Weekend Getaway to Cozumel

Are you looking forward to packing up for the weekend and heading off on an adventure? Head over to Cozumel! This beautiful Caribbean island is full of wonder, life, and amazing things to discover. While it can get quite packed with tourist during high season, it is still enjoyable…especially if you know where to go!

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How to get there

Transport between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel is reliable, affordable and fun! There are three ferry companies that navigate between the ports: Ultramar, Mexico Waterjets, and now a government-run company. Services run from 5am to 10pm from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, and from 6am to 11pm from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen.

Expect to pay approximately $10 usd for a one-way trip.

Where to stay

Cozumel offers beautiful bed and breakfasts, hostels and elegant hotels either very close to the beach, or just on it. Prices range depending on what you are searching for and the season you visit. For example, during the Divers Week in Cozumel (usually during summer) you can find some beautiful 5-star resorts with discounts as many people travel just to go scuba diving. Cozumel real estate also offers options as many owners rent out their property to vacationers.

What to do

Cozumel is one of the favorite diving spots around the world. Because the gorgeous Mesoamerican Reef passes right by, there is an array of marine species to observe. If you’re not into diving, you should at least go on one of the many snorkeling tours. You are certainly going to be surprised by the amazing underwater world.

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There is a secluded snorkeling area known as El Cielo (The Sky). It was named like this due to the outstanding number of starfish that lay on the white sand banks. Unfortunately, many of these starfish are gone due to overfishing and overpopulation of visitors, but you can still manage to see a few more than you would normally.

For those looking for an adventure, renting a cheap car at any of the rental agencies to go around Cozumel should be fairly easy. WARNING: at night certain roads are blocked and very largely signaled, so stay away from these roads.

You can visit Isla Pasión, a small island off the coast of Cozumel. Offering breathtaking views, this private island does not have any hotels or restaurants, and it can only be visited via authorized tour operators during the day. There are no overnight stays at Passion Island.

Shopping and eating

Cozumel’s boulevard is quite popular, lined with stores, bars, restaurants, supermarkets and hotels. Shopping options are endless as vendors offering all types of souvenirs and unique items. If you wonder off the main boulevard street you are sure to find local indigenous women selling small hand made turtles and other quirky things.

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If you are looking to enjoy delicious meals in Cozumel, your taste buds are in for a party! Cozumel is lined with cute and cozy seafood restaurants, beach clubs serving everything from shrimp ceviche to octopus tacos, and much more. For those craving a typical American meal (hamburgers, and such), you will find a Hard Rock Café and other similar restaurants throughout the island.

Recommendations

Cozumel is a gorgeous island with many things you can do. Even if you plan a strict itinerary, you are sure to wonder off eventually and find something new or different to do. So we recommend bringing cash – especially Mexican pesos, as prices tend to change from USD to the local currency.

Do some research on scuba diving shops before going to Cozumel. The options are endless as it is one of the most popular activities to do, but that doesn’t mean every shop around has great quality or service. Check online before to see what other tourists are saying about the dive shops and find one that suits your budget and what you want to do! If you’re an avid diver and own equipment, we recommend you bring it with you. It’s worth the hassle of carrying it around, as you will save plenty of money from renting out equipment at the shops.

Eat seafood, talk to locals, engage in fun and unusual activities, and enjoy your weekend getaway in the gorgeous island of Cozumel!

Craving for more Weekend Getaway ideas? Check back next week for another one!

Top Mexico Real Estate is a real estate company based in Playa del Carmen, catering to thousands of Americans and Canadians who are searching for the perfect paradise home. If you are planning on relocating to Mexico, feel free to contact one of our Top Buyer Representatives, who will gladly guide you through the process of becoming a homeowner in Mexico!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate

We Make It Happen!

Xoximilco: Experience the Mexican Fiesta!

If you are ever in Mexico City, you have to visit Xochimilco. This magical town is located south of the downtown area, and it is one of the most traditional tourist destinations in the country.

Xochimilco was established in the pre-Hispanic period and it covers an area of 125 km2 (48 sq. miles). This destination is best known for its canals, and its artificial islands called chinampas; where tourists can ride on colorful gondola-like boats called “trajineras”.

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Think of color, food, music and fiesta; all rolled in with some tequila or cervezas. The trajineras offer a ride through the different neighborhoods and attractions while offering traditional Mexican dishes, drinks and mariachis serenade you with romantic or lively songs.

Xoximilco: A Cool Alternative in the Riviera Maya

If this sounds like a fun experience that you can not miss, but you don’t have any plan in the near future to visit Mexico city; there is an alternative right here in the Riviera Maya… Xoximilco. This amazing park is part of the Xcaret group and it offers visitors in the Riviera Maya the opportunity to experience a fiesta in a trajinera.

Each of the boats in Xoximilco is decorated to celebrate the traditions of different Mexican states, including elements of their history, culture and traditional food. This is a fun opportunity to learn more about Mexico and its culture.

Xoximilco: What is Included?

Each trajinera has a long party table and can hold up to 20 people, allowing you to have fun with family and friends. It is easy to enjoy yourself when all the food, drinks and activities are included:
Main Attractions

  • Live music including mariachi, marimba and bolero.
  • Mexican cuisine and typical desserts.
  • Three-course tasting dinner with the best Mexican dishes.
  • Open bar with tequila, beers and traditional non-alcoholic drinks (fruit juices).
  • Night tour in the trajinera throughout the channels.
  • Transportation 

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Xoximilco: Before You Go

  • Xoximilco is a great place for those that like to party, a festive attitude will make the experience so much better. If you are traveling alone or as a couple, be prepared to be seated next to strangers as each boat can hold 20 people. This is a great opportunity to meet other travelers.
  • Remember this is a tour through canals and there are many insects in this area. Bring your eco-friendly and biodegradable insect repellent, and if possible wear long pants and a long sleeved top.
  • Kids under the age of 4 enter for free, but the park recommends this tour for kids 5 years of age or older. This is a 3 hour long night tour in a noisy environment, keep this in mind when deciding whether to bring the kids or not. All children need to be accompanied by an adult at all times.

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This is an ideal activity for big groups, family reunions and celebrations. Embrace the fiesta and visit Xoximilco, it is so much fun!

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-owned real estate company based in Playa del Carmen, in the heart of the Riviera Maya. We specialize in helping foreigners become homeowners in Mexico in a safe and legal manner.

You can start your Mexican dream by visiting our website and learning everything you need to know about living, retiring or investing in Mexico. Contact our expert sales representatives and let us help you find the home of your dreams.

Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Celebrating 22 years of Solidaridad!

July of 2015 is giving people from Solidaridad (one of the ten municipalities that make up the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, home to Playa del Carmen) many reasons to celebrate. Twenty-two years ago, on the 28th of July in 1993, the small entity of Solidaridad was founded by the decree of the State Congress. Today, it boasts with tourism, beautiful beaches, residents, and a lifestyle to envy! Just like any young child, Solidaridad has grown to become something amazing full of life, history, culture, art, gastronomy, and much more.

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In celebration of this 22nd anniversary, the Municipal President of Solidaridad, Mauricio Góngora Escalante, will officially inaugurate the long awaited City Theater. The theater will host an array of culture and artistic activities for its opening night and for the celebration of the 22nd year of Solidaridad.

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For the next couple of days, the municipality has put together a program that represents the growth and strength of Solidaridad, highlighting that the harmony and living of its citizens and authorities is steadily moving forward, creating a better environment.

The great celebration will bring families together; joyful for the celebration of the place they call home and for finally having the artistic stage that had been missing to make Playa del Carmen a fully cultural place. $650,000 USD was invested in the building of the City Theater, with an amazing display of activities and the presence of political figures.

From July 30th to August 2nd, residents and visitors of the municipality will enjoy a great variety of cultural activities. Amongst them, the Quintana Roo Symphony Orchestra, the hilarious Vagina Monologues, a great Ballet Gala with the State Dance Company, and the presentation of the play The Witch and the Witch Doctor which originally opened in the famous art and culture Cervantino Festival.

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The theater will become a permanent home to the hundreds of artists that already call Playa del Carmen “casa”, such as poets, actors, artists, musicians, and more. Although it is not a huge theater – only hosting 780 spectators – this space will provide Playa del Carmen with the opportunity to place itself on the artists’ map. Cancun is home to the Cancun Theater were plays from around Mexico, concerts, and big events were held.

Playa del Carmen is giving Cancun a run for its money thanks to the growing interest in this beautiful part of the Riviera Maya. Hopefully the Theater will become an important cultural reference for Quintana Roo and the Yucatan Peninsula.

Related: Cirque du Soleil Tumbles Into The Mayan Riviera

Mark your calendars, because this weekend will be busy with art, music, theater, and more! Raise your glasses for Solidaridad and the amazing growth it has witnessed in its short life.

Top Mexico Real Estate is a leading real estate website based in the Riviera Maya. Anyone wanting to relocate, permanently move or retire to Mexico can check out our thousands of properties listed throughout the country. Contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives who will gladly help you on your journey to become a homeowner in paradise.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate

We Make It Happen!

4th of July in Playa del Carmen

Tomorrow is 4th of July… and for many of us we begin to feel a little homesick for Independence Day celebrations back home in good ol’ U.S.A.   Backyard BBQs, potluck parties and breathtaking displays of fireworks… Oh how I miss them!

This is Mexico… why would they celebrate the 4th of July in Playa del Carmen?

Well, this cosmopolitan beach town beckons to people from all over the world. In Playa del Carmen you will find Canadians, French, Germans, Chinese… the list goes on and on.  Consequently, we also have a large expat community from the United States.  With so many expats, there are sure to be great American hangouts celebrating the “red, white and blue” right?   Whether you are living in Playa del Carman or just on vacation here… you don’t want to miss out on this beloved holiday.

Related: Yucatan Peninsula: A Safe Haven for Visitors, Expats and Retirees

We have found some fun ways to celebrate Independence Day “beach style” here in Playa del Carmen.

Wah Wah Beach Bar is one of the most popular expat spots in Playa del Carmen. This beach club is located right on the beach and offers free beach chairs, a huge projection screen (where they show all the big games), wonderful food and drinks and great company. Wah Wah has decided to combined two great independence days… Canada (celebrated on July 1st) and the United states (celebrated on July 4th). Wah Wah throws this ultimate celebration, or as they call it, the “…biggest party south of the border”. The party will start at noon on July 4th and carry on into the night. There will be a delicious BBQ with traditional 4th of July treats and many drink specials such as 15 peso drafts, 2 for 1 margaritas and big liter house drinks for only 100 pesos. The live music starts at 7 p.m. filling the tropical night air the sounds of The Nasty Bastards and The Smokin’ Aces. The event is fun for the whole family so bring the kids along, there will be a big bouncy house and face painting!

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Additionally, Bad Boys beach bar is also having their annual 4th of July party this Saturday. Bad Boys is another favorite expat hangout for Americans here in Playa del Carmen. The festivities will start here at 3 p.m. with an appealing BBQ potluck style buffet featuring a whole roasted pig provided by your host. Accordingly, make your favorite 4th of July side dish or dessert to share and head over to the annual 4th of July celebration at Bad Boys. So have a couple of drinks, eat some BBQ and jam out to live music by Creizy Toy.

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Furthermore, most resorts will have some kind of 4th of July festivity; from BBQs to activity for the kids, from spectacular firework display to fun had by all.

Put on your “red, white and blue” and celebrate the 4th of July in Playa del Carmen.

Happy 4th of July Playa del Carmen!

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Enjoy the Summer in the Riviera Maya

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

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

Invite your friends and have a BBQ!

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

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

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

Share a Bowl of Delicious Guacamole

Authentic Mexican Guacamole Recipe
Ingredients
Makes 4 servings

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

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Directions

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

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

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

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

We Make It Happen!

Things to Do in Playa Del Carmen on a Rainy Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate

We Make It Happen!

10 Interesting Facts About Whale Sharks

  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.

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Source: https://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

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!

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!