Edition 22 by theplayatimes

February 25-March 3, 2014 Weekly, Year 01, Number 22, 10,000 Copies,16 Pages

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projects from the Work in Progress and the Cooperation Forum categories that will each receive a RivieraLab Award of $15,300 USD. In total the Festival will award over $115,000 USD in prizes.

The art exhibition “Entre nosotras” will be celebrated on March 8th in commemoration of the International Women Day PAGE 6

DISCOVER MEXICO

he 3rd edition of the Riviera Maya Film Festival will take place from March 9-15 in Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen and Tulum simultaneously. Details were released last Thursday by Paula Chaurand, Director of the festival together with Laura Fernández, representing the governor of Quintana Roo, Roberto Borge Angulo, who presented the program for the upcoming festival. The festival’s growing popularity and rapid success can be owed to its location and quality programming. “We continue this year’s edition of the festival with projections in different parts of the Riviera Maya with "4 Ways to watch movies," and all of our sessions are still free, whilst keeping a quality selection of varied national and international cinema, our aim is to get films more viewers,” said Chauraud. Films will be shown in the classic cinema setting, but also on big screens on some of the most beautiful beaches of the Riviera Maya and in public squares in Tulum and Cancun as well as a drive-in location in Cancun. This year’s festival includes more than 50 feature films from 23 countries. Many highly anticipated films will premiere in Mexico during the festival, such as the epic erotic drama Nymphomaniac, from Danish director Lars von Trier starring Charlotte Gainsbourg, Christian Slater, Uma Thurman and Shia LaBeouf; Spike Lee’s version of Chan-Wook Park’s classic Oldboy starring Josh

Brolin, Elizabeth Olsen and Samuel L. Jackson as well as the long awaited posthumously released Russian science fiction film by Aleksei German, Hard to be God as well as Why Don’t You Play in Hell, a story of two rival yakuza gangs by Japanese director Shion Sono. The categories in the competitive sections of the Festival include Mexican Platform, in which a jury votes for the two best Mexican films, giving Kukulkan Awards worth $23,000 USD to each, and a Kukulkan Youth Jury Award, worth $7,600 USD voted for by a jury of 15 young people from Quintana Roo. An international jury will also select four

KNOW COATIS Two species of coatis, member of raccoon family, are found in Riviera Maya where they live in dense forest and jungle PAGE 11 Paula Chaurand, Director of the festival together with Laura Fernández, representing the governor of Quintana Roo, Roberto Borge Angulo

This year’s festival includes more than 50 feature films from 23 countries

DINING OUT

BY AGENCY

ART FOR THE WOMEN Photos: Agency

FILM FESTIVAL 2014

COMMUNITY

THE RIVIERA MAYA

RESTAURANT REVIEW This week we visit this family-run restaurant which has brought the authentic Mexican taste to Playacar PAGE 9

February 25-March 3, 2014

ditorial

The ‘Three Amigos’

DIRECTORY

meet for trade talks in Mexico

Omar Tornel Managing Editor omar@theplayatimes.com

ast Wednesday saw the arrival of President Obama in Toluca, where he met with President Enrique Peña Nieto and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper to discuss commerce, immigration, energy and security at the 2014 North American Leaders Summit. The meeting comes 20 years after the United States, Canada and Mexico signed the North American Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The leaders expressed that they wanted to update the old agreement and for it to go further, allowing trade to flow more easily between the countries. Mr. Harper arrived a day early for talks with Mr. Peña Nieto and the two countries signed an agreement to expand air travel between them. The three leaders met to strengthen their relationship and to open a new chapter of the partnership between them, acknowledging Mexico as one of the most competitive and dynamic economies in the world. They stated that the NAFTA

María Morote Copy Writer maria@theplayatimes.com

Gema García Chief Reporter gema@theplayatimes.com

Efrén Velázquez Graphic Design efren@theplayatimes.com

Elizabeth Urraza Operations & Marketing elizabeth@theplayatimes.com

Mario A. Belmont Advertising Sales 984-745 0698 mario@theplayatimes.com

Distribution

distribution@theplayatimes.com

Presidents Barack Obama and Enrique Peña Nieto and Prime Minister Stephen Harper civil societies, academics, entrepreneurs, and other factors has a direct and positive impact in the lives and wellbeing of our peoples. The future

of North America is even more brilliant than its past and together we can make it the most competitive and dynamic region in the world.” Photos: Agency

theplayatimes

agreement is now worth more than one trillion dollars per year while investments within the region have been multiplied six fold. Some of the main topics like public security and global issues addressed their commitment to improve the exchange of information and coordination among law-enforcement authorities. Shared and inclusive prosperity was highlighted by seeking new standards of global trade, with further liberalization in the Asia-Pacific region through the ambitious Trans-Pacific Partnership. They also discussed some new topics such as academic exchange, the development of affordable, clean and reliable energy supplies, and the efforts towards ensuring the conservation of the environment. The three leaders summit concluded with the following joint statement; “The collaboration between our governments,

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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.

A commemorative plaque of the summit was presented

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LOCAL NEWS

February 25-March 3, 2014

Where to buy your fish fresh from the boat Photo: Gema García

BY GEMA GARCÍA

hree tons of fresh fish is landed daily in Playa del Carmen by local fishermen. The catch is then sold to local restaurants and shipped to neighboring cities. Yet another great advantage of living in paradise is being able to get our fresh fish direct from the boats, but where do we go? The Playa Times interviewed José Gómez Burgos, president of the Xaman-Ha fishing cooperative. José has been a fisherman since his youth, and today he is one of the men in charge of supervising and protecting the fishing zones here in Playa. “The fish caught every morning sells really quickly and by around 9am people start making their orders.” He suggests that anyone who wishes to purchase fresh fish direct goes to 16th Street and the beach, or to the end of CTM Street adjacent to the Cocobay Hotel, from around 10am, which is usually when

People buying fresh fish on16th St. and the beach the local fishermen return with their daily catch. “You need to get there early as demand is high and not many fishermen now have a

commercial permit. A kilo of filet is normally priced somewhere between $50 and $60 pesos, it’s not only the freshest you can buy, but also far

cheaper. We also look after our regular customers and offer them good prices!” added José Gómez Burgos. He also told us that it is

charity auction

BY ELIZABETH URRAZA Last week the local Playa del Carmen based project Keep Kids In School held their annual charity auction to raise funds for the next school year’s materials. The charity helps children of low-income families by supporting local schools with materials and teaching volunteers as well as supplying local children with backpacks equipped with the necessary school supplies. This year over 30 items were donated for a live auction, together with many more for the silent and online auctions. One of the organizers Gayle Collins told The Playa Times that each year they aim to raise $7000 USD, “hopefully we’ll make it this year as well so we can cater for 100 more kids, which is our 2014 goal!” Each backpack costs between $30

to $35 USD and last year the charity was also able to provide English Language material and volunteers for local schools. “Kids in this area need to learn English to be able to have a brighter future”, said Gayle. The auction attracted over 100 bidders and there was a great atmosphere at this year’s auction venue, the Wah Wah Beach Bar. The Playa Times continues to support the valuable work of the Keep Kids in School project during 2014, and If you missed the auction, don’t worry, you can still be part of their Family Sponsorship Program by helping a local family with a $150 USD donation per year, guaranteeing children will receive the school supplies they require for the academic year. You can contact the project via the website www. kkisproject.org or by sending an email to info@kkisprject.org or the Facebook page The KKIS Project.

Over 30 items were donated for the KKIS charity live auction

still the current season for snapper, yellowtail, white grunt, striped mullet and the most popular, greater amberjack. Other occasional catches include swordfish, wahoo and tuna, however as they are migratory the catch is irregular. Mr. Burgos told us that grouper is now in closed season so he advises readers not to buy it, as it is currently illegal to do so. On this topic, he mentioned his never-ending struggle against illegal capture of forbidden species such as sea turtles. He told us that unfortunately there are still people willing to buy sea turtles for consumption, which motivates some fishermen to catch them for extra money. “Buying any species that is in closed season or endangered is a federal crime and is punishable by a prison sentence, please help us do this the right way and help us protect our source of income and food. If you see anything that does not conform to the regulations, please let the authorities know, so we can keep our sea sustainable!” To report any unlawful fishing or activities please contact PROFEPA, the Federal Attorney for the Protection of the Environment by emailing denuncias@ profepa.gob.mx Or by calling 01-800-PROFEPA (770 33 72) or via the website www.profepa.gb.mx

Photos: Elizabeth Urraza

Keep Kids in School

The auction attracted over 100 bidders to Wah Wah Beach Club

LOCAL NEWS

February 25-March 3, 2014

Preserving

indigenous languages BY GEMA GARCÍA

he lecture ‘Languages in danger of extinction’ was given at the Cultural Center of Playa del Carmen last Friday by the president of the National Indigenous Association for the Autonomy of Quintana Roo (ANIPA), Hermelindo Be Cituk, who said that Mayan language is expected to disap-

pear in the next 40 years, as the numbers of speakers continues to decrease. Currently, Mayan is the main indigenous language within the state of Quintana Roo with more than 170,000 speakers. Nationally there are around 800,000 speakers, making Mayan the second indigenous language after Nahuatl with approximately 1.5 million speakers nationally. De-

Traditional dancers of Quintana Roo closed the event

spite current national programs aiming to protect them, there are fewer and fewer native languages speakers, said Be Cituk. The president of ANIPA said that the problem is caused by the lack of employment in indigenous communities, which then forces inhabitants to leave in order to find work. Once native language speakers leave these communities, they are obliged to speak

Spanish and the native Mayan language falls into decline. He added that there are other issues concerning the use of Mayan, such as some employers not hiring Mayan workers, which causes these communities to disown, not just their language, but also their customs. Hermelindo Be Cituk stated that there are 10 native languages in Mexico from which a further 68 dialects derive. The Tzeltal language from the state of Chiapas is the only one whose numbers of speakers are rising thanks to the state’s preservation programs. Nevertheless, in Quintana Roo no protective laws to preserve Mayan have been put into operation and public or private initiatives appear not to be enough. Five different indigenous languages are currently spoken in Playa del Carmen due to the large itinerate population from the other states of Mexico. Mayan is the main language with approximately 20,000 speakers followed by Tzotzil, 3,500; Chol, 3,000; Tzeltal, 3,000 and Nahuatl, 450. Be Cituk said that this year public resources are expected to be set aside to help preserve native languages in Quintana Roo. Mayan language workshops, exhibitions, lectures and other activities that promote the use of Mayan, at least amongst indigenous people, are planned as a part of the preservation program. One of the projects planned is a poster campaign in native languages so indigenous people living in Playa del Carmen feel less marginalized.

Photos: Agency

Hermelindo Be Cituk gave the conference “Languages in danger of extinction”

COMMUNITY

February 25-March 3, 2014

104 years of Red Cross in

Mexico

BY GEMA GARCĂ?A

Photo: Agency

ast Friday saw the anniversary of the International Red Cross in Mexico with a delegation from the Playa del Carmen municipality of Solidaridad visiting a local senior citizens facility. General Manager of the local Red Cross, Horacio Moreno, stated that annually the Red Cross in Mexico takes care of over 38,500 people. Red Cross is the biggest humanitarian aid institution in Mexico with over 42 thousand volunteers, which in 2013 supplied more than 1.3 million free ambulance services, and attended to over 5.7 million medical consultations. Currently the Mexican Red Cross has a total of 532 delegations with over 12,000 Emergency Medical Technicians, 350 natural disaster specialists, 39 hospitals throughout the country and a National Training Facility in Toluca. Horacio Moreno spoke during an interview with The Playa Times about the improvements that have been made since 1990, when the Red Cross first started to operate in Playa del Carmen. Back then they had just 5 members that covered all areas and the facilities were a small room in the town center. Today the team has 47 permanent members plus numerous volunteers and they offer specialized services like cardiology, pediatric, laboratory analysis, ultrasound, X-rays, and physical therapy. In the past 4 years they have widened their services to cover Puerto Aventuras, opening an extra facility in Villas del Sol that can cater for anywhere between 50 and 80 patients each month. Recently the Red Cross also opened new facilities in the Villamar II district, which takes care of 3,200 patients monthly. They have 5 ambulances that respond to up to 350 call outs per month, or more during the high tourist season. Finally Moreno added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We ask all the community to continue supporting us, donations to Red Cross are our main source of sustainability, we now have bigger facilities and therefore greater costs. You never know when you may need the assistance of the Red Cross, but we do know that the Red Cross constantly needs the assistance of all of us, today on the 104th anniversary in Mexico, we thank you for your continued supportâ&#x20AC;?.

Pick yourof free copy

Available at the

ADO Bus Stations on 5th Avenue and 20th and 12th

The Red Cross in Playa del Carmen has 47 permanent members

COMMUNITY

February 25-March 3, 2014

Photos: Agency

International Women’s Day Art Exhibition

BY GEMA GARCIA

n appeal has been made for all artists living in or working in Playa del Carmen, to take part in the upcoming art exhibition ‘Entre Nosotras’ (Among Us), celebrating International Woman’s Day on March 8th. The exhibition will be held at El Eden Art Garden located in Constituyentes Avenue and 95th Street. The theme of the exhibition is to celebrate this important day through artistic perspectives that express gender equality, women rights, empowerment, and femininity. The event has been organized

The art exhibition “Entre Nosotras” will celebrate the International Women´s Day by several local associations working to improve women’s quality of life, including the

Entre Nosotras association, Yoliguani House for single mothers, El Eden Art Garden,

Local gay support group’s annual march “What we want to achieve is to be treated as equal, because we are no different than anyone else,” said Jan Novak, president of Fusion G Playa del Carmen, a 2000 strong group representing the gay community of Playa. The group formed 10 years ago here in Playa and organizes activities raising awareness and equality for the local gay community. One of the group’s founders, Jan Novak, is originally from the Czech Republic but is now a naturalized Mexican, having arrived here 18 years ago. He spoke to The Playa Times stating that the aim of the group is to promote a better quality of life throughout the community. “Adding talents, saving lives, is the slogan of the group and highlights how everyone has unique abilities, and if we all work together we can raise awareness and tolerance in our society toward the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, intersexual and heterosexual community. The best way to promote awareness is through art and its many ways of expression. Art is a universal language that everyone understands. Cinema, theatre, poetry, books, music, all these mediums can help us achieve our goals in a dynamic way”, enthused Jan. Fusion G participates actively in campaigns, social events, and peaceful rallies throughout the Riviera Maya. Every year they take part in the national Gay Pride march in Mexico City and

Photo: Agency

BY GEMA GARCÍA

Jan Novak, president of Fusion G they are currently preparing for the May March, which will take place between Fifth Avenue and Fundadores Park. Jan Novak emphasized that there are also many heterosexual members in the group and that everyone is welcome to participate, no one is excluded and they may be contacted through the Facebook page Fusion G Playa Del Carmen. “We need help and support for all our events, but unfortunately some people hear the word gay and immediately doors close. This makes it difficult, but we will continue our drive to lead dignified lives like everyone else,” concluded Jan Novak.

and photographer Yenny Gaona. The non-profit event offers the opportunity for all local

community artists to showcase their creativity and inspiration. Artists may display paintings, drawings, sculptures and photographs. In an interview with The Playa Times, Yenny Gaona said that the event was created to celebrate International Women’s Day. “We wanted an event that could represent the role of woman in society and what better way than to express it though art! We invite all locals, expats and visitors to come and be part of this art exhibition, whether by submitting a piece of artwork or by visiting the exhibition”. If you would like to exhibit any artwork, the following criteria are required; one piece of art per artist may be submitted, the topics include gender equality and rights, femininity, and the empowerment of women, original pieces only and no bigger than a meter in size. There is a $200 peso fee charged per artist, and the deadline to register is February 28th. If you are interested in participating, please email Yenny Gaona at yen.fotografía@hotmail. com, jardín_eden_gallery@yahoo.com or via the website webgaleria@prodigy.net.mx or contact organizers through El Eden Jardin de Arte Facebook page.

ART & CULTURE

February 25-March 3, 2014

07 Photo:Gabriel Palatchi Band

Latin fusion with the

Gabriel Platchi Band BY MARÍA MOROTE

“

I wouldn’t say we play a single musical genre, since the band’s concept is to mix different styles like Afro-Cuban, tango, Balkan, klezmer (Jewish music) and funk, so our concerts always contain a little bit of everything”, said Gabriel Palatchi, during the last interview between The Playa Times and the bands performing at the upcoming free Puerto Morelos Music Festival, from February 27th to March 1st. Jazz fusion lovers; prepare to see a band that makes each concert a truly unique event. The Gabriel Palatchi Band will be playing the main stage at the Central Park of Puerto Morelos on February 28th at 7.45pm and promise to be one of the most entertaining shows of the festival. Palatchi usually collaborates with different musicians at each event, and on this occasion he will play with “semi-local” musicians like himself, which is how he refers to musicians Chema Gonzales from Mexico City (drums) and David Viddala from Paris (bass). The Argentinian pianist, compos-

er and producer began studying piano when he was 8 years old and since then has learnt from maestros such as Álvaro Torres, Ricardo Nole and Ernesto Jodos, as well as with Cuban musician Chucho Valdez. In 2001 he formed his own band and released his first album ‘Diario de Viaje’ (Travel Diary, 2010) based on his journey through Argentina, Mexico and Cuba. The album achieved great success in Europe and in America and JAZZ FM Toronto 91.1 chose it as one of the best Latin Jazz albums of the year. Over the last two years the band has played numerous festivals such as the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, Waterloo International Jazz Festival, Victoria Tango Festival, Caribbean Days Festival and Fiestaval Latin Festival. It is also not the first time that Gabriel Palatchi has performed in Mexico; “Normally, when I am in Mexico I spend most of my time in Tulum playing at various places and composing new music. I also visit Mexico City, where I recorded my first album. I heard about the Puerto Morelos Music Festival, and since it has been over 6 years since I

The Gabriel Palatchi Band will be playing at Puerto Morelos Music Festival on February 28th first played in the Riviera Maya, I am really happy to be participating in this year’s event, sharing my music and meeting new artists and musicians”, said Palatchi. The Gabriel Palatchi Band will play songs of his second album ‘Caja Musical’ (Music Box, 2013) but also some previously unreleased tracks from the new album they are currently working on. Their melodies mix jazz, salsa, Afro-Cuban with funk and Middle East rhythms such as Balkan, Arabic, Jewish and gypsy music. Gabriel does not forget his roots either with tango and electro-tango influences usual, as well as inspiration

from Mexican music; “I like ‘son jarocho’ (folk music from Veracruz) in particular. It is similar to Argentinian folk and has similar roots with genres like chacarera and chamame”. The band’s music is available for free from the group´s official page www.gabrielpalatchi.com Tours dates; pictures and information can be also found there and on the Facebook page Gabriel Palatchi. Don’t forget to check the Puerto Morelos Music Festival´s schedule on www. festivalmusicapuertomorelos.com or on the Facebook page, Festival de Musica de Puerto Morelos.

Art as a healing process: Lorena Ancona The painting exhibition ‘Negroazul. Canto a la libertad’; which translates as ‘Blackblue. A tribute to freedom’, by the Chetumal artist Lorena Ancona, opened at the Casona interior design studio on 25th Avenue and 28th Street last week. This is Ancona´s first individual exhibition and her work is displayed within the studio so visitors may appreciate the canvases as if they were mounted in a private residential setting. “The paintings are part of a recent stage of my life which lasted for over a year. The idea was to recover my creative freedom, and I think the exhibition title denotes the healing process that my artistic process meant to me. I don’t want to restrict the viewing experience to just an idea, my point is to transmit sensory freedom. Through my paintings I

Photo: Lorena Ancona

BY MARÍA MOROTE

“Negroazul. Canto a la libertad” will be displayed at Casona interior design studio until March 21st recovered a creative state of mind that I had missed for a while”, said Lorena Ancona whilst talking to The Playa Times. The painter, 32, grew up in Cancun and left to study art at

La Esmeralda National School of Painting, Sculpture and Engraving in Mexico City. Ancona´s artistic interests are not limited to painting, she has also created a video presentation that combines percus-

sion music with images of cenotes: “I started painting when I was able to hold a pencil. I used to draw fishes on my bed sheets when I was a child! My inspiration comes from diverse artistic forms such

as cinema, dance and music but regarding painting my inspiring artists would be Neo Rauch, Francesca Woodman, Robert Frank, Edward Hopper and Otto Dix”. The moon, crows and nudity are some of the images that Lorena uses in her work to express the artistic healing process she has been through. Natural elements seem to be particularly relevant for her and the exhibition closing date is scheduled for March 21st, coinciding with the vernal or spring equinox, when she plans to hold a special event. Lorena Ancona is currently working on a dance collaboration and her photography portfolio. She also plans to add to her current exhibition. Those interested in her work can contact her via Facebook; Lorena Ancona or via email at lorena.ancona@gmail.com and check her paintings on the page http:// lorenaancona.com.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

February 25-March 3, 2014

Dental tips during pregnancy BY DR. ESTEBAN BARRAGÁN

regnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing gum disease that, in turn, can affect the health of your developing baby. Here are some tips to help you maintain good oral health before, during, and after pregnancy. Try to make a dental appointment before getting pregnant. That way, your teeth can be professionally cleaned, gum tissue can be carefully examined, and any oral health problems can be treated in advance of your pregnancy. Tell your dentist if you are pregnant. As a precautionary measure, dental treatments during the first trimester and second half of the third trimester should be avoided. These are critical times in the baby's growth and development and it's wise to avoid exposing the mother to procedures that could influence the baby's growth and development. However, routine dental care can be received during the second trimester. All elective dental procedures should be postponed until after the delivery. Avoid dental X-rays during pregnancy. Don't skip your dental checkup appointment simply because you are pregnant. Now, more so than at any other time, regular gum exams are important as pregnancy causes hormonal changes that put you at increased risk of periodontal disease and a condition called pregnancy gin-

Chiropractic

and discs

BY DR. RICHARD MCCARTHY

givitis. Pay particular attention to any changes in your gums during pregnancy. Maintain healthy circulation by keeping your legs uncrossed while you sit in the dentist’s chair; take a pillow to help keep you and the baby more comfortable. Eating right for your teeth and baby, avoid sugary snacks. Sweet cravings are common during pregnancy. However,

keep in mind that the more frequently you snack, the greater the chance of developing tooth decay. Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Your baby's first teeth begin to develop about three months into pregnancy. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that pregnant women eat a balanced diet, brush their teeth thoroughly with ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste twice

a day, and floss daily. After delivery, if you experienced any gum problems during your pregnancy, see your dentist soon after delivery to have your entire mouth examined and periodontal health evaluated. info@bokanova.mx Dr. Esteban Barragán PhD MSD DDS Clinic Director

Back pain and treatment

with ozone therapy

BY DR. LUIS DAVID SUÁREZ

It is estimated that almost 25% of the world’s population suffers from back pain due to degenerative disc disease at a certain point in their lives. This makes back pain the third most common cause for medical consultations worldwide, and the subsequent costs in disability and days off are some of the most prominent expenses for public health care systems. Our spine is a collection of 24 bones, or vertebras, separated from one another by intervertebral discs, articulated to each other by the facet joints and held together by ligaments and muscles. Back pain can originate from several of these structures. One of the most common problems we see in practice is pain originated from the intervertebral disc, a cartilaginous structure that is meant to separate the vertebras and serve as a load distributor and shock absorber for the spinal loads and movements. These discs can give rise to a dull, heavy pain located on the center of the spine once they start the degen-

erative process that is inevitable with ageing; but is precipitated by lack of exercise, overweight, poor diet and posture, pre-existing conditions like arthritis and many other factors. The treatment offered by conventional medicine includes surgery (which has a success rate of 70%), prescription of narcotics and steroids (sometimes for a lifetime of addiction and side effects), and physical therapy. Ozone therapy has been used since the 1980’s with great success to treat cervical and lumbar herniated discs. Injected as a deep intramuscular injection at the level of the herniated disc, the gas stimulates the antioxidant system and cascades a biochemical chain reaction that reduces pain and inflammation through cytokine release and modulation. It provides an oxygen rich environment, improving the local circulation, an effect from which other structures like the facet joints, the para-spinal ligaments and even the spinal nerves benefit from. In a 2009 paper, the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) of the US reviewed 8,000 MRI’s of patients with cervical

Many people have heard the common terms disc problem, herniated disc, or slipped disc. I would like to give you some information for those that would like to know more about vertebral discs, but more importantly give you insight on what a chiropractor can do for various disc problems. There are discs between each vertebrae of the spine. They are made of cartilage and have a small fluid filled center called the nucleus. The discs in the vertebrae of the neck are smaller in size and get progressively larger as you go down the spine. Some people have disc problems in the neck and others have disc problems in the middle back, but 95% of disc problems are in the lower back at the 4th or 5th lumbar. These are the bottom discs of the spine and carry the most weight when lifting and bending. If you lift too much or are in a bad position for lifting you can cause the fluid filled center of the disc to tear the cartilage fibers. The disc can then bulge out of position causing a herniated disc or slipped disc. You may experience severe lower back pain, difficulty walking or moving, leg pains and many other symptoms. A chiropractor can work on this problem and usually obtains good results. If after a few weeks of treatment the progress is not satisfactory, this usually means a more severe disc injury requiring alternative treatment or possible surgery. I believe that chiropractic should be the first choice of care for disc problems. It is a drugless natural treatment and has been effective in the treatment of spine related problems for countless millions of patients.

CHIROPRACTOR or lumbar herniated discs before and after ozone therapy and the results were so good that they recommend that spinal surgery should be attempted only after a

negative ozone therapy trial test. Consider consulting a properly trained medical specialist in ozone therapy before going under the knife.

for a safe, effective chiropractor DR. RICHARD McCARTHY at THE NEW GYM, Playa del Carmen

Tel.: 984 873 2098

DINING OUT

February 25-March 3, 2014

Restaurant review

Rafaela’s, a breakfast and brunch haven in peaceful Playacar BY ELIZABETH URRAZA

This week we took time out to visit Eduardo and Sofia at Restaurant Rafaela in Playacar for a well-earned and hearty brunch. Restaurant Rafaela is located at Golf Drive Plaza, adjacent to the roundabout, near the Playacar entrance on the highway, close to the Hospiten facility. The menu is varied and they specialize in hearty, healthy breakfasts and lunches. I found this authentic family-run business the perfect place to sit on the terrace and enjoy what was a delicious and fresh meal at a very reasonable price. Their service was exceptional with Eduardo happy to offer suggestions, as he knows the chef very well, Sofia his wife! With a humble smile, she referred to herself as a cook rather than a chef, “It just sounds more homemade, especially as everything we serve here is authentic and cooked from scratch”. I had a hard time making a decision since the freshly prepared salads, fish dishes, shrimp cocktails and pasta options all seemed very tempting, but after re-reading the entire menu, one of the house specialties caught my eye; Chile en Nogada. Chile en Nogada, is a Poblano chile filled with a mixture of ground meat with peach, apple, dried fruits, garlic and smothered in a creamy pecan based sauce and topped with pomegranate. Can you get more

The most recent addition to the menu, the Kobe beef burger exotic than that? As this dish has an extensive list of ingredients and preparation is quite meticulous, you don’t often see it on a menu, or at least not in its authentic form, but Rafaela’s Chile en Nogada blew my mind. It had a perfect balance of flavors that complimented each other faultlessly, perfect heat, spices and texture. This was one of the best I have tasted, and being Mexican, I know my Chile en Nogada! On the side, Eduardo brought a plate of their traditional and ever-popular red chilaquiles, the tortilla chip based dish covered with chiles and homemade tomato sauce and topped with cream and cheese. They had a robust but extremely

tasty heat and the just the right consistency, I understand why this is one of Rafaela’s most popular dishes for a late breakfast or brunch. My brunch partner had the most recent addition to the menu, the Kobe beef burger with bacon and cheese plus French fries. It came as a very generous portion with perfectly fried bacon, light manchego cheese and fresh lettuce and tomato. Kobe style meat comes from Japanese wagyu cattle from the Tajima strain now bred in the US and Canada from Angus cattle. The meat is 100% organic, and no antibiotics are used. The burger meat was juicy and extremely flavorful, Sofia grilled it expertly and the French

fries were absolutely awesome! In conclusion Restaurant Rafaela is a casual and homely environment that has something for everyone, healthy and fresh at an affordable price. This place could so easily be overlooked in Playacar, but is it definitely worth a visit for a relaxed, breakfast, brunch or lunch. If you don’t live in Playacar you may still visit, just enter the residential area through anyone of the gates; you just need to show an ID. The restaurant is also a short walk from any of the Playacar all-inclusive resorts, if you need a break from the ubiquitous buffets. Opening hours are 08.30 to 17.30 Monday to Friday, 09.00 to 15.30 Saturdays and 09.00 to 17.30 on Sundays. They also specialize in freshly prepared juices and wheatgrass shots.

TUESDAY

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. 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. PAINTING LESSONS every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 12am and from 4pm to 6pm. At Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. $100 MXN to cover materials.

WEDNESDAY

FILM SHOWING ‘The Sacrifice’ 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. 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, gluten-free products and salsas. akluum@gmail.com BICINETA BIKE RIDES meeting every Wednesday at 8pm at the City Hall, Plaza 28 de Julio, on 8th St. and 15th Ave. Get to know the bike paths of Playa del Carmen and meet likeminded local bikers.

THURSDAY

PUERTO MORELOS MUSIC FESTIVAL from 5.30pm to 11pm at the Central Park of Puerto Morelos on Tulum Avenue and Rafael E. Melgar Avenue. Free entrance. Three-day event. 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 DOCUMENTARY ‘The Great Salmon Run’ at 7pm at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. Watch BBC Nature´s Great Events documentaries every Thursday for free. CINE CLUB every Thursday at 7pm at the Cultural Center of Playa del Carmen on Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Ave. Free entrance.

ENTERTAINMENT

February 25-March 3, 2014

FRIDAY

LECTURE ‘Biological Treasures from Cenotes’ by Dr. Jill Yager. 6pm at the City Hall auditorium on 8th St. and 20th Ave. Free entrance.

PUERTO MORELOS MUSIC FESTIVAL from 5.30pm to 11pm at the Central Park of Puerto Morelos on Tulum Avenue and Rafael E. Melgar Avenue. Free entrance. SPANISH CLASSES. Every Friday from 6pm to 7.30pm at Chichen Itza Language 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.

SATURDAY

CARNIVAL OF PLAYA DEL CARMEN PARADE at 6pm from Parque Fundadores on 1st South Ave. and the beach. PUERTO MORELOS MUSIC FESTIVAL from 5.30pm to 11pm at the Central Park of Puerto Morelos on Tulum Avenue and Rafael E. Melgar Avenue. Free entrance. WOMENS CIRCLE. Every Saturday at 11am at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre. Share your experiences. 80th St, between 10th and 5th. For more information contact centrocaracol@gmail.com. WRITING AND LITERATURE WORKSHOP every Saturday from 4pm to 6pm at Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. all ages welcome. 2 hours. $150 MXN. 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 95th St. in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance.

SUNDAY

ARTISTIC MORNINGS every Sunday from 11.30 at Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. Come and enjoy an artistic performance.

MONDAY

FLAMENCO DANCE LESSONS every Monday and Friday from 11am to 12pm at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre. Given by flamenco dancer Brenda Barba. 80th St. between 10th and 5th Ave. For more information contact centrocaracol@ gmail.com.

DISCOVER MEXICO

February 25-March 3, 2014

perfumed tails

During Pre-Hispanic times, early settlers called Playa del Carmen Xaman-Ha. Xaman-Ha meant ‘northern water’, and was named by Maya travelling from Guatemala to populate the area and became the point from which to make the sacred pilgrimage to the sanctuary of Ixchel, the goddess of childbirth, on the island of Cozumel. The passage of boats that we have today reflects the same movement, as it was then, that of fishermen and visitors to and from the nearby island. Undoubtedly, when the Maya discovered these perfect beaches, turquoise waters, abundant wildlife and saw a mysterious island before them, they decided to stay and build their community. Today one of the original constructions still remains as ruins in the middle of downtown Playa Carmen on 4th Street and the beach. This stone structure measures around 15 by 20 ft and is 15ft high. It has a large frontal window and an entrance to the rear, the traditional Mayan way of building perfectly ventilated constructions. This small structure was located strategically on the highest part of the beach, and is believed to have been a lookout for supervising boat activities. It was also the best way

fights, or to convey irritation or anger. Their long tails are also used for communication as well as for balance and for identifying group members in a crowd. Coatis also have a very quirky habit of dipping their noses into something flowery or perfumed and then rubbing it onto their tails. Due to their generally small size the coatis’ normal predators are wild cats, pumas, jaguars, along with birds of prey, snakes and crocodiles. Luckily these types of predators are not too prevalent in the all-inclusive hotels or on the Playacar golf course, so they tend to have a bit of a free reign. Their breeding season coincides with the start of the rainy season when there is more of an abundance of food. They are omnivores and eat fruit, eggs and meat; iguanas allegedly, are terrified of the coati. However the coatis in the all-inclusive hotels are not short of supplies and the guests love to feed them chips and fries to get a photo of these endearing little rascals. Which in turn has meant they have begun to turn up their long, flexible snouts at natural grains and berries, preferring nachos with cheese from the beach bars. Those who feed the coati should be aware that when provoked, or in defense coatis can be fierce, they have strong jaws with sharp canine teeth and fast scratching paws.

ou may have already encountered the cute raccoon like creature hanging around the snack bars at the all-inclusive hotels or marauding around the golf courses. These loveable rogues are ‘coatis’, (koh-WAH-ti) or ‘pizotes’ (pi-ZOT-ez) as they are called here in the Yucatan. They are in fact a member of the raccoon family and can vary in color from cinnamon to reddish-brown or chocolate. The coati is primarily found in dense forest or jungle, as they prefer to spend most of their time in the safety of trees. Two species are found here in the Rivera Maya, the white-nosed coati and the Cozumel Island coati. The Cozumel coatis are found only there and it is believed that the Mayans introduced them to the island and they are smaller than the other species. Coatis form social groups of anywhere between 10 to 30 individuals, known as a band. These groups consist of females and immature males. The groups move like a traveling circus of tails, with the rowdy children always lagging behind. Coatis communicate their intentions or moods with chirping, snorting, or grunting sounds. Different chirping sounds are used to express joy during social grooming, appeasement after

The secret ruins of

little of the

Playa del Carmen Photos: Gema García

BY GEMA GARCÍA

BY E.FLORES

Photos: Agency

Comical coati and their

The ruins are open free of charge on 4th St. and the beach to anticipate any unwanted visitors. It was the welcoming port for Cozumel inhabitants as well as the first point of contact with the mainland, something like our ferry pier nowadays. The Maya were well known for being an or-

ganized culture, so it is thought they kept record of all boat movements and very probably had an overseer in charge of the maritime activities. There is a second lookout on 14th Street with the beach and

with both structures lit at night; they may have been navigation points for incoming vessels. Both buildings, although they are now protected property of the government, are open free of charge to anyone who wishes to discover a

Mayan world on their own. They are concealed by new constructions and between hotels, and as they not so well known, not many people are even aware they exist. This is one of the reasons that they are still so well preserved. They are protected by a fence, stopping anyone damaging or removing the stonework, but still perfectly enjoyable to visitors. It is accessible from 7am to 10 pm daily. Another interesting fact about these structures is that there are many of them strategically distanced throughout the peninsula, and it is believed that using conch shells as alarms the Maya would pass messages from one to the other, until they arrived to the great capital of Chichen Itza.

HOME LIFE

February 25-March 3, 2014

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Mexico by design

Palm Woven Sculptures BY ELIZABETH URRAZA Mixtec Indians from the central valleys of Mexico have woven palm fibers into items for decorative and practical use for centuries. Weaving baskets, hats, and mats has been a pre-Columbian practice in many native cultures of Mexico, but the tradition of making sculptures out of this material is a more recent practice. During the early 20th century, weaving palm fronds into figures depicting the daily life or traditional rituals created a new era in the art of palm weaving. The weaving of more intricate min-

iature sculptures is even more recent and dates back to the mid 1960â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. For Mexicans these tiny works of art represent the national identity. For those that visit from abroad it symbolizes an authentic Mexico and its handicraft movement. Ironically, to the traditional weavers from the state of Puebla, these miniature sculptures have no great traditional or symbolic value, only a commercial one.

Photo: Agency

Do you own a property management company or real estate business?

Quadra Alea

ENTERPRISE FOCUS

February 25-March 3, 2014

CURRENCY AND METALS DOLLAR Buy 12.92

Sale 13.47

DOLLAR CANADA Buy 11.76

Sale 12.10

POUND Buy 21.68

Sale 22.29

EURO Buy 17.89

Sale 18.40

YEN Buy 0.1270

Sale 0.1318

REAL Buy 5.58

Sale 5.74

PESO ARGENTINA Buy 1.65

Sale 1.70

SWISS FRANC Buy 114.65

Sale 15.07

* February 24 * Source Banco de México * Flags courtesy www.redpixart.com

TAKE A BREAK

February 25-March 3, 2014

HOROSCOPES PISCES

FEBRUARY 19THMARCH 20TH You may get an energy and confidence boost that

Spanish

Corner

encourages you to express an idea you've been hatching. Artistic and creative qualities could be very much in evidence later in the week.

ARIES

MARCH 21STAPRIL 19TH

BY FELIPE AGUILAR

Social Protocol:

You could be quite sensitive to other people's moods so try not to take offense where none is intended. You might also be inclined to sacrifice time and energy to

“Con permiso, por favor” with your permission, please/excuse me.

help someone.

TAURUS

APRIL 20THMAY 20TH Some chores may be screaming for attention before you kick back and relax with a special someone. The forces of confusion could be causing mixed messages

At this request people will quickly move aside and sometimes say “Propio” or “it’s yours”. As you pass, you can say “gracias, adios”, or thank you, goodbye

and misunderstandings.

GEMINI

MAY 21THJUNE 21TH Get ready to shine. Use this opportunity to showcase your skills, especially if it could lead to a better job or an exciting offer. Take it easy when signing important documents.

CANCER

JUNE 22ND JULY 22ND If you feel like trying some DIY projects, it might be time to get started. However, you may also embrace the option of travel or even study. The chance to expand your knowledge could be quite enticing.

LEO

CHILEATOLE - GREEN CHILE SOUP WITH CORN INGREDIENTS 46 SERVINGS: 1 tbsp. vegetable oil 1 cup diced white onion 2 jalapeno chiles (stemmed, seeded and quartered) 4 poblano chiles (roasted, seeded and diced) 4 anaheim chilies (roasted, seeded and diced) 4 ears fresh corn kernels 6 cups water 2 tsps. salt 10 large epazote leaves, shredded ½ bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped ½ tsps. ground black pepper DIRECTIONS:

“Buen Provecho” This translates as “I hope you get the most from your meal”. It is a blessing on their meal. People will always look up, smile and say gracias. It is common in a restaurant to say “buen provecho” as you pass a table of people eating, whether you make eye contact or not. People really appreciate this gesture.

JULY 23RD  AUGUST 22ND It may help to know your limitations. Try not to

In a 10-inch skillet, heat the oil over a medium heat. Add the onion and all the chiles and cook, stirring, until the onion is soft and pale gold, for about 5 minutes. Transfer to a 5 quart slow cooker. Place the corn in a food processor and pulse several times, until the kernels are broken up but it is not quite smooth. Add to the slow cooker along with the water and salt. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. Stir in the epazote, cilantro, and pepper. Puree in batches in a blender, or with an immersion blender right in the crockpot, until it is smooth. If necessary, thin the soup with a little water. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

take on more than you can handle. The cosmos may be hinting that you should take a back seat for a while, or at least ask the people in your life for some help.

VIRGO

AUGUST 23RD  SEPTEMBER 22ND Although red tape could slow down certain matters, the week can still end on a note of achievement. There's also a chance that delays could work in your favor.

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 23RD  OCTOBER 22ND You may find that the past has more influence than the present on your love life. It's possible that an old flame will come back into your life. Yet an edgy link su-

Shopping Tips: Keep in mind that many of the supermarkets here have a maximum amount that you can pay for purchases in US Dollars, and many supermarkets do not accept Euros. Please check the store’s currency acceptance policy before you make your purchases. Always remember you will receive your change in national currency (pesos), not US dollars or Euros.

Recipe supplied by Xoco Restaurant 5th Avenue between 38th and 40th

info@xocolatier.com.mx Tel. 984 803 1750 facebook.com/xocolatier

CROSSWORD

ggests this may be the last person you want to see.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 23RD NOVEMBER 21ST Someone's ability to bypass emotion may not sit well with your love of intensity and passion. Yet you could develop a rapport that strengthens over time if you can compromise.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 22NDDEC 21ST If you concentrate, you can come up with some excellent moneymaking ideas. The coast is clear for you to cash in on any brilliant plans you have in the pipeline. Take a risk.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22NDJANUARY 19TH Work gains could be likely, especially if you make your views known at a networking event or group meeting. The effort to mingle with key people may help you fulfill an important goal.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 20THFEBRUARY 18TH If you're an inventive type, your thinking could be inspired, and you could feel blessed by the creative muse. Yet someone may not get the true uniqueness of one of your suggestions.

Travel Tips: When you’re on the road in Mexico, be prepared to pay to use the public restrooms. The average cost is 5 pesos and sometimes the “propina” or tip is voluntary depending on the location. In the United States, when you see a police car behind you with flashing lights, it means he wants you to pull over. Here in the Riviera Maya, the police officers always have their lights on. Don’t be alarmed when you’re driving and you see one behind you with their lights flashing. If they want you to pull over, they will use their loud speaker. LAST WEEK'S SOLUTION

CLASSIFIEDS

February 25-March 3, 2014

Classifieds

FIND ME A HOME

ETTA

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.

Etta was born about June 2012. Etta, is a young, medium female who was only two months of age when she arrived at the shelter in Aug 2012. She had very bad eye infection upon arrival and was very thin, but quickly healed and gained weight with the care of our vet, staff and volunteers. She is very docile, yet attentive, and loves to be held, and played with! Etta will make the perfect PAR pet for any

caring family! If you are interested in Etta or any of the dogs at Playa Animal Rescue please send an email to Pat at info@playaanimalrescue.org

THE WEEKLY

G D tip

Safe removal Step 1. Get a pair of gloves, tweezers, antiseptic and isopropyl alcohol. Step 2: Wear gloves while removing the tick to avoid contact with your skin. Grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible. Pull outward in a straight movement, making sure

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. 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

Getting a tick off of your dog If your dog spends time outside in areas where ticks like to hang out, a tick check should be part of your daily routine. First, run your fingers slowly over your dog's entire body. If you feel a bump or swollen area, check to see if a tick has burrowed there. Don't limit your search to your dog's torso.

MEDICAL & DENTAL that you’ve removed the entire tick. Step 3: Drop the tick into a small container that contains isopropyl alcohol. Clean your dog's skin with antiseptic and make sure to clean your tweezers with isopropyl alcohol. Keep an eye on the area where the tick was to see if an infection surfaces. If the skin remains irritated make an appointment with your veterinarian.

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 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