Category Archives: Tourist

Grand Opening of La Memorable

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Friday October 9, 2015 saw the grand opening La Memorable, a new food market located next to the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Located on the corner of 1st avenue and 26th, this is the third food market to open in Playa del Carmen and this night was dedicated to giving the residents of Playa a taste of what they have to offer. With a DJ and live band providing the soundtrack to an evening that gradually built in attendance, guests eventually filled the market and enjoyed the free samplings of wine and food. Juggling clowns and various street performers added to the entertainment ambience.

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Below you will see a photo gallery that not only captures the evening’s action but also also serves as an intro to the many shops that you will find when you arrive and explore for yourself.

photo gonzales_zpsfaknbywg.jpg Upon first entering the food market you will come across the Gonzalez artisanal beer bar. There is only Mexican beer sold here, with seventeen on tap and 21 different bottled beers. The prices for beer begins at 35 pesos and goes up to 100 pesos.  If beer is not your drink of choice then there´s a full alcohol bar available as well. The bar´s location makes it an ideal place to sit and watch the people on the street but also is a good place to expand your palate of beers.
If you are a wine lover then head over to the Ensenada wine bar. It only features Mexican wines. and is the perfect place for business meetings or enjoying a drink after a day of work. Prices are very reasonable at about 90-140 pesos a glass, with bottles selling for between 300-1000. If you’re interested in something a little different, try picking up a bottle from the  Paladar De Mezcal store. There is not a lot of mezcal sold in Playa, so grab some for yourself or as a souvenir. They have a great selection that includes flavors such as mango and tamarind, and you can also order from their special cocktail menu. photo DSC00371_zpsp6lwtdts.jpg

If you’re hungry and looking for something to eat head over to the Oye Carino seafood restaurant, a place where you can select your own fish for your meal or just have fish tacos. If you prefer a traditional  Mexican taqueria then head to the back of the market where you will find Taco Taco,  featuring a wide array of Mexican tacos.

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For dessert try the El Socio candy store, perfect for the kids and people with a sweet tooth, then wind things off with a trip to Sabor Illegal,  the place to go for specialty cigars from Cuba and all over.

photo DSC00422_zpsewxlcwn1.jpgSee for yourself why this was a such big attraction to the residents of Playa. La Memorable is now open so drop by and enjoy for yourself!

Top Mexico Real Estate is your source for information about life and culture in Mexico. Let us show you what is like here, and what you will be enjoying when you begin your adventure as a property owner in the paradise of the Mayan Riviera.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Weekend Getaway to Cozumel

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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!

The Perfect Meal: Best Spots for Lunch in Playa del Carmen

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During my time on Earth I have met plenty of people who have claimed they do not eat breakfast. I’ve heard hundreds of others mutter that they would rather skip dinner and avoid being bloated before going to bed. However, not once in my life, have I come across someone who proclaimed they “don’t do lunch”. Sure, whatever, breakfast thinks it’s the most important meal of the day (it actually is, so don’t skip it), but who would ever say no to lunch?

Lunch means many things. It means that the time of the day when you can take a break from work or the hectic day has come. It represents freedom and everything in between. Lunch is that time of day when your brain can shut off and your senses can awaken. Ah, lunch, you are precious.

Because lunch is obviously delicious and important, I have set out to find the best spots to have a delicious and satisfying meal in the gorgeous town of Playa del Carmen. Are you ready?

Here are my Top 5 favorite restaurants to have lunch in Playa del Carmen!

1. Frutiyogurth

There isn’t much to say about this place except that it’s delicious! Located right in the heart of Playa del Carmen, this place is economic and serves rather healthy but amazing food. Salads, sandwiches, soups, eggs, and even chilaquiles, all with a special touch! The best part? Accompanying your meal with a delicious natural fruit frappe. I’m getting hungry!

2. Fruta Madre

This exotic restaurant is quite new in Playa del Carmen but has already captivated our hearts (and palates). You can choose between refreshing fruit sushi, hearty salads and even vegetarian burgers! It is located right outside Playacar where 10th Avenue starts. This is Mexican and Italian cuisine with a twist.

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3. Los Aguachiles

This restaurant is quite famous – and perfectly located! Playa del Carmen is a fishing town and fish restaurants are everywhere. However, Los Aguachiles has something about it that keeps you coming back. Whether you’re having a delicious shrimp cocktail or some fish tacos, thinking of this place will have you drooling!

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4. Cheester’s

This pasta restaurant is nowhere near the touristy area but completely worth a visit. Their motto is that if you’re sitting across someone you are not allowed to use your cellphone, which is great for sharing with friends! Their plates are huge and worth splitting between two (and sometimes even three) people. Whether you’ve chosen one of their famous pastas or are going for a chic salad, this place will not disappoint.

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5. Plank

And of course, we couldn’t forget the king of brunch! This chic restaurant offers a variety of brunch options, from omelets to molletes and chicken enchiladas (yum!). This restaurant is nothing but a mixture of saliva-producing tastes that will leave you wanting more and more.

My tummy is growling just from writing about my top five lunch (and brunch) favorites! Which ones are yours? Go ahead and give these a try, you will not regret it. Remember, everybody loves lunch, so call up an old friend and head over to a new restaurant every week.

If you like breakfast here are the best places to have breakfast at in Playa del Carmen.

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-based company, leader in its field throughout the Riviera Maya. IF you’re looking to invest in a vacation or retirement home in the paradisiac Caribbean, contact us! Our Top Buyer Representatives are readily available to 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!

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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!

4th of July in Playa del Carmen

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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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Celebrating Canada Day in Playa del Carmen

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

So happy 148th birthday Canada!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to Do in Playa Del Carmen on a Rainy Day

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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!

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

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Beach #7 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Coco Beach

More than 2 million visitors choose the Riviera Maya for their holidays every year, making it the second most popular destination in Quintana Roo not too far behind from Cancun. Once a sleepy fishing village, Playa del Carmen has become a hot destination for tourists looking for beautiful beaches and a cosmopolitan vibe.

Playa del Carmen has many different neighborhoods and each neighborhood has its own beach, from the popular Mamita´s beach to the least known areas in the outskirts of Playa del Carmen; every one of these have special characteristics that make it special and different from the rest.

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Coco Beach: General Information

Coco Beach is near the Colosio subdivision and for years it was an area visited almost exclusively by local families, as there were no touristic services in the area. Time has changed that, as the city sprawls more and more visitors have made Coco Beach their favorite spot.

Access to Coco Beach is easy nowadays, as there are roads and it can also be reached via 5th Avenue. There are also plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars in the area, in case you would like to grab something to eat or drink.

The access to Coco Beach is free, you can bring your towel, food and drinks, and relax on the beach all day. There is also the popular Canibal Royal Beach Club, which has a lounge area as well as food, drinks, showers and restrooms for their customers.

Coco Beach: Getting There
48 North & The Beach in Colosio
Between Flamingo Rd. and  Albatros Rd.
Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Walking: If you are walking on 5th avenue head north towards Cancun, once you reach Calle 48 turn right and walk a block to the beach.

Driving: From the Federal Highway 307 take the CTM Avenue exit and turn towards the beach (east).

Coco Beach: Things to do

  • Coco Beach is a perfect place to get in some people watching, sun tanning and relaxation.
  • There are plenty of fishing boats in the area, you can contact one of the fishermen that are always in the area for a tour or go on a fishing trip.
  • The water at Coco beach is very calm, an ideal place to practice water sports like snorkeling, paddle board or kayaking.

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Coco Beach: Recommendations

  • There are no bathrooms in the area, you will need to go to one of the local restaurants or bars in order to use their facilities.
  • If you decide to bring your own drinks and food, also bring a bag for your trash and make sure not to leave anything behind when you leave.
  • Do not forget to bring your biodegradable suntan lotion and insect repellent, as harsh chemicals harm the coral reef and the local fauna.

We hope you enjoy your visit to Coco Beach. It is a nice beach to catch some sun and relax at. 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 all of the other beaches on the list. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

If you have been dreaming about owning a home in Mexico, we are here to help! Our company has over a decade of experience in helping foreigners purchase their dream property in Mexico in a timely and legal manner. It all starts with a dream, browse our beautiful properties and find the ideal property for you, our team of certified realtors are going to be there for you in every step of the process.

If you like the Coco Beach area and are interested in purchasing a vacation home or retirement home, Coco Beach has gorgeous real estate options from beachfront luxury condos to beautiful homes, please feel free to contact any of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives! Browse our beautiful properties; we are sure you will find your dream home.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Is Mexico a Safe Destination?

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Mexico has one main problem: the international media. For years, people from around the world have been too afraid to visit Mexico thinking that they are risking being kidnapped, robbed, carjacked, or worse. However, according to the U.S. Department of State (Bureau of Consular Affairs), millions of U.S. citizens travel to Mexico safely year after year for study, business or tourism. This includes over 150,000 people who cross the border every day.

Is Mexico a safe destination you might ask? Well,the Mexican government invests millions of U.S. dollars to ensure the safety of visitors, mainly in resort areas that receive more tourism than other parts of Mexico. Although the war against the drug cartels is widely known across the world, there is no evidence of crime organization groups targeting any citizen because of their nationality. Mexico is safe.

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Nonetheless, anyone planning on visiting Mexico should read about the area they will visit, research about safety, and take the necessary precautions to maintain your safety. Crime is a serious problem worldwide – mainly in major cities such as Mexico City, Chicago, Sao Paolo, and more. The most important thing to remember is not to expose oneself and to exercise precaution at all times. Read about what parts of Mexico to avoid completely, and what parts of Mexico are safe for a tourist.

As a major tourist destination, Quintana Roo state is a completely safe place to visit. Criminal organizations operate far from tourist areas where a lot of money is invested in safety. The Riviera Maya generates the largest touristic income of the country, so authorities are well aware that the area cannot be overlooked. The same thing applies for the Yucatan Peninsula.

Quintana Roo: Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya and Tulum are major cities/travel destinations in Quintana Roo – No advisory is in effect.

Related: Is Mexico Safe?

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Here are some recommendations to take into consideration when visiting the Riviera Maya, or all of Mexico in general:

  • Lower your personal profile
  • Do not display indicators of wealth
  • Maintain awareness of your surroundings
  • Avoid being isolated in unknown areas
  • Report any activities that you may find suspicious
  • Keep the consulate’s number with you at all times
  • Stay within the common tourist areas
  • If you have local friends, trust them as to what to visit and what to avoid
  • Do not carry around too much money
  • Avoid taking out a bunch of dollars – or any currency
  • Avoid any illicit activities that might get you involved in something (such as drugs, too much drinking, gambling, amongst others)
  • Do not walk in dark and lonely streets or alleys alone
  • When traveling long distances by bus, try doing so during daylight hours
  • If driving a car, preferably use toll roads and avoid isolated roads
  • Do not join protests or demonstrations (although they are usually peaceful, violence can break out and authorities will arrest regardless of nationality)
  • When talking to strangers, avoid telling them where you are from, how long you are around for, where you are staying
  • Do not give out personal information and try avoiding the use of credit cards

There are, of course, many other things to be precautionary about. However, do not let this get in the way of enjoying a relaxing and fun vacation in the Riviera Maya. Before embarking on a holiday, make sure to check out the U.S. Department of State website to read specifically about the area to be visited here.

For those visiting the Riviera Maya specifically, here is the information for the closest Consulate, and Consulate Agencies:

U.S. Consulate
Merida, Yucatan
Calle 60 no. 338-K, Col. Alcala Martin
Phone number: (011) (52) (999) 942 57 00 or 202 250 37 11 (U.S. number)

U.S. Consulate Agencies
Cancun, Quintana Roo
Blvd. Kukulcan 13thkm, Hotel Zone
Phone number: (011) (52) (998) 883 02 72

Playa del Carmen, Quintana ROo
“The Palapa” Calle 1 sur, between 15th and 20th Avenues
Phone number: (011) (52) (984) 873 03 03 or 202 370 67 08 (U.S. number)

Enjoy your travels and just remember that Mexico is like any other country in the world. Avoid putting yourself in danger and everything will be fine!

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-owned, locally based real estate company in the Riviera Maya, leader in its field. If you have any questions about safety in Mexico, or are looking to move, travel, or retire to the Mexican Caribbean, feel free to contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives, who will gladly help you become a happy homeowner in paradise.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

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.

photo whale shark 10_zpsfctvww8z.jpg

  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: 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.

photo whale sharks swim_zpspjtn1ixd.jpg

  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!