Weekend Getaway to Merida

Forbes magazine named Merida the American Capital of Culture in 2017 for the second year in a row. This makes it the only city to hold the title twice. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, this colonial city is just a three-hour drive from Playa del Carmen by car. Merida is one of the oldest cities in Mexico and has been occupied fully throughout the years. Because of this, it holds many traditions. You will notice the old stonework and architecture as you take a stroll through the city.

Culture, History and Gastronomy

Merida

Visitors know the Yucatan Peninsual for its gastronomy. Merida has an abundance of small markets scattered throughout the city with all the gastronomical delicacies your palate can imagine. If you’re more hands-on, you can try one of the many cooking classes offered by Mayan chefs. It makes for an interesting day spent in the kitchen and a good switch up from walking and hanging on the beach.

Because it is a colonial city there are many museums around to tell the story of its past. The Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Merida is the best one. Here, you will find interesting information about the Yucatan’s history and its many fascinating artifacts. If you enjoy photography, you may also want to visit the Museum of Anthropology and History. It is found within a mansion on the large Paseo Montejo. The museum features stunning photography.

The Mayan connection with the underworld

Besides walking around the city and visiting the museums and markets, there are many fun activities for nature lovers. There are plenty of cenotes around the outskirts of Merida. The Mayans used the cenotes as consecrated wells to connect with the gods. They would perform offerings and mystical ceremonies. Many of the cenotes surrounding Merida can surprise you with hidden artifacts, or even skulls of the sacrifices they made.

Cenote

You will find a lively city full of culture. The squares in Merida often feature musicians and food in the parks. They are great places to spend the day, having a picnic and enjoying the beautiful scenery that Merida provides. People from Mexico are very friendly and welcoming, and they will welcome you into the city with a warm smile and open arms. They love speaking with foreigners, opening up their shops and even their homes to share an afternoon. Don’t forget to visit the many historical churches in the city. They are worth visiting and make for great photo opportunities.

a sacrifice to please your stomach

If by the afternoon your stomach is claiming a sacrifice for itself, visit one of the many ice cream parlors. The Soberteria Colon is perhaps the most famous one, followed by Pola. Locals and tourists know these ice cream shops for their delicious desserts and cool ice creams for a hot day. Speaking of which, beware of the heat! Merida can reach high temperatures and given that it is half an hour from the coast, there is not much ocean breeze to cool off with. Stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid a heat stroke!

Merida is a great place to visit during the holidays due to its many fun parades, markets and festivals. Day of the Dead is an especially neat time to visit the city. Locals make quite a celebration of the life of those who have passed. It is a sight to be seen. In the end, it doesn’t matter when you visit, Merida will have something to offer. A weekend getaway may result in you wanting to spend more time there. Retirees living in Playa del Carmen can visit Merida easily. It makes for fun weekend trips throughout the year.

merida: the best getaway

Unlike the Riviera Maya, Merida is not lined with five-star resorts, which means accommodation is focused more towards small boutique hotels and apartments. This allows for a more intimate and authentic experience, far from the Americanized one you might be used to in Playa del Carmen. And if you are eager to keep coming back, you might want to consider purchasing a vacation home.

Halloween in Playa del Carmen… a great party by the sea!

Halloween is almost here! Once a North American tradition, Halloween is growing increasingly popular in Mexico. If you live or are visiting Playa del Carmen, you can join the people that goes out on this night and enjoy an amazing blend of traditions in Playa del Carmen.

In Mexico, there has been a long tradition of celebrating the Day of the Dead. This day commemorates the people that has left before us, and people make shrines to celebrate the memories of loved ones that are no longer with us.

However, many also join and celebrate the fun of trick or treating… and it is common to celebrate both. If you are in the area, you cannot miss celebrating Halloween Playa style! Get that costume ready and join the crowds trick and treating on 5th avenue.

Celebrating Halloween in Playa del Carmen:  Things to do

1.  Trick or treating

Every year, hundreds of visitors and locals go on 5th Avenue wearing costumes, dressed as Catrina Skeletons or even as an Xtabay. Playa del Carmen is the ideal place to see traditions merge and become something different, come and see and enjoy the party.

Don’t forget to bring enough candy to share with the hundreds of local and visiting children, trick or treating on 5th Avenue.

2.  Have an authentic Day of the Dead experience

If you want to learn more about the Mexican tradition of Day of the Dead, Xcaret has an amazing festival every year. The festival has theater, music, performances and art… and everything is about the Mexican traditions to celebrate the day of the dead.

You can purchase your tickets and receive more information here. If you are planning to visit Xcaret, your ticket includes the pass for the Day of the Dead celebration.

3.  See the Mayan Day of the Dead celebrations

Celebrating the dead is a Mexican celebration with deep roots in the native cultures of Mexico, but the Mayans have their own way to commemorate the dead: Hanal Pixan. If you want to learn more about this amazing tradition in an authentic Mayan Village, Alltournative organizes a tour every year, which takes visitors to an authentic Mayan village and allows you to participate in the Day of the Dead traditions. The tour that includes:

  • Round trip transportation
  • A guided visit through the process of decoration of shrines and the celebration of Hanal Pixan
  • Traditional Mayan food

If you want to learn more about this exciting adventure, please click here!

4.  Go party!

After all the fun and adventures, you can also do what people love to do in Playa: Party! You can organize your own bar crawl, or visit one of the local clubs and enjoy the special events organized for the day.

You cannot miss the fun on 12th Street with all the clubs and the best place to see and be seen in Playa del Carmen.

Playa del Carmen is a community with a rich culture, people from all over the world come to reside here and brings with them their own traditions. The merge of different cultures allows for a diverse and vibrant community, willing to enjoy and share with people from other places.

There are many options to enjoy an amazing Halloween and Day of the Dead, feel part of this amazing culture or feel at home with your own celebrations. Playa del Carmen is an amazing place to live and at Top Mexico Real Estate, we specialize in helping foreigners find their home in Mexico.

We would love to hear about your plans for Halloween, or if we are missing an awesome event… Please let us know!

Campeche – The allure of a colonial port town

Campeche is one of those places you might never consider visiting, when thinking of a short trip from the Riviera Maya. However, it is such a charming and romantic destination, you’ll never regret taking the time to go!

This beautiful port city was founded in 1540 and was the most important port of the Peninsula during colonial times, similar in importance to Havana and Cartagena. The area developed to be an important city, and the locals built elegant mansions, impressive churches and the traditional barrios grew around the main square.

During Colonial times, Campeche was a producer of precious woods, natural dyes and the main port for the neighboring Yucatan State. This made it an ideal target for pirates, so the city had to build a wall and fortresses all around in order to protect the population from the constant attacks.

Campeche offers it visitors a beautiful mix of Ancient Mayan cities, nice colonial cobbled roads, and the view of the sea along the malecon (esplanade). There is also a good mix of the old and the new, as you can walk along downtown and feel like you are living in colonial times, and then visit the modern shopping mall or the convention center and enjoy modern amenities.

Campeche Attractions

Campeche City

Campeche is full of charm, with its magnificent colonial mansions, narrow streets and the presence of the colonial life all around the city. Walk along the malecon, visit the forts and the remains of the original wall that surrounded the city, or visit the museum of Colonial times; we are sure you will be amazed.

Archeological sites

Campeche has magnificent colonial sights, Edzna is near the city and was an important ceremonial center, with an active trade with other Mayan regions. Calakmul is a large archeological site, located in a National park of the same name, and it also has a museum displaying both the nature and the archeology of the site.

Museums

There are many museums in the city and surrounding areas occupying the former bastions of the wall that surrounded the city, so you can pick your favorites or visit every one. The Virgen de la Soledad Bastion has an interesting Mayan Architecture collection, and the San Carlos Bastion holds an interesting history collection.

There is also the San Jose Museum showcasing the pirates, weapons and boats that used to attack the city, as well as other artifacts from colonial times.

Traditional barrios & their churches

Campeche grew during the Spanish rule and formed different neighborhoods, each barrio has a main plaza and a church; and the houses would be built around these plazas. There are five traditional barrios in Campeche: San Francisco, Guadalupe, San Roman, Santa Ana y Santa Lucia.

Each of the churches in Campeche are worth a visit, but the San Francisco Church is the place where the first mass in the continent was held.

Haciendas

Haciendas were the heart of the colonial economy, as Campeche was an important producer of natural dyes, cotton products, honey, wax and salt. Over time Campeche developed big farms, and started producing dry meat, leather goods as well as sisal, the fiber that made the Peninsula one of the wealthiest areas in the world.

There are haciendas all over Campeche, some of them have become hotels, while others are used as tourist attractions. Do not miss Hacienda Blanca Flor now converted into a hotel, and located just in the outskirts of Campeche, the Hacienda Santa Cruz is also well preserved and has an active production of palm that is used to make hats.

Getting There

Campeche is one of the best destinations in the Yucatan Peninsula, one of those under the radar places that will make you fall in love. It is located about 5 hours away from Cancun, and even less if you depart from other cities in the Riviera Maya.

To get there, you can go via Merida, with possible interesting stops in Valladolid, Chichen Itza, Izamal and obviously Merida. There is also the option to go down the coast and stop in Mahahual and Bacalar, and then cross the Peninsula with a stop in the archeological site of Uxmal.

Do not miss out on this amazing city and its surrounding areas, bring comfortable shoes, your camera and time to enjoy every attraction. Winter is the best month to visit, as the days are cool and there is a constant cold wind from the sea, so the long walks are more tolerable.

Let’s Retire in Mexico aims to be the best source of information about living in Mexico, please let us know if we are missing an important attraction or if you would like to know more about Campeche.

 

Xenses Park in Mexico’s Riviera Maya

Welcome to Xenses

Last month the Xenses Park in Mexico’s Riviera Maya opened to the public, becoming the sixth adventure park to open inside the Xcaret development grounds. Recently I wrote about how Xcaret in Cancun and the Riviera Maya were recognized as the best international theme park and the best water park, winning the 2016 Travvy Award held in New York City.  This new addition is a 23-hectare property and was made possible with an investment of $25.5 million.

Getting to Xenses is easy. It’s approx 15 minutes by car from the entrance of Playacar Phase II’s across from Centro Maya. You can also take the bike path which runs along the east side of the highway all the way to the inside of the park. Keep an eye for some of the local wildlife like the iguanas, who will quickly run under the pavement when they see you coming.

Once inside of Xenses you will find a variety of things to do, including zip lines and slides, a river of mud and a waterfall. One of the more intriguing things you will find is a bizarre looking village where everything looks off. The houses seem like they are completely crooked and the road appears to incline but in reality it is flat. The optical illusion that it creates is so believable that you will likely struggle to walk properly as your sense of balance is upset.

The timing for this new park couldn’t be better, as this year is the 25th anniversary of Experiences Xcaret. According to the Riviera Maya News the concept is to “offer a range of new experiences for visitors.” For those of you who have never been to Xcaret or to the Rivera Maya this is a great way to explore the environment of the peninsula in a manner which is challenging and fun.

Xenses Park can be found between Xplor and Xcaret and is currently operating from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. Because it’s has just opened you can take advantage of there being less visitors, making your waiting times short. Admission for adults is $59, children under 5 years get in free and those aged 5 to 11 get in for half price.

To quote the developers: “Upon leaving Xenses, all your senses will be awakened. You will distinguish in more detail the world around you. You will be a Xensei.”

If you’d like more information about living in Playa del Carmen or are interested in purchasing property here, we invite you to visit our main website where you can search further. Please get in touch with one of our agents who will gladly assist you in any questions you might have.

And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…

we make it happen!

TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE

Rainy Day in Playa del Carmen Got You Down?

Rainy day in Playa del Carmen got you down? Are you setting in your Playa del Carmen condo starring out the window watching the rain come down wishing you could go to the beach? Fear not there are many things you could do in the rain. One of the most popular destinations for rainy days is an underground tour at Rio Secreto. This natural reserve is located 15 minutes south from downtown Playa del Carmen and it is a fantastic adventure for anyone wanting to learn more about the Mayan Riviera.

 photo boy-looking-out-window-in-the-rain_zpsizpguoi0.jpg

Rio secreto offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit one of the thousands of underground rivers that lay under the Yucatan Peninsula. What makes Rio Secreto different is the fact that the routes used for tours have semi-flooded caves, while the vast majority of the caves of the peninsula are flooded.

Exploring a semi-flooded cave means that you will not need to be a certified cave diver to see the stalactites and stalagmites, and discover the secrets of its petrified coral reef. You can walk and swim the underground river and discover more about the geological and cultural history of the Yucatan.

Rio Secreto is a place surrounded by jungle, as they pride themselves on being a natural reserve; the only in its kind in the Peninsula. Once you get to the entrance there will be a van to take you inside of the reserve, this is a 15 minutes ride on a bumpy road. A lot of people complain about the road, but opting for the dirt road allows rainwater to replenish the underground rivers, the only source of fresh water for Playa del Carmen.

 photo img079_zpsjcsf7p7e.jpg

Once you get to the base, you will be provided with a wetsuit, life jacket, helmet with a special lamp and water shoes. It is important to follow the guide’s instruction like, leave your belongings a locker, and make sure to visit the restroom and use the shower to wash any chemicals that might be on your body and in your hair.

There will be a short walk through the jungle where you will arrive at the caves entrance. Mayans consider caves and sinkholes to be a passage into the underground world or “Xibalba”, so a Mayan shaman performs a ceremony to cleanse the visitors before entering this place.

Inside you will be in a labyrinth full of geological formations, thousands of stalactites and stalagmites as well as pristine water. The cave is very fragile and it is important to keep your hands away from the formations, as any misstep can cause damage.

 photo rio-secreto_zpsg5uamajv.jpg

After about an hour and a half you emerge on the other side, tired and hungry. A buffet full of Mayan food is ready for you to enjoy.

So if you are starring out your Playa del Carmen condo window wondering what to do remember Rio secreto is a wonderful activity on rainy day! We hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

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!

Weekend Getaway to Isla Mujeres

Living in Mexico and looking for the perfect place to escape to for the weekend? Have we got the perfect place where you could spend your weekend: Isla Mujeres! The gorgeous island off the coast of Cancun is home to over 12,000 people who can enjoy views of Cancun when the skies are clear. This small Caribbean island has much to offer to tourists who dare go on a getaway weekend to enjoy a new side of paradise.

 photo Isla Beach_zpscb4vkhhx.jpg

How to Get There

Getting to Isla Mujeres is quite easy. Ferries leave from Puerto Juarez, Punta Sam or Gran Puerto, all located in the Benito Juarez municipality. Ferries depart to and from Isla Mujeres every half an hour from 5 AM to 12 AM from Gran Puerto through Ultramar, but make sure you check schedules prior to your trip so you don’t get stranded on the island for an extra night! The other two companies run at different times, usually once an hour.

You can expect to pay $70 mxn for a one-way ticket, and if you want to cross with a car, moped, bike, or van, you can do so departing from Punta Sam and at an extra cost of $82 to $256 pesos.

Where to Stay

Isla Mujeres is lined with hundreds of gorgeous beach town hotels – from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Additionally, the real estate options are gorgeous and many home owners rent their properties by the day, week or month. Because the island is so small, staying in a condo or hotel in the center is perfect as you can walk or go by golf cart to the beach. If you would rather stay by the beach, the options are endless, also depending on which side of the island you want to stay at. The north part is where the arenales (sand banks) are, creating a beautiful view of white sand and crystal clear blue waters.

 photo Isla Downtown_zpsxjr5msvm.jpg

What to Do

The options of what to do in Isla Mujeres are endless. Snorkeling and scuba diving are the most common activities – you can’t say you went to Isla Mujeres without dipping a toe in the ocean! Amongst the most popular things to do is swimming with the great whale sharks (although this can only be done during Whale Shark Season) and visiting the underwater museum. You can also visit the natural reef park Garrafón, take a tour to visit the best snorkeling spots, go fishing, and much more.

As soon as you step off the ferry, dozens of people will approach you selling their tours. The best thing to do is rent a golf cart to be able to move around the island and discover its amazing nature.

 photo Isla Mujeres_zpsx92cl15o.jpg

Shopping and Eating

There really is no tourist experience without some shopping and fine dining! Isla Mujeres has a great boulevard by the beach offering an array of shopping options. Most shops offer beautiful Mexican crafts such as sarapes, clay art, carved good, paintings, hammocks, typical dresses, shoes, and others. You will also find dive shops, restaurants and jewelry shops.

As to eating, the top recommended places are Mango Café for delicious breakfast, tea and coffee. Lunch can be had at Q’Bravo where enchiladas suizas and guacamole are recommended highly. Additionally, most (note: not all) restaurants in Isla Mujeres are affordable, as is everything in general, compared to Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

Recommendations

Isla Mujeres is small but has a lot to offer, so plan out your weekend getaway before getting there so you’re not trying to see it all and end up seeing nothing. Snorkeling and scuba diving tours usually take up quite some time from your day, so if you’re wanting to also explore the island, find the hidden gems, visit the parks and see the local life, you need to organize your times.

Bring money! Although it is more affordable than other places on the Riviera Maya, it is still a highly touristic destination and money will be spent. Whether you’re paying for tours, beers, meals, or just shopping, it’s always better to have money.

Most importantly, remember to be open-minded, enjoy the local laid-back lifestyle and make new friends!

Tune back for another great Weekend Getaway trip next week!

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-owned company in Playa del Carmen catering to thousands of Americans and Canadians wanting to own property in paradise. Feel free to contact one of our Top Buyer Representatives if you’re interested in purchasing a vacation, retirement or permanent home in Mexico! If you fell in love with the area there are many Isla Mujeres real estate options to choose from.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate

We Make It Happen!

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

Beach #1 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Xcacel Beach

This is one of our staff’s favorite beaches, and number #1 in our list of Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya. Xcacel is a popular beach among locals, but a hard to find gem for tourists and people that are unfamiliar with the area.

If you are looking for a party beach full of comforts, forget about Xcacel Beach! This place is far away from the crowds. Instead you will find sand, sun and coconut trees in one of the most secluded beaches in the Mayan Riviera.

Xcacel Beach is a nature reserve protected by the federal government because it is one of the most important turtle nesting sites in Mexico. The reserve was established in 1998, with the objective of preserving the nesting areas of the loggerhead and green turtle.

This reserve covers about 90 acres of pristine jungle, mangrove, cenotes and coral reefs, and it is one of the few beaches in the Riviera without major constructions. Immerse yourself in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, sunbath on the soft white sands and enjoy the sound of the waves and the breeze swaying the coconut trees.

 photo Xcalcel Beach_zpsfamo97g3.jpg Xcacel Beach: Getting There

Getting to Xcacel Beachcan be a little bit tricky as it is not signaled on the road. It is located between Pueblo Chemuyil and Xel-Ha. There is one small sign, so keep your eyes open for a dirt road going to the beach.

If you are coming from Cancun, take the 307 federal highway and start looking for the sign by the road on the left hand side, you need to make a u-turn and drive back a few feet to get to the entrance of Xcacel Beach.

Xcacel Beach: Recommendations

If you go to Xcacel Beach, it is important to take your own drink and food, as well as chairs, umbrella, icebox or whatever you need. This secluded beach is quite basic and it only has a few toilets and showers available. There are no shops nearby, so it is important to plan ahead of time.

 photo Xcalcel Beach 2_zpsqlzqrcbs.jpg

Xcalcel Beach: Things To Do

There are plenty of things to do such as sunbathing, look for turtles or snorkeling in the nearby reef. Go for a short walk in the jungle and find a cenote with pristine waters or just enjoy nature and the view. We are sure it is going to become one of your favorite places!!

It is important to get there early, since the closing time is strictly enforced at 4:00 p.m. to make sure the turtles feel safe to make their nests on the beach. There is also a voluntary donation of 10-20 pesos per person, this money is used to keep the place running.

What are you waiting for? Go ahead and have fun at Xcacel Beach!!

We hope you enjoy your visit to Xcacel Beach. If you missed any beaches along the way on the Top 25 beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown please feel free to go back through all the blogs! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check out all on the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya list, which includes videos, photos and maps for each beach. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Finding Xcacel Beach might be more difficult than finding the house of your dreams in the Riviera Maya! If you are looking for a home in Mexico, contact our professional Real Estate Agents or visit our website and browse thousands of beautiful properties in the best areas of Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate

We Make It Happen!

Is Mexico a Safe Destination?

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.

 photo Is Mexico Safe_zpsehuteloq.jpg

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?

 photo mexicosafety_zpsbbxczq4y.jpg

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 Things to Do in Merida

If you want to visit a place with charm, history and culture; Merida should be on your list! Founded in 1542 by Francisco de Montejo and Leon, Merida has a rich heritage that combines elements of the Mayan and Spanish traditions.

Everywhere around the Yucatan, you will find that the Maya culture is present. You will see it in the traditions, history and even how the Yucatecans speak Spanish; while the Spanish influence can be traced to language and religion. The mix of these two, make for today’s Yucatecan culture.

The Yucatan people have a distinctive culture, in many ways different to the rest of Mexico and this is due greatly to the isolation in which they lived for centuries; as communication routes with the rest of the country were almost inexistent.

If you want to know more about this beautiful city, here is a list of 10 things to do in Merida.

  1. Enjoy a cold Agua de Chaya or other cold drink in one of the cafes across the street from the Zocalo or main Plaza. What better way to learn more about the Yucatan people, than observing the busy life in the downtown area?
  1. While in downtown, do not miss the opportunity to visit the Montejo Palace, a museum located in one of the corners of the main plaza. This XVI century building was property of the Montejo family and is the only building in the Peninsula built in a Renaissance style.

 photo Merida building_zpszl8js5uk.jpg

  1. The production of Sisal in the XIX and XX century made a few local families extremely wealthy, it was said that Merida had the most millionaires in all of the Americas. Most of that wealth is gone now, as Sisal was replaced with cheaper synthetic materials; but a stroll along the magnificent Paseo de Montejo will take you back to the golden era of the Yucatan.
  1. While on Paseo Montejo, you need to visit to Palacio Canton, built in the early 20th Century for the Governor’s family; with elements imported from different parts of Europe. This museum has a vast collection of Mayan Artifacts, and it is itself a historical piece that will let you experience the beauty of the Belle Epoque.
  1. If you feel like a tour but don’t fancy the walk, you can hire a Calandria to take you through the main streets of Merida. The slow paced horse carriage will let you appreciate the beauty of the city, and the magnificent colonial buildings and churches.

 photo Merida Horse_zps9mn3ceoy.jpg

  1. Have a nice Yucatecan lunch; there are plenty of new dishes to try. A mix of Mayan, Spanish, Lebanese and Dutch influences; Yucatecan food is a completely different to Mexican food! The isolation of the Yucatan Peninsula influenced their cuisine, as they had to cook from a limited list of ingredients.
  1. Eating a Marquesita is another culinary experience that you can only have in the Yucatan. This delicacy is a mix of a Crepe and a Wafer, can be filled with savory ingredients like Dutch Edam cheese, cream cheese and ham or sweet fillings like dulce de leche, perserves, banana, condensed milk or nutella.
  1. Buy a Guayabera, despite the controversy on the origin of this garment, the Yucatan has a claim on this popular shirt and many specialized shops where you can find the best Guayaberas in Mexico.
  1. Visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya and learn everything you have to know about this mystical culture. There are videos, interactive material and many Mayan artifacts that follow the history of this ethnic group starting from the beginning of time until today.

 photo Merida Gran_zpsvfhbnxu3.jpg

  1. Visit a Hacienda and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of its surroundings. Most of these old buildings are used as hotels or restaurants, but their splendor can take your breath away.

These are only a few of the things you can do while visiting or living in Merida, there is so many things to do that it is impossible to write them all in an article. If you think we are missing something, please let us know!

Top Mexico Real Estate is a local company specialized in helping foreigners acquire property in Mexico. If you are looking to live or retire to the Yucatan Peninsula, please browse through our Merida real estate properties or contact one of our agents; we are here to help!

Top Mexico Real Estate, We Make it Happen!

Experiencias Xcaret: 6 Experiences, 6 Times the Fun

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.

 photo Xcaret_zps8xxfnwcf.jpg

  • 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.

 photo Xplor_zpso0vyi4vd.jpg

  • 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.

 photo Xoximilco_zpszfdtsetc.jpg

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!