Edition 23 by theplayatimes

March 4-10, 2014

www.theplayatimes.com

WEEK COMES TO A CLOSE

COMMUNITY

CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL

Photo: blog.sandos.com

Weekly, Year 01, Number 23, 10,000 Copies,16 Pages

MAYAN FORUM

his week brings both the 2014 Cozumel and Playa del Carmen carnivals to an end. The carnivals have brought a week of vibrant sound, color and costume and culminated in a ‘Mardi Gra’ or ‘Fat Tuesday’ ambience to both towns. Dance troops, exotic floats, Carnival kings and queens of all ages and abilities celebrated this year. The streets have been alive with

lights, glitter and drumming and even pets got in on this year’s carnival, all to celebrate the beginning of Lent. The famous Cozumel event was first celebrated in 1908 and is now considered the best Carnival in the Mexican Caribbean. However, the relatively new carnival scene is emerging here in Playa del Carmen and this year’s theme to celebrate was “With a New Heart”. More than a thousand dancers cavorted in their vibrant colorful costumes, moving along the main avenues of Playa del Carmen on Saturday. The parade reached its climax at the town square where delighted locals and tourists joined in the carnival atmosphere. The stars were Playa del Carmen’s carnival king and the queen, Maximiliano Interión and Karla Margarita Miranda, but also shining that night were the children’s and special need king and queen categories, Richard Campos and Renata Franco and Silverio Cohuo and Clara Flores, respectively. All of them looked liked royalty in their bright extravagant costumes and crowns decorated with feather plumes and glistening sequins.

NEW SPECIES FOUND Dr. Jill Yager talks about her discovery of a unique species found only in the cenotes of Quintana Roo. PAGE 12

DINING OUT

BY GEMA GARCÌA

DISCOVER MEXICO

The National Tourism Forum in Merida met to discuss ways to unite the Mayan states within Mexico. PAGE 4

CHEF OF THE WEEK

We talk to Greek restaurant 'Milos' chef, Apostolis Blougouras, about the inspiration behind this menu. PAGE 9

March 4-10, 2014

ditorial

Mexican win for best director at the Oscars

Omar Tornel

Managing Editor omar@theplayatimes.com

exican director AlLupita Nyong'o was her role in ‘American Husfonso Cuaron won the surprise winner of Best tle’. Another surprise of the Oscar for best Supporting Actress for her the night was that Amerdirector on Sunday for the role in ‘12 Years a Slave’. ican Hustle, the comedy space thriller, ‘Gravity,’ in Nyong’o was born in Mex- crime-drama about an which astronaut Sandra ico City to Kenyan parents; FBI sting to uncover corBullock fights for survival her father was a politician rupt politicians starring after becoming seperated lecturing at the El Colegio Christian Bale, didn't win a from her space shuttle. de Mexico in Mexico City. single award despite 10 It was the first Academy It was an award which had nominations and significant Award for 52 year old Cua- been expected by many to box office success. ron from Mexico City, and go to Jennifer Lawrence for Best Actor in a Leading the first best director Oscar for a Mexican. Accepting the Oscar, Cuaron paid special tribute to Bullock: "Sandy, you are 'Gravity,' you are the heart and soul of the film. You are an amazing collaborator and one of the best people I have ever met." He also said he dreamed of being an astronaut as a child, which was impetus for the making of the film. The harrowing drama based on the memoirs of abducted freeman Solomon Northrup; ‘12 Years a Slave’ won the best picture Oscar at the 86th Academy Awards on Sunday night, the first time the award has gone to black director. “I’d like to thank this amazing story,” said Steve McQueen, the British-born filmmaker who grasped a prize that has eluded black directors since the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences gave Lupita Nyong´o who won Best Supporting its first Oscars in 1929. Actress award

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

Distribution distribution@theplayatimes.com

theplayatimes @theplayatimes 984-147 2216

Role went to Matthew McConaughey for ‘Dallas Buyers Club’, in which he played real-life AIDS patient Ron Woodruff, who smuggled unapproved drugs into Texas via Mexico when he found that they improved his condition. Best Actress went to Cate Blanchett for ‘Blue Jasmine’, the drama directed by Woody Allen depicting a rich Manhattan socialite (Blanchett) who fell on hard times. Another big win of the night went to Jared Leto, who won Best Supporting Actor for his performance in ‘Dallas Buyers Club’ playing an HIV-positive transgender woman. Ellen DeGeneres, who handed out pizza to hungry celebrity guests and took a ‘selfie’ with a group of the evening’s stars, presented the Oscars. When she tweeted the photo, it was retweeted over 100,000 times within three minutes and has since become the most retweeted tweet ever.

Photos: Agency

DIRECTORY

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.

Elle DeGeneres´ famous ‘selfie’ was retweeted over 100,000 times

TUESDAY 86° /64° Partly Cloudy 20% chance of rain ESE at 10 mph

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

85°/66° Partly Cloudy 20% chance of rain SSE at 9 mph

84°/61° Scattered T-Storms 60% chance of rain WSW at 8 mph

FRIDAY 82°/61° Partly Cloudy 20% chance of rain NNE at 10 mph

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

85°/65° Partly Cloudy 0% chance of rain ESE at 10 mph

85°/65° Partly Cloudy 20% chance of rain ESE at 9 mph

84°/64° Showers 40% chance of rain E at 9 mph

LOCAL NEWS

March 4-10, 2014

Photos: Agency

Spring break season is upon us BY GEMA GARCÍA

he Visitors and Convention Office (OVC) announced that around 50,000 spring breakers from the United States and Canada are expected to arrive in the Riviera Maya from February 16th to April 20th, depending on the different school calendars. All-inclusive hotels in the Caribbean are a popular choice for this young tourist sector, which spend an average of $50 USD a day per person. Despite this figure, the average spring breaker spends 50% less than a regular tourist, who spends $100 USD per day on restaurants, retail outlets and activities. Most spring break students stay at all-inclusive hotels as they offer the most competitive packages including food and drink. The OVC informed that the revenue during this spring break season could be 20% higher than last year’s, when 42,000 visitors arrived to the Riviera Maya. The 2000 millennium season had the highest visitor rate ever recorded to the region with 60,000 spring breakers visiting, a figure which the OVC expects to be met again in the next few years.

Around 50,000 spring breakers are expected to arrive in the Riviera Maya during February and April According to the Ministry of Tourism, 80,000 spring breakers visit Mexico every year. Cancun is the most popular coastal resort choice in the country, followed by Playa del Carmen, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Acapulco respectively. Hotel occupancy rates are expected to remain at 90%

during February, March and April in Cancun due to the arrival of the spring breakers. The specific figures related to the student tourist sector here in Playa del Carmen are unknown, however it is known that the majority of student visitors during these months are Mexican’s on Easter Week vacations.

What condo-hotels have to offer BY GEMA GARCIA

Photo: Agency

The condo-hotel concept was originally conceived in Miami Beach, Florida during the 1980’s and gradually the idea caught on around the globe. In Playa del Carmen there are around1200 buildings that offer condo-hotel services. Jamil Hindi, president of the Association of Small Hotels in Playa, told The Playa Times that condo-hotels are the ideal type of accommodation for families, or groups of friends since it offers all the comforts of home.

One of the advantages of staying in a condo-hotel is that you often have more space, with a separate living area, dining room, and equipped kitchen, as well as other amenities, such as laundry facilities. Plus these types of condominium buildings are usually located centrally, so are often within walking distance of beaches, restaurants and stores. This can lead to a more enjoyable experience and greater immersion in a cultural way, as opposed to staying in the more isolated all inclusive resort complexes.

Playa del Carmen has over 1,200 condo-hotels

Spring breakers who come to the Riviera Maya come mainly from college cities such as Denver, Los Angeles, Dallas, San Francisco, Chicago, Houston and Cleveland; and due to the somewhat bad reputation connected with the festivities associated with spring breakers, a code of behavior will be

A condominium apartment is often privately owned, but when it is unoccupied by the owner, is available for rent. Prices are variable due to location, type of building, furnishings and decoration and the amenities and services that they might include as well as the duration of occupancy. There are many types of condos here in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya, from simple and minimalistic to unimaginably luxurious ones, opening up options to suit all budgets. During the 1990’s the popularity of this vacation concept gathered momentum when an apartment building called Mutiny Coconut Grove in Florida converted to a condo-hotel, this project garnered much interest after its great success and the large revenues it bought in. Immediately after

on display at airports, malls and hotels. The code of behavior was created in 2008 and includes recommendations and local regulations, such as it is not permissible to drink alcohol on the street and that there is a zero tolerance regarding driving under the influence of alcohol or of drug use.

Florida in the late 1990’s, the idea was replicated throughout the world, with regions such as Canada, South America, Europe, Middle East and the Mexican Caribbean being some of the most popular. Jamil Hindi commented that thanks to this concept, the South American market especially Brazil and Argentina have become solid. Condo-hotels can have as much as a 60% annual occupancy, and possibly 100% during high season in some of the most popular destinations. Most of the condo-hotel buildings available in Playa del Carmen are located within excellent proximity to the main attractions such as the beach, Fifth Avenue shopping, restaurants and nightlife and many have all the facilities that one would look for in a luxurious hotel.

LOCAL NEWS

March 4-10, 2014

National Tourism Forum in Merida Photo: Agency

BY GEMA GARCÍA

new strategy to unite tourism throughout the southern states of Campeche, Tabasco, Chiapas, Quintana Roo and Yucatan was initiated at the 12th National Tourism Forum held last week in the city of Merida, Yucatan. Representatives from the regional offices laid the foundations for the ‘Present and Future of the Mayan World’ project, which will seek to promote tourism among regions with a Mayan cultural presence. This year the venue changed to Merida, after taking place in Cancun for the past 11 years. Representatives from the tourism offices of every state in Mexico, including Clementina del Tejo, the director of the tourism office here in Solidaridad, were invited to discuss the main topic; the ‘Mayan World’ and strategies to connect the five Mayan states within Mexico. The forum members talked about problem areas such as aerial and land connectivity, accommodation availability, the implementation of tours connecting the Mayan regions, archaeological tourism and raising tourism revenues sustainably. The Secretaries of Tourism for Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Belize, where some of the most famous Mayan remains

Saúl Martin Acona Salazar, Secretary of the Tourism Forum talks to delegates can be found, also attended the forum to propose and discuss tourism campaigns that could connect their countries and bring increased tourism revenues throughout. Claudia Ruiz Massieu, director of the National Tourism Office, said that one of the main aims is to help reduce poverty in

some of Mexico’s poorest states through the development of the tourist sector. She added that it is also essential to improve Mexico´s image regarding security and the touristic infrastructure as a whole. Finally, she talked about channeling investment toward small and medium sized tourism enterprises.

Mahahual Crossing Borders Festival 2014 The second ‘Crossing Borders Festival’ began on March 1st in Mahahual with the showing of the documentary ‘Memories of Mahahual 2013’ which told the story of last year’s inaugural event. The festival includes art exhibitions, cultural and environmental conferences and this year has a wide cultural program by Italy, the guest country to the festival. Alessandro Busacca, the Italian ambassador to Mexico, together with Luciano Consoli, the director of the festival, said at the opening ceremony that the aim of the event is to join both Mexican and Italian cultures through art and cultural exchanges. He added that the festival helps to show the initiative and creativity that Italians have bought to Mahahual, and to Mexico as a whole, saying; “Mexico and Italy share a common characteristic: they both have ancient cultures and civilizations. Historical and artistic heritage is a gift for both countries to develop. Italy and Mexico has a common vision of the future, and we can strengthen the relationship between Italy and Mexico throughout this artistic event”. Currently, approximately 1% of the population of Mexico is Italian, with a large number here in the Riviera Maya. One of the main goals of the festival is to raise awareness of the importance of preserving the environment of the unique ecosystem of Mahahual, de-

Photos: facebook

BY GEMA GARCÌA

Abraham from reggae band Congal Tijuana scribed as an “eco-tourist haven” by the organizers on its web page www.mahahualcruzandofronteras.com. Amongst the festival´s main scheduled activities, is the unveiling of Argentinian sculptor Sabrina Coco’s piece entitled ‘The fish’, which is made entirely of recycled materials; a concert by reggae band Congal Tijuana; presentation of Claudia Marcucetti Pascoli´s book ‘Wounds of the Water’ and a cinema workshop by Nicola Raggi. The Crossing Borders Festival 2014 full events program can be found on the Facebook page Mahahual Cruzando Fronteras, the festival continues until 8th March.

Ruiz Massieu announced that the national ‘Live It To Believe It’ campaign would receive more than 400 million pesos from a 1.6 billion pesos budget available to the National Tourism Office during 2014. The campaign aims to promote national tourism amongst Mexican visitors, specifically those within the 35 to 64

year old bracket. The National Tourism Office expects Mexico to become one of the leading tourist destinations of the world this year and has been chosen as the official partner country at the ITB Berlin Convention 2014, the world’s leading travel trade show, due to take place this week.

COMMUNITY

March 4-10, 2014

Independent Playa

BY GEMA GARCÍA

n order to strengthen the contacts between local small businesses and self-employed professionals in Playa, Diego Torres created Independent Playa in January of this year. The aim of the group is to promote independent professionals within the region, giving them a media platform to showcase their talents and what they have to offer potential em-

ployers. The group includes photographers, wedding planners, event managers, fitness trainers, diving instructors, beauticians, as well as professionals in many other areas. A month after its creation, the group had 38 affiliated members and reached over 8,000 people via Facebook. The main market is a both foreign and local professionals living and working in the region. Torres, a professional photographer, arrived in Playa from Mexico City Playa several years ago. He spoke to The Playa Times, stating that what the association is looking for is quality over quantity. He says that members are vetted as being proficient and highly qualified in their fields and prospective members will need to meet these criteria to maintain the integrity of the group. “The word is spreading fast but that doesn’t mean that we accept everyone that applies as a member. The professionalism of our members is the basis of our success, and this is the reason why we

Photos: Independent Playa

professionals database launched

Independent Playa promotes independent professionals within the region ask those that are interested possess specific characteristics”, said Diego. He also assured that they are looking for people who are passionate about their work, since this will always be key to professionalism. Another important element is the amount of experience in their field. Members are divided into categories that vary from photography to mental health professionals. Diego told us that currently there are members from Egypt, Peru, Venezuela, United States, Canada, Chile, as well as

from various states of Mexico. The official launch of Independent Playa took place last Thursday when over 60 people met at the Aventura Mexicana Hotel. The event began with Diego Torres welcoming members to the association. He asked that everyone work together to promote and maintain the professionalism of the association, as members already know the challenges facing freelance or self-employed individuals, and unity will be offer the greatest

support to all. “If we promote one another, we may become millions of people from all over the world and if we continue to spread the word our marketing strategy will be a success”, he stated. Independent Playa hope to form the best product and services directory in Playa del Carmen and those interested in more information, can find out more by going to www.independentplaya.com, Independent Playa on Facebook, or via email to diego@ independentplaya.com

Photo: Agency

National Health Week vaccination campaign BY GEMA GARCÍA

Around 52,000 people were vaccinated during the first National Health Week

The first National Health Week, of which there are three annually in Mexico, took place between February 22nd and 28th here in the municipality of Solidaridad. The aim of these vaccination drives is to promote prevention and eradication of diseases, such as polio, throughout Mexico. Around 52,000 people, including children under the age of 5, from 10 to 11 and over 20 years of age, as well as pregnant women, were vaccinated. Field teams from the Health Office also visited pre-schools and elementary schools in order to guarantee that every child was immunized. As some children do not attend school Health Office field teams also visited some more rural districts to provide vaccines. There are five health centers located in Playa del Carmen, and vaccination points were also set

up in malls. National Health Week, which was called the Intensive Vaccination Program when it first began in Mexico in 1980, aims to protect children’s health by guaranteeing a complete vaccination record for every child as well as providing teenagers and adults with the boosters they require. Poliomyelitis, mumps, measles, rubella, tuberculosis, diphtheria, whopping cough, flu, rotavirus, and pentavalent vaccines were supplied. The pentavalent vaccine is a combination of five vaccines in one: diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B and Haemophilus influenza type b (the bacteria that causes meningitis, pneumonia and otitis). The second and third National Health Weeks of the year

are scheduled for May and June, promising to continue supplying the population of Playa del Carmen with necessary vaccines and boosters. Meanwhile, despite the first Health Week having come to an end, every health center has completely free vaccines available all year round for children that have yet to immunized.

HOME LIFE

March 4-10, 2014

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Mexico by design

Zinacantan hand woven textiles BY ELIZABETH URRAZA

Photos: Agency

Weaving is done using the traditional back-strap loom

inacantan is a town located to the southeast of Mexico in the State of Chiapas, just outside the colonial town of San Cristobal de las Casas. This magical town keeps old Maya culture and tradition alive, and women’s participation through textile weaving is critical to the economic survival of the community. The local flower farming economy has influenced their textile creations, which are characterized by beautifully colored birds and flowers. The original weaving process during Pre-Hispanic times was done with a warp-weighted loom, which used finger-made cotton threads. Nowadays the process has evolved with the back-strap loom that

wraps around the women’s waists while the other end is attached to a post or tree and body weight adds tension to the loom. They deftly maneuver two wooden hand-held shuttles during the weaving creating intricate patterns and designs. These women still believe that the ancient art of back-strap weaving connects them to the Mayan gods of sun, wind, sky, and earth and to the underworld. Flowers like lilies and sunflowers together with jungle birds such as toucans, quetzals and feathered peacocks characterize their colorful patterns. You will find these designs in many items of clothing and decoration, but they specialize in tablecloths, table runners, pillowcases, curtains, and linens.

March 4-10, 2014

Puerto Morelos Music Festival 2014 BY MARÍA MOROTE

he Puerto Morelos Music Festival held from February 28th to March 1st at the town’s Central Park had a record attendance with over 5,000 people over the three-day event. More than 24 bands from different parts of Mexico, United States, Italy and Spain participated in the festival that since 2006 has offered local and international artists a free venue in which to showcase their talents. With the slogan ‘Art Frees Us’ the festival was produced entirely by local musicians and volunteers and financed by sponsors, which were mostly local businesses, and by selling music CD’s and merchandising. Visitors were also able to make voluntary contributions at the collection stands located at the Central Park during the festival. Although the public response was strong, the profits fell short for the project that the organizers planned, which was to build a rehearsal studio for local musicians at the town’s new culture center facilities. “We did not reach our target, but we did improve the festival´s production. Which meant some of this years bands were paid, so we had not only better

This year's festival was the biggest yet, with a varied line-up and well known names artists but also sound equipment. This reflected on the audiences and music quality as a whole. We see this as something positive, and an investment towards next year´s festival. We think that this improvement will motivate more investors to collaborate with us in 2015”, said Manuel del Valle Prieto, coordinator of the festival, in an interview with The Playa Times. Another essential part of the

festival was the art and handicrafts exhibitions and street market. There were nearly 50 stallholders and artisans who joined the festival and promoted the art of the region by showing their exclusive locally handcrafted pieces. The audience, which was made up from not only a notable presence of local residents but also tourists, did not let this unique opportunity to watch music from all around the world

International contemporary art

at Playa’s Culture Center

Photos: Stano Cerny

BY MARÍA MOROTE Abstract art, surrealism and symbolism were the essence of the paintings presented at the International Contemporary Painting exhibition launch on February 28th, which is on display in the main gallery of the Culture Centre of Playa del Carmen. The exhibiting artists are Armando Martínez and Daniela Jáuregui from Mexico and Stano Cerny from Slovakia. The three artists met each other several years ago whilst in Europe and previously participated in a joint exhibition in 2012 at the International Painting Symposium in the city of Komarno, Slovakia, which gathered artists from all around the world. Jáuregui, Cerny and Martínez decided

Photos: Puerto Morelos Music Festival

ART & CULTURE

One of the works by Slovakian artist Stano Cerny to bring this exhibition concept to Playa del Carmen, where they now also live. Armando Martínez graduat-

ed in Visual Arts at the National Institute of Fine Arts (INBA) in Mexico City. He has worked at the National Museum of Anthropolo-

slip through their fingers. Hundreds of people crowded around the two festival stages to enjoy Andres Cantisani, Taluna´s folk, Quelar, Erika Suarez Project flamenco and Cosecha Brava´s salsa sound which brought a spectacular close to the festival. Despite the disappointment at not reaching their proposed funding for the studio project, the 9th Puerto Morelos Music Festival definitely achieved a positive

impact on the public and heightened local and national awareness of this increasingly popular festival, which is fast becoming established as one of the best free music festivals of the Riviera Maya. The Playa Times wishes the organizers luck for next year’s festival, dates and line-ups are to be announced on www.festivalmusicapuertomorelos.com and on the Facebook page Festival de Musica de Puerto Morelos.

gy and participated in more than 70 collective and individual exhibitions in Mexico and Europe. He is a renowned artist in the Riviera Maya and has shown his work in Tulum, Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Some of his pieces are now on display in the United States, Canada, Holland and Hungary. Influences from the famous Spanish surrealists Dali and Tàpies are evident in his work. Despite her relatively short artistic career compared to those of her fellow exhibitors, Daniela Jáuregui, 28, has an incredibly developed artistic style. She has studied art, and shown her work, in Mexico, Cuba and European countries such as Italy, Spain and Slovakia. Her contribution to Playa del Carmen´s exhibition includes paintings and art installations strongly influenced by iconic Mexican cultural symbols connected to death including Catrina figures, candles, and flowers and includes intense colors reminiscent of the work of Frida Kahlo. Having studied at the Fine

Arts Academy of Bratislava, Stano Cerny is perhaps the most eccentric of the three artists. He has participated in dozens of exhibitions in Slovakia, Czech Republic, Poland, England, United States and Mexico. He belongs to the generation of artists that brought postmodernism principles to Slovakia in the 1980´s. Dadaist and sexually ambiguous elements contrasts between greys and gaudy colors are prevalent in Cerny’s paintings, bring a modern Gauguin style to mind. The International Contemporary Painting exhibition is proof of the engaging and talented local artistic scene here in Playa del Carmen, which shouldn’t be overlooked. These artists are putting Playa del Carmen on the cultural map, both nationally and internationally. The free exhibition will continue at the Culture Center on Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Avenue until March 14th and is open from Monday to Friday 10am to 7pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm.

TUESDAY

CARNIVAL CLOSING PARADE at 6 pm from Parque Fundadores on 1st South St. and the beach to Plaza 28 de Julio on 8th St. and 20th Ave, ending with live music concerts. 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 12 am and from 4pm to 6 pm. At Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. $100 MXN to cover materials.

WEDNESDAY

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. FILM CLUB AKIRA KURIOSAWA SEASON, throughout March at 7pm at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. 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.

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 CAPOEIRA LESSONS every Thursday from 6.30 to 8pm and at 2.30pm on Saturday at La Ceiba Park on 1st St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Enjoy three free classes by Omar Cardona.

ENTRANCE.

ENTERTAINMENT

March 4-10, 2014

FRIDAY

PRORECLYCLETON from 10 am to 4 pm at La Ceiba Park on 1st St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Please bring your recyclables separated and clean to La Ceiba recycle center, which is receiving PET, hard plastics, glass, paper and cardboard, aluminum oil and domestic appliances. First Friday and third Saturday of each month.

CHILDREN SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA OF SOLIDARIDAD´S CONCERT at 8 pm at the auditorium of the Culture Center of Playa del Carmen on Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Ave. 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

WOMEN´S DAY PAINTING DAY from 9am at Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. In the evening at 10 pm rock band NeTa will be playing. 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. From 5 to 95 years old. 2 hours. $150 MXN. 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.

SUNDAY

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

MONDAY

FLAMENCO DANCE LESSONS every Monday and Friday from 11am to 12pm at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre. Given by flamenco dancer Brenda Barba. 80th Street, between 10th and 5th. For more information contact centrocaracol@gmail.com. ACTING LESSONS every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 4.30pm to 5.30pm at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre with Hena Moreno. 80th Street, between 10th and 5th. For information centrocaracol@gmail.com.

DINING OUT

March 4-10, 2014

Chef of the week known, but with small variations due to cultural and social influences throughout the years. So diners can find dishes from Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt and even some with an Indian touch. Chef Apostolis Blougouras preparing pittas

his week Milos Restaurant´s chef, Apostolis Blougouras, talks about the origins of his authentic Greek recipes and the traditional interior design of his establishment. The secret of Milos cuisine, we were told, is the quality of the olive oil used, which is directly imported from Greece. Greek olive oil passes strict quality controls that guarantee 0% acidity. This ensures that it will never have the bitter flavor of low quality oil. What was the inspiration behind the interior design of Milos? Our terrace design is based on traditional porches found in Greek villages that are usually covered with vines hanging with grapes. Inside customers can see murals of the Parthenon, Greek mythology´s most popular god - Hercules, the Oracle of Delphi, which is the most sacred place of the ancient Greek world and quotes from Greek philosophers written in Greek and Spanish.

What desserts do you offer at your restaurant? Baklava is a traditional dessert made from layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. We also make delicious homemade vanilla and coffee custard. We are also currently sourcing some unique ingredients to create some desserts, which are not commonly seen here in Mexico. Are any of your dishes inspired by what you used to eat as a child in Greece? Most of the dishes, if not all of them, come from traditional recipes that I used to cook and enjoy with my parents and grandparents. I humbly try to recreate the flavors and dishes that they passed on to me during my childhood. Is it possible to make a reservation for special celebrations?

Are all your dishes strictly Greek, or do you offer any other Mediterranean cuisine?

Yes, it is possible to make reservations for groups of up to 12 people maximum and we ask for at least one or two days advance notice. For larger groups we require one week’s notice in order to be able to offer the best service and menu options possible.

Milos Restaurant offers food from the Eastern Mediterranean region. Basically our cuisine is based on the traditional Mediterranean diet, which is now widely

Milos is open daily from 12am to 12pm and is located on 38th and the beach and be contacted via the Facebook page Milos Restaurant or on 984 118 3389.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

March 4-10, 2014

The Chiropractic

lifestyle

BY DR. RICHARD MCCARTHY Most people will agree that being healthy is a positive thing. When we are younger the effects of what we do to our body is not always immediately obvious, but the effects are cumulative over time. In the realm of bad things for our health, smoking has to be at the top of the list. Other issues include eating improperly, lack of exercise, too much alcohol, too much sugar, having a negative attitude, finding no happiness in your life, taking medications over a long period of time, allowing stress to remain in your life, and improper sleep patterns. As for good things for health we need to single out that quitting smoking is probably the best thing you can do. It is not easy but there are techniques available in Playa utilizing laser and acupuncture that have helped many. If you are at the mercy of drugs or alcohol seek professional help from the local groups that are here for you. Limit your intake of soft drinks and sugar; this problem is also one of the biggest of all. You should consult are a medical doctor once a year. Having the breasts and prostate screened for cancer can save your life!! Have your teeth cleaned and checked regularly many health issues can also be attributed to poor dental hygiene. Then there is the Chiropractorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Role. The spine houses the nervous system and it controls the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s functions. How important is that? Well in other words when you receive regular chiropractic adjustments it enables the joints and nervous system of your body to function more efficiently. Also when joints aligned you will have less pressure and pain with less degeneration. Chiropractic is a great natural health choice that many people do not take advantage of. Start to do the right things for your health and benefit fully from a great healthy lifestyle!

CHIROPRACTOR

Pick yourof free copy

Available at the

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

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

Tel.: 984 873 2098

HEALTH & BEAUTY

March 4-10, 2014

Photo: Agency

What to look for in a spa massage BY GEMA GARCÍA

here are over 5000 spa or massage venues in the Riviera Maya region located from small Fifth Avenue massage rooms and beach palapas to hotel full spa facilities, and luxury resort complexes. Because of the mass growth in recent years within this sector, monitoring their correct operation has been a cha-

llenge for local authorities. This week we want to share with readers the important things to look for in good spa or massage facilities to help ensure that you make the right choices when choosing your spa service. “Simply a bad massage can lead to injury. People may be exposed to such injuries if masseuses that have no formal training, this is why it is very important that as a customer, you pay attention to where you decide to go.” Commented Carlos Pineda

Check the facilities before you commit, the standards can vary

Limón, president of the Touristic Zone Spa Association of Playa del Carmen. He pointed out that lack of attention from the authorities regarding controlling standards has led to many ‘pirate’ massage shops in Fifth Avenue and the beach, which have premises that really do fall below the acceptable standards for this type of business, most noticeably in the areas of hygiene and training. He also explained how this has a knock on effect on the true spas that have invested in premises and training to cater for clients with excellent services, and how the low-end establishments are diluting the standards. Wa l k i n g along Fifth Avenue you will often receive several ‘invitations’ for massages; so here are some tips on what to look for next time you are tempted to try a relaxing treat: first make sure the place is tidy and clean, seems obvi-

BY STEPHANIE MORTON Students are drawn to different styles of yoga and teachers based on their general goals relating to health, physical well-being, and spirituality. The idea of goal setting is familiar to those with backgrounds in the corporate culture, self-help, athletics and other diverse backgrounds. In setting a goal, one is looking for a specific measurable outcome over a period of time. Goal setting is usually a deliberate action, although when we seek out new experiences, there may be the non-verbalized idea that some kind of outcome is expected or desired. In yoga, we shy away from the term goal, encouraging students to enjoy the journey rather than focus on the destination. Much more common is the idea

of setting an intention that will guide an experience. Frequently, students are directed to turn their attention inward for a brief moment at the beginning of the session and consider what it is that they as individuals would like to focus on or work through over the course of the session. There is no right way to set an intention in a yoga class. On any given day it could be quite different. For example, it may be specific to working on core strength, or more vague, where the desired outcome is a greater mind-body connection. It could be as simple as spending an hour completely indulging in self-care and relaxation, or as complex as rehabilitating an injured body part. There inevitably is a moment in the class for all practitioners where the mind wanders to either a state of boredom, where

Photo: Agency

Intention setting: yoga off the mat

ous, but look ‘behind the scenes’ at the true level of cleanliness. Look for certifications or diplomas on sight, they are usually framed, if the spa offers different techniques make sure there are diplomas for each. If you do not see any certifications, don’t be afraid to ask. The license which is their annual permit should be current and it is issued by the local authorities certifying that it is a legal spa and meets the necessary standards to provide a genuine service, this should also be on display. Limón also added to be on guard regarding prices. “Don’t be taken in by a very cheap massage, the accurate price of a good simple massage should be between $50 and $60 USD for an hour. We have also found that some places use cheap baby or mineral oil instead of a real quality massage oil, so some clients have had a reaction to these unstable cheap oils with additives, so be very wary of those that offer cheap prices, since they can be offering very low quality products as well as well as services” he concluded.

The focus of intention setting crosses over into daily life seamlessly thoughts drift to to-do lists and other distractions, or to being overwhelmed by the challenges presented. Re-focusing on the set intention allows one to pull

attention back to the moment, looking for something interesting in the practice and remaining attentive to the work being done. The focus on intention cross-

es over into daily life seamlessly. For example, in my work with athletes, performance at a particular race or event is often the ultimate goal and there are a variety of desired and measureable outcomes. Intention setting proves invaluable when considering specific workouts and yoga sessions, weekly and monthly training cycles, nutrition, etc., and encourages staying present in the work that is being done from moment to moment, rather than becoming overwhelmed by the greater goal. It is useful practice for daily life to take the time at the beginning of each yoga class to get a sense of the desired focus for the session. As this becomes more natural, the benefits of intention setting cross over and encourage more awareness in daily work projects, business ventures, and even leisure time, allowing for increased enjoyment, productivity, success and pleasure across all pursuits. Stephanie Morton is a Yoga Teacher in Playa del Carmen specializing in Yoga for Athletes.

DISCOVER MEXICO

March 4-10, 2014

Discovery of a new species, the cenote remipedias Photos: Agency

BY MARIO ZABALETA

an you imagine being a young new graduate in biology and while you are cave diving in the Bahamas, discovering an exciting crustacean totally new to science? This is what happened to Jill Yager, and this crustacean was not just a new species, but also a whole new class of crustacean that she named the remipedia. Remipedia was the name Yager gave this species from the Latin remipedes, which means ‘oar-footed’. The discovery was first made in 1979 and was a complete shock to the community of biologists that a young woman, without a PhD, could have discovered an entirely new species. Jill Yager continued with her studies and the subject of her doctoral dissertation became the ecology of the subterranean caves of the Bahamas, under the supervision of professor John Holsinger at Old Dominion University of Virginia. Since then, she has gone on to explore caves throughout the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos Islands, Belize and Cuba and has discovered even more new species of cave adapted creatures.

Remipedia discoverer Dr. Jill Yager However in 1987 she discovered the second place in the world where she found remipedias, which was not in any of those places, but in the caves of Tulum, and 2001 Yager was awarded a Fulbright scholarship to study the caves of Quintana Roo for a year. This was a life-changing experience for her in that she came to Puerto Morelos, where she still

lives today, and her research has since been featured in several television documentaries such as Smithsonian World, New Explorers, and National Geographic's Sea Stories. With all these experiences in mind, it was surprising that Jill Yager felt nervous last week prior her conference; ‘The Biology of Remipedias and Aquifer Conservation’, which was held at the town hall auditorium here in Playa del Carmen. However, she had a justifiable reason, her lecture was to be in Spanish and the noise of the carnival in the background together with a packed auditorium of eagerly awaiting people did little to calm the nerves. Valiantly she began to tell the incredible story of a crustacean that lives in the briny waters of just a few caves around the world. In an environment of complete darkness it moves slowly on its back while it hunts with deadly venom. They are 10–40 millimeters long and have fangs connected to secretory glands. Last year it was discovered that

Remipedia means oar-footed in Latin these glands secrete venom and they feed primarily on detritus or on living organisms. Speleonectes Lucayensis, founded in the Lucayan cave in Bahamas, was the first specimen described in 1981 by Jill Yager. Since then, 28 more have been discovered, 13 by Yager herself. Speleonectes Tulumensis was discovered in 1987 in

the ‘Car Wash’, a cenote near Tulum. As an active leader in the conservation of our aquifers systems and cenotes, she continues her research in to the remipedias and she appealed to the cave diving community to help her in this work by notifying her if any are found. She would like to know in what cenotes or systems the have been seen, at what depth and how many and the behavior of these remarkable creatures. Any relevant information can be sent to Yager, at jill.yager@gmail.com. Circulo Espeleologico del Mayab continues its schedule of monthly conferences, speleological and rappel courses and exploration and mapping of wet and dry caves. Anyone interested in our activities please contact us by our Facebook page or directly to mariozabaleta@hotmail.com

Photos: Agency

Akumal – Place of the Turtle BY BARNA TAKATS Most people have heard of Akumal, or seen tour operators offering snorkeling with turtle tours and all of these refer to one spot here in the Mayan Riviera, about 20 minutes south from Playa del Carmen. The name Akumal in Mayan means ‘The place of the Turtle’ so if you want to see turtles, then this is the place you want to be. The town of Akumal is on the Playa-Tulum highway and as you enter the bay you will find several well-stocked super markets, restaurants and smaller hotels. It is also easy to stay here for a few days and the small coastal town still has a rustic, laid-back atmosphere. However most visitors arrive with a tour operator and spend only a few hours here, and a few hours, or even a few minutes is all that is needed to come into contact with the turtles. This turtle haven is protected by a beautiful stretch of the Mesoamerican barrier reef, and the inside shallow area is covered by sea grass. This protection and food source offered by the bay of Akumal is what keeps the turtles here all year round. Visitors will

Visitors can meet young green turtles at Akumal see mostly juvenile green turtles feeding in around two meter deep water. These are very relaxed and very close encounters that also offer once in a lifetime photo opportunities. There is also a high chance of spotting other turtle species

out on the reef where hawksbill and loggerhead turtles may also be found, but they are seldom encountered in the shallows. In summer, during the nesting season, green and loggerhead turtles arrive to lay their eggs on the sandy beach of the bay. These turtles

are not permanent residents and they may have traveled thousands of miles to get to the beaches of Akumal, where they were born decades before. But not only turtles inhabit the water, different stingray species, eagle rays and a myriad of reef fish can also be found in the close proximity of the shore, so it is an easy and rewarding snorkel tour for everyone. As a professional diver I know how important it is to follow rules and procedures whilst operating snorkel tours, ensuring that the local marine life is left undisturbed and preserved. This is especially important when we are dealing with highly endangered species and with a unique and sensitive marine area that offers shelter and a food source to these

animals. The Ecological Centre of Akumal in cooperation with the local operators has developed very strict rules. The center has now trained all the tour companies and guides that operate within Akumal, and as of January 1st all should be adhering to their recommendations and rules, such as keeping your distance, no diving down and no touching, which certainly helps to preserve this place for future generations of turtles and visitors. If you are one of those people who always wanted to see a turtle in its natural habitat, Akumal is your place. If you have any questions for Barna about the wildlife of the Yucatan Peninsula or about local eco tours, you can write to him at barna.takats@gmail.com, or call 984 157 8531.

ENTERPRISE FOCUS

March 4-10, 2014

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

ade Playa del Carmen is part of the Jade West Group, the world’s leading company in mining and marketing jade for more than 30 years. With stores in Vancouver, Victoria, Juneau and Ketchikan, as well here in Playa, we have the experience and expertise to help our customers get the best advice and value with their jade purchase. Please come and see us on 5th Ave between 2nd and 4th, closer to 4th on the ocean side! What is the history behind the Jade Playa del Carmen Store? Jade Playa del Carmen opened three years ago and highlighted the importance of jade in the ancient culture of the Maya people. Most people relate jade to the Chinese civilization, and some are aware of the importance of this stone to the Maori peoples of New Zealand. However outside of the academic world few are aware of how important jade was to the early native people of this region. The Maya people treasured this semi-precious stone. It was venerated as ‘A Gift from the Gods’. We also have stores in Alaska and British Columbia where jade was used and revered by the west coast native tribes. What makes jade so important to so many cultures? Jade has many properties that endeared it to early civilizations. It is very hard so it could be used for household implements and tools. It is also very tough so that it could hold a sharp edge on early knives and chisels. Being very beautiful, it became an object of adornment and throughout history, and even today, jade was thought to

possess very positive spiritual and medicinal qualities. What exactly is jade? Jade is a metamorphic stone, which means a stone whose structure and mineral content is changed over time through heat and pressure, that comes in two forms: nephrite jade and jadeite jade. Nephrite jade is found mainly in China, Canada, Siberia, and New Zealand. Jadeite jade is found mainly in Burma and Guatemala and is known locally as Maya jade. There are other stones that look similar to jade, usually much softer, and buyers are advised to shop carefully. So how can you recognise good quality jade? First of all Jade is as hard as steel, so if you can scratch a piece of green stone with a steel knife it is not jade. Jade is also harder than glass so be careful as genuine jade will leave a mark on a glass surface. Being a metamorphic stone, jade may gather other minerals on its journey to the surface of the earth and these are called inclusions. People buying jewelery tend to look for clear and translucent jade with few inclusions. However those buying carvings are attracted to the darker, textured appearance offered by miner-

als such as iron and chromium. What jade items do you have at Jade Playa del Carmen? We have pieces carved from Canadian, Siberian, and Maya jade. Our displays feature a wide variety of jewelery and

carvings, including a significant collection of carvings featuring Maya symbols. We are also very proud to offer a selection of beautiful pieces created exclusively by local Mexican master jade carvers as well as a selection of wonderful jewelery pieces created by our own talented staff.

CURRENCY AND METALS DOLLAR Buy 13

Sale 13.60

DOLLAR CANADA Buy 11.86

Sale 12.19

POUND Buy 21.94

Sale 22.55

EURO Buy 18.08

Sale 18.59

YEN Buy 0.1270

Sale 0.1318

REAL Buy 5.60

Sale 5.76

PESO ARGENTINA Buy 1.66

Sale 1.71

SWISS FRANC Buy 14.88

Sale 15.30

* March 3 * Source Banco de México * Flags courtesy www.redpixart.com

TAKE A BREAK

March 4-10, 2014

HOROSCOPES PISCES

FEBRUARY 19THMARCH 20TH You will have an opportunity to take things to a

Spanish

Corner

new level in key areas of your life. You might need some reorganization of joint financial matters, and there could be changes to your social setup.

ARIES

MARCH 21STAPRIL 19TH

AZTEC PIE

FELIPE AGUILAR

Language Review:

Change is certainly in the air this week, meaning you might be inspired to forge ahead with an idea that seems to offer personal fulfillment. Frustration with some aspects of your life may lift.

TAURUS

APRIL 20THMAY 20TH You could become aware of your limits regarding health and general energy levels, which might cause you to make your schedule more manageable. Some folks may seem quite unapproachable.

GEMINI

MAY 21THJUNE 21TH

DAYS OF THE WEEK Monday = lunes Tuesday = martes Wednesday = miércoles Thursday = jueves Friday = viernes Saturday = sábado Sunday = domingo Days of the week in Spanish are not capitalized.

You could start firing on all cylinders, paving the way for greater progress. If a relationship seems to be going

Es lunes = It is Monday.

through a cooling phase, this could be a sign that you need to take things more slowly.

CANCER

When you use the el, it translates as ‘on’. El lunes = on Monday.

JUNE 22ND JULY 22ND You may be eager to push ahead with an idea that seems to offer you more freedom of expression. Certain frustrations associated with joint finances may begin to ease.

LEO

JULY 23RD  AUGUST 22ND If change seems like the only way to break out of a difficult situation, you might be tempted to try it. A stepby-step method for getting ahead could be your best bet at this moment.

VIRGO

AUGUST 23RD  SEPTEMBER 22ND There's a chance you'll want to take a romantic or financial risk. In either case, current influences suggest that you hold your horses because you'll need to contend with a wrench in the works!

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 23RD  OCTOBER 22ND

INGREDIENTS 12 corn tortillas 2 tbsps. vegetable oil 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 small white onion, chopped 2 tomatoes, boiled, peeled and pureed 2 pounds chicken breast, cooked and shredded 1 ½ cup fresh corn 3 poblano chiles seeded, deveined and chopped 3 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese ¾ cup creme fraiche Vegetable oil, for frying

Seasons:

DIRECTIONS

Spring = la primavera Summer = el verano Fall = el otoño Winter = el invierno

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a large heavy sauté pan, heat the oil on mediumhigh heat. When hot, quickly fry the tortillas for about 10 seconds on each side (they should still be

Helpful translations when shopping for your pets:

pliable). Drain on a plate lined with papertowel. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and add the garlic and onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the tomato puree. Cook for 10 minutes. In a separate large sauté pan, over a medium heat, cook for 2 minutes, and then add the chopped poblano chiles. Add ½ cup of water to the mixture and cook for 4 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Butter a baking dish. Cover the bottom with about 4 tortillas. Add ½ cup of the tomato mixture on top of the tortillas. Top with shredded chicken and 1 cup of the poblano chile mixture. Add 1 cup of the cheese. Drizzle with ¼ cup of creme fraiche. Sprinkle the first layer with some salt and pepper. Start on the second layer with the tortillas, then the tomato, chicken, poblano chile, cheese and creme fraiche. Again sprinkle with some salt and pepper. Repeat for a third time. Place the casserole into the oven until the cheese is melted, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve hot.

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

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

Pet = Mascota Kitty litter = Arena para gatos Clumping litter = Arena aglutinante

CROSSWORD

Litter scooper = Pala para arena (desechos)

You can't always have it your way, as this week goes to show. You will have a chance to make headway with a budding relationship. You could be questioning yourself and your motives.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 23RD NOVEMBER 21ST You may have accomplished a lot, so it might be time for a breather. You're entering a period in which confidence could turn to uncertainty, however you'll find what you've been looking for.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 22NDDEC 21ST You could go through a minor crisis in your social life. Perhaps you'll want to move in new circles and develop fresh connections with folks who inspire and motivate you.

CAPRICORN

Litter box = Arenero para gatos/ Caja de arena Cat Scratcher = Rascador Cat food/Dog food = Comida/Alimentos para mascotas Pet carrier = Transportadora/Jaula animales Grooming = Estética Boarding = Pensión Vaccinations = Vacunas

DECEMBER 22NDJANUARY 19TH This could be a time of self-examination, when you explore choices with a view toward restructuring aspects of your life. Career matters or important goals will need reexamination.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 20THFEBRUARY 18TH You will have an opportunity to start projects that had been put on hold. Issues associated with goals and career matters could go through a more trying phase, as could plans to travel or study.

Travel Tips: When purchasing airline, bus or ferry tickets, do not use the word billetes. Here in Mexico they are called boletos.

LAST WEEK'S SOLUTION

CLASSIFIEDS

March 4-10, 2014

Classifieds

FIND ME A HOME

BERNICE

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.

Bernice; born September 2010 She is 13.5kg medium female who will always greet you at the door of her pen, and will constantly seek approval and affection. She is great with other dogs, and is waiting to find her own perfect companion! Bernice has been in the shelter for years so we would love for her to finally have her chance and find her perfect 'furever family'.

If you would like more information about Bernice, or any of the dogs of Playa Animal Rescue, please email Pat at info@playaanimalrescue.org

THE WEEKLY

G D tip

Any dog, even a fully housetrained adult dog, may have house-soiling accidents. Here are some reasons why adult and senior dogs might have accidents in the house:

If your senior dog has accidents frequently, your vet should examine him for possible medical problems. If the vet says it's not a

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

Housetraining senior dogs

As your dog ages, he may need to eliminate more often than in the past. They may not be able to "hold it" as long as they used to. They also may become incontinent. This is not a housetraining issue.

MEDICAL & DENTAL medical issue, you will have to try to housetrain the dog. If you are at work all day, you may need to hire a pet sitter to visit your dog to let him outside or confine him to a room of the house where accidents will be easy to clean up or try sanitary products on your dog, such as doggie diapers

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