In the beachfront village of Akumal, about 20 minutes away from Tulum on Mexico's Caribbean coast, the small, local grocery store is called "El Pueblito," or in English "the small town." The name and image of this store captures the essence of the relaxing lifestyle that Akumal real estate provides. The the village itself, the store is provides the basics, but is small, relaxed and never busy. The "palapa" (thatched roof) shade over the entrance indicates the village's connection with the area's Mayan roots, and a few stores down, where authentic Mexican handicrafts are sold, the "The Day of the Dead" style skeleton (Mexico's more cultural version of Halloween) relaxes on the bench with a beer in his hand, symbolizing both Mexico's rich, centuries-old traditions and the local populations love of fun and relaxation! Living in Mexico, especially in a small town like Akumal, combines this relaxation and richness in tradition with close contact some of the beautiful nature to be found on the Caribbean and beyond. Besides the beachfront, extending on for miles, and the palm trees and the natural vegetation which defines the town and has been very conscientiously preserved and integrated, there is a large lagoon with mangrove growths stretching out between the village and the highway. If you buy real estate in Akumal, you will enjoy this rich combination as a part of day to day life. TOPMexicoRealEstate.com; Mexico's Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely