Tag Archives: Living in Mexico

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.

Find Your Dream Home with Mi Casa es tu Casa!

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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Remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Experiencias Xcaret: 6 Experiences, 6 Times the Fun

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If you’ve ever been to or heard of the Riviera Maya, you have probably heard about Xcaret. It is one of the biggest ecofriendly touristic and natural parks in the area, attracting thousands upon thousands of tourists per year. Although some may consider it pricy, it is worth every penny you invest. The Xcaret family has expanded over the past 20 years and now has a total of six parks ranging from eco-natural parks, to adventure parks, to culture parks. There is something for everyone! Check out the list of Xcaret parks and their highlights:

  • Xcaret

Priced at approximately $129 USD (for the full package, including transportation), Xcaret is one of the most popular destinations in the Riviera Maya. The park offers a full days’ worth of fun water activities, learning opportunities, culinary experiences, and much more. You can swim down the underground rivers, visit the butterfly pavilion, visit the newborn macaws, the jaguar island (where you can spot jaguars and panthers), or just walk around the park exploring every corner of it. Churches, haciendas, restaurants, observation towers, archeological sites, and much more, make up the 200 acre space. Don’t forget to stay until the end to enjoy the amazing Mexico Espectacular show featuring live music, traditional folkloric dances and a journey through Mexico’s history.

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  • Xel Ha

The aquatic-themed park is located approximately 120km south of Cancun. Also priced at $129 USD, this park offers less activities than Xcaret, but more food and drinks! With an unlimited buffet, beverages, and national open bar, you will enjoy a – literally- full day. You can swim down the river and into the cove while snorkeling and observing the beautiful life. Xel Ha, after all, claims being the biggest natural aquarium in the Riviera Maya. Amongst the many activities, you can also purchase swimming with dolphins, Sea Trek, amongst other fun extra activities.

  • Xplor

Although the park uses the natural surroundings, caves, underground rivers, and jungle, it is much more focused on adrenaline and adventure. The $149 USD per person entry fee includes an unlimited buffet, zip line circuits, river rafting circuits, circuits for amphibious vehicles, and two river circuits to snorkel in. The four activities take all day to go through, so it is recommended to bring comfortable shoes and be ready for a lot of walking and, especially, fun! They have recently opened Xplor Fuego, which is essentially the same thing except at night. Everything is illuminated with fire, making it a whole different experience for only $99 USD.

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  • Xichen

Chichen Itza isn’t a park, under the strict description or general idea of what a park is; however, Experiencias Xcaret now offers tours to Chichen Itza as part of the many activities tourists can do while visiting the Riviera Maya. The archeological site tour is 12 hours long, but is as luxurious as it gets. Besides having an experienced – and bilingual – guide with you throughout the tour, and having the opportunity to visit the beautiful ancient Mayan civilization, the luxury tour includes a light gourmet breakfast, drinks, a visit to the wonderful Valladolid City, a cenote, lunch buffet, and a unique experience that will leave you longing to visit all the other archeological sites in the region.

  • Xenotes

Everyone tells you that you must visit at least one cenote when visiting paradise. But it’s so hard to choose just one from all the many options out there, and even more, what type of cenote should you visit? The Xenotes tour offers a nature-filled day at four cenotes (of different types). The price is $119 USD and you get snacks, coffee, breakfast breads, a glam picnic, rappel, kayak, zip lining, and snorkel. Just like Chichen Itza, it isn’t a park in itself, but rather an adventure offered by the same company that has given millions of people memories for life.

  • Xoximilco

This glammed up version of the original Xochimilco is located just a few minutes south of Cancún. Trajineras (traditional Aztec boats) are pushed with long sticks by experts down beautifully landscaped canals while guests enjoy a night to remember. Each trajinera can carry up to 22 people; whether you are here with many friends, or about to make new friends, you will have an experience of a lifetime. The $119 ticket includes a cruise through the canals at night, a three-course Mexican meal with an open bar of tequila, beer, fresh water and soft drink, all while being accompanied by different traditional ensembles playing music through the cruise.

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We recommend that you visit Experiencias Xcaret website for further information about each amazing adventure that will leave you wanting more. Whichever park you choose to visit – or if you choose to visit more – you will find yourself diving into a world of adventure, nature, adrenaline, and excitement. These parks are made to be enjoyed with friends and family. Start booking your holidays and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Now, if you have any questions about any of the Xcaret experiences, about living in Mexico, buying property, or are interested in one of the many real estate options we have listed on our website, feel free to contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives who will gladly assist you on your journey to becoming a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Christmas Dinner: Catering Options in the Riviera Maya

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For many, Christmas dinner means a long day of slaving away in the kitchen in order to share a beautiful dinner with friends and family. However, if you are not a big fan of cooking or would rather enjoy the festivities in other ways, there are plenty of catering services willing to do the hard work for you.

Catering companies throughout the Riviera Maya are willing to help you organize the Christmas dinner of your dreams. Think of how you would rather spend your day and what you would like to offer your guests without doing it all yourself: Christmas breakfast, brunch, traditional dinner, Mexican Dinner, cocktails, or whatever you may want.

Whether you have a small family affair or a big party, there are many options available to fit your needs.

Catering Options in the Riviera Maya: Advantages of Hiring a Caterer

Having a caterer can take a lot of the stress off your back. You can plan your Christmas dinner to perfection and know that the professionals will offer:

  1. Menu options: They can adapt to any social event: breakfast, lunch or dinner. The caterer will have a variety of menus that you can taste and choose from, to fit your specific needs.
  2. Flexibility: A caterer will work with you to offer special options for vegetarian or vegan guests as well as options to suit people with diabetes, celiac disease, gluten free, lactose intolerant, etc.
  3. Personalized pricing: You can set a budget and the caterer will work to make your dinner within that budget. No surprises!
  4. Stress- free dinner: Catering professionals will take care of everything allowing you to enjoy the food, the festivities and your guests.

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Catering Options in the Riviera Maya:  Christmas Dinner Menus

It is still early for planning, so there are not many options out there yet, but if you are spending Christmas in the Riviera Maya, you need to know that prices increase in many restaurants. Good places get booked quite early and you could end up with expensive dinners that are not as tasty.

Exploring options ahead of time will help you pick and order your dinner with plenty of time, and having a dinner at home will allow you to share with friends and family while relaxing and enjoying far from the crowds on 5th Avenue.

Some of the available catering services are:

Turtle Bay Cafe: Akumal

Located in the Center of Akumal

Plaza Ukana 1

Mx Telephone: 984-875-9138

US Telephone: 270-854-5392

Email: turtlebaycafe@gmail.com

Email: turtlebaycafe@me.com

Turtle Bay Cafe is one of our favorites; locals and visitors alike go to the Bakery to enjoy their delicious food, pastries and coffee. There are long lines early in the morning to get their traditional scones, and the place is always packed.

Located in Akumal, Turtle Bay has prepared a traditional menu for Christmas. They have the option to buy a breakfast or dinner menu and to pick it up on Christmas Eve between 4:00 and 6:00 pm.

You can see their menu below:

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City Club: Playa del Carmen & Cancun

Playa del Carmen Cancun
Carretera Federal Chetumal-Cancún Km. 2.3 #2100, Ejidal, 77712 Playa del Carmen, QROO01 984 803 9901 Ave. Andrés Quintana Roo S/N Km 39 Manzana 10 Lote 1, 77500 Cancún, QROO01 998 849 2604

This wholesale store is offering an attractive traditional menu, with sides and dessert for a reasonable price.

Choose a main course:

  • Roasted Turkey – $900 pesos @ $62 USD
  • Stuffed pork tenderloin – $570 pesos @ $ 39USD
  • Baked ham – $820 pesos @ $56 USD

Included side dishes:

  • 2 pounds of spaghetti with a choice of Bolognese, vegetarian or Alfredo sauce.
  • 2 pounds of mashed potatoes with mushrooms, 4 cheeses or plain.
  • 2 pounds of gravy: available flavorings of apricot, mushrooms or herbs.
  • One dessert: Tiramisu, strawberry dessert or apple pie
  • The turkey dinner also includes 2 pounds of mince stuffing

If you decide to have an extra dessert, they are offering a Christmas cake for only $115 pesos – that’s less than 10 USD.

In order to have your dinner ready from City Club, you need to order way ahead of time. So get on your phone and start dialing!

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These are just two of the many options for catering your Christmas dinner. As more local businesses keep publishing their Christmas menus, we will be posting them here for you to know.

Top Mexico Real Estate, your site for everything in the Riviera Maya!

Remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Looking for the perfect retirement spot, think Puerto Vallarta

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Puerto Vallarta is a very popular retirement destination for foreigners, with a booming growth in specialized retirement communities. This makes Puerto Vallarta one of the fastest growing cities in Mexico.

Puerta Vallarta Beach

If you are looking for the perfect balance between colonial charm and beautiful beaches, Puerta Vallarta real estate is the place for you! Puerto Vallarta and Hawaii share the same latitude, meaning you can enjoying perfect weather with an average temperature of 84° F; at a fraction of the price for real estate.

With an estimated population of 350,000 inhabitants, Puerto Vallarta has a modern urban infrastructure with paved streets, water treatment and distribution plants, power plants, electrical wiring and a newly expanded airport. There are also marine terminals, hospitals, universities and all the amenities of a big city without losing its colonial charm.

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What is it like to retire in Puerto Vallarta?
There is a growing community of expats and retirees, mainly Americans and Canadians. If you do not speak Spanish, a big part of the population, especially young people; can communicate with you in English.

The safety of the population is one of the main concerns of the city, which works really hard on keeping crime at bay. Also, the value of real estate has increased 300% since 2000, making it an excellent long-term investment.

If you live in Vallarta you do not need to deprive yourself of anything, you can have your high speed Internet, cable television and all the major American publications. There is also a wide array of big department stores, specialized shops like office depot or home depot and fast food chains.

Puerto Vallarta is also known for the quality of its medical services, the cost for specialized treatments, including cosmetic surgery; is really affordable. Puerto Vallarta offers qualified professional doctors.

What to do in Puerto Vallarta?
If you are an active individual, Puerto Vallarta offers golf courses, sports fishing and watersports for everybody. Retirement communities also have top notch walking paths, pools and even sports centers.

If you are more into relaxation, there are cinemas, theaters and restaurants. If you love to learn, there is a wide range of educational and cultural activities: languages, flamenco, tango, salsa, and yoga, various styles of martial arts, gardening, cooking, music and visual arts.

You can also volunteer to one of many nonprofit organizations, such as: defense and health care to women, child care, environmental protection and advocacy for the rights of animals.

If you are looking for the perfect balance between colonial charm, beautiful beaches and gorgeous weather, Puerta Vallarta is the place for you!

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

And remember, here at TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE…

We make it happen!

Living in Mexico, Childcare Options

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Many clients planning to relocate to Mexico with their families, ask us about childcare arrangements. As working parents, we are happy to share our experiences, hoping to help you find the right option for your family.

You might not be thinking of any childcare services, after all you are moving to Mexico to relax and spend more time with your kids, right? But once your and your family finally settle down, you might want to take that yoga lesson in the morning, or go out for drinks with your friends and find there is no one you trust lo leave your kids with.

Living away from home means you leave behind your family and friends, so you find yourself sitting indoors with your kids going slowly but inexorably mad, wishing you could call for grandma to come and rescue you.

Before this happens to you, know that is plenty of alternatives for childcare, here some of the most popular:


  1. Fulltime Daycare:     There is plenty of daycare centers in the Mayan Riviera area, with services like meals, homework support and extracurricular activities. This is an excellent option for parents that have to work on a regular schedule and some of them cater for children with parents working overnight.
    Daycare centers fees vary, according to the area and services provided, as well as the group size and teacher/student ratio.  Make sure to ask around for recommendations, ask to visit the place to see their daily routines and get a feel of the place. Make sure they have emergency exits, fire extinguishers and First aid equipment and that they have an emergency service and insurance included in their fees.
  2. Daycare by the hour: this is an excellent option if you want to be at home most of the time, but want to have a night out or run errands without your children. This service is offered in limited places and can be bought by the hour or have a prepaid fee and buy a package and use it in a certain amount of time.
    The available activities are limited, these spaces tend to be a big play area, and most of them won’t offer meals or help with homework. Keep in mind that most of these centers have a TV playing continuously, which can add up to your child’s allotted TV time.
    A daycare by the hour won’t have enrolling fees so you can try different ones and see
    which one is the most convenient for you and your children.
  3. School:  If you only need a few more hours to finish your errands or your part-time job, most schools in the area offer of an extended schedule. This means your children will have lunch at school, then homework support and an extracurricular activity of their choosing.
    For younger children, schools offer classes for kids as young as two, starting with maternal (nursery) and the three grades in kindergarten. Schools tend to be more expensive than a childcare center, but they tend to have a stronger curriculum and developmental activities.
    If you have older children this can be a good option for you, since you will have one stop to drop them and pick them up.

  4. Nanny    : Having a nanny has been a wonderful experience for our family, it’s affordable, it’s convenient and you cannot imagine life without them. Taking the kids to take beach? Yes!, Going on a weekend trip? Why not? You’ll find that having an extra pair of hands to help with the kids does wonders. You get to sit and relax, you chew on your meal for the first time since the birth of your first born – nine years ago. If you want to go this route, the easiest way to find a nanny is asking your friends or other mothers with kids. Make sure to ask for references and be sure to be around for the first days or weeks until you and your kids feel at ease with her.

We have tried a mix of all of the above, in different stages of our children’s growth and it has been a fantastic experience. People is really big on families, but go ahead and try different options to see which one is the best for you.

-By Bea Lozano

Livin' Playa video interview

Small Town Values in the Riviera Maya Are Still Alive…For Now!

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After living in the Riviera Maya for quite some time now, I have made a clear observation about the value of hard work and the appreciation for small business in the area.

I remember a time when….

Coming from the United States, I remember a time when you can still go to a local family owned hardware store.  I remember family owned video rental stores and small movie theaters where you can enter for 2 dollars.

But over time the Home Depots, Walmarts and Redbox’s of the world came wiping out family owned business. And in some cases, like Redbox (a vending machine for DVD rentals) which are eliminating the need for stores and employees all together.

Small Business is Still Strong in Mexico

What I always thought was wonderful about Mexico is that these small family run businesses are still alive bringing a little bit of that wholesome feeling back to your heart.  You build relationships with store owners who have been their running businesses for years.  It is always nice to know when someone knows your name and you know theirs!

While we welcome some conveniences or “one stop shopping” so to speak, there is still charm and value in small business in the Riviera Maya.  Most times they offer a service above the rest with integrity, honesty and hard work. They offer a personal experience; one that is appreciated and missed on many levels in the United States.

Unfortunately our children might never know what that is like.  But here in Mexico there is still a chance to learn those old small town values.

In Mexico hard work is valued

One thing that is true about Mexico is there is a genuine value for hard work!  Lazy is not often found here, even in this beautiful beach paradise where life tends to be a little more laid back.

And additionally, I believe that sometimes people even work without certain technologies and conveniences, not because they do not exist, but because many of those technologies may eliminate the need for certain jobs, which are needed to support families, pay rent and buy food.

Some people believe that Mexico is a country without technology or enhancements.  That is quite the contrary actually. You can find all the same modern technologies as in the United States.  But I think the use of those things really comes down to actual necessity and values combined.

Will we slowly start to see small business in the Riviera Maya area disappear?

However, as demand for American convenience is growing in the Riviera Maya, due increased relocation and tourism form Americans and Canadians, large chains are slowly moving in.  Ironically, the very same Americans who crave these convenience are also a bit sad about the loss of small town charm that seems to be very slowly slipping away.

Will all this change and movement create the same purge of small business that we have seen sweep the United States?  We hope not, and we still have faith that the Mexican culture and values will remain solid to stimulate the local economy in the Riviera Maya region.

Check out our free EBook for more information on the best benefits of living in Mexico!