Edition 101 by theplayatimes

B i m o n t h l y · Yea r 04 · N u m b e r 101 · 20,000 c o p i e s · 24 Pages · J a n ua r y 1 8 - Fe b r ua r y 7, 2 0 1 7

S MAP E

Punta Cancun

t h e p l a y at i m e s . c o m

One of the best and a long-forgotten spots in Cancun, is once again open to the public thanks to the work of local photographers.

INS

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COZUMEL

Diving with Spotted Eagle Rays >P. 11

TULUM

Vegan Fest 2017 >P. 10

Photo: Amor Lopez

· TULUM

· DISCOVER MEXICO

W H E R E TO WATC H T H E B I G G A M E

CENOTES: LAND & SEA CONNECTION

Photo: Pexels

In Tulum for the Superbowl on February 5? Ashley tells you which places to head to to watch the big game in paradise

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Photo: : Shutterstock

Jan 18 - Feb 7 Find out why the porosity of the limestone on land can lead to detrimental impacts to the sea in the Yucatan Peninsula

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Looking for something to do? Check out our What’s On section online for a list of things to do including live music and dancing, yoga, markets and special events

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January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

Editorial

DIRECTORY Rebecca Page General Manager & Editor edition@meridianmedia.mx

Ian MacKenzie Copy Editor copyeditor@meridianmedia.mx

Efrén Velázquez design@meridianmedia.mx

Ana Martínez Brand Manager Cell: 984 169 1637 marketing@meridianmedia.mx

Erika Serra Public Relations Cell: 984 119 1586 publicrelations@meridianmedia.mx

Sales Cell: 984 -147 5597 & 147 5571 info@meridianmedia.mx

Omar Coral Distribution

Photo: shutterstock

Is Canceling BPM the Answer?

Art & Design

distribution@meridianmedia.mx

BY REBECCA PAGE

n Sunday, January 15, the last night of the BPM Festival in Playa del Carmen, five people were killed, and 15 people were injured when a gunman opened fire in the Blue Parrot on Calle 12. These are some of the only facts we know. The rest of the information that has been flying around social media and being reported in traditional media outlets in the last 24 hours have been filled with speculation, rumors, and opinions. However, obtaining facts regarding what actually happened has been difficult. Both the president of the municipality, Christina Torres and the governor of Quintana Roo, Carlos Joaquin made official statements condemning the violence, and promising justice would be served. The municipality has also stated that the BPM Festival would not be welcome back next year, and they would look long and hard

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: Calle 2 entre 45 y Carretera Federal, Mza. 088 lote 003-1. 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.

at other similar festivals that wish to host their events in the region. On social media, the opinion of canceling BPM varies. There are some who are pleased with the cancelation as they deem BPM a nuisance. It is a 10-day festival that offers DJ-hosted parties 24 hours a day. Opponents complain about the extreme noise the parties generate, the blatant and rampant drug use it seems to attract, excessive amounts of garbage on the beach and what they believe to be a blatant disregard for the community. However, others feel that BPM brings much-needed revenue to a location that relies solely on tourism to survive. They believe that BPM has also put Playa del Carmen on the map for a generation of young travelers with cash to spend and canceling the event will accomplish very little to curb the availability and desire for drugs in Playa. There are many reasons to believe the shooting was drug-related. But, let´s be honest, drugs are a constant in Playa del

Carmen. Removing BPM from the scene will not eliminate the core problem that exists here (and all over the world). If the demand for drugs is there, the violence that goes along with illegal drug use will continue. As one poster on a local Facebook forum so eloquently stated: ¨It›s all well and good canceling BPM, but it›s a demand problem. Maybe BPM increases demand for drugs, but even without the festival it still exists. If only people applied the same morals to their drug buying as when they buy fair trade coffee or avoid clothes made in sweatshops or blood diamonds. For some reason, people can›t associate buying drugs with the trail of destruction that it brings, but you can’t immediately see.¨ And he´s right. You can cancel all the festivals you want. You can start as many drug wars as your government can afford to fund. However, unless you address the real issue, drug use, you are just applying Band-Aids to a gunshot wound.

TPT 10 DAY WEATHER WED 18

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BEACH LIFE

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

Send questions or concerns to allan@nasplaya.com / Photo: Allan Lockhart

Ask Allan Allan advises on how best to secure our homes in Playa BY ALLAN LOCKHART, OWNER OF NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & ACTIVE MEMBER OF THE SEASIDE ROTARY CLUB IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

i Allan, do you have any tips on how to secure my condo in Playa? My condo complex does not have 24/7 security, but I have locks on all of my doors and have never had a problem. Thanks, Helen Hi Helen, thank you for your question. If someone wants to get into your house

badly enough they will, regardless of your deterrence. In my experience, most of the thefts and break-ins are crimes of opportunity. If you leave something in plain sight it will probably disappear. Computers, cell phones and small flat-screen televisions are a good example. Here are a few tips I have learned over the years: If you have a dog or dogs, they will always help to deter thieves. This is the reason most Mexicans who do not live in a condo complex have dogs. When in Mexico, do as the locals do. If you are living in a non-secured complex on the first two floors, it is always wise to have bars on your windows and doors, and/or have security pins installed in your windows. At home, I use bars, locks and pins. The locks that come on sliders might or might not work, and for that reason I put a piece of wood or PVC pipe and lay it in the area where the slider would slide if opened. For pins, have someone drill a hole through the metal part of your slider, through both the sliding door and the stationary one. Be careful not to drill into the glass. Buy some metal security pins and insert these in the holes after the slider has been closed. You can attach these pins on the end of a small chain and secure it to the slider also. This way you will not always be looking for the pins. No one is going to get this open! If you have a reputable property manager, they should be able to take care of these issues for you. Last but not least, our locksmith told us a few years ago to never leave the key in the lock on the inside because someone can just put a screwdriver in the keyhole on the outside and open your door. When I leave my home for a few hours or days, I also leave a light on and a radio or television on so it appears as if I am home. Thanks again for your question, Helen.

Dealing with Noisy Neighbors BY THOMAS LLOYD, FOUNDER OF TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE You invested in a property in the Riviera Maya and now you have a party everyday… next door, thanks to your noisy neighbors. Don’t let this make you run for the hills! Fortunately, you can control the damage. First, be aware that there’s a limit of noise allowed: 68 decibels during the daytime, and 65 in the nighttime. You can use the graphic shown here to assess the noise and make sure that it’s above the limits. If the noise is loud, report the problem by dialing 066 from a local number. This is important to have evidence of the situation, and it’s especially important in case of recurring episodes. If you don’t speak Spanish, ask for help from a friend or neighbor. The report can be anonymous. If the report is made during the nighttime, the operators will send a police car to check the complaint, ask the people to reduce the noise and notify that there’s a complaint from the neighbors. Now, if you’ve done this many times and there’s no change in behavior, you can make an actual complaint in paper. Look for the offices of the Dirección de Ecología and go in person to make a complaint for Ruidos molestos (Annoying noises), mentioning the exact address and time in which the noise takes place. By doing this, an inspector will deliver a summon to the mentioned address up to two times. If the person ignores these summons, they’ll get a third one notifying that they have infringed the law and therefore be fined. It can be a lengthy process, but it’s

Photo: Top Mex

worth doing it if you want to protect your investment and actually enjoy being home. Finally, if you’re still looking for a property, ask your agent about the different zones, since there are parts of town where higher levels of noise are allowed, such as the area where the nightclubs are located. Do you have any questions about real estate in Playa del Carmen? I’m here to help! Contact me at info@topmexicorealestate.com

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

What if... … you, or someone you love has a serious medical situation and needs to be back home within hours?

f you spend any significant time in Mexico, there will come a time that you, or someone you know will need to get back home to a known medical facility, or even to a specialty hospital such

as Mayo. Within hours. Would you know how to navigate international law, the Mexican medical system, and medical evacuation companies in order to quickly get back to the States or Canada? Plus, would you be able to afford the $20,000 $50,000 cash-on-the-barrelhead payable upfront cost? And, God forbid, what if there is a death?

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to know that for about $500 per year you can have a wonderful sense of security and all of these worries can go away. An emergency evacuation membership can cover you, your spouse, and in many cases children and even grandchildren. And insure that you get back home to the hospital of your choice so you can be near your loved ones and have access to specialized facilities and trusted doctors. Only one medical evac firm serving Mexico is integrated from “a to z” and in the past year has conducted over 400+ successful international evacuations to the US and Canada. They get the call…quickly size up the situation using in-house bilingual doctors who consult with local doctors… and can then quickly put one

BEACH LIFE

of the 51 planes that they either own, or have under contract, in the air. Flown by pilots with an average of 10,000+ hours experience and a medical crew with a minimum 5+ years of emergency room experience and certifications. The plane flies under pre-approved blanket FAA and Mexican aviation regulations and can be here to the Rivera Maya in less than 2 hours. No one can match their speed, medical skills and performance as certified by the two largest medical evacuation certification firms in the world. No one!

The unexpected happens. It is incredibly inexpensive to protect yourself and your loved ones. John Klug Senior Consultant Riva Maya Travel MedEvac 984-169-2600 (Mexico) 303-719-5584 (US) Klug.John@Comcast.net Call or email with any questions and to learn the time of the next group seminar concerning medical evacuation options.

Life is a Beach for Nadia Morella BY REBECCA PAGE

Nadia Morella (kneeling, right) /Photo: Facebook: Les Mex

A few months ago, when I was looking for a writer to develop LGBT content for the paper, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Nadia Morella. She came to Playa for the first time in 2006 and again in 2009 and 2015. It was on those trips that she realized that there weren’t any events geared towards lesbians. ¨I saw events for gays everywhere but nothing for lesbians,¨ she told me. She felt like something was missing, especially coming from Montreal, which offers a huge variety of events and places for the LGBT community. That is why she decided to plan lesbian events when moving to Mexico. Nadia is now involved in different projects and organizations to further develop the LGBT community such as PlayaPride, PlayaAmigable and Fusion G Les. Her event, LesMex, was created for lesbians, but it is important to note that the group is all-inclusive. “I prefer to use the term, ‘sexual diversity’, instead of LGBT,” Nadia said. “No one is left out - everyone is welcome!” Their first event was at PG´s Mexican Caribe Bar & Grill on First Avenue and Calle 26 on March 23, 2016. Since then, she has had about two dozen events, many of them at PG´s Mexican Caribe. The group has grown quickly, with women coming from Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Playa. She now sees many familiar faces at the events. “We are creating an environment that is safe, where we can be who we are without being judged,” Nadia explained.

Her observation of Playa is that it is very closeted, especially for lesbians. She has been asked by some women attending the event not to publish pictures of them on social media. She will always respect that because she wants them to have a place or event where they can feel comfortable to be themselves, have fun, and meet other lesbians. One thing that is quite evident in our conversation is that Playa del Carmen (and Mexico in general) still has a long way to go in terms of creating a safe environment where sexual diversity is accepted. Nadia explained to me that she doesn’t feel as comfortable in public in Playa del Carmen, as she does in other locations, like Montreal. Here, she has received unwanted attention from men, including whistles and comments while simply holding hands, or being affectionate with her girlfriend.. Even though gay marriage is legal in Mexico, conservative religious beliefs still prevail in many families. Nadia met a girl whose family has disowned her for being a lesbian. “Sexual diversity is still taboo in many families, and there is a long way to go,” Nadia observes. In the meantime, Nadia and her group, LesMex, will continue to offer events that allow its sexually diverse followers a safe place to be themselves - whoever that may be. If you are interested in learning more about sexually diverse events available in the area, please visit Facebook/LesMex or check out http://lifeisabeachprods.weebly. com/about.html.

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

BEACH LIFE

TPT Meets: Musician Franco Achinelli Meet this talented Argentinian with music in his blood bers meet to make such a good combination? We met about six months ago through a Facebook publication. A guitarist was looking for a singer. One night I went to listen to his band play in Playacar and the next day we were playing together at a hotel in Playa del Carmen.

Argentinian musician Franco Achinelli comes from a long line of musicians / Photo: Franco Achinelli

BY CRYSTAL MITCHELL

ranco Achinelli is an Argentinian musician with generations of musicians in his family. I spoke with him to find out more about his passion and talent for music. The Playa Times: How long have you been studying music and how did you start? Franco: My parents, grandpa, uncles, and brothers are musicians. Not at the professional level, though. We carry the music in our blood. I am a singer, but I also play guitar (not much). What was the first musical experience that inspired you to take this path?

My mentor was my brother. He is a drummer and when I was very young, I heard him play with his band. Who writes the songs and what inspires them? I write them and some were written together with friends at different times of my life. You have a musical name. What is the meaning of the name? They know me by “Achy,” which is derived from my last name “Achinelli”. I have a band project called “Xaman”, which means “man of knowledge”. How long has Xaman been together and how did the mem-

What have been your most successful concerts here in Playa del Carmen? Our New Year´s show at the Grand Hyatt Hotel was one. In February, we will be presenting the band in the Teatro de La Ciudad at an event in conjunction with the Puente Foundation (Italy) for the Nobel Peace Prize to be delivered in Colombia. Where do you play here in Playa del Carmen? Grand Hyatt Hotel (First Avenue and 26th Street) Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 pm to 10:30 pm (between Eighth and 10th Street) Saturday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Find out more about Franco and Xaman on his Facebook fan pages: Facebook/achymusic Salciccium Class (Fifth Avenue between 26th and 28th Street) Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Fah Bar (Fifth Aven Facebook/suenaxaman

Children of Tres Reyes excited about their Christmas gifts! / Photo: Nadia Morella/Life is a Beach Productions

Christmas with a Cause BY NADIA MORELLA It is my first Holiday here in Playa del Carmen. Although I miss my Canadian family and friends, I am happy I’ve joined my new SD (sexual diversity) family here in Quintana Roo. I usually spend Christmas with relatives, and New Year’s Eve with friends, under the snow of beautiful Greater Montreal. Gifts exchange, parties, games, skiing and snow fight, are always on the schedule! This year, I am spending it under the warm sun of Playa del Carmen, no snow. But who would complain? The exotic palms, the sea, the sand. I mean, really! For the first time of my life, I

learned what a posada is and also got to attend a few of them and host one myself. Posada means lodging or accommodation, it is nine days of religious observance, although in the 21st Century, for most, religion is no longer part of the posada. Friends, family, and coworkers go to each other’s houses to eat, drink and celebrate from December 16th to 24th. The event ‘Posada Christmas Brunch with a Cause’ took place on December 18th, at Sirenas Raw Bar in Cancun. Lesbian leaders in the LGBT community in Cancun and I put together the event for a good cause: offering gifts to the underprivileged children of Tres Reyes in Cancun. On the late afternoon of December 24th, I joined good friends for the distribution of the gifts collected on the previous Sunday, as well as bags of food for the #empathychallenge in the needy neighborhood. People of all ages were delighted with our gifts on Christmas Eve day. I feel privileged to have lived this joyful moment because these people are not always able to afford food for their family or even gifts for their children.Their situation is different from what we are typically used to. It is important to make the best out of everything you can, to help other people, to share, to teach and to give. After that day in Tres Reyes, it made me think a lot about how I want to help people, especially in the development of the LGBT community. Sharing is caring they say. Well, let me share my knowledge and do more to concrete my actions for all types of unfortunate people.

ART & CULTURE

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

Mexican Colonial Art We explore the great history of baroque and g^h\eZllb\Ze bgÜn^g\^l maZm \Zg [^ _hng] bg hnk gZmbhg l Zk\abm^\mnk^ BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO

The devotion of San Antonio Abad caused him to be recognized him as the founder of the Christian hermit lifestyle / Photos: wikimedia

The Blessing of the Animals: The Day of San Antonio Abad BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO Every January 17 is the day of San Antonio Abad, patron and protector of animals. In some towns and villages in Mexico they still celebrate a tradition from yesteryear: the blessing of the animals. Although it is a Catholic celebration, it was well received by the original inhabitants of this land, whose pre-Hispanic rituals held a deep respect for nature and their coexistence with animals. On this day they hold a parade of dogs, cats, ducks, chickens, birds, and pigs. In some churches blessings are offered to individual visitors, and it is delightful to see owners and pets lining up waiting to be received. People make an effort to bring their pets well bathed,with some wearing ribbons and sweaters or other outfits, all looking very handsome. But it was not always this way. Previously, about two generations ago, people used to carry their lambs, goats, pigs, donkeys and animals that were destined for work. Although this tradition has faded, some churches still use it. The devotion of San Antonio Abad caused him to be recognized him as the founder of the Christian hermit lifestyle. This saint lived in isolation from people and urban centres and kept only the company of animals, generating a kind of communication with them that has become legendary.

olonial art is a significant piece of the great cultural wealth of Mexico, and together with Peru, it was one of the viceroyalties of America. The art of viceroyalty is characterized by two styles in particular: baroque and neoclassical. Baroque is derived from a profusion of decorative elements, while neoclassical recalls the sobriety and forms of the Greek revival in Europe. Both styles can be seen on buildings that are religious and secular. However, it is baroque that best characterizes us, and is the style with which we built temples, indigenous chapels, convents, palaces, and aqueducts, using the same stones that we now know as archaeological remains. Indigenous and mestizo hands built monumental works and decorated them with mastery. This is the reason why it is also possible to see decorative elements and pre-Hispanic symbols. Many come from the coastal areas due to the intense trade between native peoples before the Spaniards. Sculptures and paintings highlight images of the Virgin Mary, Christ, saints and biblical passages, mainly using materials such as wood and silver. The most famous are the Christs of Michoacán. Also worth mentioning are the gold altarpieces and painting on the walls and ceilings of the temples in Oaxaca, Morelia, Tepotzotlán, and Puebla. Luxury goods contributed to the trade between Asia and Europe through the Nao ships, reaching the port of Acapulco each year with porcelain and furniture from China and ivory from India. What stands out most in colonial art is

Indigenous and mestizo hands built monumental works and decorated them with mastery, adding to the great cultural wealth of the country. the architecture. Although we cannot compare them with those of Spain, there is a similarity in the public squares that surround the arches and palaces in Morelia, Zacatecas, Guanajuato, and Pátzcuaro. The music of this period has seen a revival and can still be enjoyed today. In literature, famous characters such as Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz and Juan Ruiz de Alarcón are renowned in our country. Colonial art can also be admired in the large haciendas, many of which have been converted into hotels. Today this is still being used as a symbol of Mexican style in houses and the infrastructure of the tourism industry.

This saint lived in isolated from people and urban centres and kept only the company animals, generating a kind of communication with them that has become legendary.

In some parts, this tradition is held in October in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, who according to biblical texts had the sensitivity to speak to and understand animals. This celebration is not customary in Playa del Carmen, as it is a new city. In some places in the interior of Mexico such as Taxco, Guerrero, in addition to the blessing there are contests for pets with the best costume. It has become an attractive tourist attraction for this beautiful place. The invitation has gone out for you to travel our country and discover from January until December the unique customs and festivals of Mexico.

The Church of Santa Prisca in Taxco, Guerrero is an example of Baroque architecture / Photo: Wikimedia

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

DISCOVER MEXIC0

Where it all begins - the cenotes of the Riviera Maya / Photo: Florencia Cerutti

What Happens Inland Affects the Sea? Yes. The porosity of the limestone in the Riviera Maya allows pollution from surface activities to flow down to the underground water, eventually reaching the sea with minimum filtering. BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI

he Riviera Maya is part of a larger region called the Yucatan Peninsula (YP) which has an enormous limestone platform with high porosity and permeability. This coupled with lots of rain through thousands of years has resulted in unusual surface fea-

tures like sinkholes (cenotes) and a complex underground water system with caves. Cave exploration through SCUBA diving started in the early 1980s and has revealed an extensive system of tunnels, caves and sinkholes along the YP and the Caribbean coast. The YP has the three longest underwater cave systems in the world and snorkeling/diving in cenotes is an import-

ant tourism activity. However, the porosity of the limestone allows pollution from surface activities such as urbanization, tourism, or mining to flow down to the underground water with minimum filtering. The underground river system effectively drains the waste to coastal springs providing passageways that link water originating from inland areas to discharge areas along the

percentage of the region’s coral reefs lost to pollution

coast, providing a route for pollution to reach the Caribbean Sea and its precious coral reefs. Scientist believe that land-based sources of pollution such as discharge of untreated sewage and wastewater, along with other issues like overfishing, may have contributed to the loss of up to 50% of corals on the reefs along the region’s coast. Given the foreseen increase in coastal settle-

ment and tourism activities in the region coupled with the elimination of natural filtering ecosystems such as mangrove forests and dunes, prevention measures and a better understanding of this system are urgently needed to ensure that expanding development does not damage the marine environment, human health and, in turn, the region’s tourism-based economy. So, are you visiting a cenote? Use biodegradable skin products and take your trash with you. Do you live here? Use biodegradable products (skin care, detergents, etc) as they will likely end up in the underground water system. Are you planning a development or business here? Learn about the appropriate wastewater disposal specific to this region. If ‘those In charge’ insist on using national regulations for wastewater disposal which are unsuitable for this area, at least we, the community, can do our best to pollute a little less.

TULUM

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

Catching the Big Game in Tulum BY ASHLEY CAMPO Okay, American football fans, the season is quickly winding down and things are getting serious. Up until now, it’s been fine to quietly watch the game from home and cheer on your favorite team, sending Facebook posts and text messages to your friends in the U.S. throughout the game. But now, whether your team makes it to the big game or you have to settle for rooting for your second or third choice, it’s time to make the celebrations public.

Photo: Facebook/Tulum Vegan Fest 2017

Tulum Vegan Fest

Here are a few places where you can have a beer and watch the game in Tulum: • Mateo’s: Tulum’s version of the American sports bar, set in the jungle. There are big-screen TVs, dart boards, lots of adult beverages and they even have wings on the menu! It is a big, open sports bar, perfect for animated fans who are planning to do some yelling at the TV. • Chacabar: The perfect spot for watching the game in a restaurant. Their food is fantastic and their outdoor seating is super comfortable, with big oversized umbrellas and seat-

Order yourself a beer, cheer away and enjoy the game with your newfound friends in paradise. ing around the bar. The Texas Burger is perfect fuel for game day. Chacabar is located in Aldea Zama. • Barefoot Sports Bar: If you’re looking for lots of screens and a good selection of beer to quench your thirst throughout the game, then this is the perfect spot for you. It has a dark, dive bar feel that makes you feel right at home when cheering on your team. Barefoot Sports Bar is located on Avenida Tulum. No matter where you go, the very best thing about cheering on your home team from Tulum is that you can do it in flip flops and shorts! Order yourself a beer, cheer away and enjoy the game with your newfound friends in paradise.

A three-day event of food, yoga, music and much more BY ASHLEY CAMPO

he hugely popular Tulum Vegan Fest is back in town for its fourth edition from January 27 - 29. The three-day event will be hosted by three separate venues: Sandos Caracol Eco Resort, Papaya Playa Project & Holistika Tulum. The three core themes for the festival are food, yoga and music. Each day will feature yoga and mindfulness classes, cooking classes and workshops, as well as local vendors and live music. The event does an incredible job of incorporating much more than just vegan recipes or products. Having added an extra day this year, there are now even more cultural events, eco-friendly activities and a genuine sense of community. Here is what each core theme involves: • Food - Animal rights activists, health experts and fantastic chefs will be there to teach you about living a vegan lifestyle to

Photo: Agency

make amazing changes in your life. • Yoga - There will be different styles of yoga taught by excellent teachers from around the world in great venues. • Music - With a fantastic lineup of performers, the music is sure to provide good energy and excitement throughout the festival. Tulum Vegan Fest is not three days of preachy vegans trying to convert all of us to their way of life, but rather a dynamic and extensive event with something to suit most tastes. It began with a desire to help local animal charities, and this year all proceeds will be going to one local and one national animal charity (Animal Heroes and Sociedad Protectora De Animales Tulum). Tickets for all three days are $500 pesos, which will give you full access to all three venues and all events throughout the festival. You can find more information and purchase tickets at www.tulumveganfest. com. See you there!

Mateo’s - Tulum’s version of the American sports bar, set in the jungle / Photo: Ashley Campo

Cozumel: Diving with Spotted Eagle Rays BY VANESSA NINI Every year from November to February something special happens within the deep north marine walls of Cozumel. Divers are drawn to this place for an amazing experience: diving on the wall with large groups of spotted eagle rays (aetobatus narinari). Ernesto Hevia del Puerto from Cozumel Ocean Research (COR), a diving instructor and oceanographer, started a project a few years ago with his team, to understand more about their ecology. They began searching for methods to preserve their existence, which is an essential part of the marine ecosystem, and every year COR invites divers to join them during their dives. Ernesto, do we know why the eagle rays come to the north walls of the marine park in Cozumel? We are not really sure at the moment, but we think that there is a migration point in Cozumel. The temperature of the water is very important, as soon it goes up, they begin to leave. They like to come to these walls in the north, called Cantarel and San Juan. These two dropoffs are deep and there is a strong current. You need to be an advanced diver to go there. It is also possible to dive with spotted eagles rays in the marine park of Cozumel. There is one group in Punta Sur during this time period, but the biggest group stays in the north.” How many spotted eagles rays can you see in the same group? I have seen a group as large as twenty-seven spotted eagles rays, but we have noticed that there are fewer and fewer every year. The are many reasons for this. Too many jet-ski com-

Schools of spotted eagle rays gather in large numbers in the north of Cozumel / Photo: Vanessa Nini

panies operate around the dive site, causing noise. Spotted eagle rays like to eat shellfish and on the island vendors are selling shells to the tourists. Another important factor relates to el cazon, a small shark that you cannot find here anymore. The fishermen are fishing for baby sharks now instead, as well as spotted eagle ray, as it tastes a lot like cazon. It is from the same family. COR organizes dives for monitoring eagles rays during this period, in order to review and analyze sightings reports. To recognize each individual one we take pictures of them, counting the number of spots on their dress. It takes time, and we need more volunteers, so all advanced divers are welcome! You can also help to preserve the ocean by not buying shells or eating ‘cazon’ empanadas!

All of Yahir’s masks are representations of the range of human emotions that we tend to hide / Photos: Vanessa Nini

Kisin: The Paper-Mask Maker Learn the story behind a new handcraft store in Cozumel BY VANESSA NINI

ne afternoon in Cozumel, as I was going to buy an ice cream from the Michoacana artisanal ice-cream store, I passed a small jewelry shop. Inside was a man around thirty-five years of age who gave me a welcoming smile. “Are you the person who is making these incredible handmade masks?,” I asked. “Yes,” he answered. “It is my passion. Come in, I have more models inside.” And that is how I met Yahir Larre Guerrero, the paper-mask maker. Yahir has been living in Cozumel for 15 years, but is originally from Mexico City, and his shop is the family business. Located on 10th Avenue it is named Kisin, which means devil in Mayan.

We named the store Kisin because we like how it sounds in Mayan, and also because I like the devil! Yahir Larre Guerrero Paper-mask maker

TPT: Tell me about your store. Yahir Larre Guerrero: I’ve been running the store with my wife for a few months. We named the store Kisin because we like how it sounds in Mayan, and also because I like the devil! I sell jewelry, handmade bags, and smoking accessories, like pipes, shishas, rolling paper, and herb cider. So, I

am like a little devil here in Cozumel. I was looking for something to represent my store and could not find it, so I decided to create it myself. My first paper mask was a devil, and I quickly realized that I love making masks. Since the first one, I’ve made more than 10 different masks. Are you selling the masks, Yahir? Yes, of course. I also work on request and would like to make more masks. I would love to have an exhibition.

How long does it take you to make one mask? One to five days. It depends on the models. The dinosaur took me five days to complete. All of Yahir’s masks are representations of the range of human emotions that we tend to hide, and I invite you to visit his store and support a local handcraft business. Kisin is located on 10th Avenue, between First street and Rosaldo Salas, five minutes from the ferry. You can also contact him via email: kisincozumel@outlook.com or visit his Facebook page: Facebook/kisin

Pro m oto ra Isla M aya BY RAQUEL GARZA GONZÁLEZ Promotora Isla Maya is a space for promotion, diffusion and organization of cultural, artistic and general activities. It is located on Avenue 15, No. 473, between 8th and 10th Street North, in Cozumel. Promotora Isla Maya was created on November 13, 2013, by Liliana Macotela, an independent cultural promoter. She has dedicated more than a decade to cultural promotion in this Mexican Caribbean location. She is now in charge of the project, maintaining a permanent space and program to promote and disseminate artistic and cultural activities. Their aim is to strengthen an appreciation for culture, as well as other themes, and to bring the community closer. They encourage community work, an exchange of ideas and experiences, and promote the artistic and cultural development of the island. They also have courses, workshops, conferences, seminars, talks, meetings, meditations, cultural gatherings, and film screenings. There are various activities dedicated to art and culture for people who want to learn something new or add to their existing knowledge. Exhibitors can promote almost any activity, art or skill that serves as a tool for personal or business development Some courses and workshops that have been offered here include: • Photo Crusaders • Paper Machè Workshop • Aromatic Beverage Workshop • Kitchen Workshop for Kids • Poem Illustration • Pet Craft Workshop • Children’s Painting Workshop • Vegetarian Cooking Course • Herbalist Conference

The aim of Promotora Isla Maya is to strengthen an appreciation for culture and to bring the community closer / Photo: Raquel Garza González

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Canning Course Painting Mandalas on Silk Natural Therapy at Home Breaking the Cycle of Pain Workshop Simple Everyday Herbalism Cineminuto Workshop Drawing Session with Model Reading and Literary Expression Workshop Night of Painting and Bohemia Natural Medicine Conference and Courses Sahumador (Censer) Workshop Tantric Sessions for Couples How to Use Photoshop

If you are interested in any of these activities, you can visit their Facebook page: Promotora Isla Maya or phone 01 987 564 8110. You’re definitely going to find something that you like.

Should You Carry Your Passport? By Rebecca Page

exican immigration does occasional checks to make sure that you are in the country legally. No, it doesn’t happen a lot, but if it happens and you can’t prove you are here legally, it could be a hassle.

• Residents! Carry your original residency card with you at all times.* • Tourists! You should carry your original passport & FMM. If you choose not to carry your originals, you should have a photocopy with you. Wait! What´s an FMM? It is the form you fill out, usually on the airplane, that Mexican immigration uses to track visitors com-

ing into and leaving Mexico. Immigration will place your copy inside your passport after they process you at the airport or border. Don’t lose it! If you lose your FMM, you may be charged a fine upon departure, and it will slow you down at the airport. 1

*Temporary & Permanent Residents: Some residents carry a laminated, color copy of their card to carry because it is expensive to replace if you lose it. However, I was advised by our immigration lawyer that you must carry your original card on you. Additionally, a friend of mine, who was stopped at a checkpoint, was told her laminated, color copy was illegal. She was also told that if she were involved in an accident and didn’t have her original resident card with her, her insurance could deny payment.

Photo: shutterstock

Photos: Galería Azul

Galeria Azul Cozumel Art Greg Dietrich is a local glass artist inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds him at home in Cozumel BY RAQUEL GARZA GONZÁLEZ

alería Azul is a working art studio/gallery for glass artist Greg Dietrich, located in Cozumel at 15th Avenue North between 8th and 10th Street. Greg specializes in cameo engraved blown glass, lamps, and paintings on silk. As a nature lover residing on an island fringed by a spectacular barrier reef, his marine art brings these images to life in unique handblown glass lamps. The work of Greg is inspired by the exotic marine life that abounds in the surrounding waters. Sea turtles, manta rays, dolphins, eagle rays, tropical fish and other coral reef dwellers inhabit these Caribbean waters. The process To create his pieces, he must first blow the glass that he is to engrave. This is completed in the United States. During the glassblowing process, he makes large spheres out of flattened shapes that have as many as three layers of color on the exterior surface. Once the glass has cooled, he cuts the spheres into various shapes and sizes. The pieces are then packed up and taken to Cozumel where he resides. The engraving work is done in Cozumel. Sitting at an engraving lathe, he patiently carves away at the glass using diamond wheels. Working with the layers of color that he created during the blowing process, he is able to make “drawings”

As a nature lover residing on an island fringed by a spectacular barrier reef, Greg´s marine art brings these images to life in unique handblown glass lamps. in glass. By completely removing a layer, he exposes the contrasting color that lies beneath. This process is known as cameo engraving. Greg`s subject matter is the beauty which surrounds him in Cozumel and the adjoining areas of the Yucatan Peninsula. Pieces are influenced by the Mayan ruins, the vast coral reefs that surround the island, and almost any type of animal found in nature. The pieces are mounted on a variety of bases made from wood, stone or metal; some have no base at all. He also works extensively with illumination. Taking advantage of the translucency of the glass, combined with mahogany bases, he creates unique lamps that are really illuminated engravings. For more information, you can visit his Facebook page: Galeria Azul Cozumel Art or contact him on 01 987 872 4493 / E-mail: macorich@yahoo.com

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

CANCUN

The Battle for Punta Cancun Thanks to the efforts of ardent photographers, this spot has been given back to the public BY AMOR LOPEZ

take the expression “beach life” quite literally. I go to the beach on a regular basis (my secret: sunscreen and spare time), but sometimes it is hard to find public access to the beach. This is upsetting, and it is happening everywhere, escalating to unfortunate levels as it did in Akumal last year. Cancun suffers from the very same problem, with only eight public beach accesses to be found all along its coastline. Don’t get me wrong, this article is not to complain about what has been taken from us. I prefer to celebrate one of the few public space re-appropriations that we have accomplished in the past year: Punta Cancun, one of the best and a long-forgotten spots in Cancun. Located at kilometer 8.5 in the Zona Hotelera, Punta Cancun is a cape that works as a seawall, making it an isolated area of calm water and soft waves. It is appreciated as such because, occasionally, Cancun currents can be a little rough. Punta Cancun has two landmarks that make it a haven for local photographers: its red lighthouse, functional and symbolic, and the boat carcasses that have been turned into sharks by artist Farid Rueda. Those very same photographers were the ones responsible for the re-appropriation of Punta Cancun. They were the first to confront security guards in order to get in. The

Punta Cancun is a cape that works as a seawall, making it an isolated area of calm water and soft waves. : Punta Cancun, one of the best and a long-forgotten spots in Cancun / Photos: Amor Lopez

access to the place is via the Playa Caracol entrance, making it impossible to get there without going

across the hotel’s beach facilities. Many hotels installed fences which forced photographers to walk un-

der the piers with their gear lifted above their heads. Some did, while others refused. It became hostile

until the police department intervened after a complaint was filed. In July, the authorities compelled the hotels to remove their fences, although they tried putting them up again a few times after that. They still give you looks, but they can’t stop you from going there now. The news did make it to some papers, but most locals are still unaware of the existence of this place. Information was mainly shared on the Internet via Fotógrafos de Cancún, an open Facebook group dedicated to professional and amateur photography. It is a great resource for networking, sharing experiences, learning new tricks and, of course, finding secret spots.

Mora Mora is a household name when it comes to graphic design, graffiti culture, and visual arts / Photo: Luis Jorge Arnaud

Mora Mora BY AMOR LOPEZ Have you ever watched a movie that had a really cool place in it, such as a bar or restaurant, that was filled with equally cool people? The kind of place that looks like a warehouse from the outside and requires a secret password to get in? Somewhere safe and colorful on the inside? Mora Mora is that kind of place.

It has neither an official entrance nor a sign, just a metallic gate covered in graffiti and a black door. The graffiti - which is actually a mural - was recently added to prevent newbies from getting lost. Having some rhythm while knocking is the password to access Mora Mora’s hidden restaurant, gallery and backyard bar. They have live shows almost every day, with both local and interna-

Mora Mora is also a household name when it comes to graphic design, graffiti culture, and visual arts. tional artists. Folk, reggae, hip-hop, you name it. Their dinner and music small gigs are intimate and are usu-

ally from Wednesday to Friday. Their bigger shows, which mostly take place in the backyard on Saturdays, are very intense. Punk rock intense. Mora Mora is also a household name when it comes to graphic design, graffiti culture, and visual arts. In the past year, they have showcased some of the most important creators from the Riviera Maya and Cancun, in their gallery and on their walls. They recently started a stand-up comedy night, and from time to time host a record exchange. Vinyl collectors

can find rare gems here at ridiculous prices. I got some Nina Simone 45s that I had never seen before. It is also the only 4:20-friendly bar in Cancun. Mora Mora is not just a millennial playground. It is a restaurant and the food is great. It is run by chef Christian Mora, and they recently released their fifth season menu which now includes some Thai and vegetarian options that are to die for. So what are you waiting for? Discover “El Mora” before it goes mainstream. Facebook/ Mora-Mora-1434309116861854

TPT FOODIES

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

Hair of the Dog Calls for Pozole! The story behind this popular Mexican dish BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

ome of you probably tried pozole on New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, either in celebration or to soak up some of the excesses of champagne or tequila from the night before. Whether you had it in its stew-like form or as a drink, it most likely did the trick. Pozole has its origins in Pre-Columbian Mexico, and is the name of both the fermented corn dough and the drink that is made from it. If you grew up in the southern U.S., you may have had one of these combinations with chili, roast pork, as grits or in bread. In the Mexican states of Jalisco, Sinaloa, Morelos and MichoacĂĄn, pozole (in Nahuatl language: pozolli RU SRÂˇVRO L LV D VWHZ PDGH IURP KRPLQ\ ZLWK SRUN DQG chicken. When dried and ground, it resembles cornmeal, and can be found coarse or fine. Think of a simplified polenta, but at a quarter of the cost. To make hominy, corn or maize grain is dried and then treated by soaking and cooking the mature grain in a diluted solution of lye, lime or wood ash. Afterwards, the maize is washed. The alkalinity helps dissolve hemicellulose, it softens the corn and kills the seedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s germ, which keeps it from sprouting while in storage. The finished product provides a source of dietary calcium. Regarding the drink, it is simply called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pozolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (without the â&#x20AC;&#x153;eâ&#x20AC;?). Aside from corn dough and water, there may be cocoa added, as well as a touch of sugar. It most often consumed in the states of Chiapas and Tabasco, and sometimes mango, chili and a touch of salt are added for variety. EditorÂ´s Note: For amazing pozole, check out Pozoleria Castillo on Avenida 28 de Julio (west side of the highway). Photo:Agency

Photo:Agency

Pozole BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

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Serves 8 Ingredients 1 head of garlic 12 cups of water 4 cups of chicken broth (unsalted) 2 kilos of country-style pork ribs (or pork shoulder) 1 teaspoon dried oregano 55 g (2 oz) dried ancho chiles (or guajillo or arbol) 1 Â˝ cups boiling hot water Âź large white onion 3 tsp salt 2 cans (850 g each) of white hominy (or check out our story and make your own) 8 corn tortillas 1 Â˝ cups vegetable oil Accompaniments 1 diced avocado Â˝ thinly sliced iceberg or romaine lettuce 1 chopped white onion 4 diced radishes 4 lime wedges

â&#x20AC;˘ 1 tbsp dried oregano â&#x20AC;˘ 1 tbsp dried red pepper flakes Peel garlic cloves and slice, reserve two toes for the chile sauce. In a large dutch oven, bring water and broth to a boil with the sliced garlic, pork and oregano. Simmer uncovered until tender, about 1 Â˝ hours. Carefully discard the stems from the chiles and place them in a bowl of hot water in order to reconstitute them (30 minutes). Blend the onions, chiles, the soaking liquid, the additional garlic, and two teaspoons of salt until smooth. Transfer the fully cooked pork to a cutting board (reserve the broth). Shred pork, discarding the bones. Rinse and drain the hominy. Return pork to the broth, add the chile sauce, hominy, and one teaspoon of salt. Simmer the pozole for 30 minutes. Stack tortillas, cut them in half and into thin strips. In a skillet heat 1/2 inch oil until hot and fry tortilla strips until golden. Transfer them to paper towels to drain. Serve the pozole with tortilla strips and accompaniments. This is a delicious meal. It may seem like a lot of work, but you can cook the pork and fry the tortilla strips in advance, assembling everything when ready to serve. Buen provecho.

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

TPT FOODIES

Mexican Cheese Dip/ Fondue By Catherine Pawelek • 500g Asadero or Oaxacan cheese • ¼ cup milk • 1 tbsp butter • 1 tsp ground cumin • 2 tbsp grated onion Queso Oaxaca will remind you of mozzarella - perfect for melting / Photo: Pinterest

Who Moved

• ½ tsp ground cayenne chili

My Cheese? A guide to the many cheeses of Mexico, to be enjoyed on their own or added to typical Mexican dish By Catherine Pawelek

heese-making did not originate in Mexico, since the dairy-producing cattle, goats and sheep were brought here by the Spaniards. But there is not an appetizer, botana, savory meal or dessert in Mexico that hasn’t been influenced by cheese. There are similarities between what we are used to in the U.S. or Canada and what is available in Quintana Roo. Almost all cheese in Mexico is made with cow’s milk, some are made from goat’s milk. Nonetheless, the introduction of cheese made from sheep’s milk is increasing daily. In many Mexican dishes, cheese is often used as the salty, tangy counter-balance to a rich and spicy dish, whether grated, sliced, diced or crumbled, melted or used as the final topping. Here is a list of the most commonly used cheeses: • Asadero - Reminds me of a creamy, chewy Provolone. It melts evenly on chili. • Chihuahua - Also called queso menonita. It looks and tastes like a white cheddar, and is mild or tangy depending on age. • Cotija - Somewhat granular, salty and dry in texture and taste. This resembles an aged parmesan. Since it doesn’t melt easily you can use it to add flavor and texture. • Manchego - Although originally made from sheep’s milk, this cheese is made from a combination of cow and goat. • Oaxacan - This will remind you of mozzarella, as it melts beautifully. It is most often used on tacos al pastor

• 1 tsp jalapeño, finely diced

In many Mexican dishes, cheese is often used as the salty, tangy counterbalance to a rich and spicy dish, whether grated, sliced, diced or crumbled, melted or used as the final topping.

• 1 minced garlic clove • Salt and pepper to taste Place the diced cheese, milk, and butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Cook until the cheese has melted, stirring frequently (be careful that it doesn’t burn). Stir in the cumin, grated onion, jalapeño, salt, pepper, ground cayenne and garlic. Continue to stir. Adjust the amount of jalapeño and ground cayenne depending on the level of spiciness you desire. Heat thoroughly and add a touch more milk, if needed. Serve immediately with triangles of home-made toasted tortillas or chips.

and quesadillas. Makes an excellent cheese fondue. • Panela - Similar to a Monterey jack, perfect in a sandwich or in a casserole. • Queso Fresco - Need to make lasagna, but can’t find ricotta? This cheese is a reasonable substitute. Often crumbled on roasted corn. • Queso Añejo - This salty, dry cheese is usually served grated, so use it like a romano on enchiladas or refried beans. The next time you entertain guests, make a platter of cheese and serve it with sautéed mushrooms, chorizo, salted olives, toasted sliced almonds, chutney and thinly sliced bread and you will be the perfect host.

Asadero or Oaxacan cheese is best for this recipe /Photos: wikimedia

Or use as a fondue with slices of meat, poultry, vegetables, bread and more. Tip: Make this in advance and just before serving add another ¼ cup of milk and heat. For more texture, add bits of cooked chorizo or sliced, sautéed mushrooms, bacon, thyme, spinach, diced tomato or caramelized onion.

HEALTH

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017 Take all of your clothes out and sort them into three piles: keep, toss and maybe / Photo: wikimedia commons

Vegetarian for a Month LZkZ laZk^l ma^ [^g^Û ml h_ a^k CZgnZkr vegetarian challenge

Going vegetarian for just one month can have numerous benefits, both health wise and environmentally / Photo: pexels.com

BY SARA JONES

oing completely vegetarian is a daunting concept for those of us who love meat. I really don’t eat very much meat, and I usually save it for the times when I’m eating out. There’s no point in me cooking a steak when someone who knows what they’re doing will do a far better job, not to mention my phobia of chicken germs! Going vegetarian for just one month can have numerous benefits, both health wise and environmentally. I cook almost exclusively vegetarian at home, with the exception of bacon, which I truly feel I could not live without. I felt well prepared for this small challenge, but it did encourage

me to look up some creative recipes on Pinterest. The benefits: Reduce the risk of heart disease

A vegetarian diet is generally lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, in addition to having a higher intake of fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They all keep the heart healthy and strong. Lose excess weight If you are trying to lose weight then a vegetarian diet can help a lot. When following a vegetarian diet, those hoping to lose weight are more successful than those who continue to eat meat. Live longer and better According to a long study published

in the British Medical Journal, vegetarians outlive meat eaters by approximately six years. The higher intake of phytonutrients, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber strengthens the immune system. They can prevent and reverse many chronic diseases, enabling vegetarians to live longer and live healthier. The vegetarian diet also avoids many hormones, herbicides, pesticides, and antibiotics that are found in meats. Reduce the effects of climate change The farming of livestock generates more greenhouse gases than every car and truck in the world combined. Carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide gases generated by manure contaminate the environment and have contributed to climate change. If more people became vegetarian, we could reduce this significantly. Whether you become vegetarian for a lifetime, a year, a month or even just five days a week, it will make a difference to your health and the health of the planet. And come February 1, I will once again be enjoying a few rashers of bacon! Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness Mexico magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

De-Clutter Your Closet BY SARA JONES A year ago, when moving into a new apartment, I placed all my clothes on hangers that faced inwards. As I used each item I replaced them on hangers that faced outwards. As the months went by, it was easy to see which items of clothes were not being used, and I’m ashamed to say, a couple of items had never even been worn once! Halfway through the year and again at the end of the year, I was able to collect a bag of clothes, all in decent condition, to donate to those less fortunate. In addition to making a donation that helps others, I’ve managed to keep my closet tidy, less cluttered and, of course, make way for new purchases. Here are a few more ways to keep your closet free of clutter: Pleasure or Purpose When you look at each item, think about whether it makes you happy or has a useful, functional purpose. If it doesn’t fit either category, it’s probably time to let it go. Organize by Type and Color Once you have all of your clothes ar-

ranged by type (dresses, skirts, tops, shirts, shorts, etc.) and then by color, you will easily see what types of clothes and colors you have a lot of. Then, when you are shopping, you can ask yourself “Do I really need another pink dress?” It’s OK if sometimes the answer is yes! Keep, Toss, Maybe Take all of your clothes out and sort them into three piles: keep, toss and maybe. Then sort through the maybe pile (which may actually be the largest) and make your decision on each item. Good luck! If you decide to donate your clothes here in Playa you can take them to Segunda Vida. They can donate them directly to a charity, sell them to benefit any number of animal or human charities, or sell them on consignment and give you the proceeds. For more info see: Facebook/ SegundaVidaBoutique Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness Mexico magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

ENTERTAINMENT

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

LIVE MUSIC & DANCING P L AYA D E L C A R M E N L I VE M US I C , Every night from 8:30

p.m. to 1:30 a.m. La Bodeguita Del Medio en Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue with Calle 34. Facebook/LaBodeguitaDelMedioenplayadelcarmen

LAD IES NIGHT , Mondays 9:00 p.m.11:00 p.m. Ladies drink free. Buy a draft beer for a lady and get one free. DJ 8:00 p.m.- 1:00 a.m. La Choperia 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/Choperia-Playa-del-Carmen POLE DANCE, Every day. Ladies who do

LIVE ROCK MUSIC, Every night from 10:00

p.m. McCarthy’s Irish Pub, 5th Avenue with Calle 22, Playa del Carmen. Facebook/McCarthy´s Irish Pub Playa del Carmen RO C K N I G H T, Wednesdays 9:00 p.m.

-12:00 a.m. Live rock bands. La Choperia 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/Choperia-Playa-del-Carmen ACOUST I C N I G H T, Mondays 8:00 p.m.

JAN 18 - FEB 7

2016

-12:00 a.m. Live acoustic bands Lucky Lucianos 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/Lucky-Luciano-Playa-del-Carmen LIVE JAZZ, Thursdays 9:00 p.m. to 11:45

p.m. Lucky Lucianos 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/Lucky-Luciano-Playa-del-Carmen DJ NIGHT, Every Saturday 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. When you buy a bottle of Bacardi, you will receive another of Bacardi Oro. La Choperia 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/Choperia-Playa-del-Carmen DJ/LADIES’/MEN’s NIGHT, Tuesdays 8:00 p.m. -11:00 p.m. Ladies Martinis or Cocktails. Lucky Lucianos 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/Lucky-Luciano-Playa-del-Carmen

SPECIAL EVENT COMUNIDAD PLAYARTE FAIR, (All activities unless otherwise specified are at the Portal Maya statue in Parque Fundadores at the Beach with Benito Juarez Avenue.) T h u r s d ay, J a n u a r y 1 9 :

• 5:00 p.m. Inauguration, ribbon cutting and Pre-Hispanic dancers. 6:00 p.m. Presentation of the book “Deja que La Selva Te Cuente Su Historia Las Aventuras de Chak” (In Spanish). By Gabriela Guerrero Cevera. • 7:00 p.m. Special presentation of Mayan stories “SacBe Camino Blanco” by La Ceci (In Spanish) • 7:30 p.m. Presentation of Culectivos Culturales from Aguascalientes, Marionetas Gio and RevolucionArte (In Spanish)

dance team. • 8:30 p.m. Folkloric Ballet Presentation Riviera Maya • 9:00 p.m. Closing Ceremony. Presentation of urban murals from Comunidad Playarte. h tt p s : //w w w.fa ce b o o k .co m /Co m u n i d a d Playarte.Mx/ SAT U RDAY F L EA M A RKET, Saturday, January 21 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Workshops, artisans, crafts, aerial dance shows, live music and much more! Parque La Ceiba 1st Avenue with Diagonal 60, Ejido, Playa del Carmen. https:// www.facebook.com/ParqueLaCeibaFloraFaunayCultura/

PUEBLITO MAYAKOBA Friday, Jan uar y 2 0

• 4:00 p.m. Inauguration Cultural Culinary Bazar “+Kiwik 750” (This will be in Plaza Marina Playacar Phase 1.) • 6:30 p.m. Interactive Stories “Leyendas de Jose Guadalupe”(In Spanish). • 7:00 p.m. Presentation of aerial dance by Aerofobia. 8:00 p.m. Commemoration of the 104th anniversary of “Posada Mas Alla de La Garbancera” theater presentation (In Spanish). • Saturday, Jan uar y 2 1

• 4:00 p.m. Cultural Culinary Bazar “+Kiwik 750” (This will be in Plaza Marina Playacar Phase 1.) 4:00 p.m. Lecture Bernanrdo Caamal Itzel “Las Cabañuelas Maya” (In Spanish) (This will be in the Sayab Planetarium,Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125). • 5:00 p.m. Multipresentation of literary works from Ramon Ivan Suarez Caamal (This will be in the Sayab Planetarium,Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125 and in Spanish). • 6:00 p.m. Bike Ride Around Playarte from Sayab Planetarium to Parque Fundadores. • 7:00 p.m. Presentation of the book “Musica y Musicos traditionales de Quintan Roo” by Marcos Ramirez Canul (in Spanish) with the special performance of “Aerofobia” aerial

(Facebook/El Pueblito Mayakoba )

C I N E C LU B ( KI DS ) , Thursday, January 19,

from 7:00p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Outdoor movie night presenting “Big Hero”. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900.

11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A wide variety of gourmet products and handcraft from the community plus activities for kids. Free entry to the public. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. CINE CLUB (ADULTS) Thursday, January 26, from

8:00p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Outdoor movie night presenting “Midnight in Paris”. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. SOU N DS & F L AVERS O F M EXI CO , Friday,

January 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 8;30 p.m. Enjoy Mexican food, live music and Traditional Mexican games. Free entrance. Federal highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. FA R M ERS M A RKET, Sunday, January 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A wide variety of gourmet products and handcraft from the community plus activities for kids. Free entry to the public. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900.

AER IAL DANCE/S ILKS , Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 9:00 a.m.10:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Free trial classes for adults at Parque La Ceiba 1st Avenue South and Avenue 60 Diagonal in the Ejido. Given by Aerofobia. Please wear pants or leggings. https:// www.facebook.com/aerofobiaplaya/

MARKETS KAVA KASA LOCAL MAR K ET every

Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kava Kasa, 22nd St. and 10th Ave. https://www. facebook.com/kavakasa/ ECOT IANGUIS D ESAYUNO, every Friday, 9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Jardin de Todas Centro Comunitario, Avenida 80 & Calle 3 Sur (Ejido). https://www.facebook. com/eljardin.detodos.3 EL ÁR BOL PLAYACAR MAR K ET, every

Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tulum Avenue, Local 6. Playacar Fase II. https:// www.facebook.com/elarbol.playacar/

KA RAO KE Every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. PG´s Mexican Caribe Bar & Grille, 6:30 p.m., Calle 26 on the corner of 1st Avenue next to the Grand Hyatt. Facebook/ PGs-Mexican-Caribe-Bar-Grill

PARQUE LA C EIBA T IANGUIS , every

INTERNATIONAL Every Tuesday 2 x 1 Martinis. Wednesday and Saturday at 9 p.m. Thursday Ladies night. The Dirty Martini located on 1st Avenue between Calles 10 and 12. It’s a more international Karaoke night, not only for Mexi can s . Face b o o k / di rty m a rt i n i lo un ge

COCO BEACH MAR K ET Every Friday from 9 am to 11 a.m. Les Alizes Condos Avenue Flamingo and Calle 46.facebook./Coco-Beach-Eco-Market

KARAOKE,

LIVE KARAOKE. Every Saturday at 11:00pm join the band RockStaraoke to live your Rock Star Fantasy. Choose from 100 songs! La Drinkeria, Av. Petempich, Plaza Punto 115, Local 5, Residencial de los Olivos. Facebook/Ladrinkeria.dehenrymiller SA LSA , Mondays, Thursdays and Sat-

FA R M ERS M A RKET, Sunday, January 22 from

a full pole dance will receive a free shot of tequila. La Choperia 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/Choperia-Playa-del-Carmen

urdays at 9:00 p.m. Zenzi Beach, The beach with Calle 10, Playa del Carmen. Facebook/Zenzi Playa del Carmen

3rd Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m, Parque La Ceiba, corner of Calle 1 Sur and Avenida 60. https://www.facebook.com/ParqueLaCeibaFloraFaunayCultura/

TULUM LIV E MUSIC Fridays at 7:30 p.m. Chak

Acoustic Session. Ahau Tulum Km 7.8 Carretera Tulum Boca Paila. https:// www.facebook.com/AhauTulum/ LIVE MUSIC Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Chak Acoustic Session. Encantada Tulum Km 8.7 Carretera Tulum Boca Paila. https:// www.facebook.com/encantadatulum/

SA LSA C L ASS ES , Mondays thru Thursdays and Saturdays from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. La Bodeguita Del Medio en Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue with Calle 34. Facebook/LaBodeguitaDelMedioenplayadelcarmen

YOGA Monday thru Saturday at 8:30

SA LSA , Fr i d ays , 9:00 p.m. to 11:00

ORGANIC MARKET Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Plaza del Municipio.

p.m. Live Salsa band. When you buy a bottle of Bacardi, you will receive another of Bacardi Oro. Mojitos and Cuba Libres 2 x 1. La Choperia 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/Choperia-Playa-del-Carmen L ESSO N S, every Saturday, 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Salon Salsanera Raices, calle 12 between 5th & 10th. Free. Facebook/LASALSANERA

SA LSA

a.m., 10:15 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. On Sundays at 10:15 a.m. and 5: p.m. Sanara Tulum. Km 8.2 Carretera Tulum Boca Paila. https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Sanara-Tulum/1678088142424885

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

The Arena Festival: Canceled In the wake of the shooting during the last night of the BPM Festival at the Blue Parrot, the municipal government announced that Mexico´s biggest gay and lesbian dance music festival would no longer take place

BY NADIA MORELLA

he 10th anniversary of the BPM festival took place from January 6 to 15 2017 in multiple establishments around the ccity ity such as Blue Parrot, Santanera and Martina Beach Club. During those ten days, around 375 artists participated in this incredible journey. Early on the morning of January 16, 2017, that journey came to a tragic and violent end. Gunshots were fired in Blue Parrot. Among the people attending the event, simply having fun and enjoying themselves, fifteen were hurt, and five were killed. Due to this tragic situation, the elected municipal president of Solidaridad Cristina Torres Gómez announced that Mexico’s biggest gay and lesbian dance music festival, the Arena Festival was no longer going to take place from Wednesday, February 1st to Monday, February 6th, 2017. The festival was scheduled to host more than 15 special parties but not anymore. It is officially canceled. Playense and tourists are now worried that other big festivals like DJ Fest, Corona Sunsets, Corona Elements or even Heineken Winter Beach might be affected in the future. Playa del Carmen does offer a great variety of festivals throughout the year.

Our Resident

“Nomad” in Playa del Carmen BY CRYSTAL MITCHELL Yvan Henaine, aka DJ Nomad, is a Playa resident and local business owner. He has dual passions: his work and his music. The Playa Times: Where are you from and how did you find yourself in Playa del Carmen? Yvan: I was born in Mexico City, but I moved to the Caribbean when I was 3 months old. I grew up in Cancun and Cozumel and went to high school and university in Victoria, B.C., Canada. After finishing university, I decided to move back to Mexico. You are a professional DJ and business owner here in Playa del Carmen. Is it easy to run a business here? I am very lucky that my business and DJing are my true passions in life so it comes really naturally to me. What is the name of your business and how long has it been open? I own a hostel called 3B. It has a rooftop bar called the SOS lounge. We have been open for four years. What has been the key to your success in both arenas? I always provide the best service for the lowest price possible. As a DJ, I am always looking for new music that no one else plays. What advice would you give to anyone who wants to start a business in Playa? Go for it! Follow your dreams. It won´t be easy

Photo: Yvan Henaine

but the payoff is worth it. What is your DJ name and what is its significance? Nomad. Before I was a DJ, I was a backpacker. I have traveled the world and found out that I was never happy in one spot. What have been your most successful shows here in Playa? Last year I played at BPM’s “andhim” showcase. I played B2B2B with Butch, Sidney Charles, and “andhim.” It was a great experience. What is your greatest accomplishment as a DJ? Yvan: Playing at Space Ibiza for Carl Cox´s birthday. You can see Nomad play at Hostel 3B every Sunday from 2 p.m. until 2 a.m. Check him out on his Facebook fan pages here: Facebook/nomadsos Facebook/hostel3b

Photos: Arena Festival Playa del Carmen.

The impact of illegal activities on tourism, especially during high season is mortal. High season is very important in the Riviera Maya because it is the time of the year where Mexicans and residents can make a little bit of money to help them survive the rest of the year, during low season. Anybody who is working in tourism can confirm this fact, from people working in restaurants to bars, hotels to stores or tour guides to vacation renters. Events attracting tourism is essential for Playa del Carmen survival, not just the beaches and weather.

It makes the city alive for a couple of months during the cold northern winters. People from all over the world travel to the Riviera Maya to attend these events. We need to keep peace in our wonderful events if we want them to keep going. It starts individually, whoever you are and wherever you’re from. Editor´s note: Nadia’s original article was highlighting the Arena Festival that was scheduled to take place in February. She wrote this article to replace her original article after Arena was canceled.

ANIMAL WELFARE

January 18 - Febrauary 7 2017

Scorpion: Friend or Foe? BY NASH The scorpion has a terrible reputation, and our biggest fears come true when we encounter a live scorpion in our home. But do they deserve the bad rap? It is reported that there are over 200 species of scorpions in Mexico, and only eight are considered a health risk for humans. Quintana Roo is considered a low-risk area. In general, they are not aggressive and do not want to waste their venom; people get stung by accident when they surprise a scorpion, typically by stepping on it. The scorpions prefer to save their venom and energy to be used to subdue their prey or for self-defense. But, they are a danger to each other as the female is known to eat the male after mating and in some case her babies. Although scorpions have many eyes, they have poor vision and use vibrations and a sense of smell to survive. Some species can live for up to a year without any food or water. Belonging to the arachnid

family they have eight legs, and a clawlike protrusion from the mouth which is used to suck the liquid out of their prey. The stinger is located on the end of the tail; it is a barb which injects the venom when it attacks. According to Sciencedaily.com and other medical journals scorpion venom will someday be used to decrease heart transplant complications, and possibly treat lupus, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis. We may even see a non-addictive pain medication made from the venom. Medical researcher shows the venom from these arachnids may help treat Parkinson’s disease and be used to produce an environmentally friendly pesticide and eliminate malarial mosquitoes. Biodiversityexplorer.org describes highly venomous scorpions as having thick tails and thin pincers and non-venomous as having thin tails and broad, well-developed pincers. The sting is very painful and not likely fatal, but to be safe seek medical attention if you are stung.

The cacomixtle is sometimes confused with the ringtailed cat also found in parts of Mexico and U.S. / Photo: Wikimedia

The Cacomixtle: Looks Can Be Deceiving

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Scorpion venom will someday be used to decrease heart transplant complications, and possibly treat lupus, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Cacomixtle, from the Nahuatl language meaning half-cat, may resemble a house cat, walk and lounge like a cat, but are not related to the feline BY NASH

he cacomixtle also known as cacomistle are a relative of the coati and raccoon, and it would be hard to miss the family resemblance with that large black ringed tail. This agile creature is nocturnal and spends his nights in the tree canopy snacking on berries, insects, fruits, frogs and small vertebrate. They are about 39-53 cm long, plus their bushy tail, a slender body, short legs and padded feet and non-retractable claws. Their ankles are equipped with joints that turn 180 degrees providing the agility they require to maneuver through the treetops. They have long fur; ears are upright and broad with white trim, markings on their face around the eyes and snout with a pink nose. The large dark eyes stand out in contrast to the soft light face. The cacomistle inhabits the tropical forests from Mexico to Panama. They are a solitary creature and only socialize during mating season. The use tactile and scent to communicate with each other. Typically the female gives birth to one cub who is deaf and blind. It stays with its mother for about three months. Once it is weaned and learns how to survive, the cub is ready to search out a territory of its own. Normally the cacomixtle

A sting from this guy, found in our region, is painful but not deadly / Photo:The Playa Times

Cacomixtle Facts • • • • •

Relative of the coati & raccoon Noctural & live in the tree canopy Eats berries, insects, frutis, frogs & small vertebrate Claws are nonretractable Ankle joints can rotate 180 degrees

is a healthy eater, but as deforestation of their habit continues they are adapting to life in close vicinity to humans and taking on raccoon traits of surviving on trash and other unhealthy habits. They are known to live up to 23 years in captivity. The cacomixtle is sometimes confused with the ringtailed cat also found in parts of Mexico and the United States. Although they are related there are a few differences. For example, the ringtailed cat has retractable claws and smaller ears.

PLAYA ANIMAL RESCUE (PAR) Founded in 2011, Playa Animal Rescue (PAR) is a non-profit, no-kill shelter in Playa del Carmen, focused on rescuing street dogs. The people behind the shelter, a mix of citizens from the United States, Mexico, and Canada, are “dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating

injured and abandoned dogs, and to finding permanent, loving homes for each of them.” Playa Animal Rescue is in constant need of monetary donations. We receive NO governmental funding and rely only on the generosity of our supporters.

For more information on our organization, our dogs available for adoption and how to donate please visit: www.playaanimalrescue.org info@playaanimalrescue.org Facebook/PlayaAnimalRescue