Edition 61 by theplayatimes

S P A M E ID

INS

Biweekly · Year 02 · Number 61 · 20,000 copies · 32 Pages · June 10 - 23 , 2015 www.theplayatimes.com

ON PARLE FRANÇAIS! Culture

Destination

Comment organiser son mariage dans notre région et découvrez le monde des piñatas dans notre page pour nos lecteurs francophones

Weddings - Saying “I Do” In Paradise More and more couples are choosing the Riviera Maya for their big day, translating to big business for the tourism industry

>11 ·DISCOVER MEXICO RIVIERA HIGHLIGHTS

BY MELISSAROBLES

know

Tulum

W E D D I N GS

ot ion Co un cil of y by th e To ur ist Prom n we dd ing is Acco rd ing to a st ud tio e sp en t on a de st ina Mexico, th e averag $9 2,9 20 do lla rs. e highest number ists accounted for th North American tour in the Riviera Maya. of couples marrying

the honeymoon, which could be close to two weeks. Because of this, they go on tours, eat in restaurants, and take advantage of different tours. With North Americans, it is much easier because they have nonstop flights from Houston and New York”, explained Mora. North American tourists accounted for the highest number of couples marrying in the Riviera Maya. While same-sex marriage is legal in Quintana Roo, the market for same-sex destination weddings has

yet to take off. If marketing to the LGBT community for destination weddings does not improve, the area could lose a significant amount of tourism dollars to other popular destination wedding locations, like Hawaii, where same-sex is also legal. Recognizing the benefits of destination wedding tourism and in an effort to meet the demands of all the couples looking to get married here, the FPTRM certifies wedding planners. Five classes of 40 graduates have already come out of a training

program, each one receives a document approved by the Council for Tourism Promotion in Mexico and by the Federal Secretary of Tourism. These graduates may be independent operators or operating within a hotel. This training is also open to service providers such as photographers, caterers, and florists. As more and more people discover the Riviera Maya, its beautiful beaches and cenotes, we can expect the market of destination weddings to continue to grow. An increasing number of certified wedding planners and marketing to same-sex couples will help support the market. Whether looking for a sunset beach wedding or a Mayan ceremony performed under the jungle canopy of a cenote, the Riviera Maya has something for all couples.

With its unique ruin perched on a cliff side overlooking a heavenly beach, this is one of the jewels of the Mayan Riviera not be missed by independent travelers

>18 TULUM TIMES News

Read about Sian Ka’an, the city’s plans for the sports center, and the opening of a new MexLaw Office

Photo: Agency

that...

Photo:Agency

Did you

Photo: Agency

estination weddings are big business and the Riviera Maya is no exception. Couples travel from all over the world to exchange wedding vows on our beautiful beaches and in our cenotes. According to a study by the Tourist Promotion Council of Mexico, the average spent on a destination wedding is $92,920 dollars. Exactly how many couples get married in the Riviera Maya is difficult to quantify. It has been reported that more than 11,000 destination weddings are performed each year here. However, the actual number of destination weddings is estimated to be higher. Why the discrepancy? According to Carlos Mora, director of the Trust for Tourism Promotion in the Riviera Maya (FPTRM),“To have an exact figure is really difficult, we have already tried to do an analysis of the market in reference to the number of weddings, the majority are done in hotels and many times they don’t share that information.” Foreign couples have a higher economic impact on the region because they tend to spend more time on vacation here than Mexican nationals, who spend around three nights on average. “In the case of Europeans, sometimes the relatives and friends stay with the newlyweds up until

June 10 - 23 2015

>Editorial A Place of Countless DIRECTORY

“Happily Ever Afters” Photo: Agency

Javier Escalante Managing Director javier@meridianmedia.mx

Beatriz Lucas Editor edition@meridianmedia.mx

Cyrielle Noblesse French Copy Editor

Fabián Muñoz Sales Executive Cell: 984 188 3951 info@meridianmedia.mx

Ana Martínez Community Manager & Marketing marketing@meridianmedia.mx

Karla Mora Sales & Promopack

promopack@meridianmedia.mx

he ocean and beach are a major attraction for the area. Many people come here to bask in the natural environment, to become aspiring divers, or for a simpler and better quality of life, among countless other reasons. Similarly, soon-to-be-wed couples chose this region for the scenic beauty and tranquility. There is something about being near a large body of turquoise water that clearly symbolizes life – love – tradition - devotion - happiness. Many Mexicans from all over the country also choose to get married in the Riviera Maya. I have attended a few weddings here, both as an invited guest and as an accidental walker-by. These weddings have ranged from the traditional – with the meringue dress and bridesmaids in matching outfits-, to those preparing for a zombie apocalypse – where the bride and groom were both dressed in black and red and recreated the

Efrén Velázquez Iliana Ceballos Graphic Design design@meridianmedia.mx

Milton Rosel Distribution Supervisor distribution@meridianmedia.mx

Thriller dance sequence-, the culturally diverse with a combination of Hindu and Afro-American traditions, to the downright cheesy where the groom got down and serenaded his bride with Michael Bolton’s When a Man Loves a Women. Since living here, I feel that Paris is considered the most romantic city in the world is more suited to the Mexican Caribbean as I have never seen – nor talked about with friends here - so many celebrations of love. Mexicans are renowned for being fun loving and throwing a good par-

ty, but they also are known for serenading, either with a mariachi band or ranchera music. What truly sets this location apart is the friendliness and accessibility of the people, and the importance of marriage in Mexican culture, which ensures attention to detail and high quality service. Additionally, placed within a manifold of attractions and activities nearby, this area is a perfect excuse to bring your loved ones on a holiday. For those that chose this destination to get married, we would love to hear your stories of love in paradise.

www The Playa Times is a communication platform for the community to voice its hopes, dreams and concerns for the future of Playa del Carmen. In addition to our Facebook page, carry on the conversation on Twitter @ThePlayaTimes, take a look at some of the most scenic views on our Instagram account /Playa Times, or go directly to our website www.theplayatimes.com. We are looking forward to hearing from you shortly.

info@meridianmedia.mx /theplayatimes @ThePlayaTimes THE PLAYA TIMES RIVIERA MAYA'S COMMUNITY PAPER Periódico Quincenal.

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: Plaza Paseo Coba, 2do piso local 301, Playacar fase II, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710. Impreso en talleres Grupo Megamedia Prolongación de Montejo número 301, entre 40 y 42, fraccionamiento Campestre, Mérida, Yucatán. Distribuidor: Meridian Media, S.A. de C.V., Plaza Paseo Coba, 2do piso local 301, Playacar fase II, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710.

TPT 10 DAY WEATHER WED 10

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90°/76° F

86°/75° F

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A thunderstorm or two

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Couple of thunderstorms

A thunderstorm

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Clouds, a thunderstorm

Overcast

A blend of sun and clouds

Mostly sunny

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60% chance of rain SSE at 14 mph

25% chance of rain E at 12 mph

60% chance of rain ESE at 13 mph

55% chance of rain ESE at 10 mph

Clouds giving way to some sun

56% chance of rain ESE at 10 mph

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25% chance of rain ESE at 10 mph

LOCAL NEWS

Hotel Kantenah BY JOEMALDONADO

Aguakan has the concession until 2053 / Photo: Unidad del Vocero

Aguakan Find out more about the recent privatization water and sewerage service in the municipalities of Solidaridad, Benito Juárez and Isla Mujeres BY JOEMALDONADO

n December 2014, the local and state governments contracted the Hydraulic Development Cancun- Aguakan (DHC-Aguakan), Desarrollos Hidráulicos de Cancún- Aguakan, company to be in charge of the municipal water service, this contract extends until 2053. From the mo-

ment the concession was authorized, the private company has made a series of changes to offer a quality service to local residents. DHC-Aguakan operates potable water, drainage and sewage services for the Benito Juárez, Isla Mujeres, and Solidaridad communities, meeting their needs and contributing to environmental water care.

Their services are as follow: 1. Extraction: This consists in obtaining water from underground wells. DHC-Aguakan supervises the whole process, constantly taking samples and running laboratory tests to ensure water quality. 2. Potability: Once the water is extracted, it is transported to chlorination centers to be disinfected. The company adds the amount of chlorine necessary to disinfect it entirely, eliminating bacteria that it may contain and in this way, ensuring it is fit for human use. 3. Storage: The water is transported to wells, deposits and tanks, ready for distribution. DHCThe company is commitmented to providing each community with quality service, and experts guarantee that the technology used will provide this necessary quality to all residents. The communities of Solidaridad, Benito Juárez, and Isla Mujeres have one of the highest rates of urban development in North America. When DHC-AGUAKAN began service in 1994, they had 40,000 clients, and 20 years later, the

AGUAKAN is constantly watching their storage installations to ensure good quality. 4. Distribution: The entire Yucatan Peninsula is relatively flat, and a series of strategically located pumps are used to get the water to homes, businesses and hotels. 5. Treatment of residual water: Once the water is used, the company collects it through the drainage system and takes it to treatment plants where it is processed and purified to return it to its normal environment. The clean water is deposited 100 meters below the surface into saline reservoirs. company serves more than 240,000 clients, of which 60,000 are in the community of Solidaridad. DHC-AGUAKAN has a toll-free number (073), to attend to requests, consults, and complaints, which adds to the service already available in their offices. Soon, their service centers will be located in more locations in the city to accept service payments from clients, and attend to any other issues that may arise.

A new hotel project is confirmed in the Riviera Maya. Hotel Kantenah, will have 184 rooms in two different buildings, all with an ocean view. The first building will have 87 rooms and the second 97. Each building will have access to the beach, a restaurant, pools, and rest areas. In total, the hotel will have capacity for 736 guests. The project will include a main building in the access area, including a lobby with a cafeteria and bar, administrative offices, four restaurants with buffets, a sales area, gym, a multipurpose room, and a service area. In January 2014, Puerto Bonito Real Estate presented the proposal to the federal authorities and after considering the proposal for approximately six months, they gave the authorization to proceed with construction. In March 2015, Solidaridad municipal authorities gave the construction license to begin working on the project. The only conditions that were given were strict compliance to federal environmental protection laws. It is important to mention that the buildings on a section of the project (Building B) will be constructed on a surface terrain of 239,080.86 square meters (23.9 hectares), and will affect the federal right of way which divides the land into two sections. In other words, for now the project will only utilize the land that is located in front of the coast, while the land on the west side of the federal highway will be used in the future to construct a building to complement the project or perhaps for a support center for the workers.

The hotel will have the capacity for

736 guests.

65.08% of natural spaces including mangrove trees which won’t be altered or disturbed. For now, the space which will be used for the construction is 185,490.30 square meters. According to the Environmental Impact Manifest (MIA), the project will include 65.08 percent natural spaces, of which 5,389 square meters will be mangrove trees which currently are on the property and won’t be altered or disturbed. For recreation and enjoyment, the guests will have one large pool area for buildings A and B, which will be located in the exterior areas, there will also be one pool will for the use of the beach restaurant. All pools are designed in an irregular form. There will also be lounge chairs and sunning spaces, built from unique, natural materials from the region.

June 10 - 23 2015

LOCAL NEWS

Activities and events will take place from June 15 to June 21 / Photos: www.playapride.com.mx

Gay Pride in Playa del Carmen Out of the 200,000 locals, almost 2/5 of the population is part of the LGBT community. BY MELISSAROBLES

une 28 is International Gay Pride Day, in commemoration of the Stonewall protests in 1969 which began the movement for equal rights. To mark the occasion, the Fusion G organization will have the first “Playa Pride” event, from June 15 to June 21. It is a collection of events directed towards the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transexual) community who reside in and visit Playa

del Carmen. It is expected to attract more than 30,000 attendees from Mérida, Chetumal, Cancún, New York, San Francisco, Los Ángeles, Orlando and Miami. According to Jan Novak, president of the organization, it is calculated that of the 200,000 locals, almost 2/5 of the population belong to this demographic. The activities will begin with a film festival in Centro Maya mall that presents various sexual diversity themes. Films such as “The Pink Triangle and the Nazi Cure For Homosexuality”, “Luciana Garriga”, “Us,

The activities will begin with a film festival in Centro Maya mall that presents various sexual diversity themes. You, and Them”, “Four Moons”, “Where The Waves Crash”, and the documentary “Don Mammi Blue” will be presented. In the gallery of the Centro Maya,

there will be a photography and painting exhibition. One of the most interesting events will be the high heel race on Quinta Avenida on June 19. There will also be conferences, sports tournaments, and bicycle tours. On Saturday, June 20th at 4pm in front of the Poliforum sports center, there will begin a parade that will run down Avenida Juárez until Avenida 10 Norte, it will then turn on 12th Street, and will end with a beach party. This march will be headed by invited DJs, literary personalities, bloggers, artists, and others from

the gay community. The objective of “Playa Pride” is to break stereotypes. The director of Fusion G said “People think we wear feather boas and that all we do is party. We also take part in sporting and cultural events.” People are opening up to the idea a bit more, so that is why we are having these kinds of events, to get closer to the Playa del Carmen community and create consciousness. The complete listing of “Playa Pride” events is available at www. playapride.com.mx

COMMUNITY

Quick Guide to Non-Taxable Products

You Can Bring Through Customs Goods that are ALLOWED Camera, Video Recorder, 12 rolls of film or videocassettes, three cell phones, typewriter, laptop. Four fishing rods, one bicycle. Recording equipment, speakers. Five laser disks, 10 DVD disks, 30 CD’s, Five USB/ Memory Cards. Books, magazines. Five toys, video game console, five video games. One glucose or blood pressure monitor. Personal medications. Regarding psychotropics, bring your medical prescription. Binoculars, telescope. Passengers over 18 may bring in 10 packs of cigarettes, 25 cigars or 200 grams of tobacco, three liters of alcoholic beverages, and six liters of wine. Items in excess of the above cannot be imported without complying with applicable regulations and restrictions (Source: Aduana). Two musical instruments. A tent. Toolbox, tools including drill, wire cutters, wrenches, screwdrivers. Two dogs or cats, provided that you present the corresponding sanitary import certificate issued by (Source: SAGARPA).

Products for personal use, appropriate for the duration of your trip, are admissible / Photo: www.ausbt.com.au

BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

s an expat living in Playa, it seems normal to me to go through customs with eight boxes of hair color, six packs of whole bean coffee and countless boxes of my favorite cookies. Although, it can take some work to convince the customs officer that they are not mercancia (for sale) but for personal use. There are some differences, on the types of products you can im-

port, whether you come through customs into Mexico by plane, boat or car, whether you are visiting up to six months on a tourist visa or with a temporary or permanent resident visa, so the more prepared and knowledgeable you are in what is or is not allowed, the less nerve–wrecking the experience is. Items for personal use, such as your clothing, footwear, toiletries and beauty products, which are appropriate for the duration of the trip are admissible. To help guide you, the following is a list of other allowable,

non–taxable items. These items are per person, so as a couple or family you can pool your resources. For more detailed lists see the resources box. Each person is entitled to bring in up to $500 USD worth of goods when traveling by air or sea. If traveling by land, $300 USD except during Easter, summer and Christmas when it increases to $500 USD. This is in addition to the personal items in your luggage. If you exceed this exemption, then you must pay duties/taxes. A flat 16 percent rate charge applies

to the amount exceeding the exemption and you must fill out a payment form, available at customs. If the value of the goods surpasses one thousand dollars (per person) after subtracting the $500 USD exemption, or if any of the goods are subject to non-tariff regulations or restrictions, you should hire a customs broker, in advance.

Km. 13.5 Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: (998) 881 0100

Phone: (998) 884 53 33

Phone: (998) 884 86 72

Honorary Consulate of Brazil Acanceh Ave. MZ 3 Office 16 2nd Floor Phone: (998) 883 16 02

Honorary Consulate of France Plaza Antigua, 10th Ave. Office 23, Playa del Carmen Tuesday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Phone: (984) 112 34 72

Honorary Consulate of Germany 36 Punta Conoco St. SM 34 LT 7 Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Honorary Consulate of the Netherlands Nichupté Ave. MZ 2, LT 22, SM 19, Caribe Pavillion, Office PH 6 and 7

CALL YOUR COUNTRY 00 + 1 (United States) + Area Code + Number 00 + 1 (Canada) + Area Code + Number 00 + 44 (UK) + Area Code + Number 00 + 55 (Brazil) + Area Code + Number 00 + 49 (Germany) + Area Code + Number 00 + 33 (France) + Area Code + Number 00 + 31 (Netherlands) + Area Code + Number

GOODS THAT ARE RESTRICTED Firearms, ammunition, homemade foods, flours of animal origin, fresh,

dry, canned or frozen meat and meat products, such as smoky, salted, mature sausages. Consider that the excuse of ignorance is bliss never applies here. If you have an inkling of a doubt, throw it out. Resources SRE: embamex.sre.gob.mx/canada_ eng/index.php/household-goods Aduana: www.aduanas.gob.mx SAGARPA: www.sat.gob.mx/ BienvenidoaMexico SEGOB: www.paisano.gob.mx.

CONSULATES IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Consular Agency of Canada Plaza Paraíso Caribe, Planta 2 Piso 3 Av 10 sur, mz35, lote 1 (esq. Calle 5), Col. Centro Playa del Carmen Q.Roo 77710 Phone: 984 803 24 11 Email: crmen@international.gc.ca Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am/1pm Consular Agency of the United States “La Palapa” Calle 1era SUR entre Av. 15 y 20, Colonia Centro Playa del Carmen Q.Roo 77710 Phone: 984 873 03 03 Email: playausca@hotmail.com Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am/1pm Honorary Consulate of Italy Avenida 10 entre 12 y 14 Colonia Centro Playa del Carmen Q.Roo 77110 Area: Playa del Carmen Q. Roo 77710 Phone: 984 803 4714 Email: consolato.pdcarmen@esteri.it Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:30am/12:30pm

IN CANCUN

Consular Agency of the United States Kukulcan Blvd. Km. 13, La Europea Tower, Office 301, Hotel Zone

Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Phone: (998) 883 0272 Consular Agency of Canada Kukulcan Blvd. Km. 12, Centro Empresarial, Office E7, Hotel Zone Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: (998) 883 3360 Honorary British Consulate The Royal Sands Hotel, Kukulcan Blvd.

June 10 - 23 2015

TULUM TIMES

Tulum Sports Center BY JOEMALDONADO The Tulum Municipality has one of the greenest sport centers in the country. Surrounded by lush vegetation, it promotes sports and development without compromising the environmental balance, keeping with the tradition of this natural tourism destination. Even though this sports center was inaugurated nearly five years ago, the authorities of the municipal, state, and federal government continue to invest in this space to ensure that all the sports have an area to practice in. The newest addition, the skating rink, allows people to practice BMX as well as inline and roller skating. If there is one thing that Tulum can boast about it is its lush green vegetation and large amounts of open spaces, which is an added bonus for all those who practice baseball, football, basketball, boxing, wrestling and many other disciplines. Ahmed Gómez Blancas, in charge of the Directorate of Youth and Sport of the municipality, states that when compared to other larger cities, whose sport centers are encompassed in completely urbanized environments, they are proud

that the Tulum Sport Center offers facilities for a wide variety of sport disciplines, while maintaining a lot of green spaces. Before Tulum built the sports complex, the land was used as a baseball field. The complex was built with the arrival of the first municipal government. To this day, a variety of leagues hold their tournaments in the Tulum complex, including the Veterans’ Baseball League and the Soccer League. There are also sports academies that use the facilities to encourage the local youth to be active. These academies are supervised directly by the Sports Commission for Youth and Sports Affairs in Quintana Roo (Cojudeq), the lead organization to promote sports in the state. The sports center is also home to the fourth professional division soccer team and it has hosted several state events, such as inter-school events and competitions. Despite the lack of other facilities in the area, the main commitment of the authorities is to make Tulum a sports and environmentally-friendly city, and have it become a national example in terms of development without devastating the environment.

Natural resources provide a number of valuable environmental services / Photo: Amigos de Sian Ka’an

Friends of Sian Ka’an Working on Nature’s Behalf This organization works with members of society to conserve forests, subterranean rivers, swamplands, and coral reefs for the Mesoamerican system BY JOEMALDONADO

Q A variety of leagues hold their tournaments in the Tulum Sports Complex / Photo: Agency

MexLaw Opens New Office in Tulum BY JAIMEDEBENITO In recent months a marked increase has been detected in the demand for real estate in the town of Tulum. This is notably due to the emergence of new developments of proven quality, the participation of leading developers in the same area and the rising prices and saturation in the municipality of Solidarity. As a result, these conditions have pushed many to seek alternative buyers interested in purchas-

Tulum is gaining popularity day by day / Photo: www.czmexico.com

ing real estate in Tulum, a town that is gaining popularity day by day. This situation has caused a consequent increase in demand for professionals dedicated to the real estate business and associated services. As a result, the Canadian Company, MexLaw, will open an office in Tulum. The new office will be opened in July. Jaime de Benito is the Vice President of Marketing and Sales for MexLaw. Contact him at jaime@mexlaw.ca - 9841798084

uintana Roo has many different organizations dedicated to protecting the environment. Amigos de Sian Ka’an is one of the most renowned not only locally, but also on a national level. It is one of the most important organizations dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. The organization was founded in 1986 in response to the request from the community to support the recently created Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. In the years since then, the organization has expanded to work all over the Yucatan peninsula. According to Gonzalo Merediz Alonso, general director of Amigos de Sian Ka’an, “It is a purpose-driven organization that does not use confrontation to achieve its goals. Instead, it creates alternatives that balance societal development and conservation of natural resources through appropriate use.” With the support of the community, those who join this organization work to conserve extensive forests, the world’s largest subterranean rivers, the most important swamplands in Mesoamerica, and the second largest coral reef on Earth, all which are located in Mexico. All these natural treasures perform environmental acts like capturing substances such as CO2 (a climate change agent), protecting the coast against hurricanes, as well as many other benefits. The protection of these resources has permitted the development of tourist destina-

tions of Tulum, Cancún and the Riviera Maya. Merediz Alonso explained that the work provided by Amigos de Sian Ka’an is based on available scientific evidence to spur development of public policies such as decreeing protected areas, ecological ordinances, and plans for urban development. Grounded in these public policies, he added, is the collaboration with communities, businesses, authorities, and students to increase the community’s participation in nature conservation. This is done through interactive projects, good environmental business practices and environmental education. One example of this which Merediz Alonso referred to was the launch of Maya Ka’an, an eco-tourism destination which is based on taking advantage of the natural attractions and strengthening the conservation of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, which is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. “The Maya Ka’an location supports 16 cooperatives in 9 tourist destinations, which promotes the sustainable production and preservation in Mayan communities who are primarily dedicated to handicrafts, medicinal products and food preservation, among other activities. This initiative hoped to be replicated to benefit local communities.” Although there has been some opposition to the group’s activities, they prefer not to enter into conflicts, but rather continue their work so that the Sian Ka’an Biosphere reserve and the Yucatan Peninsula as a whole can be preserved for future generations.

COMMUNITY

June 10 - 23 2015

ENTERPRISE FOCUS

Model Farmer Leads Mexico’s Quail Production Find out more about a little known farming industry of the region BY THEPLAYATIMES

laya del Carmen is synonymous with beaches, nightlife, gastronomy and retail therapy, with somewhere in the region of 4 million tourists arriving annually to enjoy the sun, sand and luxury. However, the region has another face, more authentic and rural. The area has also become famous in the farming industry, specifically in quail. Since 1983, Mauricio Saab has owned La Cabaña, a company that was originally founded in Texcoco, in the state of Mexico. Saab arrived in Playa del Carmen eight years ago with a desire to show that the local economy, which had placed

La Cabaña farm is located on 50th Avenue in the Ejido district.

its bets on urban development and the use of the region’s natural resources, could diversify. Saab began the second La Cabaña farm on a two-acre plot on 50th Avenue in the Ejido district. Currently, it produces 500 eggs a day, and up to 14,000 birds per month. Great pride is taken in caring for the birds, which are allowed to roam free-range in open corrals, helping to avoid stress, and fed a carefully monitored diet. La Cabaña’s products are available nation-wide, placing the company’s production and husbandry techniques as a national farming model. Saab has quietly developed his business without the region’s public even being aware that it has an

Production

500

eggs a day Up to

14,000 birds per month

industry leader nearby. La Cabaña supply a quail variety known as Jumbo Saab, which is “recognized in Mexico for its size and quality of meat,” the producer explained. “We aim to first meet the national demand, then we will consider the international market,” Saab said. The product is a well known nationally, but is barely distributed here in the Riviera Maya. According to Saab, restaurants and hotels rarely consider local producers, but regional farmers rely on the income and need support from the local hospitality trade. “Unfortunately we do not sell very much locally at the moment. 70 percent of our production is traded outside the region,” Saab concluded.

ENTERPRISE FOCUS

The Legal Forum The importan ce o f registered brand names By Gerardo GonzĂĄlez

The first rise in rates in almost 10 years is expected for September / Photo:Agency

A Little More Clarity BY PATTIEBERRY- INTERCAM

uite a few of the important U.S. economic indicators have been published for the first quarter of the year. Results have been mixed: retail sales disappointed, as did industrial and manufacturing production, and some of the regional activity indices. Job creation came in as expected at 200+ thousand, while housing, home prices, and new home sales surprised on the upside, as did core consumer prices, consumer confidence grew for the second month in a row.

The job market has healed almost completely and consumer spending has held up, while industrial production should pick up as the energy sector stabilizes. It seems, then, that the start of the second quarter was, after all, better than the first. The weakness during the first quarter is believed to be due to temporary factors, and a strengthening economy is anticipated as the year progresses. The job market has healed almost completely and consumer spending has held up, while industrial production should pick up as the energy sector stabilizes. The only missing piece of the puzzle before the Fed starts raising rates seems to be infla-

tion, which is still running below the two percent target rate, even though the core prices -eliminating food and energy from the calculations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is holding up at 1.8 percent, as based on last year to April. Many investors and most analysts expect the rise in interest to take place in September, and future markets look to December, because there is a programmed press conference after each of those meetings, where the decision could be better explained. However, it is not that clear-cut; there is really nothing holding back the Fed from moving in June, July, or October and calling for a special press conference. For now, what we know with some certainty, is that the Fed will raise the fed funds rate this year, probably in September, that the rise will be small, possibly only to 0.25-0.50 percent, and that movements after that will take place slowly, until the economy really takes off. So far, the markets have taken all the Fed talk in their stride, apparently discounting liftoff in September: the dollar has strengthened, bond rates are up, and stocks indices have held their own, keeping close to record highs. However, please buckle-up and be careful as September approaches. This will be the first rise in rates in almost 10 years, and mayor dislocations are bound to take place, to say the least. When shifts of this magnitude happen, cash usually becomes king. At Intercam, we are interested in receiving your feedback on our articles. Contact us at ftfernandez@intercam.com.mx

Photo:Agency

A strengthening economy is anticipated as the year progresses

exico is a country with a growing and thriving commercial economy. Both transnational and national corporations are dabbling in what was previously a market controlled by local businesses. An example of this is on Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen, which went from being an area with local handicrafts, regional clothing stores and rustic restaurants, to what is now, a veritable open-air catwalk and showroom for luxury products and a colorful display of renown corporations and restaurant franchises. For this reason, it is important to protect brands from these new and emerging business trends. Mexico is becoming a more competitive and aggressive market, in terms of reputation and dominance. Original Mexican products and services are now able to overcome previous limitations from competitive practices, such as piracy, theft of technologies, plagiarism and imitation

brand names. This is where the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) steps in. Their function is to register and protect brand names and original patents used by corporations to produce and commercialize goods and services. The growth of commercial industries in Mexico is made evident with the increasing number of registered brands. According to the IMPI, in 2013, there were 114,159 applications for brand names, compared to 105,245 applications in 2012 and just 64,000 in 2001. Although registering a brand may seem like a simple process, it is important to seek legal advice from lawyers or a firm specialising in trademark or patent registration or any type of business, as a way to avoid future lawsuits for plagiarism that would cause a major setback for a company both in terms of going back to the drawing board and in terms of important monetary losses.

Gerardo GonzĂĄlez is a lawyer specializing in corporate law and graduate from the UNID in Merida. Contact him at gonzalez@mexlaw.ca

June Juin 10 - 23 102015 - 23 2015 CULTURE ENTERPRISE FOCUS

English Summary available on our website theplayatimes. com/category/on-parle-francais/

Blanca Coutiño nous explique où et comment organiser son mariage dans notre région PAR BLANCACOUTIÑO

our ceux qui ne le savent pas, Playa del Carmen et ses environs offrent un bon nombre d’endroits exotiques et romantiques peu connus des touristes. Par exemple, il est facile de trouver des plages privées, à 10 km de Playa, du côté de Tulum qui offrent un cadre de rêve et sont presque désertiques. Rien à voir avec les plages saturées de Playa del Carmen. Sur ces plages, il est facile de monnayer, à un bon prix, la privatisation de la plage pour sa propre réception… Et pour ceux qui n’aiment pas le sable fin, il existe une multitude de cenotes cachés dans la selva (la jungle). Pour ceux qui ne le savent pas, les cenotes sont des réserves d’eau naturelles, généralement localisés dans des lieux ombragés, possédant une faune et une flore luxuriantes et une eau complètement pure. Ces lieux sont un peu plus couteux à

privatiser, mais pour avoir le toque glamour à sa réception il n’y a pas mieux… Les cenotes sont également idéaux pour les sessions de photographies de mariage : par exemple, pour les fameuses sessions de Trash the Dress, l’eau cristalline

S’il est facile de trouver les lieux de sa cérémonie, il est par contre difficile d’organiser toute l’orchestration de la réception de mariage tout seul. Il vous conviendra plutôt de vous rapprocher d’un wedding-planner qui vous allégera grandement la tâche.

de ces endroits offre des résultats magnifiques. Mais s’il est facile de trouver les lieux de sa cérémonie, il est par contre difficile d’organiser toute l’orchestration de la réception de mariage tout seul. Les fournisseurs sont difficiles à trouver, les négociations au niveau des tarifs sont difficiles et le professionnalisme de certains n’est malheureusement pas toujours au rendez-vous. Pour cela, il vous conviendra plutôt de vous rapprocher d’un wedding-planner qui vous allégera grandement la tâche. De plus, les wedding planners vous proposeront des idées originales pour votre réception : cérémonie de purification maya, spectacle de feu, musique de jazz ou Dj… Car, comme on dit ici « en Mexico, todo es posible » et plus que tout sur la Riviera Maya… Blanca Coutiño est wedding-planner. Pour plus d’information, visitez sa

page d’internet www.coucoumexikoo. com, et veuillez la contactez par cour-

rier coucoumexikoo@gmail.com, ou par téléphone au 984 108 52 08.

forme et cet usage à Noël sont uniquement mexicains et représentent finalement la destruction de la malice de Satan (si les enfants savaient ça !)

Pourquoi ces gamins se déchaînent-ils à tirer sur une hanse pour détruire des bonshommes en carton ? Mais une fois cassés, un flot de sucreries en tombe. En 2000, à Cuba : les enfants essaient de faire tomber des fruits exotiques et quelques caramels d’un

sac en plastique attaché à une corde. Ils tapent dessus avec un manche à balai. En 2005, à Caracas, je m’émeus en voyant d’énormes objets colorés. Je photographie la Petite Sirène, Spiderman... En 2007, à Playa del Carmen….Encore ?! Durant mon premier Noël ici, les enfants détruisent une étoile psychédélique possédant sept pics. Mais que représente -t-elle et d’où vient-elle vraiment ? Au 13ème siècle, Marco Polo ramène en Europe une tradition mandarine : des figurines de bovins en papier remplies de cinq types de semences. On les déverse sur le sol durant les festivités printanières (nouvel an chinois). Puis, on récupère leurs cendres comme porte-bonheur pour les récoltes. En République de Venise et en Italie, cette coutume s’établit le premier dimanche de Carême. On installe des piñatas, en argile, colorée et pleines de bonbons. Il faut les casser les yeux bandés. Puis, au 16ème siècle, elle est utilisée par les missionnaires espagnols pour attirer et convertir les indigènes. En 1586, les Augustins d’Acolman (Mexico) créent la Messe de l’Aguinaldo, précurseur de la Posada. On y utilise la piñata à sept pics, représentant les péchés capitaux. Sauf erreur de ma part, cette

Pourquoi ces gamins se déchaînent-ils pour détruire des bonshommes en carton ? / Photo: Agence

PAR BARBARAMARTIN-DANIEL Ceci devait être un article sur les traditions mexicaines, mais je préfère parler en détails de ces montages gigantesques en papier mâché appelé Piñatas, beautés éphémères à la mort

cruelle sous les coups de bâtons. J’en ai connu diverses formes chez les hispanophones et comme beaucoup de touristes et expatriés éblouis et curieux, je désirais en savoir plus. En 1996, premier contact : Iles Canaries, anniversaire de mon neveu.

Les environs offrent un bon nombre d’endroits exotiques et romantiques peu connus des touristes / Photo: Agence

En République de Venise et en Italie, cette coutume s’établit le premier dimanche de Carême. On installe des piñatas, en argile, colorée et pleines de bonbons. Il faut les casser les yeux bandés. Aujourd’hui, nous pouvons observer une multitude de piñatas différentes : la classique pour Noël en forme d’étoile, pour les anniversaires, toutes les formes sont possibles (généralement, pour les enfants ce seront des superhéros). Aux 19ème et 20ème siècles, on représentait aussi des personnages connus pour les détruire comme satire politique. Vive ce syncrétisme qui fait le bonheur des petits et grands !

ART & CULTURE

Unique Experience Combining

Lucha Libre and Live Music This kitsch Mexican cultural event takes place twice a year and includes live music, a live muralist, as well as, renowned wrestlers at Blue Parrot on June 19

Luchadores at the press conference / Photos: Juan Sosa

BY JUANSOSA

n a recent press conference, Miguel Fernández and Oliver Bompay announced their new project Sonidos Rudos y Técnicos (Loud Technical Noises), which combines Mexican lucha libre and music. It will be held on June 19 at 8 p.m. sharp at the Blue Parrot. The wrestlers taking part will be Huracán Ramírez, Fish-

man Jr. and Súper Muñeco, who will wrestle simultaneously with the live performance of The Surfing Monsters, a Quintana Roo surf band. Both organizers indicated that they are expecting around 1500 attendees, who will also be able to see the Mexico City native muralist Charles Drawin, who will create a mural of the event, using the bright colors and passion of Mexican lucha libre.

Pre-event tickets are available to buy from The Playa Times for $200 pesos. Contact us at info@meridianmedia.mx. Tickets at the door cost $250. At least a dozen local photographers will document the event, with

the aim to promote cultural and visual arts in Playa del Carmen.

At the end of the wrestling matches, Silverio, a controversial talk show host who has presented in Vive Latino, will share his talents by playing one of his hit songs Yepa, Yepa, Yepa. This twice yearly event combines lucha libre, music and other artistic expressions such as photography and mural painting, developing a kitsch atmosphere representing contemporary Mexican culture.

June 10 - 23 2015

ART & CULTURE

MUSIC & DANCE ART ART CLASSES painting & sculpture every Thursday 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for adults, Saturdays 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m for kids. Le Lotus Rouge, Second St. and 35th Ave.$100 pesos to cover materials. $200 MXN per person for classes with 1 to 2 people. $150 MXN per person with 4 or more. All materials included.

SALSA LESSONS every Tuesday 8 p.m. - 9 p.m. La Bodeguita del Medio, 5th Ave. and 34th Street. $60 MXN cover charge. DANCE PARTY with DJ GRECO, Every Wednesday 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. El Jardín, 20th Street between 10th Ave. and 15. Beers $20 MXN.

LATIN DANCING every Friday 7 p.m. Language School Chichen Itza, 4th Street between 10th Ave. and 15th. NOCHE DE DIVAS, Every Friday, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Concert starts at 7:30 p.m. sharp. Music: Classical, Chanson and Boleros. El Jardín, 20th Street between Ave 10 and 15. Beers $20 MXN.

WORLD CITIZEN CLASSES, literature related to all art fields of the five continents, every Wednesday, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Le Lotus Rouge, Second St. and 35th Ave. $700 MXN per month

ECOMARKETS KAVA KASA, every Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturday 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., 22nd Street between 5th and 10th Ave.

SPECIAL EVENTS

COCOS BEACH ORGANIC MARKET, every Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Condo Alizes, Avenida CTM (46th) and Flamingos.

BICYCLE TOUR, June 18, 5:30 p.m., meeting point Calle 28 and 5th Ave. FREE & EQUAL, Love is Love Conference June 19, 4 p.m., Palacio Municipal. HIGH HEEL RACE AGAINST DISCRIMINATION, June 19, 11 a.m., Parque Fundadores to Quinta Alegria Mall. GAY PRIDE PARADE, participants meet at 4 p.m. the Centro Deportivo Poliforum on Ave. Juarez. The route is Juarez to 10th Ave. to 12th Street ending at the Blue Parrot. For more information about this and other Pride events, please visit www. playapride.com.

JUNE 10 - 23

2015 MOVIES OSCAR’S MOVIE NIGHT, every Wednesday, 8 p.m. Be Playa Hotel, 26th Street and 10th Ave. No cover NOCHE DE CINE sponsored by El Cine Club of Playa, every Friday, 8 p.m. Parque La Ceiba, 1st Street South and 60th Ave. Diagonal in the Ejido.

HEALTH & SPORTS BICINETA BIKE RIDE, every Wednesday 8 p.m. City Hall, Plaza 28 de Julio, 8th St. and 15th Ave. Explore the cycle paths of Playa del Carmen and meet like-minded local bikers. CYCLING EMBASSY’S BIKE RIDE, every Saturday, 5.30 p.m. Constituyentes Ave. and Diagonal 85. Bike loans and free drinks! Check out the route on Facebook / Playa Bicicletero. “PAY WHAT YOU CAN” YOGA, daily classes, all levels welcome, limited mats & blocks to borrow. Kava Kasa located in Hotel Aventura Mexicana, Calle 24 between 5 and 10. Cost: Donation. For specific times check on Facebook / Kava Kasa.

ANIMAL WELFARE CHARM SCHOOL, every Saturday, 9 a.m. for 2 to 3 hours. Have fun helping dogs become leash trained, balanced and exercised. Volunteers are picked up at Mega Supermarket, 30th and Constituyentes. Contact info@playaanimalrescue.org.

ACCIÓN ANIMAL ADOPTION FAIR, every Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tenth St. between Av. 100 and Av. 105, Colonia Ejido. Don’t buy pets, rescue them! Check Facebook /Acción Animal.

DIRECTORY

MUSEUMS . · . P LAYA D E L CA R M EN .·. National Museum of Underwater Archeology-Cedam Tues-Sun, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Puerto Aventuras Blvd. AP 1, Puerto Aventuras (984) 873 5002 Museo de arqueología subacuática-CEDAM Xel-Ha Archaeology Museum Tues-Sun, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Xel-Ha Park, 307 Federal Highway, km. 240 (984) 803 4403 / 01 800 009 3542 www.xelha.com . · . CA N CU N . · . Maya Museum of Cancun Tues-Sun, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Blvd. Kukulcán km. 16.5, Hotel Zone (988) 885 3842 Museo Maya de Cancún

Ka’Yok’ Planetarium of Cancun Tues-Fri , 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Palenque Ave., SM 21, MZ 05, LT 1 www.ventanaaluniverso.org

ACCESS TO PUBLIC BEACHES MUSA Cancun Underwater Museum Tues-Sun Nizuc Reef and Manchones Reef (998) 848 8312 / (998) 578 7097 www.musacancun.org www.musaislamujeres.com Mexican Folk Art Museum Tues-Sun, 8:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. (summer) / 8:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. (winter) Xcaret Park, 307 Federal Highway, km. 282 (984) 206 0038 / 01 800 292 2738 www.xcaret.com.mx .·. TULUM .·. Museum of Prehistory Mon-Sun, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dos Ojos Park, 307 Federal Highway, 17 km. before Tulum Museo de la Prehistoria Parque Dos Ojos www.cenotedosojos.com .·. COZUM EL .·. Museum of Cozumel Island Mon-Sat, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Rafael Melgar Ave. and 4th St. (987) 872 0914 Museo de la Isla de Cozumel .·. OT H ERS .·. The Caste War Museum Tues-Sun, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 26 17th St., Tihosuco, Felipe Carrillo Puerto (983) 208 9203 Museo Guerra de Castas

CULTURAL CENTERS . · . P L AYA D E L CA RM EN .·. Cultural Center of Playa del Carmen Mon-Fri, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sat, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 115th Ave. and Cruz de Servicios Ave. (984) 873 2134 Centro Cultural Playa del Carmen La Ceiba Park Tues-Sat, 7 a.m.- 9 p.m. First St. South and Av. 60, Colonia Ejido (984) 859 2327 Parque La Ceiba

El Edén Jardín de Arte Mon-Sat, 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Constituyentes Ave. and 95th St., Catarinas Building (984) 859 3076 El Edén Jardín de Arte .·. CANCUN .·. Cultural Center of Cancun Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sat, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Prolongación Yaxchilán Ave. SM 21 (998) 884 8229 casaculturacancun.blogspot.mx

.·. CANCUN .·. Las Perlas Beach Kukulcán Blvd. km. 2.5, next to Hotel Imperial Las Perlas Langosta Beach Kukulcán Blvd. km. 5 Tortugas Beach Kukulcán Blvd. km. 7, next to the ferry terminal Caracol Beach Kukulcán Blvd. km. 9.5, next to Mocambo Restaurant Gaviota Azul Beach Kukulcán Blvd. km. 9.5, next to Coco Bongo Marlin Beach Tepén St., next to Hotel Barceló Tucancún Beach Chac Mool Beach Blvd. Kukulcán km. 14.5 Ballenas Beach Kukulcán Blvd. km. 14.5, next to Hard Rock Hotel Delfines Beach Kukulcán Blvd. km. 16, next to El Rey Ruins Puerto Morelos 307 Federal Highway km. 324, next to Puerto Morelos Town Square .·. PLAYA DE L CA RMEN .·. 1 Xcalacoco Cancún-Tulum Road km. 3, entry by Coca-Cola 2 Punta Esmeralda 112th St. 3 CTM Beach CTM Ave. 4 Shangrila 38th St. 5 Mamitas 28th St. 6 Playa Caribe Access from 6th, 8th, 10th and 12th St. and Constituyentes Ave. 7 Piñatas Beach Second St. next to Fundadores Park 8 Playacar First South Ave. next to the ferry terminal

Cancun Theater Mon-Sat, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. (ticket office) Kukulcán Ave. km. 4, Hotel Zone (998) 849 5580 www.teatrodecancun.com.mx Cultural Center Caracol Marino 80th St. and Fifth Ave. (984) 267 3136 Centro Cultural Caracol Marino El Hongo Tues-Sat, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and Sun, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 19th St. South Sur and 80th Ave. (984) 109 5356 www.el-hongo.com

Cultural Center of Puerto Morelos 2 Niños Héroes Ave. Puerto Morelos Casa Cultura Puerto Morelos .·. TULUM .·. Cultural House of Tulum Alfa Sur St. and Gama Oriente St. (984) 871 2496 Casa de Cultura de Tulum

RUINS . · . P LAYA D E L CA R M E N .·. Archaeological Zone of Playa del Carmen Open 24hrs Paseo Xaman-Ha, Playacar Phase I . · . CA N CU N . · . El Meco Archaeological Zone Mon-Sun, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 307 Federal Highway, Prolongación López Portillo Ave. El Rey Archaeological Zone Mon-Sun, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Kukulcán Blvd., in front of Playa Delfines, Hotel Zone San Miguelito Archaeological Zone Tues-Sun, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Kukulcán Blvd. km. 16 Ixchel Temple in Isla Mujeres Mon-Sun, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Garrafón Park, Garrafón Road, km. 6, Punta Sur (998) 877 1105 . · . T ULU M . · . Archaeological Zone of Tulum Mon-Sun, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 307 Federal Highway, km. 128 (983) 837 0796 Archaeological Zone of Cobá Mon-Sun, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Carretera Federal 307, desviación Nuevo Xcan, a 47 km. de Tulum

.·. COZUM EL .·. San Gervasio Archaeological Zone Mon-Sun, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Carretera Transversal, km. 7.5 El Cedral Archaeological Zone Mon-Sun, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. El Cedral, Cozumel .·. OTHERS .·. Chichén Itzá Mon-Sun, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Cancún-Mérida Highway, 75 miles before Mérida (985) 851 0137 www.chichenitza.inah.gob.mx

.·. CARRETERA PLAYA-T ULUM .·. 9 Punta Venado 307 Federal Highway km. 278, 6 miles from Playa del Carmen 10 Paamul 307 Federal Highway km. 85, 9 miles from Playa del Carmen 11 Puerto Aventuras 307 Federal Highway km. 269, 18 miles from Playa del Carmen 12 Xpu Ha 307 Federal Highway km. 118, 20 miles from Playa del Carmen 13 Akumal 307 Federal Highway km. 256, 23 miles from Playa del Carmen

CENOTES .·. CARRETERA P LAYA-TU LU M . · . 1 Cenote Dos Ojos Xel-Ha Park, 307 Federal Highway, km. 240

CENOTES ROUTE

16 15

PUERTO MORELOS

14 13

12 11 10 PUERTO MO RELOS - LEON A VICARIO

2 Cenote Ponderosa-El Edén 307 Federal Highway km. 36, 14 miles de Playa del Carmen 3 Cenote Taj Mahal 307 Federal Highway, 15 miles from Playa del Carmen 4 Cenote Manatee 307 Federal Highway, next to Tankha residence 5 Cenote Yal-Ku 307 Federal Highway, just before Akumal 6 Cenote ChiKin Ha 307 Federal Highway, just after Pto. Aventuras 7 Cenote Kantun-Chi 307 Federal Highway km. 266.3, next to Hotel Barceló 8 Cenote Cristalino 307 Federal Highway 307, just after Pto. Aventuras 9 Cenote Azul 307 Federal Highway 307, just after Pto. Aventuras

307

1 2 3 4 5

7 8

7 9 12 Cenote Boca del Puma Pto. Morelos-Valladolid Road, km. 16 13 Cenote Verde Lucero Pto. Morelos-Valladolid Road, km. 18. 14 Cenote Chilam Balam Pto. Morelos-Valladolid Road, km. 18.5 15 Cenote La Noria Pto. Morelos-Valladolid Road, km. 19 16 Cenote Kin Ha Pto. Morelos-Valladolid Road, km. 20 17 Cenote Zapote Pto. Morelos-Valladolid Road, km. 20

PUNTA VENADO

PUERTO AVENTURAS

6 8

.·. TULUM . · . 18 Cenote Escondido and Cenote Cristal 307 Federal Highway, just after Tulum 19 Gran Cenote, Cenote Carwash and Cenote Calavera 109 Tulum-Valladolid Highway 20 Cenote Aktun Chen 307 Federal Highway, 10 miles before Tulum 21 Cenote Angelita 307 Federal Highway, 11 miles after Tulum

14 Xcacel-Xcacelito 307 Federal Highway, 9 miles from Tulum 15 Papaya Beach Tulum-Boca Paila Road km. 4.5

PLAYA DEL CARMEN

.·. CENOT ES ROU TE . · . 10 Cenote Las Mojarras Pto. Morelos-Valladolid Road, km. 12. 11 Cenote Siete Bocas Pto. Morelos-Valladolid Road, km. 15.5

AKUMAL 13

307

XEL-HA 1 14

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS (PLAYA DEL CARMEN/CANCUN) Muyil Archaeological Zone Mon-Sun, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. 307 Federal Highway, 20 km. south Tulum, Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve Uxmal Archaeological Zone Mon-Sun, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 261 Mérida-Santa Elena Federal Highway, Uxmal, Yucatán (999) 944 0033

Emergency

Emergency from cell phone

066

114

Fire Dept. (984) 879 3669 / (998) 884 1202

Hyperbaric chamber (984) 117 0278

Red Cross

TELMEX

(984) 873 1233 / (998) 884 1616

01 800 123 2222

Hospital General

CFE

(984) 206 1690 / (998) 887 3557

01 800 080 0233

CARIBBEAN SEA

VALLA DOLID

109 18 15

TULUM 15

June 10 - 23 2015

3 7

6 LUCKY LUCIANO LA CHOPERIA

4 3

1 9

2 9

info@meridianmedia.mx t. 984 8031446

DISCOVER MEXICO

June 10 - 23 2015

DISCOVER MEXICO

The Reef Health Index (RHI) evaluates the ecological condition of the MAR / Photo: Lorenzo Álvarez Filip

Healthy Reefs Initiative Every year this organization reports on the status of the marine ecosystem in order to demonstrate the underlying issues which may be preventing its healthy recovery BY MARISOLRUEDA, MEXICOCOORDINATOR FORHEALTHY REEFSINITIATIVE

oral reefs are one of the planet’s most threatened and diverse ecosystems. Maintaining a healthy and diverse coral reef ecosystem is especially important to the four countries of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras as they are home to the Western Hemisphere’s longest coral reef system. The Mesoamerican Reef (MAR) spans more than 1,000 km along the coasts of these four countries and supports the local economies and livelihoods of nearly two million people. The Healthy Reefs Initiative (HRI), alongside more than 60 partners, is working to improve the health and management of this diverse ecosystem. HRI is one of the first efforts globally to develop measurable ranking criteria for indicators of coral reef health. The Reef Health Index (RHI) evaluates the ecological condition of the MAR according to four key indicators vital to the structure and functioning of healthy coral reef ecosystems. The change or decline in the status of indicators -namely live coral cover, macroalgae cover and fish populationscan have a domino effect on the entire ecosystem. Over the past 10 years, HRI and partners have promoted adaptive management by producing Report Cards on ecosystem health and Eco-Audits of management effectiveness available on our web page www.healthyreefs.org. HRI and partners systematically measured 248 reef sites across the MAR. Next year, the aim is to increase the number of sites monitored. As such, we are looking for contributions such as more financial support and/or boats, tanks, hotel rooms, and many other materials to better address the continuous environmental threats. Key Findings on the Health of the Mesoamerican Reef The overall 2015 Reef Health Index score is ‘fair’ (2.8) -on a scale from critical (1) to very good (5)with encouraging improvements at

The Mesoamerican Reef is facing the growing stressors of increasing population, sewage, coastal development, overfishing and climate change. both the regional level and of individual indicators.

Tulum is world famous for its stunning Mayan ruins, perched on a cliff edge overlooking the turquoise Caribbean. One of the most photographed areas in all of Mexico, and although it can be crowded during high season, it is one of the jewels amongst pre-Hispanic Mayan sites. The beach has been a wellknown destination for backpackers for decades, and its white powdery sand is some of the finest you will ever feel between your toes. Although now growing in popularity as a destination for the rich and famous, Tulum still manages to retain some of its laid-back hippy charm. Although the days of $10 a night beachside cabañas or hammocks may be over, it is well worth the effort to get there, as it is truly one of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean. While exploring the sites of Tulum, remember to pack sunscreen and bug spray as some of the sites away from the cool, constant onshore breeze can get hot and humid, making it a perfect place for mosquitoes! Take a day bag with water and towels in case you take a dip in the sea or a refreshing cenote and even if on an organised tour be sure to have some small denomination change for cold drinks along the way. Dollars will be accepted widely, although the exchange rate is not guaranteed.

Distance from Playa del Carmen:

39 Miles

Tulum HOW TO GET THERE Colectivos on Second St. and 20th Ave. The journey takes around 45 minutes and it costs $40 pesos. ADO buses at the station on Fifth Ave. and Avenida Juárez. A round trip ticket costs around $130 pesos and there are buses every hour. www.ado.com.mx. Second class Mayab buses also leave from the Fifth Ave. ADO station. A round ticket costs around $76 pesos and there are buses every hour. Note that these buses stop in the main town of Tulum so you will need to get off at the ruins entrance if you are visiting the site or get a taxi to the coast road, known as Boca Paila, if you are visiting the beach. Taxi. You will have to negotiate the price in advance with the driver or ask your concierge for the current set fares.

WHAT TO SEE The Mayan ruins of Tulum. The only Mayan archaeological site on the coast is is a five minute taxi from downtown Tulum. The entrance fee is $35-$40 pesos and is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The highway entrance is a few kilometers from the ruins and a small train takes you to the site entrance. It can get hot walking around the main site, but on the bluff there is always a cool onshore breeze. Sian Ka´an Biosphere Reserve. Hiking, kayak, snorkeling, bird watching tours are available from tour operators in Tulum and the entrance is 20 minutes from Tulum town. You can get there by colectivo but there is only one which leaves at midday from the downtown Tulum square, it costs $15 pesos, so renting a car may give you more freedom and flexibility. Tulum’s idyllic beaches. The beach in Tulum is renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful. There are many restaurants and bars with spectacular beach views and lodging choices from luxury boutique hotels to eco-cabañas on the beach.

Coral cover is increasing, although slowly. Macroalgae, the main competitors with corals for open reef space, have nearly doubled. Key herbivorous fish numbers continue to increase and are needed to reduce this macroalgae.

Ce n o t e C r i s t a l a n d Ce n o t e E s condido. Escape the heat and swim or snorkel in these unique limestone cave systems surrounded by jungle. Five minutes from Tulum village. You can get there by colectivo from downtown Tulum, by taxi or hire car. $40 pesos entrance.

Commercial fish have also increased. Protecting large fish, such as snappers and groupers, is important as bigger fish produce more eggs and more eggs produce more fish. Herbivorous species, such as sea urchins and parrotfish, play a vital role in reducing macroalgae. Protecting parrotfish is important as they are being targeted by the fishing sector as other fish stocks decline.

Cenote Dos Ojos. Part of the third longest subterranean river in the world. Snorkeling or diving tours are available You can get there by colectivo or bus directly from Playa del Carmen. $100 pesos general entrance.

This Report Card demonstrates the underlying ecological issues that may be preventing recovery. We will continue this effort with additional help from supporters so we can “Together save this Meso-Amazing Reef.”

Muyil Ruins. Check out the Mayan jungle pyramid and Muyil freshwater lagoon. 15 minutes southwest from Tulum village. You can get there by colectivo from Tulum village, by taxi or hire car. $40 pesos entrance.

You can follow us on Facebook/ Healthy Reefs for Healthy People and on Twitter @HealthyReefs.

cy Photos: Agen

June 10 - 23 2015

DISCOVER MEXICO

WEDDING SPECIAL

Beach Wedding Tips We have outlined some ideas to help you pull off a successful and romantic ceremony by the sea

Avoid the piercing sun and have your wedding in the late afternoon / Photo: Agency

BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

ith the Riviera Maya an important area for destination weddings, we can often hear brides fretting about what might go wrong, especially where Mother Nature is concerned. Having the support of a professional wedding planner eases these worries. Here are some tips to make sure that this is your once– in–a–lifetime fairytale day. 1. Weather Many brides, afraid that it will rain on this precious day, become superstitious. Erica Bressan from Weddings In Playa explains “People put knives in the ground, others turn a glass

With a little patience, some luck and, most importantly, a great wedding planner in your contacts, your big day will go off without a hitch and remain an indelible memory forever with water upside down. I talk to Chaac the Mayna God of Rain and thank him for allowing me to have the wedding without his presence!” If that doesn’t work, consider an indoors back–up venue, such as the hotel lobby or under a gazebo.

Linda Burchett from My Playa Wedding suggests that creating fans, out of the programs, can offer a slight breeze or providing parasols for the guests against the rays of the sun. Air conditioned locations and ceiling fans help keep everybody cool.

2. Heat Most weddings are planned for late afternoon, to avoid the piercing sun.

3. Hotel restrictions Some hotels, even if your group isn’t staying with them, will allow wed-

Trash the Dress

4. Drinking alcohol near water Most event planners we spoke to indicate that pools may be more hazardous in this situation than the ocean, but either way, they, the staff and event security keep an eye on everybody. 5. Strangers walking through wedding Although most resorts and beach clubs don’t rope off the area, some may designate it with plants, chairs etc. Usually the organizers will have some people directing traffic and discreetly asking

people to watch the canopy area. 6. Sand Even if the bride wants her wedding on the beach, but not actually on the sand, a platform can be erected or the special occasion can be held on a rooftop or terrace, overlooking the water. 7. Music Although resorts have sound restrictions after 11 p.m., if the party is still in full swing, it can be moved indoors, often to a ballroom. With a little patience, some luck and, most importantly, a great wedding planner in your contacts, your big day will go off without a hitch and remain an indelible memory forever.

- A New Tradition

BY THEPLAYATIMES

Trash the Dress is a Las Vegas invention / Photo: Agency

dings in front of their property, others may be more restrictive, so working with a reputable planner with connections is your best option.

“Trash the dress” photography sessions are increasingly popular in wedding culture. Generally held on a date after the wedding, they are believed to have originated around 2001 with a Las Vegas wedding photographer. Bored with traditional wedding photos, he began posing brides in very untraditional settings - submerged in water, sitting in abandoned buildings, or splattered with paint. In the Riviera Maya, these photography sessions are often held in a cenote, which are unique geological formations to the Yucatan Peninsula. Destination weddings to the Riviera Maya are incredibly popular and our unique and stunning environment make for the perfect backdrop for “Trash the Dress”. We have outlined some ideal locations but be sure to discuss the options available to you with your wedding photographer.

Ideal Locations 1. Cenote Dos Ojos

- Federal Highway, Between Playa and Tulum. 2. Cenote Boca del Puma - Rutas de Cenotes, Puerto Morelos.

On the day of the shoot, don’t forget: Biodegradable sunscreen - especially when visiting a cenote as regular sunscreens are not permitted.

3. Cenote Cristalino - Just south of Puerto Aventuras.

Bug Spray.

4. Cenote Jardin del Eden - Just south of Puerto Aventuras.

Towels.

5. Playa Xpu-Ha - Slightly south of Cenote Cristalino and Eden.

Change of clothes.

June 10 - 23 2015

WEDDING SPECIAL

Playa Hosted its First Gay Wedding May welcomed the long-awaited “I do” between a same-sex couple since Mexican law does not prohibit civil nuptials nor does it distinguish between gender or sexual orientation

Don’t forget to shout out ¡Que vivan los novios! / PhotoS: stephanieroseevents.files.wordpress.com / Mariachimexicano.com

The Quintana Roo state law permits same-sex marriages / Photo:Agency

BY THEPLAYATIMES

fter years of confronting prejudices from authorities at the Civil Registry, even though the law does not prohibit same-sex marriage, in May 2015 the very first official gay wedding was hosted in Playa del Carmen, confirmed Carlos Enrique Guerra Sánchez, director of the Solidaridad’s Civil Registry. Previously, same-sex couples celebrated their union in hotels of the Riviera Maya or in Playa del Carmen without receiving the validation of the Civil Registry, as a result of judges refusing to marry homosexuals due to ignorance and fear of judgement. The Civil Code does not distinguish between gender or sexual orientation in the couple wishing to marry. For Guerra Sánchez, “there are no obstacles” in uniting people of the same-sex. Despite this, there is very little demand for gay weddings. “It was the first of its kind and we don’t know whether more will come in the following months,” explained Guerra Sánchez, who insisted that there are “no impediments for such unions”, and whoever wants to marry a person of the same sex can. “The requirements are the same as those for heterosexuals. A form of ID, fill out the application, have witnesses, a blood test and have letters confirming they are not married. It is the same deal for foreigners,” he specified. On the other hand, in 2014 alone, the civil registry in Playa del Carmen attracted 2,364 weddings, of which 977 were for foreigners. In late 2011, the first same-sex weddings

Weddin gs in Playa

2,364 in 2014

58.7% nationals

41.3% foreigners took place in Quintana Roo. Paty and Areli, Sergio and Manuel, were the first couples to marry in the municipality of Lázaro Cárdenas located in the northwest region of the state. The Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen are known as gay-friendly destinations and millions of pesos have been generated by holding events for the pink triangle (a.k.a. gay community).

Mexican Weddings BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO Some of the customs of a Mexican wedding originated after the Spanish came to Mexico and intermarried with the indigenous communities, blending their religion with some of the native customs of worship. For instance, the bride used the branch of orange blossom and a mantilla veil (Spanish veil). In rural areas and small towns or villages, the banquet usually consists of mole with rice and handmade corn tortillas filled with chicken or beef, a task exclusive to women and is representative of their role in the home. In cities, aluminum cans are tied to the back of the couple’s car as a noisy send-off for the newlyweds while relatives and friends follow them through the streets honking their car horns.

The most traditional of Mexican wedding usually consists of the groom serenading the bride the night before the wedding, outside of her house, with a Mariachi band Mexican weddings uphold some traditional elements of the Catholic Church, the predominant faith of the country. These customs include the bride leaving a bouquet for the Virgin; the

groom delivering the earnest money, or arrhea, to the bride, which consisting of 13 gold coins that symbolize his role as provider; another couple, who are themselves in a solid marriage, place a lasso on the newlyweds, usually a large loop of rosary beads, symbolizing the lasting union. When leaving the church, rice is thrown at the bride and groom as a sign of prosperity and as a symbol that they will never go without food. The flower girl and ring bearer are dressed as miniature versions of the bride and groom. During the party, guests dance the traditional Víbora de la mar, or Sea Viper, where guests holding hands as they run around the couple, passing under the arch formed by the newlyweds’ arms. This usually ends up being a fun, chaotic mess, if not a very funny moment, when the guests and the couple are tangled around each other. Another tradition during the party, is when the men throw the groom in the air. During the party, the groom also has to remove the bride’s garter from her leg using only his mouth. The party will always be very colorful with lively music, tequila and mezcal. Along with the wedding cake there is also a basket with typical Mexican candies. The most traditional of Mexican weddings consists of the groom serenading the bride the night before the wedding, outside of her house, with a Mariachi band. The day of the wedding the newlyweds leave the church in a horse-drawn carriage. Instead of speeches, it is common for everyone to shout out ¡Que vivan los novios! Long live the newlyweds!

HEALTH

Cancun and the

Growing Medical

Tourism Market While the Riviera Maya looks to attract the business traveler, Cancun is attracting tourists seeking high quality, low cost health care BY MELISSAROBLES

edical tourism, when someone travels to an area specifically for medical care, has increased in popularity in the last decade and can be a financial boon for a region. While Cancun is looking to increase its medical tourism income, the Riviera Maya looks to generate additional income through business tourism. Darío Flota Ocampo, general director of the Tourism Promotion Trust of the Riviera Maya explained that medical tourism is not as yet a priority for the area, since there are other types of tourism that are equally as beneficial. “I really doubt that there are people that travel here thinking of getting medical treatment or surgery. It is more important and relevant to focus on the sector of business tourism and ensure we have appropriate venues for this market because we have many hotels with meeting and

In 2014, around

8,000 tourists came for treatment in Cancun, generating approximately

$60 million U.S. dollars conference rooms, we receive important visitors, we have a large number of rooms. This is an appropriate destination in which to host business tourism,” explained the specialist.

Cancun and the Riviera Maya are famous destinations for fertility and reproductive treatments / Photo:Agency

Cancun, on the other hand, is becoming a popular destination for tourist looking for inexpensive and high-quality health services. In 2014, around 8,000 tourists came for treatment in Cancun, generating approximately $60 million U.S. dollars. The headquarters of the Association of Medical Tourism in Quintana Roo, also known as Medical Travel Mexico, is located in Cancun. This association has been operating since 2010 and includes hospitals and clinics specializing in plastic surgery, in vitro fertilization, stem cell, dental care, and hemodi-

alysis, among others. The company Wohmedic will launch a discount card with treatments in Cancun, in the aim of attracting additional travelers seeking healthcare. “Cancun is starting to stand out in this sector as are many border towns with the U.S., because the hospitals certified by U.S. insurance companies receive general, and cheaper, treatments not just the esthetic kind,” explained Flota Ocampo. In states like California it is legal to sell insurance that covers treatment in Mexico, because people can receive certain specialized treat-

ments, such as dental care and diabetes treatments, that are up to 50 percent less than what they charge north of the border. Mexico is well known for inexpensive weight loss surgeries and cosmetic surgeries, including dental work, as well as hip and knee replacements. Quintana Roo has specialised and become recognised for fertility and reproductive treatments, due to the low cost of donor eggs and looser laws about reproductive procedures, such as allowing gender selection, which are illegal in the UK, Canada and elsewhere.

June 10 - 23 2015

HEALTH

The Foundation and Maintenance of a Healthy Relationship Resident psychologist Rosan discusses how to build a solid foundation and gives some suggestions of how to keep a relationship healthy BY ROSANOUWERKERK

lthough love and affection are most important, unfortunately it is not enough to be a happy couple. It is a myth everything should go prosperously as long as there is love. Besides that, love is not always a stable factor in long term relationships and therefore, it is important to have a good foundation to cope with episodes of struggles.

Love is not always a stable factor in long term relationships and therefore, it is important to have a good foundation to cope with episodes of struggles. First of all it is important to have the same kinds of interests, values and expectations in common. Furthermore there needs to be a consensus of how the individual life relates to the shared life. It can be hard to find a balance in the life together and

the space you give each other for individual activities and growth, but it is definitely important. As well, a couple must figure out how to divide the roles: who is taking care of what when it comes to the daily routine? In Western society we seem to have abandoned traditional gender roles. Because of women’s emancipation, attunement became a serious theme in relationships. A couple should function as a team. How can you make decisions together? Negotiating and making compromises can be a huge challenge but it is certainly beneficial for the relation when this works out well. It helps a lot when there is compatibility and connection; the more you have in common the easier it is to understand each other. But we must realize that we are all subject to changes: personal growth, life events and life stage transitions force us to find a new balance and obviously this affects our context as well. Communication and spending quality time together is an important way to maintain a relation. In order to understand and to support each other we have to keep on sharing what is going on in our individual world. Resolving disagreements is crucial

A couple should function as a team / Photo: Agency

because otherwise the same issues will return and this could really damage a relation. Try to communicate in a constructive way. We are not able to listen if we are upset with anger or sadness. That is why I recommend to take some distance to calm down when emotions are overwhelming. Try to speak from your own emotion instead of blaming the other: “I miss you” is better than “You are never here”, as well “you make me angry” is not as effective as “I feel angry if

Have You Heard of Superfoods?

Cocoa is produces feelings of comfort and pleasure / Photo: Wikimedia.org

BY THEPLAYATIMES The poor diet of the modern world, especially in Mexico, makes it indispensable to include superfoods (ingredients that contain high levels of much-needed vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and polyphenols) in our diet in order to restore a healthy balance in our body. Recent researches show extraordinary nutritious and anticancer properties within small doses of certain food items considered to be superfoods. Chia Rich in proteins, fiber and the main vegetable source of omega 3, chia is the perfect substitute for vegetarians who do not eat fish. Chia helps to control cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Its soluble fibers absorb water making digestion easier and increase satiety. Coconut oil It is known as the miracle oil. It is very good for the skin, hair and perfect for massages. Cooking with coconut oil helps to lose weight since it balances the metabolism. Coconut oil kills bacteria causing ulcers, throat and urinary infections, pneumonia, gonorrhea and other diseases. It contributes by bringing minerals to bones, providing magnesium, calcium, phosphorus

and potassium which helps with the proper functioning of the intestine, nerves, muscles, teeth and also improves immunity. Cocoa It contains flavonoids, antioxidants and anti-inflammatories reducing blood pressure and cholesterol. Cocoa has phenylethylamine, a substance that stimulates endorphin secretion producing a feeling of comfort and pleasure. Spirulina It is a high-absorption multivitamin food that contains proteins. It is energizing and it accelerates the metabolism. It is excellent for anemia. It contributes by reinforcing the immune system. Moringa Moringa leaves are full of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and proteins. It has antibiotic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Moringa also promotes the healthy functioning of the liver and kidney, it helps with digestion and beautifies the skin, and provides the body with natural energy and a feeling of wellness. Claims have also been made that it is beneficial for weight loss, although this has not been scientifically verified. Within its fan base is Fidel Castro who considered moringa the miracle tree or the “tree of life”.

you …” Emotions are seldom just the result of the interaction, often it has to do with personality or previous experiences. When it comes to differences we have to accept each other the way we are instead of trying to change each other. Sometimes it is necessary to agree to disagree if we have different opinions. Last but not least: we all make mistakes! Be honest and try to figure out a way to repair the damage and to

forgive each other. Negative communication can become a circular process and sometimes couples are not able to change this into a positive interaction. In this case couple therapy might be helpful. Rosan Ouwerkerk is a registered psychotherapist and she runs a private practice in Playa del Carmen. If you think her help is required, you can contact her: rosan.ouwerkerk@ gmail.com

DINING OUT

Spicy Food and Wine Learn how to pair Mexican food with this handy list BY ROCIONORZAGARAY

n Mexico, there are an infinity of spicy dishes. In fact, it could be said that chile is the emblematic ingredient of our gastronomy. My friends, especially foreigners, always ask if what I am cooking for them will be very spicy, so it is difficult to talk about Mexican food without referring to spice level. The burning sensation that we feel when we try many spicy foods comes from a chemical compound called caspicum which is similar to wax, it is impossible for us to see it, but it stays on the tongue. Finding the correct beverage to accompany the main dish is not such an easy task, since this sensation cannot be lessened by drinking water based beverages. Water and oil don’t mix, neither do wine or other drinks with spicy dishes. However, it is very common to see people drinking a cold beer accompanied by a ceviche. What happens is that the temperature of the drink contrasts with the food temperature which creates a placebo effect and calms the mouth, but does not mean that the intensity of the spiciness is lowered. The only drink that can reduce this effect is milk and dairy products, due to the casein that they contain, which neutralizes the caspicum and renders it ineffective. It is important to keep in mind that each person has their own taste and preference but also there are certain drinks which can enhance different flavors and improve taste, and it is evident that very few people enjoy a glass of milk to go with pozole, tacos, or enchiladas, and it can also be somewhat disagreeable. Wine, when correctly chosen, can be a wonderful accompaniment to flavors, subtly enhancing the spice at the same time the sugars present in the drink cut the hotness of the capsicum. Besides the herbal notes of many white wines and the freshness that they have, they combine perfectly with the characteristic ingredients of Mexican cooking such as citrus and cilantro. Some red wines are a perfect pair for the spiciness and complexity of mole, for example. The above are some suggestions

Wine can subtly enhance the flavors and cut the hotness of the capsicum / Photos: www.christymajors.com

Suggestions of wine pairings Sauvignon Blanc: Pozole, quesadillas, sopa azteca, tlalpeño stew, stuffed turkey, fried egg, Mexican style eggs. Riesling: Green chilaquiles (verdes), lima soup, Campeche style pampano. Tempranillo: Enfrijoladas, calamari, macaroni salad, steak with onions. Syrah: Pork loin with plum sauce. for wine pairings and are approved by the National Wine Cultivators As-

Pinot Noir: Veracruz style panuchos, pork loin with plum sauce. Merlot: Red enchiladas, pork loin with plum sauce, Veracruz style fish, Mexican style squash. Vino Espumoso: pozole, chiles rellenos, enfrijoladas, quesadillas, corn tamales, seafood tarts, lime soup, cream of mushroom soup, shredded beef, mole

sociation More suggestion available on The Playa Times website.

Rocío Norzagaray is a sommelier and a private chef. Contact her at

poblano, stuffed turkey, gar in chirmol sauce, crab, fried e.g., vuelve a la vida soup, Mexican style eggs. Cabernet Sauvignon: Pambazos, red enchiladas, shredded beef, meatballs, goat, tampiqueña style steak, lamb chops, mole poblano, deer, calamari, Veracruz style fish, romeritos. Malbec: Enchiladas pipian, Veracruz style enchiladas. info@privatechefplaya.com and www. privatechefplaya.com

June 10 - 23 2015

A Critique of Restaurants

Business over Quality BY MARÍARAMÍREZDEARELLANO

Xtabentún By Alejandra Campo Roimo

Have you tried the delicate mix of honey and anise from the Yucatan’s most famous liquor?

tabentún, the traditional drink of the Yucatan Peninsula, is a liquor based on the fermented nectar of the white flower for which it is named, honey, and anise (of an Asian origin, brought by the Spanish after the Conquest). It is usually drunk during parties in village fêtes.

The Legend The name is of Mayan origin and means “flowering vine which grows on rocks.” The flower’s seed, that has the scientific names Rivea corymbosa and Turbina corymbosaas, can cause psychotropic effects. The strong, sweet flavor of this traditional drink transports us to the origin of this flower: the legend of Xtabay. A beautiful, seductive woman with long black hair, she appeared on pathways and roads. Many say that to men, she appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. The legend says that many years ago there were two women, one with the name of Xtabay, known in the village as Xkeban, and the other named Utz-Colel. Xtabay was a prostitute However, she had a noble heart and was humble, she always helped people even though the

village despised her. On the other hand, Utz-Colel was of a noble class and acted like a good person in front of the village, but she hid a hard and selfish heart. When Xtabay died, her body emitted a sweet odor and on her grave grew a white flower which had the same smell. When Utz-Colel died, her body just gave out a horrible, putrid odor. Utz-Colel was very bothered by this and decided to get her vengeance by coming back to life in the form of Xtabay and seducing men. If one finds her on the roads of Yucatan, it is better for the traveler to keep going and not even look her in the face. The Xtabentún, like many other traditions, transmits the history and culture of a people, using legends to explain daily life. Uses To achieve this exceptional mix anise seed is combined in the first distillation, along with the fermented honey. Subsequently more honey is added to give it its characteristic flavor. It can be enjoyed by itself, cold, iced, or with coffee. It is a very effective after-dinner drink. When you drink it, share this legend and transport your guests to the mythical Mayan world.

It is best enjoyed with ice and a little honey, or with a drop of coffee / Photos: Agency

Going out to eat these days and finding a worthwhile option is not an easy task. Restaurants worry more about food quantity rather than quality. Their goal is to fill a restaurant no matter what; the prices are elevated when taking the quality of the product into consideration; and the owners are business people looking to increase their income at the cost of the workers and the product they offer. When one lives in a place where it is very easy to get clientele, such as on Quinta Avenida in Playa del Carmen, quality is the last thing that matters, because you will mostly likely have a full house every night. What is happening to us? Why have we lost the passion for doing things well? Today, everything is based on money, not a true passion for a job. When things are done with passion, the results are amazing and everyone wins. Unfortunately, today there are very few who work

Quality is often the last thing that matters / Photos: Agency

DINING OUT

like this, very few who have a strong spirit, and those are the places and people that we need to rescue, those are the ones that should be talked about, because their work is worth it. Being a chef today is a big responsibility, because each one of use represents their own brand and their country. Through their food, a chef must transmit things like cultural traditions, childhood memories, flavors and experiences discovered over the course of a lifetime, but most importantly, this has to be enjoyable for the customers. The reality is diverse, and cultural diversity requires flexibility. Gastronomic tourists are on the lookout for different types of experiences when compared to traditional tourists, and these experiences must be concentrated on flavor, rather than show, and overall, must be fitting for the location. The control of the tourism market has become business-centric rather than product-centric. An educated, demanding tourist can be critical, and will write a review online when they return to their countries. Marìa Ramìrez de Arellano is food critic and chef, you can visit her website at www.gastrotourchef.com.mx or contact her directly at maria@gastrotourchef.com.mx.

DINING OUT

TPT Foodies Burger Poll Fan Favourite La Burguesería TPT talks to the owners of La Burguesería to find out more about their winning concept and burgers, selected as the frontrunner by our readers taste test BY BEATRIZLUCAS TPT: Where did the idea for La Burguesería come from? Esperanza Martinez: We decided to open a burger place mainly because we are fans and it is a really simple, yet versatile, product that suits everyone’s taste. We like to play around and be creative with the ingredients and flavors to create incredible results. The concept behind La Burguesería is to offer unique burgers. When thinking of the name, we wanted something that implicitly makes you think of burgers. “Bourgeoisie” is a term used to define people from the upper classes but who are not noble, and who as a result of their hard work they received certain privileges in society. That is why some of our burgers are named after certain trades.

We like to play around and be creat ive w ith the ingredients and flavors to create incredible results Esperanza Martinez Co-Owner La Burguesería The burger you presented in the TPT Foodies Poll, Agricultor Cerdo (pork), what is this burger about especially since it is so different? We decided to run the risk and compete with Agricultor Cerdo because it has been really well received, despite pork not always been popular choice for people, and it is one of our best sellers. This is because the ingredients used to make the patty are of high quality and make for a pleasant

Hamburger agricultor / Photo: La Burguesería Hamburger agricultor / Photo: La Burguesería

surprise to our customers’ palates. Tell us about your menu Like any type of haute cuisine, we are looking to satisfy the customer through personal creations, and we believe in the creativity and specific combinations that go in each of our products. Everything is processed by us, from the patties to the toppings as well as the sauces, such as the vinaigrettes, pesto, chutneys and the marinades of some vegetables. Our menu is divided into two parts. In the first part, customers

can choose from a Sirloin, pork, or chicken patty, which can be combined with six different and delicious gourmet dishes that have been created so that no matter your choice of meat, you will always get a perfect mix of flavors. Secondly, the chef’s recommendations range from vegetarian options with Portobello mushroom, to Arrachera cuts, as well as flavors “from the sea” such as shrimp patty, tuna patties and fish patties. You are getting ready to open another La Burguesería in

TPT FOODIES POLL WINNERS

The Very First TPT Foodies Burger Poll 13 readers were given the task of judging the best hamburgers in Playa del Carmen BY BEATRIZLUCAS Few foods are as iconic and diverse as the hamburger. From summer cookouts and kids’ birthday parties to gourmet sliders, the burger has a variant for everyone. Over the month of May, 13 readers judged some of Playa’s best burger joints. Each hamburger was tasted in five ways, according to the quality

of the meat, the size of the bun, the toppings, and that little something special. Marks were awarded on a scale of one to five. When it came down to tallying up results, all were great, and all completely different beasts. Each burger put up a really good taste-and-flavor fight with no burger joint scoring less than four points overall. The question of the favorites were broken

Really cool bar with great atmosphere. Excellent patty!! Judge’s comment on The Public Place down for you in this quick analysis of the components.

The meat The winner of the best patty was Mr Dog del Caribe, who entered the tasting poll with the Mr Playa burger. With their 350g (you can request the size of the patty that suits your palate) of select Angus beef, this patty was a carnal pleasure for the judges. “Great texture of the meat” and “Amazing! Gracias” were some of the comments from the taste testers. The flavor, texture and quality was second to none, with an intense beefiness and cooking method. The toppings The interplay of ingredients went to joint winners Loco Joe and The Public Place, with their USA Burger and The Public Place Burger respectively. In Loco Joe, the judges got to relish in the succulent flavors with one judge stating “The sauerkraut is very good” and “I’ll be back for more.” The onion ring on the Public Place burger was also a winner, with several comments about it including “Yes! Onion ring on a

Paseo del Carmen, will it be the same concept as the one at the Mercado de Nuestra Señora del Carmen. Due to the great response from our customers, for which we are very grateful to them for, we now have the opportunity to open another branch. We believe in our concept and hope that our product is equally as well received since this time it will be aimed at the tourism market. In the future, we will expand our menu with new suggestions and have more and newer options.

burger” and “Delicious hamburger. Great to include onion rings.” One judge was completely seduced by the Public Place as they said “Really cool bar with great atmosphere. Excellent Patty!! Fantastic Host. Definitely will come back. And they serve Strong Bow.” That little something special All this being said, we do have to declare a winner, which was done by silent popular vote. With just marginally higher score overall was La Burgueseria, who were awarded top marks based on their toppings and that little something special. They competed with the Agricultor Cerdo (pork patty), an atypical selection for a burger, which was very well received, with comments such as “Pork burger was excellent, nice change from beef burger” and “The best, yet so different.” That said, numbers aren’t everything, each burger provided their own unique specific combination of ingredients, textures, and atmosphere. Now, let the comment war commence.

June 10 - 23 2015

SPORTS

ANAHUAC University American Football Players Tryouts for players looking to complete in the National Student League were a great success BY JUANSOSA

he football tryouts and training camp that were held by the ANAHUAC University of Cancun in the Coliseo Maya mid-May, were a total success. The aim of the sessions was to find players to participate in the 2015 National Student League of American Football season. The head coach, former NFL Europe player Marco Martos, said that it was productive for the team, and they are still looking for talent to reinforce their abilities for the next season. Their search and subsequent tryouts resulted in 50 new players and the league is always on the lookout for more because next season will be very difficult and they are facing tough competition. The tryouts consisted of two days of testing: Friday, May 8, all players had to pass the first test and

I consider the tryouts an important experience for all those who aspire to be recognized as ‘someone’ in this sport, and it was great to see so many young men in the intermediate category. They were very motivated. Now, the next test is to see if they will be successful enough to be able to permanently stay on the team Marco Martos Head Coach and former NFL Europe player on Saturday, May 9, players who made callbacks were officially invited to join the team. The head coach stated: “I consider the tryouts an important experience for all those who aspire to be recognised as ‘someone’ in this sport, and it was great to see so many young men in the intermediate category. They were very

motivated. Now, the next test is to see if they will be successful enough to be able to permanently stay on the team.” Martos also said that the team is practicing twice daily and in July, they will have a training camp to practice even more tactics. On July 26, the first game roster will be made available.

Inter Playa del Carmen Team 2015 / Photo: Juan Sosa

Inter Playa Team 2015 Premier League Winning Streak BY JUANSOSA The Premier League should be satisfied with the team’s experience during the Clausura 2015 tournament. It was a competition full of honor, extraordinary challenges, hundreds of goals, but overall, it was victorious from beginning to end in every way. It was a no-holds-barred war that the Inter Playa del Carmen team found itself faced with during the tournament, so it is important to recognize their extraordinary work this year. This was one of their most victorious championship tournaments. They won eight victories, which helped them finish as absolute champions in their respective groups.

Clausura 2015 Tournament was a victorious achievement for the soccer team

Leones Try Outs / Photo: Juan Sosa

Inter Playa had 27 players and showed no difficulty in getting classified for the tournament, which involved them playing both local and visiting teams. Inter Pla-

ya del Carmen won five home games and three away games. Inter Playa were only able to apply the visitors rule on one occasion when they played the eighth round and beat Real Cuautitlan 0-2 in the Municipal Stadium Los Pinos. This

Inter Playa won eight victories, which helped them finish as absolute champions in their respective g ro u ps win was the critical advantage they needed to qualify. Despite the strength shown in their attack, they were not able to continue their winning streak to the biggest game of the Premier League, Inter Playa was eliminated in the quarterfinals against Maroons of Sonora, who beat them with a spectacular 6-4. Inter Playa del Carmen kicked off their preseason in the first week of June. The opening tournament which will start in August with the same games roster starting at 8 p.m. every Friday at the Mario Villanueva stadium, located on 10th Avenue and 34th Street.

ANIMAL WELFARE

Flamingos Pretty in Pink Find out more about this protected bird species, prominent in the northern most tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, at the Celestun Biosphere Reserve and Rio Lagartos BY CATHERINE

know Did you

A yellow tag will include date of sterilization and caretaker´s phone number / Photo: Perros Comunitarios Facebook

that...

ost of us have only seen the plastic version of t 6 years old Flamingos are abou al maturity. these magnificent birds before they reach sexu on the front of someone’s os live in the lawn as a practical birthday joke. But On average flaming up to 50 in d an in the Yucatan at Celestun Biosphere ars wild 20-30 ye Reserve or Rio Lagartos, both in the ty. captivi state of Yucatan, you can witness to glands near their eyes thousands of the strangely beautiful The birds have special they accidentally ingest. r bird called the flamingo. This safe deal with the saltwate refuge for the colonies of birds is proving to kill flamingos belie tected by the Mexican environmental Andean miners used losis. police. Although people believe the their fat cured tubercu conbirds are naturally bright red and pink standing on one leg There is a theory that in color, this beautiful color comes serves body heat. from their diet. When they are born they are light grey or cream color. Later on with a diet of brine shrimp, algae and other tiny crustaceans their feathers become one male, the females may fight and one fevermilion in color. Their diet contains a high male may push the other females egg out of level of carotene. In the flamingo popula- the nest. In the case of 2 males to 1 female, tion, a light colored bird could indicate sick- the subordinate male will be left to be the ness or a poor diet. The brighter the bird, caretaker of the nest. There is an extravagant mating dance, unless of course they are the better chances of finding a mate. The flamingos have long skinny legs and already a couple then they may not bother. a long skinny neck and they have webbed One egg is laid each year and both parfeet that they use to stir up the muddy la- ents provide the chick with a regurgitated goon floor as they search for food. They milky substance. This milk contains a red put their head upside down underwater in pigment canthaxanthin, which is stored in the mud and using their special beak, to the chicks liver and later deposited into sieve through their catch. They have a large its adult feathers. At approximately eleven tongue and hairy structures that filter out weeks, when their beaks develop the baby birds will begin to filter feed themselves. water from food in their beak. Flamingos stay in huge colonies and After 2 weeks the young congregate in are rarely alone. This is a safe way to avoid groups of thousands called micro creches predators. It is said that flamingos are most- (daycare). The parents know their young ly monogamous as you may find some fla- by the chics voice, and will only attend mingos that mate with more than one bird. their baby. If you visit the refuge be extremeIn this situation the third partner maybe a ly careful to not disturb the flamingos as it subordinate. In the case of two females to is always a fear they may leave if disturbed.

“The Neighbors of My Community Feed Me, Watch Me, Care for Me, Protect Me, Love Me” BY CATHERINE PAWELEK Everyone is familiar with the street dog problem in Mexico and here in Playa the animal welfare organizations work tirelessly to assist and in some cases adopt out rescued street dogs. However, not all dogs who run freely on the streets are without people who love and care for them. There are members of the community who care for street dogs that have no official owners but live in our neighborhoods. To support these dogs and the people who care for them, Perros Comunitarias Playa del Carmen, “Community Dogs of Playa del Carmen”, was recently launched. Developed by Coco’s Animal Welfare, in conjunction with staff from International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), animal lovers and Coco’s volunteers, this program focuses on street dogs that don’t have owners, but are known and taken care of by members of the community, who offer them food, water, shelter and basic care. Laura Raikes, President of Coco’s, says that they started the project in Playa, identifying dogs that might be helped by this kind of program, since not all street dogs create problems. Many provide benefits for their neighbors, including companionship and unconditional love. Aggressive dogs are not included in the project. If you would like to register a street dog in this program, just contact the group with a private message

on Facebook, and pass along any pertinent information on the location of the dog, description etc.

Many street dogs provide benefits to their neighbors, including companionship and unconditional love Coco’s will provide free sterilization, rabies vaccination, deworming and other medical services as needed. The dog is registered and receives a collar with numbered yellow tag, engraved with the sterilization date and phone numbers of the caretakers. The motto of this new effort is simply “The Neighbors of My Community Feed Me, Watch Me, Care for Me, Protect Me, Love Me”. To help fund their work, the group has several items for sale including hand–painted photo frames and 20 CM high letters that spell out words like LOVE. The income from these items pays for the collars and ID tags. Picture frames are only $160 pesos and letters are $110 pesos each. To purchase any of these items, which also make great gifts for your dog–loving friends, contact the organization via Facebook. For additional info, email info@cocosanimalwelfare.org or Facebook / Perros Comunitarios, Facebook / Coco´s Animal Welfare

J ak e

Photo: whoknows61

Jake was born about January of 2009. He weighs about 17 kg, is neutered and current on all vaccinations. Jake is our senior boy at about 6 years young. He is a very confident, outgoing and active dog who would benefit from play time and long walks. It’s past time that he finds his perfect family and would be a good addition to the right family.

Pep e

Pepe was born about March of 2013 and arrived at the shelter in April 2015. He weighs about 9 kg, is neutered and current on all vaccinations. He is a very sweet boy who loves to play and go for walks, and would be a great addition to any family. Pepe was rescued in a local Playa neighborhood.

If you have any questions about the available dogs from Playa Animal Rescue, contact Pat at info@playaanimalrescue.org

TAKE BREAK 29

June 10 - 23 2015

BITTER HOROSCOPES

Directions

By Craig Norton

Sauce: Broil the tomatoes and green chile on both sides. Peel tomatoes and chiles, core tomatoes, puree with onion in a food processor with a little salt.

Memelas

GEMINI (MAY 21TH-JUNE 21TH)

Keep on being fickle, cynical, and optimistic at the same time, Gemini! It goes well with your chewing gum, smoking, and playing bingo at the same time.

Heat oil in frying pan over medium heat, pour in sauce, adding a little at a time until it thickens for 2-5 minutes. Add coriander.

CANCER (JUNE 22ND- JULY 22ND)

Look for good things to happen on or around the 22nd, Cancer. They won’t, but keep looking anyway.

Memelas: Mix ½ tsp salt, 2 cups masa harina and 1 ½ cups of water with a wooden spoon. Turn into a nice dough.Divide into 16 pieces.

LEO (JULY 23RD – AUGUST 22ND)

Try something you have never done before, Leo. Like not mauling your own young lest they threaten your dominance when they become adults.

Ingredients for 16 memelas

VIRGO

Damn it, Libra! Again? I thought we’ve been through this? You put the lime IN the coconut and mix it all up. Trying to put a coconut into a lime just doesn’t work! (Idiot.)

SCORPIO (OCTOBER 23RD- NOVEMBER 21ST)

Okay, Scorpio, I’m over the scorpion sting from before. Let’s be friends, okay? This week you will see an improvement in – what is that thing curling over the top of your head? Were you going to sting me while I was giving you good news? Screw you, Scorpio! Screw you!

CROSSWORD

LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 23RD – OCTOBER 22ND)

RECIPE

(AUGUST 23RD – SEPTEMBER 22ND)

Get behind causes only on Facebook and feel like you have made a difference. Remember, the world cares what you vaguely care about, so keep on clicking!

SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 22ND-DEC 21ST)

CAPRICORN I suggest giving loved ones dual messages this week. Like offering support and criticism at the same time. Also, introduce “a higher power” incongruously into conversations. That always works.

AQUARIUS

WORD SEARCH

Bonus week for you, Sagittarius! You get to proclaim yourself “Awesome” on social media via meme. You are just MAKING it, aren’t you?

(DECEMBER 22ND-JANUARY 19TH)

Heat frying pan over medium high heat. Roll out memelas to about 3” x 4” between sheets or parchment, wax paper or plastic.

JANUARY 20THFEBRUARY 18TH

Hey Aquarius, how’s it going? Life got you down? Don’t worry – it is definitely somebody else’s fault. Just apply wine and cigarettes and everything will be fine tomorrow.

1 lb. tomatoes 2 fresh serrano chilies or 1 jalapeno chile 2 tablespoons chopped white onions 1 tsp. salt

1 tbsp. olive oil ¼ cup chopped fresh coriander 2 cups masa harina 1 ½ cups water 10 ounces queso fresco (Mexican fresh cheese)

Fry 3-4 at a time until lightly golden on each side. If possible, shape them into little dishes with raised edges. Sprinkle cheese on each memela, spoon on sauce, heat them in a 350F oven for 2-3 minutes.

Across

Down

Shortage (10) Postpone (7) Faith with five pillars (5) Transmit (4) Leading (8) Capsicum (6) Nonsense (6) Type of word puzzle (8) Singer Johnny, d. 2003 (4) Member of a Bantu people living in Zimbabwe (5) 22 Prison (slang) (7) 23 Signal to proceed (5,5)

1 2 3 4 5 6 9 12 14 16 19 20

1 7 8 10 11 13 15 17 18 21

EMOTICONS FRUSTRATED ANGRY HUMILIATED PUZZLED UPSET SKEPTICAL UPSET SERENE CALM MOODY AFRAID DOUBTFUL

PISCES Swim, little Pisces; the world is trying to catch you. This is your time to shine, Pisces! Make a nest out of twigs and leaves and pretend you are a bird. That way, no one will find you. Then, when they walk by, jump out and scream “DON’T LEAVE ME!!” Neediness ALWAYS wins

ARIES (MARCH 21ST-APRIL 19TH)

Don’t worry Aries, everything is going to be just fine. Because that is what you want. And you always get your way. (Just kidding. This week is going to SUCK!)

TAURUS (APRIL 20TH-MAY 20TH)

Taurus, have you noticed that just about everything is making you see red this week? That is because you have a short fuse that you refuse to seek therapy for. Good for you!

SUDOKU PUZZLE

(FEBRUARY 19TH-MARCH 20TH)

Enter digits from 9 to 1 into the blank spaces Every row most contain one of each digit So must every column, as must every 3x3 square

Source of mustard (5) Bridge quorum (4) Large gun (6) Widespread outbreak (8) Cancel (4,3) Bandicoot, wombat, kangaroo etc (10) Mountain on the Swiss- Italian border (10) Convince (8) Reception room (7) Christmas decoration (6) Confess (5) Suspend (4)

LAST ISSUE'S SOLUTION

COMEDY CORNER

Classifieds GENERAL SERVICES

This REALLY isn’t a complaint letter, so please don’t make fun of me. We just got back from a vacation in Playa and we found that the mattresses in the rooms were so hard, we could barely sleep. I guess what I’m asking is: do you know of any hotel hacks to make the mattresses better? Sleepless In Syracuse Well Sleepless, I actually do know of a couple of hacks that I can pass on to you and any other reader who might be interested in circumventing common hotel problems. Mattresses Ask for a second duvet. Tell them your husband snores, so he needs to sleep on the couch. Tell them that he can’t sleep with just blankets, so you need an extra duvet. Then what you do is put the first duvet on the bed, sleep on top of that, then use the second duvet as a … well …duvet. It is like sleeping on angels’ wings. Bad Room You complain to the front desk about your room, but they refuse to move you. Go to your room and place the edge of the toilet paper in the toilet. Leave it on the holder. Then flush. The toilet will start sucking up all of the toilet paper. Do this a few times, then, when the toilet starts overflowing (this parts a little gross, so get your hubby to do it), take all of the remaining toilet paper out of the toilet and replace the toilet paper with a new roll. This will break the toilet forever. Call the front desk and complain that your toilet is overflowing

RENTALS & PROPERTIES

and won’t stop. Then, they have to change your room. It is a gamble whether it will be any better or not, but at least you’ll feel better. Noisy Neighbours Hotels will generally only advise people to keep it down. Rarely will they tell guests that they have to be quiet. Fight fire with fire. Figure out something that you and your hubby can disagree on. Then, stand outside the noisy neighbour’s room and pitch the wildest domestic you’ve ever pitched. They will likely ask to change rooms rather than ask you to stop fighting in front of their door. If they use the toilet paper trick, they will get moved and you guys can go back to having a peaceful vacation.

MEXLAW Licensed Canadian and Mexican law firm, English Spoken. Plaza Paseo Coba, Local 301, second floor, Av. Paseo CobaPlaya del Carmen. Tel: 984 147 6502, Email: info@mexlaw.ca

( See The Playa Times Map)

N B: Your hubby will likely be getting lots of high fives around the pool. Well, I hope these little Hotel Hacks help you next time, Sleepless. Drop me a line and let me know, will you?

TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE Mexico Real Estate, Buyers’ Representatives Mex: 984 267 2449 USA/Can: 512 879 6543

All the best, C.

Craig Norton is a Canadian expat and one of the founding members of Comedy Playa. If you have a question email dcraignorton@gmail.com

MEDICAL & DENTAL

Leaving Paradise for LaGuardia After living in Playa for over two years, sometimes it feels weird to travel back to the States. I appear to have developed a bit of a reverse culture shock and let’s face it, nothing is more culturally shocking than leaving laid back Playa and landing at LaGuardia in NYC. There are things that I have become so accustomed to here and can not seem to get used to how things are done back “home”. Is it just me? Does anyone else search for the waste paper basket in the stall of public bathrooms when traveling in countries where you can flush paper? Another thing I find challenging is not speaking Spanish to people who, well, do not speak Spanish. I find it tends to confuse them. Perfect example, while in Vermont a few months ago, I asked for help in the grocery store by asking, “Donde esta el agua de coco?” When I noticed the quizzical look on the person’s face, I realized my mistake. What do you say at that point without sounding a little...weird? Speaking of grocery stores, I have a mix of excitement and disappointment when visiting them back home. The amount of choices

is both exhilarating and overwhelming. All the food is in a location that makes sense, properly refrigerated meats and dairy products but wait, where are the fresh tortillas? Fresh epazote? Queso fresco? I sometimes embarrass myself by being a bit too enthusiastic about shopping. Prior to living here, I could not imagine being excited about shopping for shoes, clothes, or handbags. I hated to shop. On my first trip back to the States, my friend brought me to DSW, a huge warehouse store filled with shoes. There were rows upon rows of brand name sneakers, sandals, boots, flip flops, wedges, high heels, you name the style and they were there! Mouth agape, eyes wide and teary, I stood in the door amazed at the choices laid out before me. I swear I heard a choir sing and halos surrounded the sea of shoes. I may or may not have skipped up and down the aisles, laughing and clapping. I am heading back in late June for a family reunion and am trying to prepare myself for the “shock”. Hopefully, this time I will remember to flush the toilet paper and control myself in the shoe stores.

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.

RESTAURANTS Mr Dog del Caribe 2nd Street North between Fifth and 10th Ave. Tel. 984 147 3863 Fusion Beach Bar & Grill 6th street and the beach Tel. 984 873 0374 Loco Joe 30th Ave. North, between Constituyentes and 20th street. Tel. 984 803 5369

CONTACTS & PERSONALS ROTARY CLUB PLAYA DEL CARMEN SEASIDE Weekly meetings at LA FRAGATA RESTAURANT. 1st Ave and 26th St.. Tuesdays 12.30pm Visitors are welcome, for more information email: scotlyall@live.com NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS English spoken Tuesdays and Fridays 5:30 p.m. Spanish spoken Monday to Friday 7 p.m. 35th Avenue and 34th Street Playa del Carmen. info@naplaya.com

# TPThrifty

TPTCOUPONS

Beach Goody B a g s 5 0 0 beach bags

for high end tourists Currently distributed in: Va c a t i o n r e n t a l c o n d o s a n d h o u s e s To u r i s m Tra n s p o r t i n g S e r v i c e WOU L D YOU L IK E TO P ROM OTE YOU R B USIN ESS? HAVE YOUR BUSINESS’ FLIER DISTRIBUTED FOR YOU TO THE HOMES, VACATION CONDOS, HOTELS AND TOURISM TRANSPORTATION SERVICES IN THE RIVIERA MAYA

he Playa Times is looking for businesses who would like to have their business promoted and distributed in our free beach bags. Each beach bag includes copies of our latest editions as well as promotional and discount fliers to local businesses, retailers and restaurants in Playa del Carmen. This beach bag is a great welcome gift for customers.

Would you like to include a flier for your business in our beach bags? Our team can even help with the design and printing of your adverts, information leaflets and fliers. Don’t miss this promotional opportunity and get in touch with us. Contact Karla Mora: promopack@meridianmedia.mx or speak to Karla directly: 984 179 8347