February 18-24, 2014
www.theplayatimes.com Weekly, Year 01, Number 21, 10,000 Copies,16 Pages
RISING FOR JUSTICE
act as nurseries for reef fish which will help to replenish depleted fish stocks. Divers are being offered a unique chance to be part of this project through the ‘Science Diver’ program; an eco-vacation where divers are an integral part of the Expedition Akumal project. Participant divers will run tests for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels, monitor water temperatures and use under-
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DISCOVER MEXICO
Expedition Akumal aims to revive and restore local reefs via coral fragmentation, also known as coral farming, or aquaculture. The project began by identifying strains of the more resilient reef building corals, primarily staghorn and elkhorn varieties, and cultivating them in a protected environment. These coral buds will then be transplanted to the reef, which will not only provide new coral growth, but
More than 5,000 people took part in the “1 Billion Rising for Justice” rally raising awareness on violence against women.
water GPS technology to locate and map healthy, diseased or dying coral in the bay. The first trial group made 22 scientific data gathering dives in 14 days. Project coordinator Jeremy Moore said he was “very excited about the project”. All divers are welcome to participate, although as the project involves working with threatened coral species in a fragile reef environment, Advanced Open Water Divers with a Peak Performance Buoyancy certification are preferred. Local divers who would like to take part are welcome to volunteer. For more information on volunteering with the project contact Jeremy Moore via the project’s Facebook page Expedition Akumal or view the project blog at protectakumalmarinelife.blogspot.com.
KNOW YOUR CHILIES Did you know that there are over 150 indigenous chiles in Mexico? Learn about the most popular varieties. PAGE 12
DINING OUT
ell-known Akumal Bay, a popular destination for tourists wanting to see the resident turtle population, is under threat by the increasing volume of visitors, uncontrolled algae growth and pollution. Algae are chocking the delicate corals, and recent water tests showed ammonia levels off the charts. Akumal reef is a part of the Mesoamerican barrier reef that stretches 1,000 miles from Cancun to Honduras. The Hotel Akumal Caribe, Akumal Centre of Ecology (CEA), and Akumal Dive Center are now working together as the Expedition Akumal Coral Project to help preserve this section of the Rivera Maya reef.
Photo: Centro Ecológico Akumal
BY BETSY AMY-VOGT
COMMUNITY
NEW PROJECT AIMS TO RESTORE LOCAL REEFS W
Photo: Agency
Photo: Agency
CHEF OF THE WEEK Chef Moti Doron talks about his organic wholefood vegetarian and vegan culinary creations at BIO-Natural. PAGE 9
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February 18-24, 2014
Photos: ESPN
ditorial
Sochi 2014
DIRECTORY
Winter Olympics
Omar Tornel Managing Editor omar@theplayatimes.com
María Morote Copy Writer maria@theplayatimes.com
Gema García Chief Reporter gema@theplayatimes.com
T
his week brings the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics to a close. 3,500 athletes from 88 countries have had a chance to take part in the most expensive Olympic Games in history with an estimated cost of $51 billion, which is $11 billion more than the previously most expensive, the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. The investment involved building most of the Olympic infrastructure from scratch and taking the Olympic torch to some of the most extreme locations imaginable such as outer space, the North Pole and the bottom of Lake Baikal in Siberia. The games have brought both excitement and controversy to spectators around the globe over the last 10 days. Sochi 2014 was the 22nd Winter Olympics, and has also been the biggest event of it’s kind, adding 12 winter sports to the list making a total of 98 events in 15 winter sports (versus 86 events in the 2010 Vancouver games). The new events included a figure skating team event, women’s ski jumping, mixed relay biathlon, ski half-pipe, team relay luge, ski slopestyle, snowboard slopestyle, and snowboard parallel slalom. Sochi has been the warmest city ever to host a winter games, and is
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THE PLAYA TIMES PLAYA DEL CARMEN`S COMMUNITY PAPER Periódico Semanal. Número de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional de Derechos de Autor: (PENDIENTE). Número de Certificado de Licitud de Título: (en trámite). Número de Certificado de Licitud de Contenido: (en trámite). Domicilio de la publicación: Avenida 15 Sur Mza. 8 Lt. 02 Local 02. Col, Centro, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710. Imprenta: Extreme Energy, S.A. de C.V. Calle 1a. Sur, Mza. 227, Lote2, Col. Ejidal, Playa del Carmen, Q, Roo. C.P. 77710. Distribuidor: Meridian Media, S.A. de C.V., 15 Ave. and 1 South, Col. Centro, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo, CP 77710.
TUESDAY 85°/65° F Partly Cloudy 10% chance of rain
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
84°/67° F Isolated T-Storms 20% chance of rain
86°/68° F Partly Cloudy 10% chance of rain
Johan Olsson, Dario Cologna and Daniel Richardsson, medalists of cross-country 15km classic considered a subtropical summer resort in Russia. Sochi prepared for the games by hoarding about 25 million cubic feet of snow over the last two winters. There was also a massive snowmaking operation and cold preserving covers were placed on the mountainsides to preserve the snow. The results have been favorable
FRIDAY 86°/66° F Partly Cloudy 10% chance of rain
to Germany, the Netherlands and Norway with the 1, 2, and 3. Although Switzerland, Russia, Canada and the US are still hoping for some victories over the next few days that will move them higher up the medal standings. Finals in ice hockey, alpine skiing, biathlon, bobsleigh, cross-country, and freestyle skiing among others are still to be held. Don’t miss the closing ceremony that will herald the end of these 2014 Olympic games, which takes place on February 23rd at 10 am local time.
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
86°/66° F Partly Cloudy 10% chance of rain
86°/64° F Partly Cloudy 10% chance of rain
85°/65° F Sunny 0% chance of rain
LOCAL NEWS
February 18-24, 2014
03
2014 set to be record year for
cruise visitors to Cozumel
BY GEMA GARCÍA
A
3,000,000 tourists are expected to arrive in Cozumel in 2014
Photo: Agency
ceeded. During the first week of February 2014, 37 cruise ships arrived in Cozumel. This figure is expected to increase considerably during the last week of the month as the Carnival of Cozumel will be in full swing, and visitors to the island will increase dramatically due to this popular annual event.
Photos: Agency
ccording to the Harbor Administration Office of Cozumel (API) 2014 will see an expected 3,000,000 tourists arriving on the island, via a total of 1,036 cruises from the Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean companies. This will mean an overall rise of 23% more visitors than in 2013. The economy of Cozumel, known as Island of the Swallows, depends heavily on tourists, especially those bought by the visiting cruises. Cozumel currently receives more tourists by sea than by air, as it is a regular stopover destination for cruises that travel throughout the Caribbean. The many tax-free stores, clear seas, coral reefs, and the archaeological ruins continue to attract passengers to the popular island. Víctor Vivas González, a representative of API, said that the number of cruises expected this year may be closer to that of 2010, when 2,900,000 tourists visited Cozumel, a figure which has yet to be ex-
BY GEMA GARCÍA The dry season will soon be upon us and local and state authorities have been preparing to keep the jungle areas free of fire. Dry season runs from March to May and this year’s State budget was increased to $3.8 million USD due to the alarming increase in wild fires during 2013. Quintana Roo State was one of the states most affected by fires in 2013, with a total of over 59,000 acres being destroyed. A new firefighting committee was created on February 17th, the aim of which was to provide more manpower and information and better equipment within the Quintana Roo State. The Fire Department is readying itself for the season and is set to respond to any outbreaks of fire. In Playa del Carmen there are currently 38 active firefighters equipped with fire trucks and fire fighting equipment. Yivi Méndez, director of the Civil Protection Department, explained that the main causes of fires are farmers clearing their land in preparation for spring planting. Therefore the department has set specific dates for controlled
burning so they can be supervised. According to the National Forest Commission (Conafor), in the last three years the wild fires in grasslands, jungles and forests have burned over 4 million acres throughout Mexico. In Playa del Carmen, the at-risk region is the Tunich-ha area northeast of Xpu-ha, which was the most affected area by fires last year. In May 2013, the Tunich-ha fire was the worst fire in the country, burning over 4500 acres. Please be aware of the increased risk during this season, by responsibly disposing of cigarettes and controlling barbeques and any bonfires.
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LOCAL NEWS
February 18-24, 2014
Playa del Carmen
Carnival
2014
BY GEMA GARCIA
T
he official announcement through a press conference for the upcoming 2014 Playa del Carmen Carnival stated that this year’s theme for the Carnival would be “With a New Heart”. The Carnival will be held from February 27th until March 4th, and the main activities will take place at 28 De Julio main square at the City Hall. The Traditional Celebrations Committee organizes the annual event and their aim is to preserve the traditions and culture of the area, preserve Playa del Carmen’s identity and share music, dance, theatre and art. This year’s carnival will feature a Queen and King from the disabled community for the first time, which is another step towards total inclusion and awareness of people with disabilities. Presentation and elections for the new King and Queen and their entourages will take place on 27th February, as well as the crowning of Kings and Queens from other categories. On Saturday March 1st the parades begin around the downtown area and will also feature costume contests. Everyone is invited to enjoy the Playa Del Carmen Carnival, which is set to be a colorful and memorable occasion for 2014.
Photos: Agency
The Carnival will begin on February 27th
Pick yourof free copy
Available at the
ADO Bus Stations on 5th Avenue and 20th and 12th
February 18-24, 2014
The 5k Fun Run
“Coloreate” brightens up Playa
BY GEMA GARCÍA
M
ore than 3,000 runners participated in the national fun run “Coloreate 5K, the funniest 5 kilometers of your life”, on February 16th, where runners are covered with multicolored powdered pigment. The race ended in an explosion of color at Plaza 28 the Julio at the City Hall. The race, organized by CC Productions, started at 8 am on 10th Avenue and 8th Street. The course was along CTM Avenue and Fifth Avenue with the finish line next to Playa del Carmen City Hall. Most of the runners were local families and included people with disabilities. Participants in wheelchairs, parents holding their children in their arms were all covered in the various hues of powdered paint. “The Color Run” concept comes from the Hindu spring festival of Holi, known as the “festival of colors” and became a race for the first time in the United States in 2012. According to the race web page, “it is an event promoting healthiness and hap-
piness by bringing the community together to participate in the “Happiest 5k on the Planet”. The race has no categories or winners and there are just two rules: “Wear white at the starting line and finish plastered in color”. In 2013 170 “Color Run” events took place in a total of 30 countries. Runners taking part in the Playa del Carmen race were given a white t-shirt, sunglasses, and a recovery kit. Local authorities also assisted at the race and mayor Mauricio Góngora Escalante and his family took part. The race ended with a gathering of the multicolored fun runners and spectators and a live music performance at the City Hall plaza.
"1 Billion Rising for Justice"
Movement in Playa Del Carmen BY GEMA GARCÍA
Photo: Gobierno Quintana Roo
“1 Billion Rising for Justice” is an international movement that was created in 2013 by V-Day, a New York NGO. The same march took place in over 200 countries last year. Award-winning feminist author and playwright, Eve Ensler, promoted the event after the UN released alarming statistics, which stated that one out of three women have suffered from some kind of abuse in their lives. More than 5,000 people gathered at Piñatas Beach by the ferry pier on Thursday 13th to help raise awareness about the global issue of violence against women and girls. The event was called “1 Billion Rising for Justice, for a violence free Quintana Roo”. The Women’s Institute of Quintana Roo (IQM), directed by Blanca Pérez Alonso, organized the event in Playa
together with the association “United Against Female Trafficking”. Due to the great success and participation of “1 Billion Rising for Justice”, this event has now spread nationally. According to the National Statistics Institute (INEGI) of 2013, 63% of women over 15 years of age have been victims of some type of violence in Mexico; a further 47% of those women were abused by their partners. Professor Aurora Zavala Caudillo from the National University of Mexico (UNAM) said during one of the lectures at the rally that, unfortunately due to migration, poverty and marginalization, it is very difficult to know the precise number of women involved in female human trafficking in the country. However, she stressed the importance of implementing better system of reporting and monitoring such issues within Mexico.
"1 Billion Rising for Justice" took place in over 200 countries last year
05 Photos: Coloreate
COMMUNITY
06
COMMUNITY
February 18-24, 2014
Polish photographer inspired by Mexican tradition and modern culture
O
n February 7th, the Playa del Carmen public had the opportunity to attend Polish filmmaker Kamila Chomicz’s photography and video exhibition called “Seasons of the year”, at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Avenue and 95th Avenue in Colonia Ejido. The 33 year old studied biology at the University of Gdansk and film direction at the Academy of Cinema and Television of Warsaw; she is now focused on filmmaking, specifically on short documentary filmmaking. After a three-month journey over southeast Mexico where she visited cities and small villages in Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatan, Tabasco and Quintana Roo, she gathered material that has been shown at different exhibitions in Cancun, the Writers International House of Bacalar and the Sweet Fair in Tinun, Campeche. Kamila told The Playa Times that she is now editing a short documentary about her trip throughout Mexico that she expects to finish next month: “I filmed an 83 year old woman whose name was dona Emilia who lives in Bacalar, Quintana Roo and is a midwife; she was very interesting and had a strong personality. She had never formally studied medicine but gained all her knowledge about childbirth from experience. I also heard amazing stories from people about her healing abilities”. Kamila´s work is inspired by traditions that still exist within contemporary culture and by nature. At her exhibition at El Eden, visitors saw highly evocative and dream-like pictures in which forests and snow merged
Photos: Kamila Chomicz
BY MARÍA MOROTE
I don’t think I will ever find anybody in Poland that would say “I believe in fantastic creatures” Kamila Chomicz Photographer
with children and older generations. It was these themes that attracted her to this part of Mexico as it reflected her interpretation of human nature. “I came to Mexico a year ago for just two weeks. I wanted to explore the ceiba tree, the sacred Mayan tree, as I was making a short video about the symbol of trees within Polish tradition and I was trying to find some other meaning for trees in different cultures”, explained Chomicz. Chomicz discovered that Mexican people in remote communities were still attached to traditions and legends, which continued to be reflected in their modern day values: “It was really fascinating talking with people about the ceiba tree as they also told me stories about Mayan fairies and demons. I don’t think I will ever find anybody in Poland that would say “I believe in fantastic creatures” but in Mexico I spoke to people who said they saw these spirits regularly and talked with them. Young generations in Poland are currently trying to reconstruct traditions, but they are not as connected with them as people here in Mexico”. Kamila Chomicz told The Playa Times that although she is not sure yet what the theme of her next project will be, she
Kamila Chomicz is currently editing a short docummentary about her trip throughout Mexico
The photographer visited cities and villages in Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatan, Tabasco and Quintana Rooo is tempted to return to Mexico again: “I would say that Mexico is like a drug somehow because every time I travel here, I just have the feeling that I want to continue further because I know it
would be a totally different experience”. You can check out Kamila’s work at http://kamilachomicz.blogspot.mx, http://vimeo.com/user3965130 and her Facebook page Kamila Chomicz.
ART & CULTURE
February 18-24, 2014
07
MonteBong, good vibrations in
Puerto Morelos Music Festival Photo: MonteBong
BY MARÍA MOROTE
T
he 2014 Puerto Morelos Music Festival is approaching with a line-up that has now been released on the festival’s official website www.festivalmusicapuertomorelos.com. This week The Playa Times talks to MonteBong, a consolidated reggae-ska band formed in Guadalajara in 2001, which will perform at Puerto Morelos Central Park on February 28th at 10pm. “We are so happy to visit Puerto Morelos every time we come to southeast Mexico on tour. Last year we were also invited, but unfortunately the weather did not allow us to play, so when we received another invitation we did not hesitate”, said MonteBong. The band, formed by Raúl Márquez (voice and guitar), Chris González (guitar), Javier Flores (bass), Mario Robles (percussions), Kike Nieto (keyboard), David Hernández (drums), and featuring José Luis Alemán (trumpet) as a special guest at the festival, started a new tour on February 6th in Palenque (Chiapas) and continues with a five week tour of the Riviera Maya where Monte-
MonteBong will perform at Puerto Morelos Music Festival on February 28th at 10pm Bong has scheduled concerts in Tulum, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Holbox and Chetumal. “After our tour of the Riviera Maya we are set to perform in Mexico City and festivals in Puebla and Tepoztlan. We are also arranging a summer tour along the Pacific coast and selected concerts in Europe to
celebrate MonteBong’s 13th anniversary. At the festival and on the Riviera Maya tour we will play songs from our last album “Aqui y ahora” (Here and Now, 2012), but we will also include tracks from our two previous albums “Vibra el arbol” (The Tree Vibrates, 2005) and “En Sintonia con la Tierra” (In tune with
the Earth, 2007), as well as new songs from our next album”. During a career performing throughout Mexico, Europe and Central America MonteBong has shared the stage with reggae fusion bands such as renowned The Skatalites, Ky Mani Marley, Mad Professor, Alborosie, Gondwana, Los Cafres, and Los Pericos.
This year’s free festival at Puerto Morelos looks set to be one of the most successful alternative music events in the Riviera Maya, with a laid back Caribbean mood and the contagious sounds of bands such as MonteBong. For more information on the bands music and upcoming event, check out the band’s website http://montebongmusic.com
HOMELIFE
February 18-24, 2014
Featured Property
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Mexico by design Lupita Dolls BY ELIZABETH URRAZA
L
upita Dolls are paper-mache dolls that were originally made over 200 years ago in central Mexico. Artisans created them as an affordable substitute for very expensive porcelain dolls, and they had a popularity flourishing until the late 1960’s. Nowadays, very few artisans from the central state of Guanajuato make these dolls and they have become highly collectible items and cherished mementos. The doll is made from a very hard-layered lacquered paper-mache, a medium that is also called cartoneria. This material is also found in other Mexican art crafts like ‘alebrijes’, the fantastical Oaxacan creatures, and Day of the Dead figurines. They are created with the help of molds to make the head, torso and limbs and then connected by cord to allow them to be jointed. The Lupita, which is the diminutive name for Guadalupe, the most common Mexican name, is 100% handmade and reflects Mexican culture through bright colors and delicate designs. Photos: Agency
08
Nowadays, very few artisans from Guanajuato make Lupita Dolls
DINING OUT
Chef of the week
Photos: BIO-Natural
February 18-24, 2014
T
his week The Playa Times visited BIO-Natural, an organic and vegetarian food restaurant and store on 5th Avenue and 26th Street to chat with chef Moti Doron. BIO-Natural offers over 500 products including prepared food, gluten and sugar-free snacks and natural cosmetics such as organic toothpaste, biodegradable reef friendly sunblock and nettle shampoo. They specialize in ‘ethical food’, which means that all animal origin products they sell come from free-grazing animals that are not treated with hormones. The ecostore offers dairy products such as soya and rice milk, goat milk and hormone-free cow milk yogurt as well as ecologic eggs. They also have a wide variety of chemical free vegetables and diet products like spirulina or stevia snacks that are a BIO-Natural specialty. BIO-Natural store is open from 8 am to 10 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 9 am to 7 pm on Sunday. If you want to enjoy a delicious vegan dish, BIO-Natural restaurant opens every day except Tuesdays from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information contact www. bio-natural.com.mx or 984 147 3181 or 984 267 2208. How did you end up in Playa? I came to Playa del Carmen two years ago to visit a friend I met years ago when I was travelling through Argentina. She had just opened an organic food store here called BIO-Natural. When I saw the great demand her business had, I decided to stay to help her. I fell in
love with her, so it was harder and harder for me to leave. I was going to stay in Playa only a few weeks but it turned into months and then into years and here I am! What are your essential ingredients that you couldn't live without? At BIO-Natural I could not cook without eggplant, quinoa, tahini and chickpeas. What is your signature dish? My signature dish is the famous BIO-Natural lasagna which is a vegan gluten-free lasagna made of layers of polenta, vegan cashew nuts cream, roasted eggplant, Kalamata olive pâté and tomato sauce with parmesan cheese. Where do you like to eat in Playa? My favorite restaurants in Playa del Carmen are Mestizaje sin Fronteras, La Famiglia and Alux. What would be your 'Last Supper' meal? My ‘Last Supper’ meal would be great hummus in an Arabian village in North Israel.
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TUESDAY
FREE TANGO LESSONS every Tuesday at 8pm at Be Playa Hotel´s roof on 26th St. and 10 Ave. Free tango lessons by Diego and Lucila. ORGANIC CHARITY FLEA MARKET from 3pm to 5pm at Palapa DIF on 8th St. South and 30th Ave. Cheap products directly sold from the producer. PAINTING LESSONS every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 12 am and from 4pm to 6 pm. At Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. $100 MXN to cover materials.
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WEDNESDAY
“NOSTALGHIA” FILM SHOWING at 7pm at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. Watch last film of Andrei Tarkovsky season. Free entrance. REGGAE NIGHT from 5pm to 12pm at Zenzi Beach Club on 10th St. and the beach. Listen to the bands Blend Reggae and On the Reggae-Del la Calle. FASHION WORKSHOP every Wednesday from 6 pm to 8 pm at Le Lotus Rouge Cultural Centre, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. Create your crazy shoes. 50 pesos material non included. AK LU’UM ECO MARKET every Wednesday from 12pm to 3pm at Ak Lu’um International School, La Selva St. s/n, Colonia Ejido. Organic products, baked goods, glutenfree products and salsas. akluum@gmail.com
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THURSDAY
WAGGLE WALKS every Thursday at 9am at the new P.A.R. Shelter. Have fun helping dogs become leash trained, balanced and exercised. Contact info@playaanimalrescue.org “THE GREAT MIGRATION” DOCUMENTARY SHOWING at 7pm at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 Street in Colonia Ejido. Watch BBC “Nature´s great events” documentaries every Thursday for free. BELLY DANCE PERFORMANCE “MOON´S CHARM” at 6pm at the Cultural Center of Playa del Carmen on Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Ave. Free entrance. CINE CLUB every Thursday at 7.30pm at Caracol Marino Cultural Center on 80th St and Fifth Avenue in Colonia Colosio. Watch interesting social cinema.
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ENTERTAINMENT
February 18-24, 2014
FRIDAY
FLUTE MUSIC WORKSHOP every Friday from 4pm to 6pm and from 6pm to 8pm at Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. $250 MXN to cover lessons. SPANISH CLASSES. Every Friday from 6pm to 7.30pm at Chichen Itza Lan-
guage School on 4th St. and 10th Ave. Practice your Spanish conversational skills for free with others students. LIVE MUSIC NIGHT from 5pm to 12pm at Zenzi Beach Club on 10th St. and the beach. Listen to the bands Creizy Toy Rock and Time Out. COCOS BEACH FRIDAY ORGANIC MARKET every Friday from 9am to 11am at Condos Alizes, Avenida CTM and 46 St. Homemade bread and baked goods, gluten-free products, fresh herbs, organic eggs, handmade products, cosmetics, clothing and much more.
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SATURDAY
“MAN ON WIRE” FILM SHOWING at 7.30pm at La Ceiba Park on 1st St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. 10TH OPEN WATER MARATHON “REEF ROUTE” at 8 am at Puerto Morelos dock. For more information contact www.rutadelarrecife.com. STREET ART SATURDAYS every Saturday at 6 pm at Plata 28 de Julio on 8th St. and 20th Ave. Enjoy street art performance for free. ISLA BLANCA KITE FESTIVAL from 11 am to 4 pm next to Cancun. For more information contact Facebook page “Isla Blanca Kite Festival”. CONSCIOUS RELAXATION WORKSHOP. Every Saturday at 10am at La Ceiba Park on 1st St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Voluntary contribution. 100 BEST MEXICAN FILMS showing every Saturday at 7pm at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance.
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SUNDAY
ARTISTIC MORNINGS every Sunday from 11.30 at Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. Enjoy an artistic performance. CARNIVAL OF PLAYA DEL CARMEN OPENING PARADE at 4pm at Plaza 28 de Julio on 8th St. and 20th Ave.
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MONDAY
FLAMENCO DANCE LESSONS every Monday and Wednesday from 3pm to 4.30pm at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre. Given by flamenco dancer Brenda. 80th Street, between 10th and 5th. For more information contact centrocaracol@gmail.com. CREATIVE WORKSHOPS every Monday and Wednesday from 9am to 11am at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre. An artistic workshop by Hugo Uribe. 80th Street, between 10th and 5th. For more information contact centrocaracol@ gmail.com.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
February 18-24, 2014
11
When and why; trusting the moon BY RICARDO RUIZ
Adjustment
BY DR. RICHARD MCCARTHY The chiropractic adjustment is the treatment that we perform for our patients in order to get them back into balance. It is this type of treatment that distinguishes a chiropractor from all other health professionals. Many therapists can crack your joints but a chiropractic adjustment can only be mastered by those with a proper educational background and is refined as a chiropractor gains experience. I believe it takes several years of regular adjustments to become adept at the art of spinal manipulation. Most people that have never been adjusted before find the adjustments to be a positive and beneficial experience, quite often with immediate effects. In order for an adjustment to be effective, the doctor of chiropractic must assess your situation by doing an in-depth case history, a thorough examination and an evaluation of your spine. It is with this information that he will determine which areas need to be adjusted. Not only the area but also the direction of pressure for the realignment is a major key to success. A person being adjusted will feel and sometimes hear the movement of the joints being realigned. This is a surprisingly painless procedure due to the expertise involved, even when working on a person that is in pain. The relief can be instant with an immediate improvement of joint mobility. If you have had joint misalignments for a period of time adjustments will have to be continued in order for your body to experience a change to a new and improved position. Chiropractic adjustments are safe, effective and have helped countless millions of people experience less pain more mobility and better health. Isn't it time for you to experience one of the most amazing natural health tools available, the chiropractic adjustment.
CHIROPRACTOR for a safe, effective chiropractor DR. RICHARD McCARTHY at THE NEW GYM, Playa del Carmen
Tel.: 984 873 2098
I
Mayan medicine in Playa del Carmen BY GEMA GARCÍA Alternative and homeopathic medicine have become popular treatments for a healthy body, mind, soul and pocket! In Quintana Roo Mayan medicine has survived time and change and is still very popular amongst modern cultures. Nowadays there are still traditional Mayan doctors, like 65 year-old Casiana Uicab Canul, which offer health-giving treatments through natural herbs from the region. Casiana prepares remedies that have been passed through generations in her community. Every third Saturday of the month, Casiana offers her natural products in the local market at La Ceiba Park at 60th Avenue and 1st South Street in the Ejido district. It was her mother-in-law, a local midwife in her community that passed her knowledge on to Casiana, which she is now passing on to her own daughters and daughters-in-law. She says that each remedy takes time and care to prepare, “you first need to go to the jungle and find the herb, wash and disinfect it, cut it and cook it, it takes at least three days to be ready”. She believes that every sickness can be cured through traditional Mayan medicine techniques,
with the great benefit of no side effects as it is 100% natural. She states “it is very important that people understand and believe in Mayan medicine, since ‘normal’ medicine is full of chemicals that cure in the short term, but lead to other sicknesses in the long run”. Casiana told us that she and her family have never tried ‘normal’ medicine, since their traditional methods always brought great results. They also take it as preventive medicine to stay healthy. Coming from a tiny village called Tihosuco in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, she has patients that have followed her throughout the years. She claims that many recipes have been lost in time, but she has supported her knowledge with modern herb books. Nowadays very few people practice this type of medicine, although the new trend of going green is reviving this type of healthcare and local authorities are planning workshops and talks to preserve this fundamental part of the Mayan culture. If you are interested in her products, they are always available for purchase at La Ceiba Park, or if you want to meet her, go on the 3rd Saturday of the month for consultations.
Photos: Agency
The Chiropractic
f you are a consistent practitioner you may have found that during your personal practice you do not know what to do, or how to build your practice. Normally we’ll just start waking up our body with some sun salutations and go to the poses we most like, and that is fine; but you may have noticed that some days are better than others and your balance or strength postures are easier. This happens to everyone, during a practice your balance is unstable, even though you remain calm and focused, and other days it just comes easily. Let me tell you a secret on how I choose what to do and when to do certain postures, whether in my classes or in my personal practice, I trust the moon. It really affects us physically, and also mentally. This may sounds quite esoteric but just look at the ocean on a full moon, there’s the rising tide and high waves. The attraction and gravity
of the moon is stronger than on any other day; and it affects all watery things on earth including us, as our bodies contain a high percentage of water. With that full moon energy flowing through us we don’t need to awaken anything, that’s already done, thanks to the moon. Now it’s time to use all that energy on healing and on growing. Choose a restorative practice instead of a demanding one, followed by chanting and meditation. Pranayama’s and meditation are at their most beneficial during the full moon period. As the moon starts waning you may now search for a physically demanding practice to keep all that energy flowing in, and when the new moon days arrive try all your balances, all your head stands and variations. You’ll feel the difference. Notice that every time you flow your practice by the new moon it will be easier to remain calm and observant; those are the times for new beginnings, for all changes. Right after a fresh start there’s the opportunity to grow, let yourself be helped by the crescent moon to stretch all your body and continue to grow in every aspect on the way to the next full moon. Don’t trust me, trust your inner teacher; trust the moon.
Casiana, Mayan medicine expert
12
DISCOVER MEXICO
February 18-24, 2014
Know your Mexican chiles Jalapeño
A
re you confused by the huge array and flavor of Mexican chiles? I for one am often shamed by my lack of knowledge of Mexico’s favorite spice. Although chiles may not be exclusive to Mexico, they are however iconic in Mexican gastronomy. Chiles or ‘Tzili’, the indigenous Nahuatl name, have been around since Pre-Hispanic times and they even have their own deity here in Mexico. There are more than 150 indigenous varieties of chiles in Mexico, all with a different flavor and varying levels of heat, the spiciest being the habanero that hails from the Yucatan and which is often called the king of chiles. Here is a closer look to some of Mexico’s most popular chiles. (Or ‘chili’s’, both uses are fine, although here in Mexico, they are chile!) De Arbol They are one of the favorite chiles for Mexicans because of their bold and subtle natural smoky flavor. De Arbols are like a Cayenne pepper, whilst they have a very high heat profile they have very little distinctive flavor. These chiles are inexpensive and popular because they are so prolific and tend not to overpower other flavors.
Jalapeños are the commonly grown pepper in Mexico. They are a moderately hot chile that are frequently used fresh, roasted and pickled. This popular chile is used to spice up a variety of dishes from around the world. Jalapenos were named after Jalapa, the capital of Veracruz, where Jalapeños first originated. Chipotle Chipotle peppers are actually Jalapeño peppers that are allowed to ripen and dry on the vine and then smoked to infuse them with the aroma of blazing mesquite-fired braziers. Incorporated into Southwestern and Mexican sauces and soups, the Chipotle lends a unique, smoky aroma and flavor to any dish. The best Chipotle pepper comes from Xalapa, the capital of Veracruz. Habanero This stout little chile is one of the hottest in the world. With a savory fruity flavor, the Habanero is used in many different types of cuisines to enhance the flavor of a dish. In the ancient Mayan lowlands of the Yucatan Peninsula, the flat and arid terrain is perfect for cultivating the Habanero. The name Haba-
nero means ‘from Havana’, but it is a bit of a misnomer. While Habaneros were largely traded in Cuba, most agree that this pungent little pepper originated in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Poblano Chile poblano is mild, heartshaped and have very thick walls, which make them great for stuffing. "Chiles rellenos" are often made with them, but also they are the main ingredient for "chiles en nogada". Poblanos are mild flavored and are among the most popular grown and used in Mexico. When dried, it is called an Ancho chile or ‘wide chile’. Originating from the state of Puebla, An immature poblano is dark purplish green in color, but the mature fruits eventually turn a red so dark as to be nearly black.
cause it is believed to have originated in the hilly regions of Puebla and Hidalgo. Because you do not have to char or core this thin-skinned chile (just cut it into tiny slices and mince it) it is the fastest one to use for salsas. Guajillo Guajillo chiles are a sweeter and spicier chile. Lending a distinctive, sweet flavor and a medium heat to sauces and moles. Most Guajillo chiles hail from the dry climate of North Central Mexico. This 4-6” long chile finds its way into mouth-watering hot sauces and is used for pigment and decoration
in Mexican cuisine. about medium hot.
They rank
Chiltepin The Chiltepin, also called ‘chile tepin’, is a wild round shaped chile pepper that grows in the deserts of Mexico. Some enthusiasts argue this pepper is hotter than the habanero, however the fluctuating rainfall in the deserts affects it hotness, which is weaker during drought years. In Mexico, the heat of the Chiltepin is called ‘arrebatado’ (rapid or violent), which implies that although the heat is intense, it diminishes quickly.
Serrano Hotter than the Jalapeno, but milder than the Habanero, Serrano chiles add a nice, crisp flavor and kick to many recipes. The name comes from the Spanish word for ‘foothills’ be-
Chiles are iconic in Mexican gastronomy
Photo: Agency
BY E FLORES
Mexican Flag Day
BY GEMA GARCÍA
“
To the flag of Mexico, legacy of our heroes, symbol of the union of our fathers and brothers, we promise to be always be loyal”. These are the first lines of the pledge to the Mexican flag, the most important patriotic emblem of the country, which children make every Monday at school whilst raising their right hand. On February 24th every Mexican will join these children to celebrate the 193rd anniversary of the creation of the national flag. Flag Day was created in 1821 when insurgent soldiers Agustín de Iturbide and Vicente Guerrero proclaimed the independence of the country from Spain through the political agreement called ‘Plan of Iguala’ or ‘Plan of the Three Guarantees’ in the city of Iguala de la Independencia, Guerrero. The Mexican flag is considered a symbol of the struggle that Mexico experienced in their bid to achieve independence.
The flag itself has been adapted several times since it was created in 1815. Each change represents a different historical era or government such as emperor Maximiliano, president Benito Juárez, dictator Porfirio Díaz or president Venustiano Carranza. The flag consists of three colors; green which represents hope; white, unity, and red, the blood spilled by Mexico’s national heroes. Francisco Eppens Helguera created the central emblem in 1968, which shows an eagle plucking a snake from a nopal cactus situated on a rock rising from a lake. The image is framed by oak and laurel leaves together with the motto “Estados Unidos Mexicanos”, or the United States of Mexico. The emblem was inspired by Aztec legend which tells how the gods spoke to the people, telling them to travel from what is today the north of the country to the central regions where they would
find a promised land. They would know they had arrived, by witnessing an eagle eating a snake on a nopal cactus. They settled at Lake Texcoco, which is now Mexico City, as this is where they believed this ‘promised land’ to be. Every February 24th, the Mexican flag is raised early in the morning and ceremonies are held throughout the countries schools, city halls and government institutions. Military style parades, which were introduced to Mexico by the French during the Porfirio Díaz dictatorship, take place in every school. Each parade includes an escort of the schools most outstanding students carrying the flag, together with the ‘war band’ that play musical instruments and a majorette group. The flag is also raised at every public park throughout the country in memory of the arduous path Mexicans took towards independence.
Flag Day was created in 1821 when the independence of tMexico was proclaimed through the "Plan de Iguala" agreement
Photo: Agency
"Dia de la Bandera"
ENTERPRISE FOCUS
$
BUSINESS OF THE WEEK
C
oquine Fine Lingerie opened its doors in Playa del Carmen for the first time this month, offering exclusive lines from Paris and Colombia as well as private Boudoir Parties. Located on cosmopolitan Fifth Avenue between 40th and 42nd Street,
13
February 18-24, 2014
Coquine aims to make their customers feel unique. The boutique is close to Playa’s famous restaurants and bars. Indulge yourself and enjoy an intimate atmosphere surrounded by exquisite designer lingerie and accessories.
What inspired Coquine? Our passion for fashion together with our European and Latin origins drove us to travel the world looking for beautiful feminine objects of desire such as lingerie, which defines our elegance and passion. We also sourced exclusive intimate body oils as well as sensual and relaxing fragrances that accentuate feminine pleasure. From the Mexican culture we took Caribbean sensuality and warmth, we saw the passion and the strong spirit of Mexican women and we used it in our brand´s concept. Latin seduction, Caribbean Sea, and feminine design is the cocktail that captures our most precious creation, Coquine Lingerie of Playa del Carmen. Which is the concept of your shop? European style Boudoir Parties are exclusive events held at Coquine Lingerie. Our idea is to offer a client and her select friends an exclusive, private and intimate environment to select their favorite garments privately and without interruption. Drinks and appetizers are also presented for a more relaxing and memorable occasion. What does Coquine offer? Most of all variety, for our Coquine Playa launch campaign, the company chose three brands that represent the desires a woman may have, to feel sensual, sexy or simply relaxed and casual. We took into account that lingerie may evoke different emotions so with this in mind we selected the prestigious French brand Aubade, sensual Colombian lingerie line Besame and the warm and the informal style of Mexican
brand Skiny. We also offer a personal service with professional advice. We have selected our sales advisors for their professionalism and aptitude in order to deliver an unrivaled level of attention and care.
book on www.facebook.com/ coquineplaya. You may also reserve your private Boudoir Party via our web page www. coquineplaya.com. BOX What does ‘Boudoir Lingerie’ mean?
What is Coquine for men? We invite men to discover the pleasure of gifting lingerie to their partners. They will receive discreet and expert advice helping them to find something more original and thoughtful than just flowers or chocolates. What are Coquine body oils? Keeping Charles Eames´ concept in mind, “Take your pleasure seriously”, we offer our customers a complete selection of risqué, light, scented and edible body oils. We present four varieties especially created for Coquine by experts in essences and perfumes, Esencial Caribe: ‘Vertige’, with a touch of pepper; ‘Caprice’, fresh with hints of coconut and vanilla; ‘Ivresse’, heady with
patchouli and orange and ‘Imprudence’, a smooth and light chocolate oil. All of them contain aphrodisiacal Ylang-Ylang essence, pure pleasure! How can customers reserve their private session? They can contact us directly at our store, or by calling or sending a ‘WhatsApp’ message to 984 179 1428, or email info@coquineplaya.com. Coquine is also available on Face-
Historically, the boudoir formed part of the private suite of rooms of a lady, for bathing and dressing, adjacent to her bedchamber. In later periods, the boudoir was used as a private drawing room, and was used for other activities, such as embroidery or spending time with one's romantic partner. In Caribbean English, a boudoir is the front room of the house where women entertain family and friends. It has long been fashionable in art to create sensual or suggestive images of women in the boudoir, such as great French artists Degas and Renoir portrayed. Nudity is more often implied than explicit. Nowadays the genre is often used by lovers to surprise their partners with images celebrating the female form in all it’s beauty.
CURRENCY AND METALS DOLLAR Buy 12.90
Sale 13.50
DOLLAR CANADA Buy 11.85
Sale 12.19
POUND Buy 21.73
Sale 22.35
EURO Buy 17.82
Sale 18.33
YEN Buy 0.1275
0.1323
REAL Buy 5.46
5.62
PESO ARGENTINA Buy 1.67
Sale 1.72
SWISS FRANC Buy 14.58
Sale 14.99
* February 17 * Source Banco de México * Flags courtesy www.redpixart.com
14
TAKE A BREAK
February 18-24, 2014
HOROSCOPES AQUARIUS
JANUARY 20THFEBRUARY 18TH This week resist the temptation to deplete resou-
Spanish
Corner
rces that may not be entirely your own. The more you keep track of your finances, the easier it will be to navigate the days ahead.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 19THMARCH 20TH You may want to feel part of something bigger than
Visiting or living in Mexico is one of the best opportunities you’ll have to improve your language skills!
NOPAL CACTUS SALAD WITH CHEESE
yourself, but be careful to choose your causes wisely, this week it's better to grow disenchanted than be misled.
ARIES
MARCH 21STAPRIL 19TH Don't fight any frustrations encountered at the
Here are some basic tips to get you around and to prevent misunderstandings. ¡Buena Suerte!
start of the week because you might want to save your energy for later when there's fun to be had. Take any problems
INGREDIENTS
on the chin.
TAURUS
APRIL 20THMAY 20TH Lunch with a friend brings good conversation plus a few ideas worth considering. However, when it comes to personal goals, an unconventional approach might work best.
GEMINI
MAY 21THJUNE 21TH You won't be happy if someone tries to pin you down. Freedom might be your mantra, but you have tasks or chores to deal with and need to get those out of the way first.
CANCER
JUNE 22ND JULY 22ND Innovative ideas are powerful, and perhaps this is
Greetings Hi! ¡Hola! Good morning! ¡Buenos Días! Good afternoon! ¡Buenas Tardes! Good evening! ¡Buenas Noches! Welcome! ¡Bienvenido! How are you? ¿Cómo estás? I’m fine, thanks! Estoy bien ¡Gracias! And you? ¿Y tú? Good / So-so Bien / Más o menos Thank you (very much)! ¡(Muchas) Gracias! You’re welcome! ¡De Nada! Cheers! Salud! See you later! Hasta luego. See you tomorrow. Hasta mañana.
one time when you should listen. What you hear could lead to a change of direction, perhaps for the better.
LEO
JULY 23RD AUGUST 22ND Discord is possible but don't let minor frustrations keep you from enjoying the days ahead. Your social life seems particularly buoyant, with plenty of opportunities to network.
VIRGO
AUGUST 23RD SEPTEMBER 22ND Stay on your guard against malfunctioning computers or other equipment, especially if you have deadlines to meet or important deals to sign. Give yourself leeway in case of any problems.
Getting to know people Do you speak (English/Spanish)? ¿Hablas Inglés(Español)? Just a little Solo un poquito What’s your name? ¿Cómo te llamas? My name is… Me llamo… Nice to meet you! Mucho gusto! Where are you from? ¿De dónde eres? Where do you live? ¿Dónde vives? I’m from the US/Canada. Soy de (Estados Unidos, Canada)/ soy Americano/Canadiense
Clean, peel and cut the cactus into 1 inch strips and add to the water. Reduce to a simmer and cook until tender and dark green, about 10-15 minutes.
1 pound nopal paddles 1 large white onion 1 garlic clove 2 tomatoes 1 cup chopped cilantro 1 serrano chile ½ tsp. Mexican oregano 2 limes 2 tsp. oil ½ tsp. salt ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco Avocado for garnish
Meanwhile, chop the tomatoes to make about 2 cups, place in a colander and allow to drain. Chop the remaining onion to make about 1 ½ cups. Place into a large bowl and add the cilantro, serrano chile, oregano, juice of the limes, oil and salt. Add the drained tomato and toss gently.
DIRECTIONS:
Once the cactus is tender, place in the colander, rinse with cold water and drain. Add the cactus to the tomato and onion mixture; toss gently and refrigerate at least 1 hour.
Bring a pot of salted water to the boil and add half the onion and garlic clove whole to the water.
To serve, sprinkle with cheese and garnish with avocado slices.
Recipe supplied by Xoco Restaurant 5th Avenue between 38th and 40th
info@xocolatier.com.mx Tel. 984 803 1750 facebook.com/xocolatier
CROSSWORD
LIBRA
SEPTEMBER 23RD OCTOBER 22ND Romance could bring disappointment early on, so have a plan you can fall back on. If you're out and about as a party, this could be a week you won't forget in a hurry.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 23RD NOVEMBER 21ST Even though you want things to be perfect, especially concerning home projects and entertaining, try not to set the bar too high, too early. You could leave yourself open to disappointment.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 22NDDEC 21ST You may feel touched by someone's plight and moved to help. Putting yourself in this person's shoes could give you insight into his or her life, encouraging you to help.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22NDJANUARY 19TH Be patient could be your motto this week, especially as rash words or unpremeditated actions could have consequences. This is so unlike you, yet a moment of madness could cause upset if you aren't careful.
Ask for Help and Directions I’m lost Estoy perdido Can I help you? ¿Le puedo ayudar? Can you help me? ¿Puede ayudarme? Where is the (bathroom/pharmacy)? ¿Dónde está (el baño/ la farmacia)? Go straight! Then turn left/right! Vaya derecho y luego de vuelta a la izquierda/derecha. I’m looking for John. Estoy buscando a Juan. One moment please! ¡Un momento, por favor! How much is this? ¿Cuánto cuesta esto? Excuse me…! (To ask for something) ¡Disculpe! / ¡Oiga! Excuse me! (To pass by) ¡Con permiso!
LAST WEEK'S SOLUTION
CLASSIFIEDS
February 18-24, 2014
Classifieds
FIND ME A HOME
MISSY
RESTAURANTS XOCOLATIER RESTO. For the best traditional Mexican and American style breaksfasts, eggs Benedict, house specialties, fresh coffee, juices and daily lunch specials. Wines and coctails. Wi Fi and air conditioning. On the corner of the 5th, Ave. and 38th. Free Parking available.
Missy is an adorable four year old cat looking for a permanent home, as her guardians are unfortunately leaving Playa. Missy was rescued as a kitten from the jungle and is a highly intelligent, loving animal with a gift for playing soccer! She is fully inoculated and spayed.
RESTAURANTE PATANEGRA. Delicious homemade Spanish food. Try the best tapas, paellas, cold cuts and more. Fine selection of Spanish red and white wines. On 26th St. between Avenues 10 and 15. 984 877 0701. Facebook Restaurante Patanegra.
If you would like to offer Missy a home, please contact Cheryl on 984 100 3889 or email teedoffmexico@gmail.com
THE WEEKLY
G D tip
RESTAURANT RAFAELA Offering fresh or frozen wheat grass juice, also the safest choice pasteurized eggs with no hormones or antibiotics from Kosher certified vegetarian hens. More info at www.safeeggs.com Located at Paseo Tulum, Plaza Golf Drive, Playacar Phase 2. Phone 803 23 54/984 145 6255
Dog Collars, which type is best for your dog? Every dog needs a collar, chiefly because he needs something to hang his ID tag on. The most common style is flat; it has a buckle or plastic snap closure and a ring for attaching identification tags and leash. A flat collar should fit comfortably tight on your dog's neck. The martingale collar is also known as a limited-slip collar. This collar is designed for dogs with narrow heads such as Greyhounds and sight hounds. It is also useful for a dog of any breed that is adept at slipping out of his collar. The head collar
15
MEDICAL & DENTAL
is a variety similar to a horse's halter; one strap of the collar fits around your dog's neck and sits high on the head, just behind the ears. The other strap of the collar forms a loop around your dog's muzzle. The head collar is good for strong, energetic dogs who both jump and pull.
OFFSHORE HEALTH BENEFITS LTD. Global medical insurance and air ambulance For expatriates throughout Latin America. Access to top-rated hospitals throughoout Mexico, USA, Europe and beyond. 25% discount through The Caribbean Expatriate Medical Group No application or agent fees. Vonage (USA) 512 296 4976 www.offshorehealthbenefits.com BOKANOVA DENTAL CENTRE Cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, orthodontics, oral surgery, endodontics ENGLISH SPOKEN Plaza Paraiso 10th Avenue South, near the entrance to Playacar Playa del Carmen. Telephone 984 803 1043 www.bokanova.mx MD PLAYA MEDICAL Specialists in endocrinology, cardiology, general medicine, psychiatry, orthopedics and trauma, dermatology, gynaecology ,obstetrics and children's medicine. Plaza Paraiso Caribe. 5th Street between Avenues 10 & 15. For appointments call 984
803 0648. info@mdplaya.com www.mdplaya.com GENERAL SERVICES ECOMECANICA AUTO REPAIR SHOP 29th Street South Mza 299 Lt. 2 Colonia Ejidal, Playa del Carmen Telephone 984 803 9926 info@ecomecanica.com www.ecomecanica.com ENGLISH TEACHERS NEEDED Looking for English teachers to work part-time in the afternoons. For more information call: 984-807-7072. VACATION RENTALS, HOTELS & APARTMENTS NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY SERVICES Management, rentals and sales at their best. Playa del Carmen, Mexico. CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY! 984 873 3548. website: rentals@nasplaya.com OASIS 12 Luxury Boutique Condominiums OPEN HOUSE MON to SAT 11am - 3pm 20th Avenue & 12th Street Telephone 984 111 3164 www.area-international.com CONTACTS & PERSONALS ROTARY CLUB PLAYA DEL CARMEN SEASIDE English speaking weekly meetings at Barro Negro Restaurant 38th Street and Flamingo Street Tuesdays 12.30pm Visitors are welcome, for more information email kwdoug1@yahoo.com NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS English spoken Tuesdays and Fridays 5.30pm. Spanish spoken Monday to Friday 7pm. 35th Avenue and 34th Street, Playa del Carmen info@naplaya.com TRAVEL & TRANSPORT TAXI SERVICES 24 hour service throughout Playa del Carmen and Cancun TELEPHONE: 984 877 3858 / 3859 / 3860