Tag Archives: Living in Mexico

Weekend Getaway: Punta Laguna

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It’s that time of the week again when you’re packing up for a new adventure in the gorgeous Riviera Maya. You’re probably wondering what to do or where to go. Luckily for you, the beautiful state of Quintana Roo and its surrounding states offer an array of beautiful hidden gems, offering millions of options to explore. This weekend we’re headed to Punta Laguna. Ready? Let’s get going!

How to get there

Punta Laguna is located inland from Tulum, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from Playa del Carmen, or just 1 hour from Tulum Downtown. The best way to reach Punta Laguna is by car, as there is no public transport or buses heading that way. The only other way is by taking a prepaid tour that offers transportation.

If you’re coming from Playa del Carmen you need to drive south on the 307 Highway until you reach Tulum. Once you’re entering Tulum, keep an eye out for signs signaling the exit towards Cobá on your right. Take the Cobá highway and drive until reaching a roundabout with several exits. You will take the exit that reads Punta Laguna; it’s a rather small sign, but easy to find. Drive through this almost abandoned highway for approximately 20 minutes. You will find Punta Laguna on your left. There is a parking lot on site.
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Where to stay

At the reserve you can rent a Mayan hut for two people for $300 mxn ($18 usd). Take into account that this is a natural reserve and Mayan villagers run the area, which means not to expect any luxury. The other option is camping, for which they offer eco-bathroom facilities.

Punta Laguna is best as a one-day trip. If you want to make this a weekend trip, your best shot is to stay the night in Tulum. You will find many different types of accommodation from luxury hotels to eco-friendly cabins and even hostels in Tulum. If you’re staying there for the weekend, you will only need to drive for an hour to reach Punta Laguna.

What to do

Punta Laguna is a natural reserve, home to spider monkeys, howler monkeys and pumas. It is also home to approximately 30 Mayan families who share over five thousand hectares. If you’ve decided to visit Punta Laguna there is only one thing to do: take a tour.

The villagers of Punta Laguna are the perfect example of how they can live off tourism while protecting their natural and cultural heritage. The tour costs approximately $300 mxn ($18 usd) per person and it is worth every penny invested. The reserve opens at 8 am, and that is the best time to arrive, as prepaid and organized tours start arriving at 10 am. Additionally, at that time the monkeys are migrating towards their feeding areas and it is much easier to spot them.

Your guided tour will last for about an hour, and you will get close and personal with the region’s nature and wildlife. If you’re an early bird and you’ve hired a guided tour, chances are you will spot both howler and spider monkeys in the wild migration. They will not interact with you, but they commonly stop and stare. You will be walking through the lush jungle in small paths, so watch out for the flora and fauna as there are some amazing things around.

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You will then be guided towards the beautiful and peaceful lagoon where you will be able to hear the birds chirping and the howler monkeys howling in the distance. You will get to row your own boat across the lagoon, as well as swim in it – its water is quite refreshing after strolling through the humid jungle.

After crossing the lagoon you will zipline with beautiful views of the jungle and finish the tour with a Mayan ceremony and swimming in an amazing cenote that is home to some old Mayan skulls that are found at the very bottom.

Shopping and eating

Punta Laguna does not really offer any shopping facilities, as it is a natural reserve. It is probable that the Mayan population that lives there sells handmade arts and crafts.

For shopping and lunch it is better to head back out to Cobá, 20 minutes from the reserve, where there is plenty of shopping and eating options. If you’re not keen on stopping by in Cobá, your best bet would be heading back into Tulum where you can shop in Downtown and go to one of the many quaint restaurants on offer.

Recommendations

Punta Laguna is a natural reserve and only accommodates nature lovers who do not mind walking through the jungle, keeping an eye out for wildlife and letting mosquitos feast on them. Here are some recommendations to take into account:

-Bring comfortable clothes and shoes. Flip-flops are not appropriate for walking through the jungle. Either tennis shoes or sandals are a better option.

-Bring biodegradable sunscreen and apply it 30 minutes before jumping into the lagoon. Don’t forget to bring your swimming suit, towel and a change of clothes.

-Arrive early! Tours start arriving at 10 am, and you want to beat the multitudes that tend to scare the monkeys away.

-Bring a camera. Chances are you will spot monkeys and you might catch a glance at other wildlife (like coatis!), so bring your camera and be prepared at all times. Wildlife doesn’t pose.

-Bring an open mind and a positive attitude. Walking through the humid jungle while mosquitos are flying around you can frustrate people. This is where these Mayan people live and you must respect their habitat and their way of living.
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Hopefully these tips will allow you to have an adventure of a lifetime in this off-the-beaten-path paradise. There are always new places to explore in the Riviera Maya, so check back next weekend for a new getaway destination!

Read about a weekend getaway to Akumal or a weekend getaway at Bacalar here.

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-owned real estate company catering to American and Canadian people wanting to make the move to the Riviera Maya. If you want to invest in paradise, our Top Buyer Representatives will gladly help you in the search for the perfect location and the perfect home.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Weekend Getaway: Akumal Bay

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This weekend, we’re taking a day trip to the gorgeous Akumal Bay, just half an hour south of Playa del Carmen. Never forget that the Riviera Maya is vast, full of hidden (and not so hidden) gems, and it offers a million things to explore. Playa del Carmen doesn’t quite give an idea of everything there is to see. Are you ready? Let’s go!

How to get there

Akumal is located between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, only a 30 minutes drive from both cities, and approximately 1 hour and 20 minute drive south from Cancun. The best way to reach Akumal Bay is by renting a car and driving. However, colectivos (public transport) leave from the central coelctivo station in Playa del Carmen (15th Avenue with 2nd Street) towards Tulum. All you have to do is get on it and ask to stop in Akumal. You should expect to pay between $2 and $3 USD for the ride.

You will be dropped off on the west side of the highway. There is a huge crossing bridge over the highway, which you must cross and you have reached Akumal. If you’re driving, take the Federal Highway 307 heading south and following the signs that read “Akumal”. It is very well signaled and the exit is clearly marked.

Akumal is quite small and parking is limited. There are two small parking lots, however they tend to be quite expensive. Unfortunately, there are no free parking areas in Akumal so be ready to either pay the parking fee or you can park on the Akumal Pueblo side of the town (on the other side of the highway), and cross the highway by foot.

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Where to stay

Akumal is a very small town with a beautiful bay and a few hotels. Accommodation varies between renting one of the houses or apartments available down the road towards Yal Ku (where you can enjoy Half Moon Bay beach), and staying at one of the hotels available there. Hotels, however, are quite expensive and you can expect to pay no less than $100 USD per night, or even much more. If you are staying in Playa del Carmen or Cancun, Akumal is great for a day-trip, with no need for staying the night.

However, you should consider that if you do stay at one of the hotels you get the added bonus of enjoying beach beds, towels and shade; whereas if you go for the day, none of that is available.

What to do

Akumal means “place of the turtles” in Mayan, and people go there for one thing: sighting sea turtles in their natural habitat. Approximately 40 juvenile sea turtles live in the bay, coming and going as they please, as it is their feeding zone. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Akumal, but swimming through the bay searching for sea turtles is the main attraction.

You can either rent snorkeling equipment and lifejackets at one of the two diving shops, or take a guided tour. Keep in mind that Akumal Bay is a federally protected area and offenses are taken seriously, so we recommend you hire a guide in order to not break any of the rules (touching or chasing the turtles, standing on the corals, touching the ocean bottom, amongst many others).

After spending about an hour swimming around the bay looking at all the amazing sea creatures (there are plenty of fish, turtles, rays and corals), you can head over to Yal Ku lagoon, just a 5 minute car ride from Akumal, to swim in the gorgeous mixture of fresh and salt water that is home to thousands of colorful fish. This is also a protected area and an entrance fee of $12 USD has to be paid.

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For those of you who love fishing or scuba diving, there are plenty of boats taking you out on tours. All you have to do is ask at either one of the dive shops for prices and information. Usually any fish caught can be cooked at one of the restaurants in Akumal. Diving is a favorite activity here as past the reef barrier there is a whole other world underwater.

You can also visit the NGO located in Akumal, which protects the ocean and the nesting turtles. Akumal is a nesting beach and if you visit anytime between May and November you are most likely to be able to take a tour at night with the biologists to see the turtles nesting and watch hatchling releases.

Shopping and eating

It’s clear that Akumal is quite small and there is not much to do but spend the day at the beach. There are a handful of small shops around selling hand-made crafts, paintings and other curiosities. There is also a small market on the basketball court at the entrance selling necklaces, earrings, clothing items, bags, amongst others.

For eating there are three main restaurants to choose from: La Cueva del Pescador, Turtle Bay Café and Lol Ha Restaurant. They all are delicious and vary in cuisine styles, so make sure you choose wisely depending on what you are craving. On the road towards Yal Ku there is another famous restaurant called La Buena Vida with delicious food and an amazing variety of drinks, as well. This restaurant is on Half Moon Bay offering beautiful sights, and even a section with hammocks for relaxing after lunch.

photo DSCF3124-1.jpgRecommendations

Akumal is one of the biggest attractions in the Riviera Maya – not to be overlooked! Although a weekend getaway is perfect in Akumal, if you’re staying in Playa del Carmen, Tulum or Cancun, one day will suffice to visit this gorgeous bay. Here are some recommendations to take into consideration:

Bring cash: there is an ATM in Akumal, but remember that those usually charge hefty commissions. Most restaurants and shops take credit card, but it’s better to be safe and sorry (La Cueva del Pescador is cash only and definitely a great dining option). The small market is also cash only and it’s worth having some money on you to buy anything.

Bring a towel, a hat, sunglasses, your own umbrellas and biodegradable sunscreen. Akumal, as mentioned before, is an ecologically protected area, so it is of utmost importance that no damaging sunscreen is introduced into the ocean. Put on your sunscreen half an hour before you plan on swimming and make sure it’s biodegradable.

There is no beach club in Akumal so you must provide your own towels and shade. There are no beach beds, no umbrellas or anything. People lay their towels down on the sand and sunbathe there, so make sure you’re prepared.

Visit with an open attitude. Sea turtles are free, and they come and go as they wish, and – although unlikely – you may leave Akumal without having seen one. Don’t complain to the tour guides or the locals, as they have no control over them. Have fun, enjoy the beauty of the place and keep an open mind about everything.

Well, one weekend comes after the next, and there are always new adventures and places to discover in the Riviera Maya. So check back next week for a new weekend getaway destination!

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-owned real estate company catering to American and Canadian people wanting to make the move to the Riviera Maya. If you want to invest in paradise, our Top Buyer Representatives will gladly help you in the search for the perfect location and the perfect home.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Hurricane Season in the Riviera Maya: How to Prepare Yourself

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Living in the Riviera Maya means that every year we have to get through the hurricane season. Luckily, despite the scary name the possibility of a hurricane hitting the Mexican Caribbean shores is very low. There is only a small chance you will ever experience a hurricane and even if you do; chances are it is going to be just a lot of rain with high winds.

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It has been a decade since the last destructive hurricane (Wilma) hit Cancun and some areas in the Riviera Maya. The main problems caused by Wilma were the reestablishment of power lines as well as water services, there was also a gasoline and food shortage in the area.

Being prepared is essential when dealing with the challenges of hurricane season. Making sure you prepare ahead of time will save you time, money and stress. It is also important to prepare a plan to guarantee everyone’s safety.

Hurricane Season: How to Be Prepared

FOOD:
Always make sure to have enough non-perishable food and a good supply of clean water. Check labels and expiration dates to make sure everything is edible, store all of these items in a safe dry area, preferably in a high cabinet.

Some foods to consider are:

Cans: Tuna, sardines, beans, deviled ham, condensed milk, fruits and vegetables, etc.
Jars: Jam, peanut butter, nutella, spaghetti sauce, etc.
Dry food: Seeds, peanuts, pasta, rice, oatmeal, cereals, bread, cookies and crackers.
Boxes: Ultra pasteurized milk, tomato sauce, cream, etc.

WATER:
For disaster preparedness you should store at least a gallon a day per person for a 3 day period. In Mexico this can be easily solved by calling your drinking water company and order enough 20 liters containers for your family, we’d recommend storing a 10 to 14 day supply in a safe place. For domestic purposes, it is a good idea to have a second tinaco installed at home, or replace the one you have for a bigger size.

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FIRST AID KIT AND PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION:
Make sure to have a properly stocked First Aid Kit, you can find ready to buy kits in places like Sam’s or you can make your own.
Here are some things that you must include in your kit:

  • Sterile gauze
  • Medical Tape
  • Band-Aids
  • Elastic bandages
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Soap
  • Antibiotic cream (triple antibiotic ointment)
  • Antiseptic solution (as hydrogen peroxide/alcohol)
  • Hydrocortisone cream (1%)
  • Paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.
  • Tweezers
  • Sharp scissors
  • Calamine lotion
  • Alcohol swabs
  • A thermometer
  • Plastic gloves (at least 2 pairs)

Also make sure you have a sufficient reserve of medications prescribed to you and your family. After a hurricane medicines might be scarce, as businesses can be closed or the medicines can be damaged.

PROPANE AND GASOLINE
It is important to have a safe way to cook your meals, most houses in Mexico have a propane stove so filling your tank before hurricane seasons is a good idea. If you have smaller tanks, having a spare is also good, as long as it is safely put away or secured before hurricane season.

Gas stations run out of gasoline quickly during a hurricane, make sure your car has a full tank before the hurricane hits the coast. I fill my tank as soon as an alert is issued; this not only insures that I have gas it also helps me avoided the long lines of people scrambling to get gasoline.

OTHER IMPORTANT ITEMS TO CONSIDER:
These are items that need to be around your home in case of a hurricane:

  • Flashlights: preferably LED in case the power goes out for a short time.
  • Candles: decorative candles can last much longer.
  • Battery Powered Radio
  • Solar Garden Lights: can be recharged by day and use them inside the house overnight.
  • Chlorine: To disinfect water and eliminate germs if your houses floods.
  • Ziplock Bags: To store valuable items like important documents and photos.
  • Corded Phone
  • Cell phone and extra charged batteries.
  • DC adapter to AC
  • Wet wipes.
  • Many batteries of all sizes.
  • A flashlight for each family member, and battery backups.
  • Enough plastic bags for trash and other garbage.
  • Supply of toilet paper and other hygiene products that you need.

Give yourself plenty of time to get ready, technology nowadays will let you know with a week in advance when a hurricane is forming. In my experience getting ready at this time will give you plenty of time to get all the supplies you will need.

Luckily in all the time I have lived in the Peninsula, none of the warnings ended up in hurricanes; but it is always better to be prepared beforehand to avoid long lines and panic purchases.

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American owned real estate company serving foreigners looking to buy a property in Mexico. For over a decade, our team has helped thousands of clients to find and purchase the home of your dreams.

If you want to learn more about the real estate market in Mexico, please contact us!

Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Spanish Courses in Playa del Carmen

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Learning a second language is always a good investment, and Spanish is a popular choice. Over 400 million people speak Spanish in the world, it is the second most spoken language in the world just after mandarin.

There is an ever growing Spanish speaking population in North America. The United States has 41 million native Spanish speakers plus 11.6 million individuals that are bilingual, which makes it the second country in America with the largest Spanish speaking population.

Full Immersion Approach

Studying abroad is the best way to master the essential elements of everyday language. Real people do not talk like the characters in books ​​or in newspapers. Even on television, it is rare to hear the language spoken on the street.

If you already have basic knowledge of a foreign language, the most effective and quickly way to improve your skill level is through a quality total immersion education abroad. Immersion is the key to success: the simple fact of being in a different environment can help you absorb the language quickly, but to get even faster results, you need to completely immerse yourselve in the language.

Playa del Carmen is a Perfect Place to Improve your Spanish!

There are several language centers in Playa del Carmen, such as big chains like Berlitz and International House and some local companies too. Choosing the best school has to be done after careful consideration. Like at the length of the course, price, number the students in the class and visit the school to see if it is a good fit for you.

Here are some of the most popular language schools in Playa del Carmen:

Spanish Courses in Playa del Carmen: Solexico

Solexico Language and Cultural Centers was founded in 1997, and they have four Spanish schools in Mexico: Playa del Carmen, Oaxaca, Puerto Vallarta and Guanajuato.

Courses begin each Monday year-round and consist of multiple daily 50 minutes sessions with breaks in between. Upon arrival, each student will be given a placement exam to determine their Spanish level and class placement. Solexico offers full immersion courses.

If you would like to learn more about Solexico, click here.

Spanish Courses in Playa del Carmen: Playalingua

Playalingua was founded more than 10 years ago and it is a popular choice for Spanish lessons due to its central location and the fact they offer classes and boarding all in the same building. The school is located just 5 minutes away from the beach and 5th avenue.

They have many different packages designed to fit your needs, but the most popular is their Intensive Regular program held every morning Monday thru Friday with 20 hours of classes. They also offer a Super Intensive program, mixing the regular program with an extra hour each day of private one-on-one tuition.

Playalingua offers attractive summer courses, being taught from July 1st to August 23rd. The options are to take the Monday – Friday 1 hour a day class for 2400 pesos or the 4 hour Saturday class for 1100 pesos. For both classes there is a 320 pesos fee for school materials.

If you would like to learn more about Playalingua, click here!

Spanish Courses in Playa del Carmen: International House

International House (IH) is one of the world’s top language schools, and they have a school in Playa del Carmen. This branch opened in 2004, and it has become an important center for language teaching, teacher training, study tours and other activities.

IH Riviera Maya has a number of local people studying English, so there is plenty of opportunity for the students to meet native Spanish speakers, make friends and improve their fluency outside the classroom, at a coffee shop or social event put on by IH.

If you would like to learn more about International House, visit their website.

This is only a few of the schools you can find in the Riviera Maya area, it is important to shop around, find as much information you can and talk to other students to see if the school is a right fit for you.

Playa del Carmen has a large number of people who speak English, so it is possible to live in the area and manage without speaking Spanish. But if you want immerse yourself in this new culture I can’t think of a better way to than to learn the language or at least enough to ask for directions or be able to order dinner at a restaurant.

10 Interesting Facts About Whale Sharks

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  1. Despite their name, the whale shark is neither a whale nor a mammal; it is a slow-moving filter feeding shark and the largest known fish species. The whale part of the name comes from its sheer size. The whale shark is an Ovoviviparous species, this means that it keeps its eggs inside her body and once they are mature; tiny whale sharks emerge alive from the mother’s body.

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  1. The whale shark has an extremely thick skin, in some cases up to four inches thick. In addition, their skin has a much darker tone than the rest of the fish with white patterns comprising dots, vertical and horizontal lines; making really interesting patterns.
  1. The whale sharks huge mouth can be as big as five feet long, but swimming alongside a whale shark is 100% safe as they have no interest in consuming humans. They also have a filtration system that does not allow the passage of anything bigger than small fish like sardines and their many rows of tiny teeth are located in the back of their mouth; so they can not really harm anyone.

photo whalesharkteeth_zps9pmy2akf.jpg Whale Shark Teeth
Source: http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/gallery/descript/whaleshark/whaleshark.html

  1. These majestic animals have an advanced filtration system that allows them to eat without having to swim, compared to other animals that require them to move forward to push water inside their mouth. The whale shark is able to use their gills to pull water into their mouth, where it accumulates plankton, krill and other small seafood like sardines or anchovies.
  1. These fish live in tropical waters at an average 700 meters deep. They are generally solitary animals, but are grouped when they find an area rich in food.
  1. The whale shark is known to be the world’s largest fish, with verified specimens as long as 40 feet; that is as long as a trailer. There are many reported sightings of much bigger whale sharks, over 65 feet long; but they have not been documented and therefore are considered a myth.
  1. Despite its imposing size, whale sharks are completely harmless and peaceful creatures. Tourists can swim very close them, and in the past visitors were even allowed to even touch them but this is no longer permitted.

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  1. Summer is the best season to observe these magnificent creatures, especially the months from June to September. The Riviera Maya has many tour companies that organize whale shark tours, which includes everything you need to enjoy this experience.
  1. If you live in the Riviera Maya or are vacationing here, the best places to find whale sharks are in the area between Isla Mujeres, Contoy and Holbox Island.
  1. Each year an estimated 1,400 whale shark reach the coasts of the peninsula, and about 200 approach the islands of Holbox and Contoy in the state of Quintana Roo.

Swimming with the whale sharks is a once in a lifetime experience, remember this is a peaceful creature but there have been reports of them attacking boats; after being harassed. If you are going on a whale shark tour, respect the whale sharks and follow the indications given by your tour guide.

Would you like to partake in unique experiences like this all the time? Consider retiring or purchasing a vacation home in Mexico there are so many things to do here, you will never run out of once in a lifetime experiences.

From dreaming to owning your dream home in Mexico, Top Mexico Real Estate has a decade team of Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives with the experience in helping foreigners become homeowners in Mexico.

Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

The Miracle of Life: Akumal Sea Turtle Nesting Season

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The miracle of life is an amazing thing. For millions of years life on our planet has been the sole pillar of everything we know and love. It all really comes down to creating life, and keeping it that way for millions upon millions of years to come. And to be able to witness the miracle of life – be it human or otherwise – is a unique experience that not very many people get to live in their lifetime.

Amongst the many amazing species that call the Riviera Maya home is the sea turtle. In the world, there are eight existing sea turtle species – and most of them are critically endangered. Of these eight species, seven of them live and nest in Mexican beaches. We are a privileged country! And out of those, four nest in the gorgeous, pristine beaches of Quintana Roo.

However, due to heavy tourist congestion, sea turtles start migrating south to find isolated beaches that less humans transit through. And if that seems impossible, they settle for those where there are sea turtle protection programs that (try to) control the traffic of people. One of those places, and the most popular for both swimming with these majestic animals and witnessing sea turtle nesting season, is Akumal.

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Akumal means “Place of the Turtles” in Mayan (‘Ak’ means turtle; ‘Umal’ means place). The name is, of course, justified, as this is not only one of the most important nesting beaches in the region, but it is also one of the biggest natural homes to juvenile sea turtles in the area. This tranquil bay area – very popular amongst tourists – is home to approximately 40 juvenile sea turtles. This is their natural habitat, as it is a popular feeding area for them due to the amounts of sea grass that the bay possesses.

While these juvenile turtles come and go on a daily basis, the phenomenon known as “sea turtle season” refers strictly to the nesting season, which takes place between May and September every year. Now, this season is not a general rule for all eight species, but to the three that nest in Akumal: caretta caretta (loggerhead), chelonia mydas (green turtle), and the occasional eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill turtle) – hey, now you know three scientific names to impress your friends!

Life Cycle

The most common species to nest in the region are the loggerhead and the green sea turtles, with record over 900 nests in 2013 (in Akumal) throughout the whole season, for both species. However, there are also leatherbacks and hawksbill nests found throughout the state. The life cycle of a sea turtle is fairly simple:

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  • Mating – adult female sea turtles come out to the beach to nest between May and September. They can lay anywhere between 80 and 120 eggs, depending on species.
  • Incubation – this period lasts approximately 45 to 55 days.
  • Hatching – after the incubation period, hatchlings pop out of their shells and make their way out to the ocean*.
  • The Lost Years – the first three years of a sea turtle are referred to as “the lost years” because they migrate to different feeding areas and are hard to keep track of.
  • Juvenile Years – for the next 15 years they migrate around the world to feeding areas until they reach adulthood.
  • Adulthood – this is when they reach their breeding age, which goes from 15 to 50 years old.
  • Mating – adult male turtles court females in order for the cycle to continue.
  • Lifespan – sea turtles can live up to 100 years old, depending on species.

*Unfortunately, only one out of 1,000 hatchlings makes it to adulthood for different reasons:

  • Natural reasons – during incubation, raccoons and crabs dig the nests and feed on the eggs. After hatching, seagulls target turtles, as they are soft-shelled and easy to digest. Through their first years, sharks and whales can eat them, too.
  • Human Interaction – ocean pollution, garbage, obstacles on the beaches, accidental fishing, ‘hit and run’ (when boats hit turtles), and more, are the major cause of death in sea turtles.

How You Can Help and Experience Nesting Season

There are many ways to get involved in the conservation process:

  • Volunteering – sea turtle camps rely 100% on volunteer work. Here they teach you the proper way to patrol and monitor sea turtles throughout nesting season (working with both adults and hatchlings). Volunteer work costs both financially and physically, but it is worth experiencing.
  • Eco-touring – the beaches on which these turtles nest are open to the public (places such as Xpu-Ha close the access at night, but you can stay at a hotel there), so the best way to help with conservation is by education yourself as to what you can and cannot do on the beach (such as leaving garbage or obstacles for the turtles). You can contact a sea turtle camp and find out if they offer educational night walks where you get to witness the nesting process, or if they will have hatchling releases for you to see. Donating to these programs is a huge contribution, as they are NGOs and do not profit from their work.

While Akumal is certainly not the only nesting beach in the Riviera Maya, it is the most popular one – specially because there are juvenile sea turtles swimming in the bay every day of the year. It’s their home, after all. However, you can witness the nesting season at other beaches such as Xpu-Ha, Xcacel, Sian Ka’an, Tulum and Cancun.

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Don’t miss the opportunity of experiencing this unique and life-changing event. Sea turtles are beautiful creatures and they depend on you to continue gracing the oceans we all visit the Riviera Maya for.

If you wish their home will someday be your home, please feel free to contact one of our Top Mexico Buyer’s Representatives who will gladly help you in the process of relocating and finding your dream home in paradise.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

The Fourth Annual Riviera Maya Film Festival

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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.

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.

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

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Beach #13 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Puerto Aventuras Beach

Puerto Aventuras is not as popular as other Riviera Maya destinations, but this location offers its visitors not only a beautiful beach; but also an exclusive marina and a golf course.

Puerto Aventuras is a private subdivision, but you can always visit their many restaurants and enjoy all of the amenities it has to offer; such as an exclusive shopping area, an aquarium and many other perks.

Forget about the crowds, traffic and noise and enjoy a private beach surrounded by nature!

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Puerto Aventuras Beach: Getting there

Driving a Rental Car: If you are coming from Cancun or Playa del Carmen you need to get on the federal highway 307 southbound towards Tulum (55 miles from Cancun/15 from Playa del Carmen) and follow the signs. In order to get to the beach you have to turn left in the overpass and get through the checkpoint. The security guards will ask for your ID and they will let you through.

Taking a Van/Taxi: This might be convenient if you are not planning to do other activities and just want to spend the day in Puerto Aventuras. Ask around at the airport or taxi station, shop around on the internet and try to find the best fare.

Public Transportation: If you are on a budget, Colectivos are a good way to get to Puerto Aventuras. They are white mini vans (10-14 passengers) that drive between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, all along the 307 federal highway. To stop them wave your hand in the air. Once the van stops get in and tell the driver where you want to go. Make sure to ask for the price to your destination. The fare from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Aventuras costs approximately $2 US.

Puerto Aventuras Beach: Things to do

CEDAM Museum:

The CEDAM museum showcases items recovered from shipwrecks and excavations around Puerto Aventuras, as well nautical items from the past. The entrance is free and the visit can be done in about an hour, an excellent choice for the hottest hours of the day or on a rainy afternoon.

Swim with the Dolphins:

This is a perfect activity for anyone visiting Puerto Aventuras, as bookings are not required; which allows more flexibility for your itinerary. If you want to learn more about these tours, visit their website.

Golf:

Puerto Aventuras had the first golf course in the Riviera Maya, designed by the renowned PGA player Thomas Leman. This golf course offers an amazing 9 hole Par 36 surrounded by beautiful vegetation, and cool breezes from the sea. For more information, visit their website.

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Puerto Aventuras: Recommendations

  • Puerto Aventuras is an excellent destination for a day trip, make sure to arrive there early to enjoy a full day in the premises.
  • The access is restricted, but free of charge.
  • Walking around the marina is an excellent way to enjoy the views and even have the opportunity to see dolphins in the canals.
  • Walking is the ideal way to get to places within Puerto Aventuras, make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

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 a local American-Owned company that 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 any of our Top Buyers’ Representatives. Browse through our beautiful properties, we are sure you will find your dream home.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Laughs Had by All, the Akumal Comedy Festival

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For the fourth consecutive year Akumal hosted the Akumal Comedy Festival. The event was started by Dan Schlissel founder of Stand Up! Records and Grammy award winning producer and the late Gus Lynch a former celebrity comedian and actor. They started the festival to showcase rising stand-up comedy stars outside of the U.S. as well as the people, restaurants, and businesses of the area.

The Akumal Comedy Festival, 10 show, 7 venues in three city’s over 5 days. All for a good cause.

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The Akumal Comedy Festival supports the Red Cross of Mexico. The Red Cross in Mexico different than in other countries, they operate without any financial assistance from the government. Each chapter is responsible for its own fundraising, and relies entirely on the generosity of donors and the dedication of their volunteers. They operate without charge, offering lifesaving medical treatment to anyone who needs it, and are a lifeline to many of the local poor communities.  All of the proceeds from the festival go to the Red Cross Playa del Carmen and Tulum chapters.

I happen to attend the Friday night show in Akumal Center at the Grateful Dead Stage. At the beginning of the show the host announced that they had already surpassed their fundraisers goal of 150,000 MXN, which was double last year’s efforts. He stated that before tonight show started the Akumal Comedy Festival had already raised 165,000 MXN and that they were only halfway through the festivals events.

The beautiful evening started out with a musical comedy duo. The couple set the stage for the evenings event, singing funny songs about their significant others, work and the area.

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The night was hosted by local Craig Norton. Craig was one of the founding members of Comedy Below Sea Level, a local comedy troop that keeps the community laughing year round. Craig, an expat from Canada joked about what it was like to live in Mexico and how different it is from Canada.

Next to take the stage was Colleen Doyle Justice. Colleen has a unique perspective on the ordinary. This was her first debut at the Akumal Comedy Festival. Colleen was a riot telling somewhat inappropriate jokes about her family. Justice also shared with the audience that her mother was worried about her traveling to “lawless Mexico” alone, making her text every day that she hadn’t been murdered yet. The other day she text her mother that she had been murdered. I know that you are thinking but don’t worry, later that day she text that she was only kidding.

The evening ended with headliner Tommy Ryman. Tommy was a semifinalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing and was very funny. Tommy a some-what needy gentlemen, told jokes about how he brought 19 bottle of 3oz. sunscreen (legal allowed by airport security) and how Mexico doesn’t need to sell oil, they have high priced sunscreen for sale. He also told the audience that he knows everything about being married because he has been married for two years now and if you need any advice he’s here to help.

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I evening was enjoyed by all. Everybody who attended had some laughs for a good cause.

If you missed the comedy festival this year don’t worry there is always next year. But if you are look for something to do this month remember the Riviera Maya film Festival starts this week April 23rd – 29th in Playa del Carmen. The Riviera Maya Film Festival is completely free, showing films in English and Spanish on gorgeous locations like the white sandy beaches, and in the movie theaters. Additional, there are several awards ceremonies during the week with Hollywood celebrity’s in attendance.