Biweekly · Year 01 · Number 40 · 20,000 copies · 16 Pages
Aug 20-Sep 2, 2014
www.theplayatimes.com
GM Crops Suffer
LOCAL NEWS Protecting Jaguars
A conservation program for jaguars is to be established after recurrent sightings of the species at Xcacel.
Setback in the Yucatan BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD
A
fter a two-year legal battle, communal landowners or ejidatarios from Campeche have stopped the sowing of thousands of acres of genetically modified soybeans on their land. Farmers from the Hopelchén, Pac-Chen and Cancabchen localities won their case, setting a precedent and paving the way for other indigenous landowners. Ejidatarios from the Yucatan Peninsula won a complicated case against American agrochemical giant Monsanto. The conflict began in 2012 when Mexico’s agriculture ministry, SAGARPA, and environmental protection agency SEMARNAT, granted the biotech corporation a permit to plant genetically modified seeds. Greenpeace, the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas and the National Institute of Ecology opposed the decision, as well as thousands of local farmers and beekeepers. Mexico is the world’s third largest exporter of honey, with 40 percent of the nation’s honey being produced in the Yucatán Peninsula, where 25,000 families depend on its production. Most of this honey is exported to the EU, a market worth $55 million annually. However, the EU restricted the sale of honey derived from GM crops in 2011, ruling that it must labeled as containing GM ingredients, and that it cannot be marketed as organic. The Chief Justice of the State of Yucatan decided to annul the authorization of the federal government by demanding respect for “the peoples´ right to self-determination.” Any company or institution seeking to implement transgenic sowing in the future will be required to carry out a referendum with the indigenous communities of Santa Elena, Ticul, Oxkutzcab, Tekax,
>03 ·SPECIAL · DISCOVER MEXICO
Tzucacab, Peto and Tizimin, inline with the Mexican Constitution. This was not done before the 2012 permit was granted. Even though this ruling is a triumph for small farmers, it might be a temporary victory as Monsanto has already brought 74 appeals against the judge´s resolution, and has the support of the federal authorities. In Quintana Roo, there is no explicit prohibition for the cultivation of GM crops. Aniceto Caamal Cocom, coordinator of the state’s North Zone Indigenous Groups, confirmed that Monsanto continues to bring modified seeds to the area. “The distribution continues but Mayan communities and the municipality of Felipe Carrillo Puerto are rejecting the seeds. They are not good,” Caamal said. The fight continues, but the message from indigenous farmers in the Yucatan Peninsula is clear: no to genetically modified crops. A similar case is also pending in the state of Chiapas.
40%
2 Million
Of the nation’s honey is produced in the Yucatan Peninsula
beehives are currently active in Mexico
Riviera Highlights
Discover Mahahual and the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve, a haven for scuba divers, in our section for independent travelers.
>06 DINING OUT
Ask the Chef
The Playa Times speaks to Dim Geefay, the TV celebrity chef who brought the flavors of Thailand to Mezzanine Tulum.
>11
2
dad ión Social Solidari Photo: Comunicac
>Editorial
L
ast week saw the appearance of the floating rainforest know as sargassum to our shores. Whereas we might see the weed’s arrival as an eyesore on our otherwise pristine sandy beaches, sargassum is a vital part of the marine ecosystem. The wind, together with the recent supermoon spring tide, brought the weed ashore where it naturally plays a part in protecting against erosion, bonding with the sand. The huge floating mats of the seaweed also offer protection and nutrients to hundreds of species of wildlife, especially young turtle hatchlings, many of which are just beginning their incredible struggle for survival. Beach cleaning was stepped up in response, with over 80 tons being removed last week as a 90-stong team worked from Punta Esmeralda to the pier. The weed, a rich fertilizer, was later buried in trenches on the beach to naturally decompose and become part of the sandy substrate. The Gulf of Mexico produces the most sargassum, about a million tons a year, and the biggest areas of the floating weed gathers in gyres formed by the rotating currents in the middle of the North Atlantic. At anytime 4.5 to 12 million tons of the stuff floats around the Gulf and Atlantic, where it bobs around for two years before sinking and decomposing on the seabed. So, you may see some more before the season is out. But far from being an ugly eyesore, this is part of nature’s cycle.
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August 20-September 2, 2014
LOCAL NEWS
3
Jaguar Sightings at Xcacel-Xcacelito BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD
T
he government of Quintana Roo is to implement a conservation program to protect the jaguar of the Xcacel-Xca-
Jaguar sightings on the increase / Photo:Agency
celito Marine Turtle Sanctuary and the surrounding area. Action was taken after recurrent sightings of the species were reported in the region, which is 6 miles north of Tulum and was declared a Protected Natural Area in 1998. Rafael Muñoz Berzunza, director of the Quintana Roo Ecology and Environment Department (SEMA), announced that a jaguar protection committee would be established shortly. He explained that the main threat to jaguars is loss of habitat, as well as illegal hunting. Muñoz Berzunza added “the rural landowners where jaguars live see these animals as a threat to their communities” so the species “has been forced to look for safer habitats. The greatest challenge is to change the negative perception about the species, so future communities are able to coexist with them.” Volunteers at the Xcacel-Xcacelito Turtle Camp as well
Mexican Cook Wins 2014 Canadian Iron Chef Contest BY AGENCY
Mexican chef Xavier Pérez Stone / Photo:Agency
Mexican chef Xavier Pérez Stone won the Iron Chef 2014 contest held Aug. 17 as part of the activities of the Hot and Spicy Festival at the Harbourfront Centre in Toronto, Canada. Pérez Stone is from Mexico City but has been based in Playa del Carmen since 2008, when he began work at Cocina de Autor, the restaurant at the Hotel Grand Velas Riviera Maya. He studied at the Pan-American School of Hotel Industry and has been a working chef for 15 years. In 2012, Pérez won Mexico´s Cook of the Year Award, competing against 450 other contestants. The Mexican chef went against Taiwanese Chi-Wen Chen in the finals, before being declared the overall winner by a jury of experts in international cuisine. He chose to cook a fig and apple purée accompanied by spicy mushrooms and Mexican chorizo crumbs. “I feel very excited about winning with Mexican ingredients,” Pérez Stone said after the contest. He brought the ingredients, including the famous delicacy chapulines, or fried grasshoppers, from the states of Mexico, Oaxaca and Yucatan. “I feel proud representing Mexican cuisine, which is a listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This make me put more effort in what I do,” chef Xavier said. The restaurant Cocina de Autor was recently granted a prestigious Five Diamond Award for its food, the highest level awarded by the AAA, formally the American Automobile Association. “It is the only hotel restaurant in Mexico that belongs to be awarded this category,” Xavier Pérez concluded.
as reserve staff and visitors have all claimed sightings of jaguar families at the Xcacel entrance and a nearby cenote. SEMA´s director stressed that the animal does not pose a risk to people: “Jaguars avoid human contact, and so far most sightings have been at night.” Berzunza said that the hunting or capture of jaguars is strictly illegal and they have been on the endangered species list since the 2010 regulation NOM 059 was established by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT). Poaching of the big cat carries a 9-year jail sentence or a 2 million pesos fine. The jaguar habitat includes a 13-mile zone surrounding the Xcacel-Xcacelito Natural Area, which is also home to the marine turtle, deer, wild boar, raccoon and badger, all part of the jaguar’s diet. “If we protect and stabilize the jaguar population, which is a vital keystone species, we could assure the population of a remarkable number of plant, vertebrate and invertebrate species. The jaguar plays a critical role in our ecosystem.” said Muñoz Berzunza.
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COMMUNITY
Cycling Embassy Plans Mexican Tour BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD
I
ván Orozco Pérez arrived in Playa del Carmen nine years ago. After suffering a cycle accident that caused him to be hospitalized, he decided to take action on behalf of the rights of cyclists and to promote investment in inner city infrastructures, enabling cycles to have their own space in a city saturated by cars. It was this impetus that led to the foundation of the Mexican Cycling Embassy, an association supported by its Dutch counterpart whose headquarters are in the city of Utrecht. Its goal is to promote the use of cycles as a recognized transportation system, with laws protecting riders, as well as to offer solutions in urban development and raise awareness about cycling and motoring safety. There are five cycling embassies in the world. The movement began in Europe and now the network has centers in Denmark, Great Britain, Spain and Mexico. The branch in Playa del Carmen was established last year and it located on Avenida Constituyentes and 75th Avenue. All cyclists are welcome to use its facilities and participate in maintenance workshops and events for free. As part of a publicity campaign organized by the Mexican Cycling Embassy, seven members of the association will travel throughout the country promoting the embassy’s mission to local governments and members of the public. The tour begins Aug. 30 in Playa del Carmen and will end in Tijuana. “The project is called Cadena de Favores (chain of favors). We’ll visit city halls to talk about and highlight what other cycling embassies are doing around the world. We’re the fifth Cycling Embassy in the world, and the first in the Americas and we want to raise support from the public,” Orozco explained. He added that after leaving the Yucat-
Student Tour Guides learning the ropes / Photo:Agency
Become a Tourist Guide at ICAT BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD
Iván Orozco Pérez, founder of the Mexican Cycling Embassy / Photo:Agency
an Peninsula, they would head toward the Pacific Ocean and then to Baja California, Tecate, Tijuana and the northern states. The tour will then visit the states Querétaro, Guanajuato, Aguascalientes and Jalisco before returning to Quintana Roo. The journey will be around 10,000 kilometers, or over 6,200 miles. It is estimated that the trip will take three and a half months. The cyclists will not have a support vehicle, but they will receive support from sponsors. “We have support from the Mexican Cycling Embassy, and sponsorship from businesses, cycle stores, and drinks companies,” Orozco concluded. Currently the Cycling Embassy of Playa del Carmen has 20 members aged from 21 to 55 years of age, their mission is to advocate the establishment of better cycling infrastructures, and increase public and political support. For further information, check the Facebook page Embajada Mexicana De La Bicicleta.
Members of the Mexican Cycling Embassy will cycle 6,200 miles to Tijuana / Photo:Agency
Every year, around 60 foreign students graduate as tour guides from the Training Institute for Work (Instituto de Capacitación para el Trabajo or ICAT) and begin careers in the Riviera Maya. The institute also offers 14 courses, including IT, languages, cooking, beauty, and handicrafts, which are open to all members of the public. Claudio Padilla Medina, ICAT´s director, explained that currently they have students from Russia, Argentina, France, Cuba, Czech Republic, Honduras and Guatemala enrolled in the tour guide diploma course. He added that the only requirement for non-nationals to enroll on an ICAT course is a valid work or tourist visa. “We only ask that students have a visa which will be valid for the duration of the entire course. On completion, each student will receive a certificate from ICAT to validate his or her attendance and understanding of the course. Almost all of our students
gain employment after graduating and currently we have 40 foreign students at ICAT.” 3,500 students sign up annually at the institute, which is located on 12th Street and 90th Avenue. The diploma course to become a tourist guide takes eight months and the modules include Mexican history, Pre-Hispanic Art, Human Relationships, Touristic Legislation, Tourism Culture, Ethnography and Popular Art, Customer Service, Archaeology and Geography. Classes are held Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. “The tourist guide course is usually taken by foreign students, but we also have 14 other courses available that are open for people who hope to work in that specific field, or simply learn about it,” Padilla said. He explained that students could also earn an income by teaching their language to fellow students, for which they are financially rewarded. Anyone interested can find out more information on the ICAT website www.icatplayadelcarmen. blogspot.mx or by calling 984 85 92 102.
August 20-September 2, 2014
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For more information contact: (984) 147 6502 cell (984) 169 1636 email: claudia@excuspace.com
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HOMELIFE
5
6
DISCOVER MEXICO
l a u h a h Ma There is No Sky Without Stars BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD According to the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (CONANP), the starfish population of El Cielo in Cozumel has dropped by 20 percent in the last five years. It is believed that a cause of this rapid decline is the many snorkel tours that visit this area, as the starfish are repeatedly picked up from the seabed for photos with tourists. Also, the starfish are removed and dried to sell as decorative items and souvenirs. In order to highlight and halt the deterioration of the local starfish colony, the Cozumel government has launched a campaign called There is No Sky Without Stars (No hay Cielo Sin Estrellas), which aims to inform tourists about the catastrophic consequences of taking starfishes out of the water. The campaign was launched in collaboration with local tourism companies. Previously, there were 12 to 15 starfish per square meter (10.76 ft2) living on the shallow sandy seabed of this area of the park. The abundant starfish against the white sand became quite an attraction, which has in turn, led to the decline of the species. Starfish are not listed as at risk, but
are protected in this instance, as the colony is inside a Natural Protected Area (ANP), from which is prohibited to touch or remove any flora or fauna. El Cielo beach is located in the south of the island and is part of the Cozumel National Marine Park, which prohibits the removal or handling of any wildlife in the designated park area and any violation of park rules or poaching carries a heavy fine. The There is No Sky Without Stars campaign asks tourists “not to touch” starfish as constant removal from their habitat stresses this marine invertebrate, who are very sensitive to touch, light and habitat change. Unfortunately, the beach is a popular spot for local snorkeling tours and some guides encourage tourists to touch and pose for photos with theses delicate animals. The starfish as also poached from the park to be dried and sold in tourist stores. Cozumel’s local government is currently distributing leaflets to tourists arriving to the island, warning them about the damage caused by taking starfish from the seabed. Also, the government and National Marine Park vehicles have been decorated in signage highlighting the campaign.
M
ahahual is a picturesque fishing town 90 miles north of Chetumal, the state´s capital. In 2007, much of the town was destroyed by the category five hurricane Dean. The area was rebuilt with the vision of Mahahual becoming more attractive to tourists and developing into one of Mexico´s main ports for Caribbean cruises. Despite its fast growth, Mahahual´s small size and relative isolation has allowed it to retain its Caribbean charm, with sandy streets, affordable accommodation and rustic quality seafood and fish restaurants. Mahahual´s top attraction is the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve, a haven for scuba divers and a place with a unique biodiversity. Distance in miles from Cancun: 218; Playa del Carmen: 177; Chetumal: 87
HOW TO GET THERE Car Mahahual is accessed through the 307 Highway from Cancun. From Playa del Carmen you will pass Tulum and Felipe Carrillo Puerto, taking the detour to Mahahual from the small village of Limones. The trip from Playa del Carmen takes around three hours, or four from Cancun. Bus There are two ADO bus stations in Mahahual, one in the downtown area behind the breakwater, next to the Mahahual Hotel and the other is in the New Mahahual district. There is only one departure per day from Playa del Carmen and Cancun. One-way tickets are $310 pesos and $370 pesos respectively. You can check routes and schedules on www.ado.com.mx. Cruise Mahahual is the Mexican Caribbean´s second most popular cruise stopover after Cozumel. It receives ships from Carnival, Disney and Norwegian Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean. Flights Cancun Airplane Tours flies from Playa del Carmen or Cancun to Mahahual. One-way flights cost $954 USD and $1,275 USD respectively per plane for five passengers plus taxes. Check www.cancunairplanetours. com for more options. Aero Saab offers similar rates from both cities. For more information, check www.aerosaab.com.
WHAT TO SEE Banco Chinchorro This Biosphere Reserve is a coral reef similar in size to the island of Cozumel. It is considered one of Mexico´s best preserved diving and snorkeling areas. Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has catalogued 69 shipwrecks in the reserve, dating from galleons to modern day cargo ships. The reserve’s underwater gardens are the habitat of a wide variety of fauna such as turtles, sharks, crocodiles and endangered pink conches. Tours to the atoll range from $150 USD to $250 USD depending on the area you visit and duration of the tour, and whether you snorkel or dive. Mahahual Beach This 1-mile piece of paradise is protected by coral reef. As Mahahual is a small village of around 900 inhabitants, you can easily get lost in this beautiful spot, seldom frequented by tourists. You can swim directly from Photos: Agency
the beach and snorkel the reef. Next to the lighthouse, you will find small beach bars and beach chairs, where you can take a walk, or cycle along the new breakwater. Chacchoben Archaeological Site These Mayan ruins were officially discovered in 1972, but were known locally from the 1940s and is 50 minutes northwest of Mahahual. Chacchoben (place of the red corn in Mayan) was a prestigious ceremonial center, which stands out from others due to its Gran Basamento, the sites ritual plaza. The best way to get there is by car or taxi heading toward Limones (and Cancun) or the village of Pedro Antonio Santos (toward Merida), Chacchoben is 3 miles away from both of these villages. Surrounded by dense jungle, the site is open to the public Monday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and during rainy season (May to October) bug repellent is recommended. Entrance cost $48 pesos.
August 20-September 2, 2014
ART & CULTURE
7
Citywide Book Hunt Inspires Reading BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD
Yook´ol Kaab Planetarium Chetumal
Ka´Yok´ Planetarium Cancun
Playa del Carmen’s Window to the Stars BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD
T
he director of the Quintana Roo Science and Technology Council (COQCYT), Víctor Alcérreca Sánchez, recently announced that the fourth planetarium in the state of Quintana Roo would be built in Playa del Carmen during 2015. Alcérreca confirmed that several construction companies were currently being considered for the project. Although the director of COQCYT did not disclose the amount of investment, or the location, he did confirm that that the council had already secured the land to build the center, which plans to be completed by the middle of 2015. Currently, there are three planetariums in the state of Quintana Roo: Yook´ol Kaab (our universe in Mayan) Planetarium in Chetumal, Ka´Yok´
(window on the universe) Planetarium in Cancun and the Cozumel Planetarium, which is still under construction. Alcérreca also confirmed that the council plans to build a total of six planetariums, and are considering Tulum and Felipe Carrillo Puerto as possible future locations. “If we have the necessary resources, we will begin the construction of a fifth planetarium in either Tulum or Carrillo Puerto next year,” said the council´s director. He also stressed the importance of the planetariums as centers of scientific knowledge, as well as an alternative leisure facility for the general public. During July, the Ka´Yok´ Planetarium in Cancun celebrated its first anniversary. Since opening, it has seen more than 90,000 visitors pass through its doors. The Playa del Carmen authorities hopes that the city’s new
The Libro Olvidado or Forgotten Book project is a new campaign from the Playa del Carmen Culture Department that aims to promote reading among residents and visitors to the city. The concept is simple: leave a book in a public place where it can be found, read it, and then “forget” it somewhere else such as a restaurant, coffee shop, cinema or taxi. The scheme was launched last year when the Culture Department had collected a stock of books donated by the public. The idea is that whoever donates a book writes their name inside the cover together with the following message: “This book found you and wants you to read it. Please read it, sign it and forget it somewhere new for someone else to find.” The Culture Department invited the public to continue donating books at Playa del Carmen’s Cultural Center on Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Ave., which is open from Monday to Tuesday. Currently, books by Octavio Paz, Alejandro Jodorovsky and Gabriel García Márquez as well as
Víctor Alcérreca Sánchez Director of COQCYT / Photos:vocero.qroo.gob.mx
planetarium will prove as popular, attracting both tourists and residents to the new facilities.
A Forgotten Book waits to be read / Photo: Agency
children’s and art books are circulating throughout the city. Luis Ernesto López Vargas, director of the Culture Department, hopes that the project will develop into a community book hunt to find popular copies with the most reader’s names, and he would like to hear stories of where the books are being found. “I am already hearing from people that have found books with two or three signatures,” López said. “I knew of someone who donated various books to us and wrote his name inside the covers. As days passed a taxi driver found one inside his car and when he took a look, he realized that it had been donated by his brother, the coincidence created quite a discussion within the family about the book and the circumstances in which it was found,” López continued. To share stories such as this one and to generate interest in the initiative, a public Facebook group has been created called Libro Olvidado, where “people can exchange their thoughts, experiences or stories about the forgotten books and how they discovered them all over the city” the director concluded.
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RESTAURANT BARRO NEGRO GLUAY MAAY THAI MILOS OLÉ RESTAURANTE
5a AVENIDA
10 AV. NORTE
CALLE 36 NORTE
CALLE 26 NORTE
· Condominios Xaman Ha · Sanima Veterinaria · Reef Club · Estética Solange · RIU Palace Riviera Maya · Laundry Riviera · RIU Playacar · Tienda Orgánica · RIU Palace México · Club de Golf · RIU Tequila · Kalipso Café · RIU Yucatán CENTRAL AREA · Iberostar Tucán · Iberostar Spa Quetzal · Vip’s · Sandos Playacar · El Gran Taco · Holiday Inn · Retrocafé · Paseo del Sol Condos · Retrocafé · Ex Sence · Explayarte · Buenerrimo Restaurant · Ecomecanina · Vaivén del Mar Condos · Playa Wireless · Sushi Restaurant · Costamed · La Vaqueria · Koosi Dental Studio · Rafaela Restaurant · Hospiten · L'Atelier de Fred · PlayaMed · Café Antoinette · Fideicomiso Riviera Maya · GRGA Accounts · Dentaris · Be You Med Spa · Correduría 14
AH CACAO
CALLE 38 NORTE
CALLE 28 NORTE
PLAYACAR
CA L L E A
COQUINE CALLE 40 NORTE
CALLE 30 NORTE
AZULRENAVA MASSAGE
S
QUESADILLAS EL MEXICANO
CALLE 42 NORTE
9
ALIZES CONDOMINIUMS ELEMENTS HOTEL
EL SHANGA-RITO
AV. 46 NORTE
PLAYA DEL CARMEN
· El Salón de La Fama · El Pirata · John Grays Kitchen · Spaguetino · Pangea Live & Music · Restaurant Palmeras · La Pepita restaurant · El Sabor de la Fama Rest · La Choza del Chaman · Mini super Franboyanes · Sophie Boutique · Las Margaritas Artesanias · El Mercadito · Super Fleamarket · Panadería del Puerto · Burger Shop · Sea Food Market · Fishing Trips · Artesanias Mariachi · Artesanias Calendario Azteca · Dive Inn · Diverspoint · Artesanias 4 Colibris · Hippie Bikes · Escuela de Idiomas
· Hotels/Hostals/Condos · Services · Restaurants/Bars/Coffee · Public Places · Boutiques/Shops · Transportation
also in...
TULUM, PAAMUL,
MAROMA & AKUMAL
10
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Conquering Procrastination BY TIES BENGUEDDA
W
e have all had, or maybe currently have, something that causes us to procrastinate. It could even be on quite an am-
bitious level, such as pressing social, personal, professional or even health issues, for example. I am very experienced in this subject, so much so that I noticed I was procrastinating over writing about this very subject.
Procrastination is a feeling of resistance, which only exists in our own minds. We have told ourselves that we have to, should or need to do a certain thing. The resistance is created within us, and quite often has nothing
to do with the activity itself. Even if we do want, or like, the action we are procrastinating on, it is simply an action to get us closer to where we want to be. The moment we start to pressure ourselves that something is a must, we take away the freedom of choice and we naturally start to feel resistance. The only thing we can do to stop procrastinating is to break the cycle by taking action. However, knowing this and doing this are two different things. Luckily, not all hope is lost when you realize you are procrastinating. It might help when you realize what a waste of time and energy procrastination is. Anything you do choose to distract yourself with will not give you the ultimate satisfaction as the feeling you get when you’ve completed that what you planned to do in
the first place, and the longer we procrastinate the harder it gets to get back on track. In order to get ourselves into action it might help to change the words we use in our mind. The actual words we choose can change the whole meaning and emotion we feel, which we can then use to our benefit. We have the ability to trick or reprogram our mind by choosing different words to use, by giving ourselves a choice instead of an order. Try to avoid words like must, should, need or have to, which trigger that negative feeling of resistance. Replace them with want, like to, and enjoy, words that trigger positive feelings, and see how that changes our emotions, and therefore our actions. We are far more likely to do something when we say, “we want to,” than when we say, “we must.”
Personal Development Counselling Get the best out of your life!
Ties Benguedda ties-benguedda@hotmail.com (+52 ) 1 646 127 9851
August 20-September 2, 2014
DINING OUT
11
ASK THE
Chef Dim Geefay
I
n this edition of Ask the Chef, we spoke to Dim Geefay, chef at Mezzanine, Tulum. Celebrity Thai chef Dim brought the tantalizing flavors of Thailand to the Mezzanine kitchen, serving up a traditional mix of fragrant Thai curries, fresh seafood delicacies, and salads made with herbs from Mezzanine’s own garden, and of course the classic Pad Thai all they way from the streets of Bangkok.
What are your essential ingredients that you couldn’t live without? Thai people cannot live without fish sauce and chilies! If they travel to foreign countries, they will carry a bottle of fish sauce and a package of dried chilies with them. I’m no different.
the show, I taught my daughter to cook the Thai dishes that I had learnt from my mother. It was the first and only Thai cooking show in the U.S., and it aired for two seasons. In 2008, the owner of Mezzanine saw the TV show and contacted me. I came to Mezzanine and it was love at first sight. In November 2013 Tulum become our new home.
What is your signature or most popular dish? Pad Thai is our most popular dish. Our curries and tom yum or tom kha soup are also popular. At Mezzanine we serve other authentic Thai dishes like Crispy Whole Fish with crushed chilies and garlic in a tamarind sauce, or our Crying Tiger Thai Steak with roasted chili mint dipping sauce and green papaya salad.
Where are you from originally, and how did you end up in the Rivera Maya? I was born and raised in Bangkok, Thailand. Then I married and moved to the U.S. There were many Thai restaurants there, but none could cook my mother’s traditional Thai dishes. So I hosted a Thai cooking show on the TV network American Life called Thai Food Tonight. On
(984) 131 1596
Open Monday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. On the Tulum beach road, heading north toward the ruins of Tulum.
Where do you like to eat out or where is your favorite restaurant? My favorite dish is called Boat Noodles. In Thailand, vendors paddle along the river or canals in their small boats selling noodle soup. Another favorite is spicy green papaya salad freshly made in a mortar and pestle right in front of you, with sticky rice and Crying Tiger, Thai barbeque
www.mezzainetulum.com Facebook Mezzanine Hotel, Tulum
steak prepared on an open fire, all from the night markets in Thailand, my favorite places to eat! What would be your last supper menu, and whom would you invite? I think my final meal would be a bowl of boat noodles, spicy green papaya salad with sticky Rice and a delicious Crying Tiger steak, and I’d invite all my old college friends to share the meal with me.
12
ENTERTAINMENT
> AUGUST 1 9 TO
SEPETEMBER 2
20 WEDNESDAY
LAST DAY OF THE AEROMODELLING EXHIBITION STORY OF WINGS 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Playa del Carmen Cultural Center, Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Ave. Models by Captain José Andrés Romero. Free entrance. BREAD THURSDAYS at Manne´s Biergarten, Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Fresh baked bread and rolls morning market. More information on the Facebook page Manne´s Biergarten.
LATIN NIGHT every Wednesday, 11 p.m. Blue Parrot Beach Club, 12th St. and the beach. 2 x 1 beers and bottles. Salsa, merengue, bachata, reggaeton and Latin hits. Free entrance.
21 THURSDAY
DOCUMENTARY FORTIFIED CARIBBEAN 7 p.m. Mayan Museum of Cancun, Kukulkan Blvd. KM. 16.5 Hotel Zone. Free entrance. DOCUMENTARY S.O.S. OUR ENVIRONMENTAL RELATIONSHIPS SEASON, Vanishing of the Bees, 8 p.m. El Eden Art Garden, Constituyentes Ave. and 95 Street in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance.
22 FRIDAY COCOS BEACH ORGANIC MARKET every Friday 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Condos Alizes, Avenida CTM and 46th St. Homemade bread and baked goods, gluten-free products, fresh herbs, organic eggs, handmade products, cosmetics, clothing and much more. FREE SALSA LESSONS every Friday from 6.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Chichen Itza Langua-
27 WEDNESDAY
28 THURSDAY
FASHION´S NIGHT OUT 8 p.m. Soho Playa Hotel, 24th St. and 10th Ave. The best local design on a catwalk by the roof swimming pool. $150 pesos. The money collected will be intended to Playa Animal Rescue.
FRENCHIC PARTY 7 p.m. Indigo Beach Club, 14th St. and the beach. Art, food, wine and SOUL Sktchers´ live music with live painting and exhibition by Natacha Alban. Free entrance.
EL CARACOL GASTRONOMIC MARKET 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plaza Bonita, Xel-ha Lote 1, Sm 28. Think local, choose handcrafted and meet the producers.
BICINETA BIKE RIDES 8 p.m. every Wednesday. City Hall, Plaza 28 de Julio, 8th St. and 15th Ave. Explore the cycle paths of Playa del Carmen and meet likeminded local bikers.
COMEDY PLAYA 8 p.m. Lucky Luciano’s, Fifth St. and 28th St. Stand-up comedy in English. Local and visiting U.S. acts. Every Wednesday and Sunday. $50 MXN.
FREE SPANISH LESSONS 4.30 p.m. 6 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. It´s time to learn Spanish! More information on www.languageschool-chichenitza.com.
FREE TANGO LESSONS 8 p.m. Roof of Be Playa Hotel, 26th St. and 10th Ave. Classes by Diego and Lucila.
RIDLEY SCOTT FILM SEASON, Gladiator, 8 p.m. El Eden Art Garden, Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance.
RIDLEY SCOTT FILM SEASON, Thelma and Louise, 8 p.m. El Eden Art Garden, Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance.
CANCUN SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL 2014 12 a.m. to 10 p.m. Parque de las Palapas, 10 Margaritas St. 22. Rock, reggae, ska and fusion live music. 27 bands! Free entrance.
the beach. Stand up paddleboard and skateboard tournament. $300 pesos registration for paddlers and $50 pesos for skaters.
LIVE STAND UP COMEDY IN ENGLISH every Wednesday and Sunday, 8 p.m. Lucky Luciano, Fifth St. and 28th St. $50 pesos. Reservations on 984 879 44 28.
EARLY MAN IN MEXICO EXHIBITION Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mayan Museum of Cancun, Kukulkan Blvd. KM. 16.5 Hotel Zone. Discover skeletal remains up to 12,000 years old. $57 pesos entrance. Free entrance on Sunday. Until October.
PAAMUL ECOMARKET every Thursday 8.30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Community Fellowship Church Palapa.
GUIDED MEDITATIONS 7 p.m. El Eden Art Garden, Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance.
ge School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. SPANISH CONVERSATION CLUB, every Friday from 7.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Practice your Spanish conversational skills for free with others students. CINEMA FRIDAYS 8 p.m. La Ceiba Park, First St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Free entrance. Check the Facebook page El Cine Club for the schedule. CONCERT AN EVENING AMONG THE STARS 8.30 p.m. Cancun Theater, Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 4, Hotel Zone. Mozart´s pieces by Cancun Camerata. Directed by Rey Alejandro Conde. Tickets from $150 pesos on 998 849 5580.
23 SATURDAY LECTURE STORYTELLING FOR YOUR BRAND 9 a.m. Quintana Roo Vacation Club Association, 8 Avenida del Bosque. By Hugo Laredo, master degree in Internet Marketing from the San Francisco University. Free entrance. PASEARTE COLLECTIVE & MULTIDISCIPLINARY EXHIBITION every Saturday, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Along Sunyaxchen Ave. Photography, sculpture, poetry, music and more. SPANISH PLAYA TIME every Saturday, 5 p.m. to 6.15 p.m. Kava Kasa, 22nd St. and 10th Ave. Meet new people, play games, and practice your Spanish in a relaxed and casual environment. All levels welcome! $25 pesos contribution. STREET ART SATURDAYS 6 p.m. Plaza 28 de Julio, Eighth St. and 20th Ave. Enjoy free street art performances.
24 SUNDAY EL CARACOL GASTRONOMIC MARKET 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plaza Bonita, Xel-ha Lote 1, Sm 28. Think local, choose handcrafted and meet the producers. TULUM ORGANIC AND NATURAL MARKET 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Commercial Area at Aldea Zamá. ARTISTIC BRUNCH 11.30 a.m. Le Lotus Rouge, Second St. and 35th Ave. Enjoy artistic performances. FOAM PARTY every Sunday, 11 p.m. Blue Parrot Beach Club, 12th St. and the beach. 2 x 1 beers and bottles. Fire show and break dancers. Open bar available.
25 MONDAY FLAMENCO DANCE LESSONS Monday and Friday 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Caracol Marino Cultural Centre, 80th Street, between 10th and Fifth. For more information contact centrocaracol@gmail.com.
26 TUESDAY KAVA KASA LOCAL MARKET every Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kava Kasa, 22nd St. and 10th Ave. Organic produce, fresh home baked goods, artisan crafts and more! Shop local and support Playa. FREE SPANISH LESSONS 4.30 p.m. 6 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. It´s time to learn Spanish! More information on www.languageschool-chichenitza.com.
FREE SPANISH LESSONS 4.30 p.m. 6 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Foreign people in Playa del Carmen, it´s time to learn Spanish! More information on www.languageschool-chichenitza.com. DRAWING EXHIBITION Between the Paper and the Pixel, 8 p.m. La Pitahaya Cultural Center, 67 Yaxchilan Ave. Smza. 22. Pencil and printed drawings by Manuel Baez. Free entrance. DOCUMENTARY S.O.S. OUR ENVIRONMENTAL RELATIONSHIPS SEASON, Marine Oasis, 8 p.m. El Eden Art Garden, Constituyentes Ave. and 95 Street in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance.
29 FRIDAY
CONSCIOUS RELAXATION WORKSHOP 10 a.m. La Ceiba Park, First St. South and 60th Ave. Colonia Ejidal. Voluntary contribution. FOURTH RAPSODIA BAZAR 2 p.m. Parque Central de la SM. 20 (between Labna Ave. And Tulum Ave.) Fashion, design music and art. Free entrance MAGICAL HANDS EXHIBITION 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jardín del Arte Gallery, KM 4.5, Hotel Zone. Collective art and handicraft exhibition and sale. Free entrance. SAND UP COMEDY FROM COMEDY PLAYA 8 p.m. Wah Wah Beach Bar, Second St. and the beach 8 p.m. Comedy for adults in English. Free entrance.
31 MONDAY 2014 MR SANCHO´S TRIATHLON 7 a.m. Mr. Sancho´s Beach Club, South Coastal Road km. 15, Cozumel. $1,200 to $1,700 pesos registration. More information on www. entusmarcas.com.mx. PUPPET PERFORMANCE The Improvised Doctor, 1 p.m. Mayan Museum of Cancun, Kukulkan Blvd. KM. 16.5 Hotel Zone. Free entrance for nationals and residents. MAGICAL HANDS EXHIBITION 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jardín del Arte Gallery, KM 4.5, Hotel Zone. Collective art and handicraft exhibition and sale. Free entrance. RENATO & THE JAM SESSION COMBO every Sunday, 7 p.m. Wah Wah Beach Bar, Second St. and the beach. Rumba, salsa, cha-cha and merengue. Free entrance.
1 TUESDAY ACTING LESSONS every Monday, Wednesday and Friday 4.30 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. Caracol Marino Cultural Centre, 80th St. between 10th and Fifth. For more information contact centrocaracol@gmail.com.
2 WEDNESDAY
COCOS BEACH ORGANIC MARKET every Friday 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Condos Alizes, Avenida CTM and 46th St. Homemade bread and baked goods, gluten-free products, fresh herbs, organic eggs, handmade products, cosmetics, clothing and much more.
KAVA KASA LOCAL MARKET every Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kava Kasa, 22nd St. and 10th Ave. Organic produce, fresh home baked goods, artisan crafts and more! Shop local and support Playa.
FREE SALSA LESSONS every Friday from 6.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave.
PAINTING LESSONS every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Le Lotus Rouge, Second St. and 35th Ave. $100 MXN to cover materials.
SPANISH CONVERSATION CLUB, every Friday from 7.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Practice your Spanish conversational skills for free with others students.
THE ART OF SOCIALIZING every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Le Lotus Rouge, Second St. and 35th Ave. Paint, sip and socialize. Free entrance.
POETRY FRIDAYS every Friday at 8 p.m. El Eden Art Garden, Constituyentes Ave. and 95 Street in Colonia Ejido. Listen to and read poetry favorites. Free entrance.
MEXICAN GOLDEN AGE FILM 7 p.m. Playa del Carmen Cultural Center, Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Ave. Free entrance.
30 SUNDAY FUSION MAYA EXTREME SPORT FESTIVAL 7.30 a.m. Mamitas Beach Club, 28th St. and
*For Cancun events, check the highlighted boxes!
August 20-September 2, 2014
ENTERPRISE FOCUS
13
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ON 7 a.m. h Coastal $1,700 pen on www.
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Captain José Andrés Romero with his collection at the Cultural Center / Photos:Dirección de Cultura de Solidaridad
Captain Hopes to Realize Dream of Aviation Museum BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD
A
irline pilot Captain José Andrés Romero opened the temporary exhibition Story of Wings on Aug. 11, N COMBO featuring more than 500 plane, heBeach Bar, licopter, and vehicle models, at the Playa del ba, salsa, Carmen Cultural Center on Avenida Cruz de ance. los Servicios and 115th Avenue. The scale models tell the story of the evolution of commercial and military aviation. After 20 years in the air, Romero reloWednes0 p.m. Ca- cated to Playa del Carmen where he curth St. be- rently pilots private flights between Playa formation del Carmen and Cozumel. He brought with m. him the dream of creating a permanent museum to exhibit his private collection of plane, car, artillery and nautical models. The Story of Wings exhibition is the first ery Tues- step toward establishing a museum for his , 22nd St. models. Captain Romero believes that an esh home aviation museum would be a unique attracnd more! tion for both tourists and residents in the Riviera Maya. All of the models have been meticuay, Thursand 4 p.m. lously hand built and painted by Romero
d St. and erials.
Tuesday, . to 10.30 m. Le LoAve. Paint,
and narrates the development of aviation technology from the era of pioneering aeronauts to commercial airlines and military jet fighters. The collection is organized by historical events: World Wars I and II, the postwar period, the Korean, Vietnamese, and the Cold War conflicts, and modern day military jets. It includes models of planes flown by the Wright brothers, Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh and other groundbreaking aviators. According to Romero, conflict has always been the driving force for key technological developments throughout human history, including aviation. “During war, anyone who controls the sky, triumphs,” the captain said. Through his exhibition, Captain Romero aims to educate people about the evolution of flight and modeling, a pastime that requires “a lot of dedication.” The exhibition Story of Wings will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Monday to Friday and continues until Aug. 28. Captain Romero will be present at the exhibition during evening to guide visitors.
T
his edition we spoke to American Development, which was started in 2005 with the idea of bringing an American style brokerage to Mexico providing a level of service that Americans and Canadians would be familiar and comfortable with. There are certain challenges that foreign buyers can face and American development provide the education and guidance that comes from both knowing our buyers as well as knowing the local laws and customs. How long has American developments been selling properties here in Playa? American Development has been a full service real estate brokerage in Playa del Carmen since 2005. Our focus since Day One is helping foreigners, especially Americans and Canadians, acquire property legally and safely. Where is the Caribbean Living development and tell us about the properties? Caribbean Living is a master-planned community about 2 miles from the beach in the new suburb area of Playa del Carmen. It’s divided into smaller neighborhoods of 40-60 homes and each neighborhood is gated, with its own security, pool, and palapa and barbecue area. There are several different models of condos and townhomes, all brand new and with full warrantees. What do you think are the most important values in real estate sales? Buying property in a foreign country can be a very daunting experience. There are many things that are different here in terms of language, culture, regulations and laws. You need somebody on your side that isn’t interested in the quick buck and will take the time to educate you on the process; somebody that has the experience to give you the guidance and protection necessary to protect your investment and help you navigate the difficult world of Mexican real estate.
. Playa del Cruz de los nce.
Steve Didier of American Development / Photo:Steve
Where are the hottest property spots in the Riviera Maya right now? The entire Riviera Maya is up and coming with Playa del Carmen being the epicenter of that development for several reasons. The growth here has been phenomenal and now the institutional money is coming to Playa. There are several major developments breaking ground that are in excess of $500 million and the population of Playa is predicted to double in less than 10 years. Where do you see the Riviera Maya property market in 10 years time? If the current levels of development and population growth continue as predicted, the Riviera Maya, and Playa del Carmen in particular, will see a tremendous upswing in property values. Tourism is growing steadily every year and all the macros are in place for major growth in all sectors of the real estate market – with commercial and beach front properties at a premium. With no mortgages to speak of and a very stable government that is committed to sustainable growth, the risk factor for property investment is incredibly low. American Development www.American-Development.com US & Canada (303) 317 6639 Mexico Office (984) 803 5014
Models of military fighters
14
TAKE A BREAK
LEO
Panuchos (Fried Black Bean Filled Tortillas)
(JULY 23RD – AUGUST 22ND)
You may feel like strutting your stuff and sharing your natural genius with the world, but you could be stopped in your tracks by issues at home, where there could be a setback.
VIRGO (AUGUST 23RD – SEPTEMBER 22ND)
If you’ve been caught up in dreams, the time ahead brings an opportunity to bring them to life. While there’s still a focus on your spiritual sector, the days ahead spotlight a shift.
LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 23RD – OCTOBER 22ND)
Social pursuits bring the most pleasure. Dating may figure strongly in your plans, with opportunities to spice up your options concerning a new love affair.
Makes 10 panuchos
Be as cooperative as you can, but don’t let others distract you from achieving your objectives. Keep your priorities in front of you. This sounds easy in principle, but in practice you may find obstacles.
RECIPE
SCORPIO (OCTOBER 23RD- NOVEMBER 21ST)
De Cr
Directions
HOROSCOPES
Ingredients: 2 lb. corn masa for tortillas 4 tbsp. wheat flour 2 cups blended refried black beans 3 cups roasted chicken, shredded 1 red tomato 1 cucumber
1 lettuce head 1 avocado Canola oil for frying For the pickled red onions: 2 onions sliced lengthwise 10 jalapeño peppers 1 tsp. dried oregano ½ cup vinegar
For the dough: combine the masa with flour, add salt to your taste and enough water to make it manageable. Form a small dough ball then flatten it like a small tortilla. Place your panuchos on a warmed griddle. They will puff up and the top will separate itself from the bottom leaving a little part still attached. Flip to cook both sides. Fill the panuchos with refried beans (about a tablespoon for each) and seal back together the top and bottom. Fry them again in hot oil, until they become crispy. Drain off the excess fat on paper towels. For the pickled red onions: Put the sliced onion in a bowl, add boiling water and stand for 5 minutes, drain well. At this point, add the vinegar, peppers and oregano. Marinate for at least an hour. Top each panucho with a bed of shredded lettuce, chicken, sliced tomato, avocado, cucumber and onions.
SAGITTARIUS You have an abundance of energy for activities that are strictly fun, exciting, and adventurous. However, you may be drawn back down to earth and to more mundane activities.
CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 22ND-JANUARY 19TH)
Your social life could disappoint if you allow a certain person to get you down. You might need to firm up your boundaries and tell them in no uncertain terms that their behavior won’t be tolerated.
CROSSWORD
(NOVEMBER 22ND-DEC 21ST)
AQUARIUS
Across
Down
1 Experience a strong urge to travel (4,5,4) 8 Abel (anag) (4) 9 Act honestly (4,4) 10 Blowfly (10) 12 Armed robber (6) 14 14 Christian sabbath (6) 15 15 All things considered (2,3,5) 19 Absolute nonsense (8) 20 Type of 17’s coat colouring (4) 21 Perk (6,7)
2 Signal that danger is past (3-5) 3 Dodge (5) 4 Highest (7) 5 Playing card (5) 6 Rugby Union team (7) 7 Harmful (4) 11 Capital of Sardinia (8) 13 Commissionaire (7) 14 Type of 17 — the lies (anag) (7) 16 Abrupt (5) 17 Domesticated animal(5) 18 Fly high (4)
JANUARY 20THFEBRUARY 18TH
A misunderstanding is a real possibility, so don’t take anything at face value, especially regarding financial matters. If you need to sign anything, double-check to make sure it’s OK.
PISCES (FEBRUARY 19TH-MARCH 20TH)
ARIES (MARCH 21ST-APRIL 19TH)
Courage and vitality are strong, so put your energy to good use. The accent on leisure continues, when the chance to goof off and do things you enjoy can help recharge your batteries.
BODIES OF WATER
WORD SEARCH
There may be a restless energy present that if channeled constructively could result in a golden opportunity. Rather than indulge a desire to enjoy yourself, put some effort into career goals.
TAURUS
BAY CHANNEL COVE LAKE MARSH OCEAN POND RESERVOIR RIVER SEA SPRING STRAIT
Certain people may seem more opinionated than usual, and perhaps given to extremes of behavior. It might help to calm a tricky situation by talking things through before they come to a head.
GEMINI (MAY 21TH-JUNE 21TH)
You may feel somewhat stressed if too many demands are made on your time and energy. If you face delays, it might be easier to go with the flow than try and force the pace.
CANCER (JUNE 22ND- JULY 22ND)
There’s too much positive potential showing up around you to let negative thinking win. If someone insists on talking about their problems and it’s getting to you, you may need to have a word.
WEEKLY SUDOKU PUZZLE
(APRIL 20TH-MAY 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
LAST ISSUE'S SOLUTION
August 20-September 2, 2014
Dear Craig
15
Classifieds GENERAL SERVICES
The Use of Hay: There Is/Are
Dear Craig, Which is the best company to rent a car from, and should we do it at the airport or from our hotel? Curious In Cleveland
Hay is a very common Spanish expression. It is equivalent to the English expression “there is” or “there are”. Hay is pronounced “aye” as the h is silent. Hay is the present tense impersonal form of the verb haber, and can be followed by a singular or plural noun.
In the Mayan Riviera, there are a lot of options for renting cars; there are big companies and there are lesser-known agencies. As for the best company, that’s hard to say. They all have pros - lower daily rates, no extra driver charge, and cons - not allowing you to use your credit card insurance even though you double-checked with the company before you made the reservation, who assured you that you could and now you’re stuck taking their comprehensive insurance, which only covers them and not if you say, kill someone. Renting from the airport is very popular option. This is probably because everybody likes waiting. After spending several hours in immigration, most travellers love the experience of dealing with a rental car employee, who messes up their reservation, gives them the wrong set of keys, and then makes them wait while the car they actually paid for is … somewhere.
Hay tres niños en mi clase. There are three boys in my class. Hay mucho que hacer. There is a lot to do. In other tenses and moods, the impersonal verb haber has both singular and plural impersonal conjugations, but most Spanish speakers consider use of the plurals as incorrect. When followed by an infinitive, the form hay que means “it is necessary to” or “one has to”: Hay que estudiar cada día. It is necessary to study every day. Hay que trabajar para triunfar en la vida. One has to work in order to succeed in life.
.
Craig
Craig Norton is a Canadian expat and the one of the founding members of Comedy Playa. If you have a question you would like to ask him (for a friend), please email dearcraig@theplayatimes.com
Consular Agency of Canada Plaza Paraíso Caribe 10th Avenue South, between 3rd and 5th St South, Second floor Centro, Playa del Carmen, Mexico Tel.: (984) 803-2411 Emergency tel. 24/7: (01 800) 706-2900 e-mail: crmen@international.gc.ca Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Consular Agency of the United States La Palapa on First St. South and 15th Ave. Col. Centro, Playa del Carmen, Q. Roo 77710 Phone: (984) 873 03 03 Email: playausca@hotmail.com Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Honorary Consulate of Italy 10th Ave. and 12th St. Colonia Centro, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo 77110 Phone: 984 803 4714 Email: consolato.pdcarmen@esteri.it Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
VACATION RENTALS, HOTELS & APARTMENTS NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY SERVICES Management, rentals and sales at their best. Playa del Carmen, Mexico. See our ad on the front page. CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY! 984 873 3548 website: rentals@nasplaya.com See our ad on the front page
PORTO BELLO PRIVATE RESIDENCE CLUB Hassle free vacation homes with Porto Bello to speak to a desination specialist call 984 873 5909 or toll free from U.S. 1855 381 4282 or Canada 1855 744 6801 ownit@experienceportobello.com www.experienceportobello.com
(Also, remember to leave all of your valuables in the car when you go to secluded beaches.)
CONSULATES IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN
ECOMECANICA AUTO REPAIR SHOP 29th Street South Mza 299 Lt. 2 Colonia Ejidal, Playa del Carmen Telephone 984 803 9926 info@ecomecanica.com www.ecomecanica.com
OASIS 12 Luxury Boutique Condominiums OPEN HOUSE MON to FRI 11am - 3pm 20th Avenue & 12th Street Telephone 984 111 3164 www.area-international.com
Other tourists choose to rent directly from the front desk, because they prefer to pay more for things. I don’t know what it’s like in Cleveland, but down here, we love a mark-up! Why pay less, when you can pay 15 percent more than you should?
MEDICAL & DENTAL OFFSHORE HEALTH BENEFITS LTD. Global medical insurance and air ambulance For expatriates throughout Latin America.
Grace Grace was born about December 2014, and came to Playa Animal Rescue shortly after being hit by a car. Her injuries weren’t serious and she has completely recovered. She is a very sweet and calm girl who is a bit shy when meeting new people, but warms up quickly. Grace has been sterilized and is fully inoculated If you have any questions about the available dogs from Playa Animal Rescue, contact Pat at info@playaanimalrescue.org
Access to top-rated hospitals throughoout Mexico, USA, Europe and beyond. 25% discount through The Caribbean Expatriate Medical Group / No application or agent fees. Vonage (USA) 512 296 4976 www.offshorehealthbenefits.com BOKANOVA DENTAL CENTRE Cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, orthodontics, oral surgery, endodontics ENGLISH SPOKEN Plaza Paraiso 10th Avenue South, near the entrance to Playacar, Playa del Carmen. Telephone 984 803 1043
Hay un vaso en la mesa. There is a glass on the table.
Dear Curious,
All the best,
CLASSIFIEDS
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 RESTAURANTE PATANEGRA Delicious homemade Sapanish food, Try the best tapas, paellas, cold and more. Fine selection of Spanish red and white wines. On 26th St. between Avenues 10 and 15. Telephone 984 877 0701. Facebook Restaurante Patanegra RESTAURANT RAFAELA Offering fresh or frozen wheat grass juice, also the safest choice pasteurized eggs with no hormones or antibiotics from Kosher certified vegetarian hens. More info at www.safeeggs.com Located at Paseo Tulum, Plaza Golf Drive, Playacar Phase 2. Phone 803 23 54/984 145 6255
CONTACTS & PERSONALS ROTARY CLUB PLAYA DEL CARMEN SEASIDE Weekly meetings at LA FRAGATA Restaurant. 26 St and 1st avenue. Tuesdays 12.30pm Visitors are welcome, for more information email kwdoug1@yahoo.com NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS English spoken Tuesdays and Fridays 5.30pm. Spanish spoken Monday to Friday 7pm. 35th Avenue and 34th Street, Playa del Carmen. info@naplaya.com