Edition 110 + Special Edition no. 3 by theplayatimes

B i m o n t h l y · Ye a r 0 4 · N u m b e r 1 1 0 · 2 0 , 0 0 0 c o p i e s · 2 4 P a g e s · J U N 7 - 2 0 , 2 0 1 7

Yal-Kú Lagoon

t h e p layat i m es .c o m

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Located in Akumal, just a short drive from either Tulum or Playa del Carmen, the lagoon is a beautiful spot to snorkel, relax, and enjoy the afternoon >P. 7

COZUMEL CONNECTION Galo Art Studio

>P. 18

ENTERTAINMENT Photo: The Playa Times

Fr ie ndly Sc hedu le

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· ENTERTAINMENT

· BEACH LIFE

An interview with music industry giant Renato Lopez on the obstacles of performing and selling original music.

>P. 20

SARGASSUM MEETING

Photo: Ian MacKenzie.

Photo: Alejandro Sosa Vallado.

A ROCK ´N´ ROLL COVER PARADISE

Dr. Briggita Van Tuessenbroek sat down with a group of local media and explained what is happening with sargassum in the Riviera Maya.

>P. 7

Special Edition:

Investing in Mexico

>P. 9-16

June 7 - 20 2017

BEACH LIFE

June 7 - 20 2017

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

Ian MacKenzie Copy Editor copyeditor@meridianmedia.mx

Efrén Velázquez Art & Design design@meridianmedia.mx

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

Mexico is so much more than the border or the beach / Photo: Walking Mexico

Walking Mexico - Educate Yourself

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

BY REBECCA PAGE

Sales

t the recent Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit held in Cancun, I had the opportunity to meet Mariana Courtney from Walking Mexico. Mariana and her Walking Mexico collaborators explore places in Mexico that are off the beaten path. After traveling through several countries, the team realized that what they were looking for was right outside their door and created Walking Mexico as a platform to share travel information with other travelers and introduce them to parts of the country that they would never see in travel ads. ¨Our message is Mexico is a great country. It´s not only the beach. It´s not only the border. It´s all of this,¨ referring to the incredibly diverse country where we live. Mariana recalled that when they started the project, there were places that even the team at Walking Mexico didn’t know existed. She explained that even though they are Mexican, they´d

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

Omar Coral Distribution distribution@meridianmedia.mx

never been to most of the places that now fill their website. Ït´s amazing,¨ she explains, Ëach time we go out and explore, more things come up. Forests, waterfalls, mountains, volcanoes, and this is the message we want to give.¨ The website www.walkingmexico. com is jam-packed with places to visit, away from the tourist-packed beaches and the hustle and bustle of the big cities. Walking Mexico is geared towards eco and adventure tourism and the members of the team that run the site are the ones out there, exploring, creating the content, and making alliances with local tour guides. While they mainly promote to a younger, media savvy audience, they have travelers of all ages following them from 44 countries. During our conversation, I asked Mariana about some of the places she has visited that surprised her. Ï didn’t know there are more waterfalls than you could ever find in this country! Where there is a forest, where there is a hill,

it seems like there is a waterfall!¨ She told me stories about places, like a spot in Puebla where there is a pair of craters not far from a highway that you wouldn’t even realize were there. The stunning location, called Alchichica, has white rock, turquoise water, and a little house with someone living in it, but other than that there is nothing there. We could have talked for hours about the places she has visited, but she had to get back to the conference. Before she left, I asked her what she says to people who ask her if traveling in Mexico is dangerous. She thought for a moment and replied, ¨It is true that some places are dangerous. For example, I don´t go to the mountains of Guerrero. I would never travel there. Educate yourself about what areas are safe to travel to and places to avoid. Part of our objectives when we are traveling is to take a photo from the location we are in, showing two women traveling alone, to help people understand that this is OK and it is possible. Educate yourself.¨ Great advice.

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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., Calle 2 entre 45 y Carretera Federal, Mza. 088 lote 003-1, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710.

TPT 10 DAY WEATHER WED 7

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91°/75° F

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BEACH LIFE

June 7 - 20 2017

Dear Landscaper: Preparing for Hurricane Season Our friends at Greenway Landscaping outline some steps you can take to prepare your garden for hurricane season

Do you have questions related to property management or vacation rentals? Send questions or concerns to allan@nasplaya. com / Photo: North American Standards

Ask Allan BY ALLAN LOCKHART, OWNER OF NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & ACTIVE MEMBER OF THE SEASIDE ROTARY CLUB IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN Hi Allan, I have a two-part question. Part one: I have a nice home in the jungle and want to do an add-on myself. The main part of the house is made of cement blocks and was nicely done. The problem is that the paint keeps peeling off and does not look so good. Do you have a solution as to how to paint raw cement blocks to prevent the paint from peeling? Part two: I have a fridge with broken and cracked clear plastic trays. I have been unable to locate any replacement parts. Do you know where I can find replacement trays for refrigerators? Thanks, Juan

Photo: Greenway Landscaping

BY GREENWAY LANDSCAPING

ear Landscaper This will be our first hurricane season in Playa. What can we do to prepare?

Dear Reader The hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1 and ends November 30. In addition to all the things you do to prepare your home for a hurricane’s high winds and torrential rain, there are things to do to your landscaping as well. Start with trees - young trees are vulnerable to blowing over in high winds. If recently planted trees are still staked, make sure that the stakes are driven deep into the ground, and the ties are strong and secure. If you have removed the stakes from trees planted in the past few years, consider re-staking them when a storm approaches to prevent them from blowing over. Also, ensure these quick tips are followed and your landscape will be safe: Thick tree canopies should be thinned. Watch out for trees with multiple trunks. Prune around the main trunk, and make sure branches form an angle of 40 degrees or more with this trunk. Leave tree roots alone. Pruning or digging around a tree’s roots could increase the chances of it falling during a storm. Remove palm leaves and coconuts, as

Send your questions to greenwaylandscaping@ email.com. We will be happy to help, and advice is free!

well as large palm seeds that could become airborne from strong gusts of wind. Hurricane preparation can be hectic and sometimes rushed. So, instead of waiting until hurricane season hits, take precautions from the second you choose your tree. Have a plan to tie up large furniture, pet houses, grills and other items in the yard. Clear a space in the shed or garage for other items that you use daily so they can be put away with ease. Get rid of broken lawn furniture, planters, recycle bins, compost, toys, or anything else that can become a flying missile in high winds. Send your questions to greenwaylandscaping@email.com. We will be happy to help, and advice is free!

Hola Juan, I suspect that the problem you are having is because the cement blocks were not prepped correctly. The setup and preparation are very important. Remove any loose particles and mortar with a wire brush. Remove efflorescence (salts and other water dispersible materials that come to the surface of concrete) with a bleach solution

made from 1 cup of bleach and 1 gallon of water. Clean the entire surface with a hose and a solution of Trisodium Phosphate (TSP), or other non-residue cleaner. Let everything dry for 48 hours. Before painting, you should always use a good masonry sealer. Let it dry for 48 hours or more. Then apply a high-quality acrylic latex primer (this is very important). Let the primer dry for 48 hours and then apply a high-quality acrylic paint. The problem with having to replace the trays in your refrigerator is not unusual. Sometimes it can be difficult to find replacement parts here, especially for refrigerators. I don’t have a solution as to how to find the parts, especially when you have already tried. I do have a fix for the broken and or cracked trays. I hope you have all the parts. We all know that super glue works really well, but we have also found that if you make a paste out of superglue and baking soda, it works much better. You need to be fast on this one, though. Make a paste of baking soda and super glue and use it to seal the plastic. After using it to seal the parts, it is a good idea to use some on the outside of the crack to give it extra holding power. This might not be the best-looking solution, but you should be able to use your trays again. Good luck, Allan

DISCOVER MEXICO

June 7 - 20 2017

El Chepe

- Part Two

In our last edition, Frank headed to El Chepe, the famous railway in the north of Mexico. In part two, he tells us what to expect while winding through the classic northern Mexican landscape BY FRANK VAN DER BURGH Last time I started writing about the famous railway between Los Mochis and Chihuahua, more commonly known as El Chepe. Part one ended just as I heard the movie-like train sound coming my way that can

only be described as “Choo Choo”. Once aboard the train, we slowly make our way through the classic Mexican landscape of dry land with a variety of cacti. As the hours pass and the train elevates to a higher altitude, you start to see a change in the scenery. Mountains are getting higher,

The views of the incredible Mexican landscape from El Chepe are spectacular / Photo: Frank van der Burgh

lakes and rivers are appearing, pine trees too, and the air gets cooler. The view is really spectacular. Every time you sit down, another amazing view reveals itself and you run back to the area between carriages where you can hang out the train window and shoot photos unobstructed by glass. This scenario repeats itself multiple times over the course of the eight-hour journey to the town of Creel. A big highlight is a 15-minute stop at Divisadero. You can buy local souvenirs and eat gorditas there, however, you should pass the places selling those and walk to the end of the street where you will be rewarded with a fantastic view of Copper Canyon. We get off the train in the wild west town of Creel where we settle for the night in a cabana. Wanting to see more of the area we opt for a tour around different rock formations like the valley of the mushrooms,

We slowly make our way through the classic Mexican landscape of dry land with a variety of cacti. frogs and monks. You can go on horseback, ATV, bike or take a taxi, but whatever you choose you always end up at Lake Arareco which is a perfect ending to your day, or vacation, for that matter. All that’s left is to head up to Chihuahua or train it back to Los Mochis and leave the beautiful north behind. Until next time, of course!

June 7 - 20 2017

DISCOVER MEXICO

Sargassum Meeting BY IAN MACKENZIE

Yal-Kú Lagoon This Akumal attraction has two special characteristics that bring visitors from near and far BY MELISSA MÉNDEZ ORANTES

ould you like to visit a sculptural garden and a valuable lagoon for our ecosystem at the same time? If the answer is yes, discover Yal-Kú in Akumal! Yal-Kú is different from anything you have experienced in the Riviera Maya. A very unusual phenomenon takes place here. The lagoon mixes fresh water with salt water, because at a certain point it becomes an underground river that flows into the Caribbean Sea. This is known as an estuary.

In the surroundings of this lagoon, you will find graceful bronze sculptures, created by the Costa Rican sculptor,

Francisco Zúñiga

Estuaries are biologically valuable as they are essential ecosystems for the breeding of a wide variety of marine species. This

habitat serves as a nursery area that ensures the survival of thousands of species in their first phase of development. It allows them to grow strong and safe, away from potential predators during their transition to the sea. It is amazing to snorkel here. You can admire beautiful underwater landscapes with a multi-colored parade of fish that occupy these waters. Another reason to visit Yal-Kú is that, in the surroundings of this lagoon, you will find graceful bronze sculptures, created by the Costa Rican sculptor Francisco Zúñiga. He was one of the most recognized artists of the 20th century, known for his modern and realistic style. Some sculptures are more hidden than others, so it is a good idea to venture around the lagoon until you find them all. You will even find a couple on top of the rocks inside the lagoon! It is recommended to arrive early, because the lagoon has a limited number of visits per day and Sunday is the busiest day.

Visitors to the beaches of the Riviera Maya will no doubt be aware of the return of sargassum. The problem has reached such a critical point that awareness of the issue has become important, both to inform the public of what is going on and as a means to generate dialogue in order to take effective action. So, on May 11, a meeting took place with invited members of the local media to listen to a presentation made by Dr. Briggita Van Tuessenbroek. She is a scientist and expert on sargassum. A summary of what she covered appears below. Sargassum first made a major impact here in 2015, with tourism being the first major casualty, as visitors did not want to spend their beach time surrounded by the smelly seaweed. It was finally picked up in July and August that year; the largest collection took place in Tulum. The sargassum that arrives here is thought to originate around the area of Brazil. When the circular movements of the currents weaken, it allows sargassum to escape and begin its journey. When sargassum enters the waters of the Caribbean it is in a rich feeding environment. The rate and intake of nutrients causes rapid growth, leading to a doubling in size.

The sargassum that arrives here is thought to originate around the area of Brazil. While it is an important part of the ecosystem, it is harmful in many ways. Sargassum contains sulphuric acid, which

Dr. Briggita Van Tuessenbroek

is toxic, and humans who come in contact with the seaweed can end up with dermatitis or develop respiratory problems. Turtles are also greatly impacted, as it impedes the journey of hatchlings that want to get to the sea. Because of the sheer volume of the deposits on the beach, removal requires the use of heavy machinery, which in turn leads to erosion of the beach. The consequence of all this is erosion and destruction of the coastline, something which could take place in twenty to sixty years. It is not only here that is affected, it is all across the Caribbean. Closing out the meeting, Dr. Van Tuessenbroek emphasized the need for an integrated system in order to deal with this issue. Beaches are dynamic and ever changing, but there are many ways in which people can stimulate and help nature. Editor´s Note: As soon as we learn more about the suggested integrated system to deal with the sargassum, we will share it with you.

Enjoy your trip! Location: Yal-Kú is in Akumal, 3 km from the entrance to the beach. Prohibited: repellent, sunscreen and food (but, there is a restaurant). Schedule: every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entry cost: $ 14 USD.

Photos: Theplayatimes

The sargassum is back in beaches across the Caribbean / Photos: Ian MacKenzie

PUERTO VALLARTA

June 7 - 20 2017

Marketing

Tips for Your Vacation Rental BY MEXLAW Foreigners looking to invest in a second property or retirement home are looking to Mexico. The constant influx of tourists arriving on both coasts of Mexico, the Riviera Nayarit, and the Riviera Maya, indicates a demand for vacation rentals and is impacting foreign interest in real estate opportunities. A growing number of travelers prefer to stay in private residences over big-brand resorts. Here are a few tips to market your investment as a short-term rental: Create a Brand When you name your condo, beach house or villa, you are giving it a personality and making it a memorable place. Add Photographs Great pictures of the home and the area are your primary selling-tools online. Use realistic photos and information about the rental. Homeowners who stretch the truth about their home will end up receiving negative reviews. Respond Quickly Return inquiry emails immediately, remember people are probably trying to

No better way to begin your evening than with some cocktails and conversation / Photo: Frank van der Burgh

In the Spotlight Bar La Playa The next time that you are in Puerto Vallarta drop by and enjoy a cocktail and some good conversation BY FRANK VAN DER BURGH

ou are in Puerto Vallarta. You have walked the malecon, you’ve seen the Mirador de la Cruz, eaten an amazing seafood dinner, and you are freshly showered ready for the evening. Where do you start? No better way to begin than with some cocktails and conversation while you are getting ready to dance. So, off you go to Bar La Playa.

Even if you can’t find what you like on the menu, Alex will prepare something that suits your tastes.

Located just off the main drag from the malecon, at first sight you will think that this small bar looks like a lot of other places. The main difference is that no matter what time you visit, it always seems to be full of people. The reason for this is a master mixologist/ bartender named Alex. On the menu are the obvious classics, but mostly it consists of an extensive menu of drinks that are prepared fresh to order. They are handmade with fresh ingredients like fruits, herbs, juices and spices, most of which have comical names like ‘It’s All About the Lavender’, ‘Green Peace’, ‘Release the Kraken’ and ‘Espresso Yourself’. Even if you can’t find anything on the menu, Alex will prepare something that suits your tastes. Once you have ordered, make sure to watch them work and see your drink being prepared from scratch. Now you have your cocktail and the company of friends, locals and expats. Before you know it, you will be ready to head out and take on the Vallarta nightlife, or end up trying as many cocktails as you can and becoming a fan of La Playa.

book something at that moment. Use Vacation Rental Websites Sites like Airbnb and VRBO allow property owners from anywhere in the world to capitalize on their vacation property. Use Rental Pools For those who prefer a hands-off rental, many developments provide onsite rental pools and property management. Use Private Property Management Companies Property Management companies provide marketing, take reservations, provide 24hour guest services, maintenance and housekeeping - a complete service for your guests. Promote on Facebook Create a Facebook page for your rental. Post beautiful photos and valuable information about the living space and the location. Do not overload people with posts about the condo; soft sell it by featuring posts about the surrounding area, local restaurants, and things to see and do in the area. Include Travel Blogger and Guest Reviews Ask travel bloggers and happy guests to write a review. Anyone searching for a vacation spot is looking for peer-to-peer recommendations. It is vital that you understand the tax laws regarding rental properties in Mexico. Any income gained in Mexico must be reported in Mexico, as well as your home country. Tax methods can be complicated. Contact the accounting team at MEXLAW to learn the best solutions for your vacation rental. The accountants also offer tax and utility payment services for distant owners. contact@mexlaw.ca

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S MASP IDE IN

Special Edition No.1 / The Playa Times Investing in Mexico | TopMexicoRealEstate.com

TopMexicoRealEstate.com | The Playa Times Investing in Mexico/ Special Edition No.1

Special Edition No.1 / The Playa Times Investing in Mexico | TopMexicoRealEstate.com

June 7 - 20 2017

CANCÚN

Parque Las Palapas: This Side of Paradise Weekend events at this local Cancun park have something for everyone

Photo: Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III

Vegan Options in Cancun BY ANDRÉS MENDOZA DEL VALLE III

Photo: Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III

BY ANDRÉS MENDOZA DEL VALLE III

recently had guests who really liked the Riviera Maya and decided to change their original schedule and stay a couple of extra months here. They found a nice little place downtown near Las Palapas, the favorite park of local Cancun families (in part, for its famous elotes). There are many other little parks around Las Palapas; Parque del Artesano has a great flea market and you can take salsa, bachata and tango lessons there for free. Las Palapas always has events

on weekends; this time it was a FECUCA (Caribbean heritage fest) fusion band concert and a poetry reading. There was also a book release, organized by the heroic people from Liberación Libros en Cancún. If you want to exchange, donate or get some books, just contact them on Facebook. Most of their catalog is in Spanish, but I got the original version of an essay by British economist, John Maynard Keynes and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s first novel, This Side of Paradise. Don’t get me started on Fitzgerald or this article will never end! Las Palapas is also hosting, from

May to mid-June, a bazaar with handcrafts from all over Mexico. It is a great opportunity to discover the diverse traditional handcraft works and their creators. Sometimes it is hard to find the real deal. Well, this is it. Amazing jewelry pieces from Chiapas and Guerrero, the Wixárica’s meticulous and colorful creations, madeto-size tops, wooden toys, black clay pottery, and what I love the most: the masks. I got a rare tribal palm tree mask from Oaxaca for my collection. It’s a small collection, but it is beautiful and a little scary, like all great things in life.

Cancún has great restaurants and many options for seafood, Tex Mex, Asian and everything in between. However, when it comes down to vegetarian, vegan or organic choices, the range decreases drastically. Opening a restaurant aimed at this market can be risky. Of course, not every restaurant has to be vegan-friendly nor do we have to visit them all the time, but it’s nice to have the option. They say, “You are what you eat.” If that’s true, these restaurants will make you healthy and delicious! La Orgánica: This salad house and juice bar has a lot in common with places like Vegan Planet or 100% Natural (also in town), but is more personal than the franchise restaurants. They just opened a new backyard area, the perfect spot to start the day. They make their own bread, they have juices of every delicious fruit you can think of and

their wraps are extraordinary. It’s pet-friendly, has a kid’s club and is one of the few places in town where you can get organic hemp protein at a fair price. This family business could become one of your favorites for its versatility (they have non-vegan/vegetarian options too), and great location. Sirena Morena: They just had their first anniversary, a year of having the coolest name for a restaurant in town and offering a tasty and completely animal product-free option in Cancun’s oldest street, Nader Avenue. They had workshops on fair trade, yoga lessons and vegan beauty techniques as part of the celebration. I recommend the bowls, they are pure tailor-made bliss, and the vegan ceviche is already a classic among locals. If you happen to be reading this on Thursday, forget whatever you are doing because it’s Pozole Thursday and you don’t want to miss it.

COZUMEL

June 7 - 20 2017

Galo Art Studio BY RAQUEL GARZA Watercolor, oil, charcoal, pencil and acrylic are among the tools that Cozumel-based artist Galo Ramirez has used for several decades in his work. His exhibitions, here in Cozumel and throughout the Republic, include abstract, jazz, nude and portrait pieces. His inspirations are his travels, his daily life, what he sees and what he is living. “There comes a time when, if the artist is dedicated to a single technique, he becomes intoxicated,” Galo explained to me. “It’s necessary to use several textures and rhythms, to speak other languages, and recreate with new ideas “. His paintings are displayed in restaurants, cultural centers, museums and in his gallery, and are for sale to the public. “At Galo Art Studio, we invite you to

tune in to an experience involving all the senses. The study of an artist is usually a place that stimulates all the senses. A workshop is smelled, observed, touched and felt. Creating objects with different materials usually produces sounds, from the subtle and pleasant crackling of the pencil on paper, to a thunderous electric saw. It is not only a place of work, it is also a private world. Entering an artist’s studio is like breaking into his soul.” Visit the gallery #499 Avenida 25 and Calle 1 Sur, downtown, 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. For more information and to contact Galo, see his work, make an order or purchase from him, visit: www.galoartstudio. com, Facebook/galoartstudio, Galoartstudio@hotmail.com, phone: 987 869 0826.

Endemicos was created to teach children to learn about and love the wildlife of Cozumel / Photos: Endemicos

Endemicos Cozumel Mabl ghg&ikhÛm bl ^]n\Zmbg` eh\Ze \abe]k^g Z[hnm ma^ ik^\bhnl pbe]eb_^ hg ma^ bleZg] mh ik^l^ko^ bm _hk _nmnk^ `^g^kZmbhgl BY VANESSA NINI

ozumel has a beautiful ecosystem and many species are endemic to the island. It is very important to protect it and preserve this fragile ecosystem for the next generation. Sandra Dutton is a biologist from Merida, and she has been living on the island since 2005. For eight years she worked for FMPC (Foundation of Museums and Parks of Cozumel). This is where she met her husband, Rafael Chacon, who is also a biologist, and famous on the island as an expert on birds. They have two small children and together they decided to create a program about environmental education for local children, called “Endemicos” (Endemics). TPT: Hello Sandra, thanks for receiving me today. How did you create Endemicos? Sandra: Thank you! I’m very happy to share my passion with The Playa Times today. When I was working with FMPC, we also did activities with the local children and I remember asking them which animals they know and they replied “Elephants and zebras”. Then I asked, “And what about the animals that live in Cozumel?” There was a big silence. Unfortunately the local people do not really care about their island; they are not really educated to respect their environment. Here the children spend more time in front of the TV for convenience, than outside enjoying the beauty of their island. My husband, Rafael, and I decided to create Endemicos to teach these children to learn about and love the sensitive wildlife of Cozumel, and to help them to develop a conscience.”

I like to make them wonder about the environmental problem and I want them to look for solutions for the future. Sandra Dutton Co-creator of Endemico

What is the program of Endemicos? We welcome children from four to seven years of age. Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m, we deal with one environmental issue with the children in our special area or outside. Pollution, recycling, endemics, animal rescue, cleaning; I like to make them wonder about the environmental problem, and I want them to look for solutions for the future. I want them to reflect on what they have learned with us. It is really clear that children learn and memorize better if they are the actors in what they are living. This creates future adults who are more conscious and respectful of their environment, able to criticize and take action.” Endemicos is a non-profit organization and they are doing a great job. To survive, the association sells t-shirts, caps, and bags. They also accept some help with pencils, painting, paper. Of course, to make this project grow, they also need funding . Contact Sandra at greenpez@hotmail.com

Watercolor, oil, charcoal, pencil and acrylic are among the tools that Galo uses / Photos: Raquel Garza

ENTERTAINMENT

June 7 - 20 2017

A Rock ´n´ Roll Cover Paradise An interview with music industry giant Renato Lopez on the obstacles of performing and selling original music BY TEENA CLIPSTON

y thoughts rested on the challenge of developing a forum for original music. The abundance of musical talent in the area should make this task an easy one. However, supply and demand in this rock ´n´ roll cover paradise has kept most venues from hiring bands that perform original music. Long gone are the days of open mic at Bad Boys Beach Bar, and even though there has been an in-

crease in live music venues, it seems we are getting more of the same. With perhaps a few exceptions,

such as The Public Place, which has been showcasing the band Señor Vitalis, a Jazz fusion band performing a mix of original tunes and Jazz standards, on Wednesday nights. In order to get a better grasp on the music scene in Playa del Carmen, I turned to one of the most knowledgeable music industry people in Playa – Mr. Renato Lopez. Renato’s music industry resume is extraordinary. He has sold millions of hit records. He was the artistic director and producer for CBS, Columbia Records, RCA VICTOR, and Vice President of Walt Disney Records and Disney Music Publishing for Latin America. He received a medal from the Mexican Encyclopedia of Rock for his outstanding career, and at age 71 he continues to rock out with his band The Jam Session Combo.

The problem with Playa, if you want to call it a problem, is no one is going to go listen to a band that is not famous or singing original songs. Renato Lopez

“This is a tourist place,” Renato said. “So business-wise, the way to attract tourists is by playing covers. The tourists here change every week. They don’t know which band is which. They hear a band that sounds good and they go in. The problem with Playa, if you want to call it a problem, is no one is going to go listen to a band that is not famous, or singing original songs.” “What about the huge community of people that live here?” I asked. “I would say 80% of the people that live here don’t like rock ´n´ roll. The local people do not go to the rock ´n´ roll places. Local people go listen to salsa, cumbia, and other Mexican styles.” Renato continued, “The DJ era – up to today is also a disaster. It is great money-wise, these famous DJs make a lot of money and draw a lot of people, but it is nothing but boom boom boom. I despise it. It destroyed the music industry. Then of course, there is the piracy. “I remember at Disney, for an opening in Bogotá, Colombia, I brought the film reels (to the theatre) by hand. I arrived at the hotel, took a shower, and took the limo to the theater where we were going to have the big opening. Disney’s President of Film for Latin America, Diego Lerner, was there. And I said ‘Diego, here are the films. Safe and sound, but I have bad news for you.’ ‘What?’ he said. ‘You want to hear it?’, I replied. ‘Yes,’ he said. ‘Two blocks before I came to

the theater, two blocks away, for five dollars, I bought the film on DVD.’ His face was like, What?! And that was the beginning. Not the beginning of piracy, piracy has been around forever, but the internet had made it easy. That was probably in 1997 or 98.” “What about Playa del Carmen? What do you think the musicians can do here to get their original music heard?” I asked. “I encourage everyone that lives in Playa, the musicians, to keep doing original music. Maybe you can’t really promote it in Playa, but record it here and promote it in the world. I think that is the best way. I love all the musicians here, they are really talented. They do a great job, they are very creative. Playa is going to give you money to pay the rent and food. You get to live in paradise. And maybe buy a new guitar.” Stay tuned for future articles with Renato Lopez, and if you want to say Hi to the man himself, you can find Renato at Wah Wah Beach Bar performing with The Jam Session Combo on Friday nights from 8 to 11 p.m. This article has been edited for space, to view the full article visit: www.theplayatimes.com Teena Clipston has spent more than fifteen years immersed in the Canadian music scene, making headlines in Concert Promotion, Event Production, and Artist Management. She now makes her home in Playa del Carmen and is the owner and operator of PDCMUSIC.

Renato Lopez / Photo: Alejandro Sosa Vallado

Friendly Playa Events BY GINGER M. Various organizations in Playa are now utilizing the LGBT market for travelers and locals. Parties, cultural events, movies, arts, music and photography are all on the agenda. Let me tell you what is coming up over the next few weeks for the community. ‘Boys Don’t Cry’ at Mimosa Resto & Canteen takes place every Sunday from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. Pedro and Lorenzo opened their doors on April 29 and have been hosting this event ever since. They believe in diversity, not labels. The LGBT Networking Evening from Life Is A Beach Productions is also a new event established to develop public relationships. Meet people, share your vision and grow together on the third Tuesday of each month. Here are some of the bilingual activities during Playa Pride, from June 12 to 18: June 12 and 13 is Playa Amigable’s Friendly Business Fair. All friendly businesses will be promoting themselves from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the auditorium of the Palacio Municipal.

On June 15, Playa Pride’s exclusive lesbian party, LesMex PRIDE takes place from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Mexican Caribe on the First Avenue corner of Calle 26. On Friday morning there is a 3 km at 7 a.m. and volleyball and soccer tournaments at 10 a.m. Bears can relax from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Reina Roja for the Bear Pool Party and a Drag Queen Night Show will entertain you from 10 p.m. that night. Get on board Saturday morning for the Catamaran Party organized by Pixanil from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. For a smoother morning, try the Broadway Brunch at Café ChouChou at 11 a.m. Last but not least is the Playa Pride LGBTTTIQ Parade on June 17, at 5:30 p.m. If you would like to march with us, please contact Playa Pride or LesMex. We start at the Poliforum and stop at Plaza 28 de Julio, in time for the closing concert.

Facebook/PlayaPride Facebook/Life is a Beach Productions Facebook/LesMex Facebook/Mimosa Resto & Canteen

Photo: shutterstock

June 7 - 20 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

ART & MUSIC CLASSES Playa del Carmen NOCHE DE DIVAS, Every Friday, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Concert starts at 7:30 p.m. sharp. A Cabaret style dinner show with 5 different singer, dancers and performers singing in 6 different languages from Opera to Jazz, Chanson and Boleros. El Jardín, 20th Street between Ave 10 and 15. Facebook/El Jardin-community center KIDDIE KARAOKE, Every Wednesday afternoon gather the kids and let them have their stage time. El Jardín, 20th Street between Ave 10 and 15. Facebook/El Jardin-community center

JUNE 7 - 20

2017

DRAG QUEEN SHOW, Every Tuesday, Doors open at 6:00 p.m. show is from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. No cover. Small menu. El Jardín, 20th Street between Ave 10 and 15. Facebook/El Jardin-community center KARAOKE ART NIGHT, Thursday nights at 9:00 p.m. Le Lotus Rouge, 35th Ave & Calle 2. Sing, dance, and paint. Free. Facebook/Le Lotus Rouge LIVE MUSIC, Every Tuesday & Friday during Happy Hour everyday from 12 noon to 6:00p.m. Enjoy Alfreddo in Carboncitos Calle 4 between 5th Avenue and 10th Avenue. Facebook/Carboncitos Facebook/Alfreddo LIVE MUSIC, 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/

SPECIAL EVENTS AKUMAL MEXICAN FOOD COOKING CLASS, Friday, June 16 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A fun, informative hands on event. Learn to cook authentic traditional Mexican food in a modern kitchen. Eat everything we cook at the end of class. Facebook/Mexican Food Cooking Class

PLAYA DEL CARMEN GOLF PARa TODOS (Golf For Everyone), Sunday June 11 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. A family-friendly golf event with clinics, practice stations, drinks and snacks, a raffle, prizes, and more. This event is part of the OHL Classic at Mayakoba. El Camaleon Golf Course at Mayakoba. Free. Facebook/Golf PARa Todos IN MOVEMENT FROM PAINTING TO DANCE, Saturday, June 10, 7:00 p.m. On Stage Dance Academy performs. Tickets available for sale at On Stage Dance Academy 984 157 1314 Teatro de la Ciudad Circuito Chinchorro between avenues 115 & 120 (next to Walmart). Facebook/TeatrodelaCiudad CASINO NIGHT Saturday, June 17, 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The Royal Playa del Carmen. Celebrate S.O.S. el Arca´s sixth anniversary with a Casino Night fundraiser at the Royal. The funds will go towards building an in-house veterinary clinic at S.O.S el Arca. If you wish to donate food, help with prizes or purchase tickets

for the Casino Event, please email info@soselarca.org or WhatsApp: 984-132-0583. Facebook/Casino Night SOS el Arca PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN LIVE, Saturday, June 17, 5:30 p.m. Dance Club Playa performs Pirates of the Caribbean. Tickets available for sale at Dance Club Playa, on Careterra Federal 307 between Calle 34 and Av. Constituyentes. Teatro de la Ciudad Circuito Chinchorro between avenues 115 & 120 (next to Walmart). Facebook/TeatrodelaCiudad

PUEBLITO MAYAKOBA FARMERS MARKET, Sunday, June 11 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. Facebook/ El Pueblito at Mayakoba CINE CLUB (ADULTS) Thursday, June 15, from 8:00p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Outdoor movie night presenting “Tormentero Mexico”. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/ El Pueblito at Mayakoba FARMERS MARKET, Sunday, June 18 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. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba

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 ACOUSTIC NIGHT, Mondays 8:00 p.m. -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/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 KARAOKE 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/PG´s Mexican Caribe Bar & Grill KARAOKE, 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 Mexicans. Facebook/Dirty Martini Lounge

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/LA Drinkeria DE Henry Miller OPEN STAGE. Every Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Come and perform whether you are a singer, musician, poet, actor or dancer. Le Lotus Rouge, Av. 35 & 2nd Street. Facebook/LeLotusRougePlaya SALSA CLASSES, 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/ SALSA, Fridays, 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 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 SALSA LESSONS, Every Saturday, 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Salon Salsanera Raices, calle 12 between 5th & 10th. Free. Facebook/Salon Salsanera Raices TANGO NIGHT, Every Wednesday 7:30. Enjoy a night of dancing the tango at Parrilla muchogusto. Admission and dancing is free! Parrilla muchogusto, Av. 25 Norte between Calles 28 & 30 Facebook/Parrillamuchogusto LADIES 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 PIZZA 2x1 & STAND UP COMEDY, Wednesdays 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Comedy in English. Lucky Lucianos 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/ Lucky Luciano Playa del Carmen PASTAS 2x1 & STAND UP COMEDY, Wednesdays 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Comedy in English. Lucky Lucianos 5th Avenue and Calle 28. Facebook/Lucky Luciano Playa del Carmen

Akumal KARAOKE. Every Wednesday from 7:30p.m. to 11:00 p.m.at 11:00pm. La Buena Vida, Akumal. Contact Shannon 984-209-4215. Facebook/La Buena Vida Puerto

Aventuras

KARAOKE. Every Monday and Thursday from 7:00p.m. to 11:00 p.m.at 11:00pm. Café Ole, Akumal. Contact Shannon 984-209-4215. Facebook/Cafe Ole in Puerto Aventuras

For more events, visit www.theplayatimes. com and click What´s On.

HEALTH

June 7 - 20 2017

Photo: pranaworld.net (with permission)

Meditation on Twin Hearts SUBMITTED BY CENTER FOR PRANIC HEALING Feeling tired? Stressed? Or spiritually empty? Ease yourself from the aggravation of daily life by practicing the Meditation on Twin Hearts. It is an advanced meditation technique aimed at achieving illumination. It is also a form of ‘world service’ as the divine energy received during meditation will be used to bless the entire world. Key to Attaining Higher Consciousness Besides rendering service to humanity, the Meditation on Twin Hearts is also the key to attaining higher consciousness. The technique works by focusing on what is called ‘twin hearts’: the Emotional Heart and the Divine Heart described as the physical and spiritual heart centers. This meditation allows you to serve as a channel to receive a tremendous downpour of divine energy. It is through this flow of powerful energy that you can achieve illumination and higher consciousness. So if you want to be relieved of daily stresses while helping the world become a better place, the Meditation on Twin Hearts is a wonderful practice to incorporate in your daily routine. Based on the Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi The Meditation on Twin Hearts uses the prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi to become a

Changing Climates BY SARA JONES When traveling to a climate so drastically different from that of Playa del Carmen, it’s important to know the effect it can have on your body, mind and energy levels. As I write this, I’m connecting in Mile High City, Denver, where my hair has never looked better, but the dryness of the air has an instant effect on my nose and throat. I’m en route to Santa Fe, New Mexico. It is an area of high desert and the highest state capital in the U.S., with an altitude of 7200 ft. (1.36 miles, 2.2 kilometers). It takes the body approximately 48 hours to adjust to such an altitude, but I am still hoping to manage the agenda of hiking, yoga and various other physical activities. Luckily, the spa treatments will help! Here are some ways to help your body and mind adjust well when traveling to high altitude destinations: Drink lots of water Hydration is of vital importance to counteract the effects of altitude sickness. Remember to drink before you feel thirsty and always have water with you. Limit caffeine, alcohol and salt intake As they can dehydrate you, reduce or eliminate consumption of caffeine and alcohol at least for the first few days and go easy on the salt.

conduit of blessings to the world. The technique helps transmute negativity into positive states: turning hate into love, sadness to joy, and despair to hope. Steady practice of the Meditation on Twin Hearts will significantly improve your physical health, mental health, and spiritual connection to God. Thousands of practitioners all over the world in over 150 countries regularly do the Meditation on Twin Hearts. If everybody started to practice this wonderful form of world service, we can certainly achieve world peace. So if you want to be relieved of daily stresses while helping the world become e a better place, the Meditation on Twin Hearts is the right technique for you. “Meditation on Twin Hearts is one of the most powerful meditation tools for spiritual development. It is a true gift from the Great Ones.” Master Choa Kok Sui Source: Pranic Healing Philippines, “Meditation on Twin Hearts” Master Choa Kok Sui, http://pranichealing.com.ph/what-is/meditation-on-twin-hearts/ (reprinted with permission) The Center for Pranic Healing is located in Playacar Fase II, Paseo Tulum, Edificio Bugambilias. For more information visit Facebook/Sanación Pránica Quintana Roo

Cover up and wear sunscreen At this altitude, the sun is incredibly strong. Covering up and wearing a hat, long sleeves, sunscreen and lip-balm sunscreen can help you avoid sunburn, which is more of a risk as the atmosphere is thinner at high altitudes. Eat foods high in potassium Bananas, tomatoes, greens, dried fruits and even chocolate are good sources of potassium, which can help the body acclimate. Moisturize At sea level in Playa del Carmen, we can get away with very little moisturizer as the humidity is great at keeping the skin hydrated. At high altitude, the air is much drier and if your skin is used to humidity it will not adjust quickly. Moisturize well to create a barrier that stops hydration escaping from the skin. Spa treatments are a great option to hydrate the skin and also to relax and re-energize the body. Enjoy the humidity on your return Although we may not love the summer humidity here in Playa, it always feels so great to breathe in the air upon landing in Cancun. Your nose, throat and skin will instantly feel the difference, although the effect on your hair may not be quite as nice, if you’re anything like me! Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Speaker, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

June 7 - 20 2017

ANIMAL WELFARE

Fifth Annual Empty the Tanks Locals join the international protests against the suffering of animals kept captive for human enjoyment BY NASH

Empty the Tanks protest / Photos: Empty the tanks photos by Ernesto Cervantes Oviedo

n May 13, a sweltering humid day in Playa del Carmen, approximately 200 people turned out to bring attention to the Empty the Tanks movement and support Delfines En Libertad. Their goal is to end dolphin and whale captivity. The fifth annual Empty the Tanks protests were held in cities all over the world. Participating countries were Turkey, Spain, Netherlands, USA, Belgium, Brazil, Hungary, Argentina, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Ireland, Germany, South Africa, Scotland, Australia, China, France, Russia, Sweden, and Mexico. Playa del Carmen’s event began at 4 p.m. at Parque Fundadores. This year, the event included live music and activities for children, including dance troupes, face painting, and a best banner competition. Rossy Torres, a Delfines En Libertad volunteer, gave an educational talk about dolphin captivity to the young people in attendance. The march proceeded down Fifth Avenue to the new aquarium at Calle

Hots Dogs in Parked Cars BY NASH The weather in Playa del Carmen is always too hot to leave a dog in a parked car. Did you know your parked car will reach over 100°F within eight minutes on an 85°F day? Every year dogs suffer and die in parked cars. Animals can sustain brain damage or even die from heatstroke in just 15 minutes. An open window offers very little relief from the heat. Dogs do not deal with heat in the same way humans do. They do have sweat glands on their feet, but they only release a minimum amount of sweat. They cool their body by panting and, if it is not too hot, dilating blood vessels in the face and ears cool the dog’s blood. Thick fur breeds, short-nosed breeds (pitbulls, boxers and pugs), puppies and any dog with respiratory issues or heart problems are more suscep-

tible to heatstroke and death. That being said, no dog should be left in a parked car even for a few minutes. Once a dog overheats the body temperature will rise to 104°F-110°F. The tongue and gums will be dark or bright red, and dry. The dog may pant excessively, stagger or be in a stupor. In some cases there will be bloody diarrhea or vomit and a rapid heart rate, and seizures may occur. The dog may go into a coma and succumb to organ failure if he does not get immediate veterinary treatment. If your dog is overheated, find a cool place and wet him with cool water, especially the neck and feet. Ensure the dog has plenty of water. Do not leave him unattended and see a veterinarian as soon as possible. If you witness a dog in a parked car, report it to Centro de Bienestar Animal Municipal CEBIAM, or, after 4 p.m. to the Police or Fire Department.

Never, ever leave a dog unattended in a parked car! / Photo: Pexels

Corazon, where they have approximately 3000 captive species. The march continued to Calle 38 and back to Parque Fundadores, ending at about 8 p.m. Claire Macarico, a Delfines En Libertad supporter, states that apart from the salespeople in the tour booths who make their living on captive dolphins, the public is very supportive and interested in ending dolphin captivity. The public is much more aware of the cruelty involved in dolphin captivity and what goes on to achieve a dolphinarium performance. There is still a long way to go to end captivity as tour companies, as large hotels and corporations make a lot of money from their suffering. Dolphins in the wild have a strong bond with their pod and spend their days hunting, playing and swimming 40 to 100 miles a day. There are plenty of opportunities to witness dolphins in their natural environment. To get involved and learn more about these organizations follow them on Facebook/www.delfinesenlibertad.org and Facebook/EmptyTheTanksWorldwide.