulum June 4th – 6th

Location: Papaya Playa Project
Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila km. 4.5

Thursday June 4th
19:30     “Incomprendida” / “Misunderstood” Dir. Asia Argento (1hr. 43min.)

Friday June 5th
19:30    “Resultados” / “Results” Dir. Andrew Bujalski (1hr. 45min.)

Saturday June 6th
19:30    “Elvira, te daría mi vida pero la estoy usando” / “Elvira, I would give you my life but I’m using it” Dir. Manolo Caro (1hr. 34min.)

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Screenings on the beach, and especially on the beaches of the Riviera Maya, have a special charm and a magic to them. Great artistic films, soft white sandy beaches filled with colorful beach chairs, the Caribbean breeze and a star filled sky makes for one unforgettable night.

The Riviera Maya Film Festival wants their guests to enjoy the best films from around the world, as well as the welcoming tropical landscape, creating an unforgettable experience.

For more information about the Riviera Maya Film Festival please click here.

Cinco de Mayo: Mexico, France, and Smart Marketing

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The obscure reality behind Cinco de Mayo might shock you. Yes, you, with the fake mustache, sombrero and poncho. With a Coronita beer in hand, and…wait, is that a tortilla chip with guacamole, too?

We all love excuses to celebrate, have a few drinks, and throw parties…so why not Cinco de Mayo? Quick question, though, do you know why we (Americans) celebrate this holiday? Are you aware of the actual event that took place on this date?

Before we get into the Cinco de Mayo, let’s clear one thing up. It is not, I repeat, it is not Mexico’s Independence Day. Although Americans would very much love celebrating Mexico’s freedom from Spain (because we love celebrating everything), that actually took place in September, 1810, and it’s not something that is celebrated much in the USA except for the Mexican-American communities.

Alright, now, back to Cinco de Mayo.

Well, it was on May 5th, 1862, when the very small Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, won a battle in the state of Puebla against the great French army (considered the best world-wide at the time). An unlikely win that certainly deserved to be celebrated throughout the country… even if it was just one battle.

So how come Americans are so enthusiastic about celebrating said date when in reality…it had nothing to do with us?

Cinco de Mayo: La Batalla de Puebla

France took over Mexico as an aftermath of the Mexico-American war and the Reform war – both taking place in the mid-1800s. After Mexico was nearly bankrupt, then President Benito Juarez, advised France, Spain and Britain that they would not be paying foreign debts for the following two years as a result of, well, not having any money. Soon, all three countries sailed to Mexico asking to be paid what they were owed. Mexico succeeded in negotiations with Spain and Britain, who took back to their countries satisfied with the new arrangements. However, France was having none of this, and decided it was a good time to establish an empire in Mexico.

For a long time, Mexico was overtaken (very easily) by the French army. It wasn’t until the French reached the state of Puebla that they encountered an army that was very against being invaded (once more) and stood their ground. The battle took place between 6,000 French men and 2,000 Mexican men. It wasn’t military strategy, but courage, that helped Mexico win this battle on May 5th. This established a sense of patriotism and pride throughout the country which was very much needed at the time.

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A few battles later, the French overtook Mexico and established Napoleon III as the new Emperor of Mexico. The United States had been fighting the Civil War, and as soon as it was over, looked over and helped Mexico free itself of the three-year French empire. France was kicked out of Mexico, and Benito Juarez took presidency again in Mexico City in 1967. Hoorah!

News of the great success of the battle of Puebla traveled quickly, eventually reaching Mexican workers living in the USA. It was in Columbia where Mexican miners fired their rifles and chanted songs in celebration about the win over the French army. This is the first ever recorded celebration of Cinco de Mayo in the USA. However, it was mainly ignored elsewhere.

Cinco de Mayo: Fast-Forward to the 1940s.

Chicanos, a widely known community of Mexican-Americans confused about their real identities and nationalities, soon started celebrating Cinco de Mayo, priding themselves in being a part of a country whose significantly smaller army crushed the strongest army at the time. This also boosted the Chicano movement in the USA. However, it wasn’t for another 30 years that Cinco de Mayo became the mainstream celebration we know today. And it was all thanks to marketing.

Cinco de Mayo: The Battle of the Beers (1980s)

Since the 1950s, everything has been about marketing strategies. If you don’t market, you don’t sell. Grupo Modelo, owner of Corona beer, had successful sales all throughout Mexico and was looking to break into international markets. In 1979, it made its way into the USA but flopped with its sales. Rival breweries laughed at its attempts to win over the market. So, Modelo decided to hit where it always work: national pride. Targeting ethnic groups, they decided to exploit the meaning of Mexican pride by promoting their beer through significant Mexican events. In the mid-1980s, it hit the jackpot by increasing its sales and eventually landing in 4th place world-wide, in the beer industry. They rolled out slogans such as “the Drinko for Cinco”, inviting mainly younger audiences – and mainly not Mexican – to celebrate Cinco de Mayo by drinking and partying.

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After seeing their success, other breweries started imitating Modelo’s marketing strategies. Once that Cinco de Mayo had been established as a holiday amongst younger generations of both white and Latin communities, marketing became easier for beers, followed eventually by guacamole, chips, tequila, and more.

Here we are, 30 years later, still celebrating a battle that may have been overly insignificant in Napoleon III’s invasion of Mexico. We celebrate something that not even Mexicans celebrate, because beer companies told us to. Because proud Mexican-Americans wanted to sing and dance traditional songs as a celebration of their army.

So, pop those beer bottles open and bring out the guacamole, because today is Cinco de Mayo and we are in the mood to celebrate!

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-owned company based in the Riviera Maya. We are the leading real estate experts in the region. If you are looking to relocate or retire to Mexico, feel free to contact one of our Top Buyer’s Representatives, who will gladly help you find the home of your dreams (the perfect place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo!). Happy Cinco de Mayo!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Romantic Getaway Riviera Maya: Isla Mujeres

Valentine’s Day is approaching, and it is a beautiful time of the year to be in the Riviera Maya. If you are looking to surprise your significant other, why not plan a romantic getaway? There are so many special places to rekindle the romance, relax and enjoy each other’s company!

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A perfect gift to pamper your partner and yourself, is a romantic escapade to a particularly romantic destination such as Isla Mujeres. Isla Mujeres is a small island off the coast of Cancun, a place providing the perfect Caribbean setting to hold hands and fall in love all over again.

Let the professionals do all the hard work! These hotels have an aura of romance and a perfectly trained staff to make all of your dreams come true.

  1. Romantic Getaway Isla Mujeres: La Casa de Los Suenos

There is not a more fitting name for this place, “The House of Dreams”, is a place that will let you feel at home and have a romantic out of this world experience.  Just entering the hotel, you will be received by traditional Mexican decor and a sense of tranquility.

La Casa de Los Suenos is located south of the island on the road to Garrafon, it has 9 suites and one presidential suite with an amazing ocean view, and 7 are exclusivly for couples. Each room has a private balcony with breathtaking views, where you can talk, share and dream together.

The rooms are spacious and luxurious with an air of serenity that can be enjoyed from every corner. This is a small hotel taking great care all the way down to the small details, every guest is unique and the staff goes out of their way to accommodate any request.

Enjoy the delicious food and the bar service, a la carte breakfast is included in your stay. There is also a pool with direct access to the beach, spa services, fitness center, bicycles and snorkeling equipment are included.

La Casa de los Suenos doesn’t have a Romantic Package but here are some prices to get an idea of the costs.

  • 2 nights’ accommodations: 600 USD
  • A couple’s massage for 60 minutes: 166 USD
  • Private dinner in a romantic setting with 4 courses, private service, a bottle of sparkling wine: 175 USD

More Information:

U.S. 877-372-3993

Mexico 998-888-0370

www.casasuenos.com

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  1. Romantic Getaway Isla Mujeres: Hotel El Secreto

This hotel offers an intriguing mix of elegance, privacy and luxury, with a fascinating architecture and an original design. Hotel El Secreto is a boutique hotel, with only 9 suites with private terraces and a magnificent sea view.

El Secreto is highly recommended for its excellent service, location and seclusion. It is such a secluded place, that after following the windy road it is a big surprise to arrive to the reception area to check-in, the vibe is more like friend’s private home on the beach than a hotel.

The surroundings are breathtaking, and there is a sense of peace in a luxurious setting.  Not only El Secreto has easy access to the beach, there is also a pool and friendly staff ready to keep the cold drinks coming.

More Information:

Mexico 998-877-1039

reserv@hotelsecreto.com

www.hotelsecreto.com

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Here are just a few of the beautiful places to celebrate your love and Valentine’s Day. If you are looking for the ultimate gift surprise your significant other with a dream home in paradise. Please feel free to browse our beautiful properties or contact our certified and experienced Realtors!

We have helped hundreds of foreigners become homeowners in Mexico, in a quick, safe and legal manner. Stop day dreaming of a second home in paradise, here at Top Mexico Real Estate, We Make it Happen!

Valentine’s Day Romantic Getaways in Bacalar!

Valentine’s Day is getting closer and closer, and it is never too early to plan a romantic getaway with that special person. We recently wrote about some romantic places to escape to in Holbox Island, but there are other options in the Riviera Maya, like the quaint village of Bacalar.

Bacalar is located 213 miles south of the Cancun International Airport, but it feels like a world away. Most of the accommodations in Bacalar are quaint palapas by the lagoon, far away from the crowds and big all-inclusive resorts.

Bacalar is the ideal spot for a romantic getaway; there are many activities that you can be a part of or you can just relax and enjoy nature. We hope you have a fantastic Valentine’s Day!

Valentine’s Day Romantic Getaways: Centro Holistico Akal Ki

Akal Ki is a dream come true, where romance and relaxation are in the air. Enjoy the views overlooking the gorgeous lagoon from your private deck, get a massage or just relax in a hammock.

Some of the amenities at Akal Ki include a restaurant serving international specialties, as well as concierge service and wireless internet access. There is also free kayaks and bikes available for the guests.

Akal Ki doesn’t have a special Valentine’s Day package, but you can check back with them directly to keep you posted on any specials coming up. Here is a list of services and costs for you to get a general idea, but these are not written on stone – they can change.

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1 Caribbean Cabin-Lagoon Front STD

Cost: MXN $ 7530.00 TAX INCLUDED

This package includes:

  • Accommodation 2 nights/ 2 adults *3630 MXN
  • 1 Romantic dinner by the lagoon on a private pier (includes a 4 course dinner, alcoholic drinks are not included) *1700 MXN
  • 1 Spa treatment for 2 adults (YANZU Massage on the lagoon) * 2200 MXN

More information:

Ms. Daniela Hardouin

From Mexico: 045 983 106 1751

From the US: +52 1 983 106 1751

reservaciones@akalki.com

Valentine’s Day Romantic Getaways: Hotel Rancho Encantado

Rancho Encantado is a favorite, and one of the oldest hotels in the area. With easy access from the federal highway 307, and a little bit further from the town, it offers relaxation, beautiful views and superb service.

Rancho Encantado is often completely booked in high season and on national holidays, so if you are planning to stay here, the sooner you make your reservation, the better. For Valentine’s they have a Romantic Package Available.

*Prices available from JANUARY 2nd TO APRIL 12th, 2015

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1 Caribbean Cabin-Lagoon Front STD

Cost: MXN $ 6826.00 TAX INCLUDED

This package includes:

  • Accommodation 2 nights/ 2 adults
  • Plan HB: 2 meals a day (breakfast and dinner)
  • 1 Spa treatment for 2 adults (Relaxing Massage 45 min.)
  • 1 Complimentary romantic cocktail
  • 1 Romantic Dinner by the Lagoon with private service (includes a 3 course menu, bottle of sparkling wine, a soft drink per person and coffee or tea)
  • Romantic Room Decoration
  • Transportation Chetumal Airport – Hotel

1 Caribbean Cabin-Lagoon Front with AC

Cost: $ 7126.00 MXN TAX INCLUDED

This package includes:

  • Accommodation 2 nights/ 2 adults
  • Plan HB: 2 meals a day (Breakfast and Dinner)
  • 1 Spa treatment for 2 adults (Relaxing Massage 45 min.)
  • 1 Complimentary romantic cocktail
  • 1 Romantic Dinner by the Lagoon with private service (includes a 3 course menu, bottle of sparkling wine, a soft drink per person and coffee or tea)
  • Romantic Room Decoration
  • Transportation Chetumal Airport – Hotel

More information:

Ms. Nelly Boulos

info@encantado.com

www.encantado.com

Cell. + 52 998 1113771

Phone + 52 998 8841181 ext. 107

Top Mexico Real Estate is your one and only stop for everything Riviera Maya: lifestyle, culture, cuisine… we have helped hundreds of clients to become homeowners in Mexico.

If you are looking for your dream property in Mexico or in Bacalar, feel free to browse our beautiful properties and contact one of our Top Buyer’s Representatives. Stop dreaming and start living the dream!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Ready to Party: 2015 BPM Festival in Playa del Carmen

The holidays have passed, but we are ready to keep partying! Playa del Carmen is ready to enjoy the music of the 2015 BPM Festival.

The  2015 BPM Festival in Playa del Carmen has established itself as one of the finest music festivals in the world, with thousands of visitors from all over the world. Even with its humble origins, BPM organizers have grown the festival into a music event with the best lineup, Dj’s and setting in the magical Riviera Maya.

Something that makes BPM such an attractive music destination is the beautiful tropical surroundings, not just the music. After dancing the night away, the day can be spent lounging on the beach, visiting archeological zones, or diving into a Cenote.

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BPM Festival: Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, is a small city 35 miles south of the Cancun International Airport, easy to access from any main airport in the world.  Once a sleepy fishing village, Playa del Carmen offers beautiful beaches, exclusive hotels, and a wide array of restaurants; everything to feel right at home!

Enjoy walking on the 5th Avenue, lined with bars and restaurants as well as plenty of shops to get souvenirs, clothes or whatever you want!

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BPM Festival: Other attractions

Playa del Carmen is much more than beautiful beaches, there is also its mysterious jungle, Mayan archeological zones and hundreds activity’s such as: snorkeling, diving, jungle tours, zip line excursions and cenotes.

Just a short drive away you will find magnificent colonial cities such as Merida, Valladolid and Izamal. Where one can walk on the cobble stone streets and feel transported to a different time. In these city’s you can learn about Sisal, the fiber that made the Yucatan Peninsula one of the wealthiest areas in the world, and stay in a 500 year old hacienda.

BPM Festival: Music, music and more music!

BPM offers an exciting combination of dance artists and Dj’s from all over the world, the festival spans over 10 days with the performance of more than 250 artists offering the newest in electronic music. The 2015 BPM festival offers more than 50 official events in different venues along the beach. Day or night there is always something happening!

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Make sure to learn more about the BPM Roster and events by visiting www.thebpmfestival.com!

Top Mexico Real Estate is your one and only stop for everything Riviera Maya, and also the best real estate company in the area. If you are considering buying a property in Mexico, let our expert real estate agents help you become a happy homeowner!

Top Mexico Real Estate, We Make It Happen!

“Mi Casa es Tu Casa”…Not Your Ordinary Real Estate Show

A new cutting edge real estate original television series is now in production and debuting on the TOP MEXICO CHANNEL, featuring the lifestyle, the culture and neighborhoods of one of the most coveted and desired real estate area on the planet… the Riviera Maya, Mexico

This show is entitled…

“Mi Casa es Tu Casa”…Not Your Ordinary Real Estate Show

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Streaming live on the Top Mexico Channel, the first wholly dedicated internet channel developed for the consumers / viewers of the Top Mexico Real Estate company, “Mi Casa es Tu Casa with Thomas Lloyd” follows one couple through their buying process of purchasing their dream home in the beautiful and tropical Mexican Caribbean.  With Top Mexico Real Estate founder and foremost Mexico Real Estate authority Thomas Lloyd as their guide, Thomas and his international guests search, and eventually find, not only the home of their dream, but the perfect paradise neighborhood with just the right lifestyle, work environment and entertainment that his guests desire.  With the unparalleled help of Thomas and his Top Buyer’s Representatives, Thomas and his team meet with his guests, analyze the real estate market landscape, scout various general home locations, survey the Riviera Maya neighborhoods and finally present the guest with 3 expertly and thoroughly chosen neighborhood from which the guests will make their life changing choice.

From the first meeting between Thomas and the guest, through the sometimes overwhelming buying process and culminating with the joyous purchase of their new perfect paradise property and beyond, Thomas and his team cater to every possible want, need and desire to ensure that his client receives the most thorough and exhilarating experience as they take their first step into the next adventure of their lives.

From exploring the sometimes intimidating Mexico Real Estate landscape, to final escrow paperwork, to where to buy their groceries, Thomas and his team tend to every need possible so his guests have the most ‘painless’ and ‘worry free’ experience in their new country.

“Find the neighborhood… and the home will follow!”

With “Mi Casa es Tu Casa with Thomas Lloyd” and Top Mexico Real Estate… the dream doesn’t have to a dream anymore.

Watch the first episodes on topmexicochannel.com

“Mi Casa es Tu Casa”…Not Your Ordinary Real Estate Show

And who knows… maybe you’ll find yourself on one of our upcoming episode!

… but you gotta get down here first!

And remember, with Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!