Edition 114

B i m o n t h l y · Ye a r 0 4 · N u m b e r 1 1 4 · 2 0 , 0 0 0 c o p i e s · 2 4 P a g e s · A u g u s t 2 - 1 5 , 2 0 17

Summertime

in the Mexican Caribbean

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

The sun in blazing and the temperatures are soaring. In this edition, we offer some cool ways to beat the heat including where to stop for a refreshing cocktail or two!

S P A M E ID

INS

DISCOVER MEXICO

Escape the Heat: Go Underground! >P. 14

HEALTH Stay Cool

>P. 21

Photo: www.germanabphoto.com

· MAP SECTION

· TPT FOODIES

SATELLITE COMMUNICATION WITH SEA TURTLES

AGUACHILES & AGUA DE JAMAICA

Veterinarian Ana Negrete, head of the Xcaret Sea Turtle Conservation Program, discusses the park´s recent release of three rehabilitated sea turtles

>P. 12

Photo: The Playa Times

Photo: Xcaret

August 2 - 15

Our friend Lily from Rivera Kitchen Tulum serves up a delicious plate of aguachiles and a tall glass of hibiscus water - no cooking required!

>P. 16

2017 Looking for something to do?

Check out our What’s On section online at www.theplayatimes.com for a list of things to do including live music and dancing, yoga, markets and special events.

P. 18

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August 2 - 15 2017

Editorial

Escaping the Summertime Heat

BY REBECCA PAGE

DIRECTORY

I

judge how hot a day is based on how many showers I take, as in ¨today is a two shower day¨. Lately, the days seem to be creeping into the three showers a day territory. Of course, I don´t think I´ve ever taken three showers, but there certainly are days where I probably should have! I remember when I first moved here, I thought it was odd that women carried umbrellas on perfectly sunny days. Now, I understand. Many of us spend the day trying to dodge the sun and fight for any shade that we find while walking through the streets. On Sundays, when most Playenses have the day off, you´ll find the cenotes and beaches packed with people escaping the blazing temperatures. You´ll

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also find the malls and movie theaters packed, with people seeking solace in air-conditioned spaces.

In this edition, we don´t send you to the movies or the mall, but we do make some recommendations about places to cool down, whether that means heading underground to Río Secreto or some cool bars for refreshing cocktails. We recently headed over to Cozumel to cool down at El Cielo. Only accessible by boat, El Cielo, which means heaven in English, is a beach on the southern end of the island.

Boats anchor in the shallows and everyone hangs out in the waist deep water and sandy bottom. You can also swim to shore to enjoy a walk on the secluded beach. My sunburn will attest to the fact that I hung out in the water the whole time, enjoying

the ceviche and other snacks our crew from Blue Angel Dive Shop provided as part of the trip. The local sea life must be pretty used to boats being there and come in to hang out, searching for tidbits that get dropped in the water. We had a southern stingray cruise through and spend quite a bit of time, harmlessly hanging around our feet. We even had a nurse shark swim by, looking for a bit of ceviche perhaps?

(We did not feed the animals that came in, and we discourage anyone from feeding or touching wild animals.) El Cielo was an amazing spot to spend a hot day! Just remember to use biodegradable sunscreen to prevent looking like a cooked lobster, advice I will try to heed next time I go back!

Stay cool, and we hope you enjoy your two shower days in the Mexican Caribbean!

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El Cielo is at the southern end of Cozumel / Photo: The Playa Times

playatimes theplayatimes The Playa Times

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.

Cover photo by German Abogado www.germanabphoto.com

TPT 10 DAY WEATHER WED 2

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BEACH LIFE

August 2 - 15 2017

Isla Mujeres i s 1 67 y e a r s o l d !

This summer, celebrate the anniversary of the founding of this island paradise

BY MELISSA MÉNDEZ ORANTES

August

O

n August 17, 1857, Isla Mujeres founded its first community with a population of approximately 250 people. On this date we remember the history of this beautiful island that has undergone great transformations, making it one of the favorite tourist destinations of the country and the entire world.

In the pre-Hispanic period, Isla Mujeres was a sacred place dedicated to the goddess Ixchel, the deity of fertility, moon, abundance and medicine. Isla Mujeres, was not a place of settlement, but a destination for religious pilgrims to ask for miracles in the temple. Many years later, in spite of the arrival of the Spanish conquerors, the island remained quiet and was not a place of bloody conflicts. For this reason Maya survivors of the Caste War migrated here, bringing fishing to the island, as did some Spanish pirates, who helped activate the economy of the region.

In the 1990s, a bronze cross was placed on the bottom of the Manchones reef, as a symbol of the founding of the island. It is known as the Cross of the Bay and is located 12 meters deep, weighing about a ton and is 3 meters high. Each year on this date, Catholic masses are celebrated in honor of the cross, and many divers from all over the world come to visit. This cross is a tribute to all the men and women who have died at sea.

is an important month to remember the beginnings of this island, full of mysticism, beauty, growth and miscegenation.

August is an important month to remember the beginnings of this island, which is full of mysticism, beauty, growth and miscegenation. There will be a great celebration, with customs and traditions to honor all its inhabitants, especially the first families who came to the island. The government grants recognition to their descendants and all those people who have contributed to the island’s tourist, labor and social development. There are also sports, music and dance events with lots of regional folklore, with young and old ambassadors representing the island.

If you haven’t visited Isla Mujeres yet, you now have the perfect excuse to see this paradise and help celebrate its foundation 167 years ago.

The island is a major tourist destination / Photo: Shutterstock

Photo: Festival Gourmet Barceló

Festival Gourmet Barceló - Third Edition

BY GIOVANNA HUERTA

I

was recently invited to Axiote Restaurante for a presentation on the upcoming Festival Gourmet Barceló. In addition to some delicious food, I got a taste of what to expect from the Barceló event.

The third edition of the festival will take place at the Barceló Grand Resort from 8-15 September. The Spanish hotel group has a significant presence in Mexico and is keen to promote the country as a culinary leader worldwide. The event boasts a line-up of 11 renowned Mexican and international chefs, several of whom are local to Playa del Carmen as collaborators or proprietors of eateries.

Various festival packages, including overnight stays, are available to the public, priced from $700 MX upwards. In addition to wine tasting and cookery classes on the beach, the main event each day will be a meal and wine pairing hosted by one of the featured personalities. Chef Xavier Pérez Stone, owner of Axiote, located on Calle 38 just off Fifth, is proposing six to seven courses for his meal on September 13. Spanish chefs Albert Balaguer and Eva Millán will team up to present the flavors of the north and south of Spain respectively on September 12. Juana Bravo was one of the chefs representing Mexican cuisine when it was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. She and Rosalba Morales, member of the Worldwide Forum of Mexican Gastronomy, will present a special meal and wine pairing of traditional Michoacán fare on September 9.

“11 personalities and culinary artists will delight the palates of locals and visitors to the Riviera Maya” Festival Gourmet Barceló Joining us for the event presentation were three of the 11 culinary artists who will participate in the festival: Pedro Abascal, Albert Balaguer, and Xavier Pérez Stone.

I spoke to Barcelonian chef Albert Balaguer about his passion for Mexico and the culinary scene here. He recently opened his own restaurant on Fifth Avenue, Cocina Canalla Tapas & Cañas, offering Catalan-style tapas.

When I asked him about Playa del Carmen’s position as a gastronomic tourist destination, he enthusiastically agreed that the city is at the top in this regard. “Mexican products, wine and cuisine are of a very high level.

The produce that comes from here is comparable to that of Spain or France - meat, dishes, wine, coffee - the produce is of first-class quality, above all in Quintana Roo”.

Let’s see what these wonderful local and national products inspire the talented chefs to create at the festival. For further information about the Festival Gourmet Barceló, contact ventas4@ barcelomaya.com or visit www.barcelo.com

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BEACH LIFE

August 2 - 15 2017

Ch’uhuk Piña - Pineapple Town

BY ZULMA G. RODRÍGUEZ ESQUIVEL Did you know that Mexico is among the top 10 pineapple producers in the world?

Heading to Bacalar recently, we found a town with a pineapple monument at the entrance, and met some pineapple sellers on the side of the highway. We bought delicious pineapple slices that tasted like honey! The best I´ve ever had.

This is a good season for the pineapple harvest; about 2000 tons per year are harvested in Quintana Roo. The states with the greatest production in descending order are Veracruz (500,000 tons), Oaxaca, Tabasco, Quintana Roo and Jalisco. In total 875,742 tons were produced in 2016.

Patty’s projects help local villagers / Photo: Patty Virgen-Kasten

Pure Paradise Tours Patty Virgen-Kasten caters to travelers while helping local communities through her tour agency and charity

BY CRYSTAL MITCHELL

A

re you a tourist or a traveler? A tourist is someone who will visit wellknown areas and tick off places on their bucket list. A traveler explores natural resources and local areas. They know that things do not always go as scheduled and they just go with the flow. If you wish to be more of a traveler, then Pure Paradise Travel is worth looking into for your travel cravings.

Patty Virgen-Kasten’s love of the Riviera Maya and Yucatan has given birth to two projects. The first is her charity, Dreams for Mayan Children, and the other is Pure Paradise Travel, her travel company. Both are designed to educate the traveler and to better the lives of local villagers.

Dreams for Mayan Children works with groups of volunteers and donors to bring their schools to another level with more construction, painting, or whatever else is needed in each community.

Patty started Dreams for Mayan Children eight years ago out of her love for the children in local villages. They are called the “forgotten

children” because even their government has abandoned them, prompting Patty to step in and begin bringing shoes, clothing, and school supplies to them. Now Dreams for Mayan Children works with groups of volunteers and donors to bring their schools to another level with more construction, painting, or whatever else is needed in each community.

Pure Paradise Travel was created to support the communities and show visitors the “real Mexico.” During her time here she has met people who have a similar vision. So many people come here to all-inclusive resorts and think they have seen Mexico. Patty shares her Mexican roots with them and her passion for the areas that are off the beaten path, such as monkey reserves and melipona farms. They also meet the cooks of traditional Yucatecan food and artisans of crafts, such as handmade hammocks.

Patty keeps the groups small, 6-12 people, so as not to overwhelm the communities and also to keep the experience intimate. She finds that her guests share her open heart and often come back year after year. A portion of the profits from Pure Paradise tours goes back into Dreams for Mayan Children, and the villages earn through the entrance fee to their area and by selling their food and handcrafts.

Patty is currently working on ways to better the environment and the sustainability of the villages by creating a planting project through her “organic experience” tours to help the villagers to grow their own food.

Facebook/DreamsForMayanChildren Facebook/PureParadise Travel

This ecotouristic lodge has one of Mexico’s jewels as its main focus In this town, there is also an ecotourism area “Ch’uhuk Piña” founded by Alfonso Aguirre, in 2014. They offer tours of the Maya jungle called Sendero de la Piña (Path of the Pineapple) where tourists can visit the plantations of the different varieties of pineapple, discover the process of natural production of pineapple, the types and characteristics.

There is a good restaurant with an extensive menu of typical dishes made with pineapple and regional products, not to mention fresh pineapple juice. There are also wood-

Photos: Zulma G. Rodríguez Esquivel

en cabins for resting and a lagoon for kayaking and swimming.

Where is this place? On the Carretera Bacalar-Cancún, at the intersection between the city of Mérida and the archaeological zone of Chacchoben. For reservations 983 73 239 92 chuhukpina@gmail.com The main export destinations for Mexican pineapples are the United States, South Korea and Spain, these three nations concentrate more than 95 percent of the foreign sales made in that period. It should be noted that pineapple cultivation in Mexico is carried out throughout the year, with emphasis in the months of April, June and July, when 36.3 percent of the total production is obtained.

Sources: www.freshplaza.com www.sagarpa.gob.mx

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ART & CULTURE

August 2 - 15 2017

Street Galleries in Playa del Carmen Art in Playa del Carmen has two outdoor exhibitions at these downtown locations

BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO

O

n Playa del Carmen’s famous Fifth Avenue, between shops and shopping malls, you will find a happy space for art and visual enjoyment. Every evening, a group of artists gather to exhibit their work on Calle 16. For over ten years, this project by the Department of Culture has hosted local visual artists from around the world, mainly photographers and painters.

Beethoven died aged 56 / Photo: Wikipedia Commons/Flicker.com

Beethoven’s Difficult Character, Part 2

BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO ROMO As I mentioned in the previous article, after much research, the cause of the great composer’s afflictions was discovered.

At Beethoven’s deathbed, Ferdinand Hiller, a fellow musician and admirer, asked for a lock of Beethoven’s hair, which he kept in a medallion and then donated to a museum. This lock of hair survived World War II; it was passed around, hidden from the Nazis, and eventually appeared in Denmark in the hands of a Jewish refugee who in turn gave the medal by way of payment to a Red Cross doctor.

It is said that his moments of worst pain were when Beethoven created his best compositions.

The medallion subsequently turned up in Arizona, U.S.A. The first to analyze it was a forensic surgeon called Che Guevara (yes, a namesake of the famous Argentinian revolu-

tionary). After four more years of analysis by Dr. William Walsh from the University of Chicago and another group of scientific collaborators, they finally announced their results.

We now know that Beethoven’s anger and extreme mood swings were due to high concentrations of nickel, arsenic, cobalt, chrome, silver, mercury, cadmium and most significantly, lead, which was 100 times the usual concentration.

Beethoven himself authorized that upon his death his body be studied so that the world might know the reasons for his illness. It is said that his moments of worst pain were when he created his best compositions, perhaps taking refuge in the music.

In accordance with the analyses, lead affects emotions in the brain, disinhibiting and provoking emotional highs and lows in the sufferer. Most likely Beethoven sought music to calm his moods.

This is why, many years before his death in what is called the ‘Testament of Beethoven’, he complained about how misunderstood he felt, given that people didn’t know about his terrible illness or how he suffered because he couldn’t listen to that which he lived for: music.

Source: www.unavozcontodos.mx www.biografíasyvidas.com

In addition to paintings you can find handicrafts, jewelry made of coral, baskets, polychrome wood, and many other beautiful things made by locals.

The artists who started the group and that continue exhibiting their work include Balam, Angel Ortiz, Dennis Granados, Germán Luis Torres, and Marco Pat. Some of

Local artists display their work / Photo: Alejandra Campo

them have enriched their experience in the visual arts abroad, having had the opportunity to exhibit in galleries and cafés.

This group has served as a platform to publicize artists throughout the Mexican Republic, such as Paco Rocha, Curiel, Salvador Peñaloza, Rox Valadez and even artists from other countries. Among them is painter Irina Shchukina of Russia, Miriam Sarmiento of Spain, photographer Gary Dillard from Canada, Italian Malú Matteo and more. Many of them have adopted Playa del Carmen as their permanent place of residence, while others only come for a while. On Calle 16, you can find small landscapes painted with great skill by Balam, as well as large-format abstracts, faces of famous figures, and innovative techniques like those of Daniel Violante, or the shapes and colors of Don Eduardo García. You will also find high-quality landscape photography of the Riviera Maya by Salvador Peñaloza, and other artists.

Another space with something similar is the Callejon de Arte (art alley) on Calle 6 bis, between Avenues 10 and 15 where, in addition to paintings, you can find handicrafts, jewelry made of coral, baskets, polychrome wood, macrame, wooden items, bags, and many other beautiful things made by locals. Both projects are currently under the coordination of Ivan Rosales, Coordinator of Visual Arts of the Teatro de la Ciudad.

August 2 - 15 2017

DISCOVER MEXICO

9

Chaac: The God of Rain

BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO ROMO He was known as Chaac to the Mayas, and Tlaloc to the Aztecs. This god is depicted in the facades of the ancient buildings of the pre-hispanic Maya world, with a long nose, fangs and large eyes. He is also represented with a type of axe in his hand, shaped like lightning or thunder. This god appears more than 200 times in Maya codices such as the Madrid and the Dresden. For the Aztecs, he was the bat god.

Chaac is not the only god of rain and natural phenomena related to water. There are five chaac gods or representations called “Chaques”, one for each cardinal point. As I mentioned in previous articles, in addition to north, south, east and west, there was a fifth point that was the center. Each point is marked by a color: red Chaac for the east, white Chaac for the north, black Chaac for the West, yellow Chaac for the south and green Chaac for the center. The center is where the sacred tree is born, the Yax ché (green wood), which is unlike other trees as its trunk is green.

This god is also related to the Maya underworld, crops, abundance, and life; he was and is one of the most spoiled gods in the Yucatan because of the droughts. Even today, in the month of July, rituals called Chaac Chac are performed in his honor. These rituals are performed in Maya communities and consist of prayers, accompanied by dance and music to invoke the rain for good harvests. The villagers mount an altar

CIxchel and Itzamná / Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Salvador alc

CIxchel and Itzamná / Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Francis Robicsek

Ixchel and Itzamná: Maya Gods of the Sun and the Moon Learn about two of the most important deities in the Maya cosmology

BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO ROMO

“

... Itzamná is a god of heaven, associated with the Sun, Kinich Ahau, and the moon, Ixchel. The Sun God was especially adored in Izamal and the moon goddess in Cozumel ... Adultery was first committed by the moon, who was unfaithful to her husband, the Sun.” This is what French anthropologist Jacques Soustelle wrote in his book, Los Mayas. He describes these gods as being of great importance in the Maya cosmovision.

Itzamnáaj or Itzamná is the creator god and is at the highest level; the K’inich Ajaw (Lord of the Solar Eye), is a manifestation of Itzamná.

One of the symbols used to represent him is the glyph K’in (Sun) and a flower with four petals, alluding to the four cardinal points, among other meanings. The god is represented as an old man with strabismus (misalignment of the eyes), a symbol of hierarchy among the Mayas.

It is an aesthetic trait that is highly appreciated, seen in some children destined for an important position.

In order to learn more about the Maya of

pre-hispanic times, why not visit Izamal? This beautiful pueblo magico* (magic village) is located approximately two hours from Playa del Carmen. Its name refers to Itzamná, the god of the sun, which is one of the reasons that the houses and buildings are painted yellow.

Ixchel, on the other hand, is a complex personality. This goddess, wife of Itzamná, is sometimes depicted as a young woman, while other times she appears as an old lady with a headdress of snakes and a jug spilling water.

She was worshipped on the island of Cozumel, and there have been many great pilgrimages made there to receive her favours. As goddess of the moon, she presided over fertility, life, harvests, rainbows, art, weavers, and healers.

Moreover, in her creative-destructive duality, she also represents tides and disasters. *Denomination within the magic village program of the Ministry of Tourism of the federal government Sources: Soustelle, Jacques. The Maya ww.arqueologíamexicana.com

Chaac represented rain, crops and abundance / Photo: Wikipedia Commons/Leonard G

made of sticks and palms, where they place food to serve as an offering. This ritual, like many others, has elements of Spanish Catholicism and the Mayan religion. If you attend one of them, prepare yourself to see rain almost immediately.

Sources: Soustelle, Jacques. The Maya www.arqueologíamexicana.com

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DISCOVER MEXICO

August 2 - 15 2017

Photo: Wikimedia

Río Secreto: Beyond Tourism Home to one of the most beautiful and bestpreserved caves in Mexico, this natural reserve is a model for sustainable tourism

By Río Secreto

T High school students learning about reef monitoring methods / Photo: Florencia Cerutti

Conservation and Science: Learning During Summertime

BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI The Riviera Maya is a beautiful place to spend your holidays, but it also has many challenges as the massive and unregulated tourism development has a negative impact on the fragile marine and coastal environments. There are many organizations and institutions that work on understanding and protecting this area. One way of doing this is raising awareness and training the younger generations to see the issues, understand the causes and, hopefully, think of possible solutions.

Blue Core AC held a summer program in Puerto Morelos for high school students which focused on the conservation and care of the environment Blue Core A.C. is one of those organizations working in the area of marine science and conservation. Their main project is studying the spotted eagle ray aggregations found in key diving spots. In addition to science, this organization also focuses on education

programs. One of these programs took place this summer with high school students and was based at the beautiful marine park of Puerto Morelos. Blue Core planned this summer camp to plant the seed of conservation and care for the environment in the students’ minds, as well as show what science does for the ecosystems found here. The program aimed to have the students understand the importance of the marine ecosystems found in the Riviera Maya; learn about scientific thinking and the monitoring methods used by scientists working here, and become conscientious (and certified) SCUBA divers. ¨This summer camp was not only great fun but also a success for the organization and for us as conservationists! First, because the students got to compare many reefs within this area and were able to see first-hand the negative impacts we, as a society, are having on it. They also got to understand the key link between land and water which is critical for the conservation of the Riviera Maya. And even more importantly, the understanding that we are also part of the solution took root in their minds,¨ said Ximena Arvizu, the educational program leader of Blue Core A.C. Environmental education is urgent everywhere, not only here. What better way to learn something new and to raise environmentally conscious people during the summertime than this one! So, I proudly say, “Well done, Blue Core team!”

he conservation of ecosystems is the engine of Río Secreto, and each tour has the goal of raising awareness among visitors about care of the environment, especially the water.

This treasure is a natural reserve located in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Río Secreto is dedicated to offering ecotours through a system of semi-flooded caves, with spectacular geological formations that tell the story of our planet. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved cave systems in Mexico.

Rio Secreto is also a replicable business model, which operates with sustainable processes endorsed by international organizations such as EarthCheck. Limiting the number of tourists by only allowing small groups to enter the caves at different times, they are able to mitigate possible impact on the environment. But their commitment goes further. Many of the products used within the reserve are purchased from local suppliers allowing sustainable tourism development that increases the growth of the local economy. Río Secreto is committed to sustainable development, by balancing the use of resources without compromising their future existence.

Everyone who works in Río Secreto learns about these issues and is passionate about conservation; they know, care for and respect nature. Río Secreto is part of the hydrogeological corridor that houses endangered species such as the majestic jaguar.

We are the last generation that can achieve a significant change to stop the deterioration of ecosystems. For this reason, Río Secreto has a firm commitment beyond ecotourism activity.

It is an unparalleled trip, where tourists will be transformed through a unique journey to the depths of the Earth.

Río Secreto has a firm commitment beyond ecotourism activity / Photo: Río Secreto

August 2 - 15 2017

PUERTO VALLARTA

11

Leather in León

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In the Spotlight – El Coleguita / Photo: Frank van der Burgh

BY FRANK VAN DER BURGH The Expiatorio of León / Photo: Frank van der Burgh

BY FRANK VAN DER BURGH

B

efore settling in the Riviera Nayarit, I lived for a few months in the industrial city of León. While not very famous internationally, it is well known in Mexico for the production of leather. Although the Mexican automotive industry has been making major advances, the biggest export product is still leather. Approximately 70% of all the shoes produced in Mexico come from León. It is not surprising that the outlets are filled with tourists from neighboring villages on the weekends. They go there to buy authentic leather shoes that cost

about one third of the prices that you see in the rest of the country.

These good economic opportunities are attracting many people - both nationals and foreigners and have lead to a project to improve the downtown area of the city of León. This includes parks, hip new restaurants and a walking path from the main plaza that takes around 45 minutes, ending up at the Nou Camp soccer stadium.

These improvements make the tourist attractions stand out more.

A good example is the Santuario Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús or more commonly El Expiatorio. A highlight on this walk is the Arco de la Calzada, which

serves as an entrance to the city. It resembles its famous lookalike, the Arc de Triomphe, with a huge lion perched on top of it. Local matador Antonio Velázquez was nicknamed ‘Corazón de León’ (The Heart of León) for his skills in the arena.

The lion serves as a reminder of him. It is, however, not the original brick lion, but a newer bronze version. This is because Velázquez complained before his death that it should be made into a better work of art.

So that is León in a nutshell; it is a city that may not be on your list, but is worth a visit. And don’t forget to buy some shoes while you are there.

It’s time for me to talk about food again. Since I am living in the Riviera Nayarit, the topic of course will be about seafood. In particular, a place called El Coleguita, which is located in Las Juntas. They are now also found in the hippest part of Puerto Vallarta, La Marina.

For those of you who have never been to the marina, it’s a beautiful place with quality restaurants, condos and hotels. The prices are inflated and it attracts people with deeper pockets than most. El Coleguita, however, seems to be the exception.

Their focus, like most Mexican restaurants, is on lunch and not dinner. The prices are very good, considering the neighborhood they are in. You will find that the tables are filled mostly with Mexicans. Just to be clear, do not expect fine dining

or a romantic getaway. But what you will get is this: a bottle of tequila at your table from which taking a few (free!) shots is encouraged, a fish soup appetizer and plates that are big enough to share with your partner.

The half-open kitchen buzzes with activity while bilingual and very attentive waiters will jokingly call you ‘coleguita,’ to emphasize the familiar feel about the place. Naturally this combination produces a fair amount of noise. This is usually amplified by artists playing a combination of guitar, pan pipes and singing. And for those of you interested, yes, they do take requests.

With your tequila, a large plate of fish and shrimp, a beer on the side, accompanied by music, shouting conversation with your companions and a mesmerizing view of the marina in this touristic area, is it possible to feel any more Mexican?

Satellite Comm with Sea T

Veterinarian Ana Negrete is head of the Xcaret Sea rehabilitating, releasing and tracking sea turtles in a

BY NASH

O Sea turtles are peaceful animals / Photos: Xcaret

1

1

n June 15, three sea turtles that were recovering from serious injuries in the rehabilitation center at Xcaret, finally regained their freedom. The turtles had suffered skull fractures, dehydration, wounds, vision loss, and loss of consciousness. They were treated with limited human interaction. The turtles have a GPS tracking device glued to the shell, there is no harm done to them, and the device will eventually fall off as the turtles shedtheir scutes.

Dr. Negrete explained that it is imperative turtles remain afraid of people for their safety. The research

will analyze swim patterns, vulnerabilitie how they thrive after rehabilitation. The provide information to protect them in t spills or a natural disaster. One femal turtle surprised the staff at Xcaret hosp was rescued in Caribbean waters. Her s the Pacific Ocean, so her life journey Turtles always return to where they or to nest, and tracking her journey will p cial information about the turtle’s life a patterns. The latest signal pinpoints her One of the hawksbill males has de in the Yucatan channel for now, and th

munication Turtles

Turtle Conservation Program, focused on an effort to protect them from extinction

es, and exhibit study will also the event of oil le olive ridley pital when she species is from is a mystery. riginated from provide benefiand migration in Florida. ecided to stay he other male

1

has not checked in. When the animal surfaces for air, a GPS signal is recorded, but while the transmitter is underwater, the unit turns off so as not to waste the battery. The hawksbill is not active. It is a peaceful animal, so its battery will last approximately one year, whereas the olive is active and surfaces more often.

Her battery will die in 3-4 months. The injuries most common in sea turtles are caused by propellers, fishnets, ingested plastic, poachers, attacks from other animals and dehydration.

An interesting fact is that Dr. Negrete includes honey as an important remedy on the turtles, using it is a natural antiseptic.

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2

2

Río Secreto is a great way to escape the summer heat! / Photos: Río Secreto

Río Secreto: Escape the Heat

by Going Underground

Exploring the underground rivers of these subterranean caves is a great way to stay cool and explore the beauty of the Yucatan

BY IAN MACKENZIE

D

uring the hot summer months of the Riviera Maya, I usually seek refuge in the shade or inside an air-conditioned cafe. But all of this pales in comparison to the best method of escaping the hot sun: going beneath the surface and into the underground waters of the Yucatan. I learned this first-hand when I was recently invited to Río Secreto, and took the journey into the elaborate cave system.

Only a 15-minute drive from Playa del Carmen, it is conveniently located, and easily accessible by colectivo. The entrance is just off the highway, and upon arrival, we received our arm bands and watched a brief introductory video in English and Spanish. The video explained what we were about to experience.

We were also told jewelry, sunscreen, and cameras are not allowed, and no touching anything inside.

Our guide’s name was Victor, an experienced eight-year veteran of Río Secreto. He would be leading our group, which ranged from kids to a 70-year-old woman, through a route called Palacios, lasting approximately 90 minutes.

It is one of many tours that can be taken; lengthier tours can be purchased at a higher added cost. We all boarded the waiting vehicles and did the seven-kilometer drive into the jungle where the cave system entrance was located.

Upon arrival, everyone stripped down to their swim suits, showered, and lined up to receive their wetsuit, helmet, and shoes.

We had the option of taking a cane with us, which would help us navigate the uneven rocky terrain. It would prove to be a good decision. Victor organized us into a single file and instructed us that he would be passing back messages regarding the upcoming terrain.

Our descent into the underworld began down slippery, sloping rocks until it leveled out and we submerged ourselves into the cool waters inside. Thanks to the summer heat, it felt really refreshing, and we all got accustomed to it quickly. The cane came in handy, as there were many points on the ground were uneven, with sharp rocks and sudden drops in elevation.

We were then treated to an array of incredible sights. The stalagmites and stalactites reached across to one another from the floor and ceiling, fusing together in some areas. Despite looking quite solid, they are fragile and likely to shatter easily if you grab them. Everyone took turns leading from the front, and the journey took us through various caverns, in some cases requiring us to swim a short distance. With our lifejackets, it was very easy, even for those in our group that could not swim well.

The most striking event occurred when we entered one particular space towards the end of the journey. Victor stopped us and told us that we would be having a minute of silence. We were asked to turn off our helmet lights and stood quietly in the pitch dark. It was very quiet, with the smallest sounds being magnified.

We came out into the daylight through one of the fourteen possible exit points, returning to where we began. After turning in our gear, we headed off to eat the meal that awaited us in their dining area. It was much appreciated as many of us had worked up quite an appetite.

For more information on how to book a tour of Río Secreto or how book a tour, visit their website: http://www.riosecretomexico.

August 2 - 15 2017

Dry Summer Fun

BY ANDRÉS MENDOZA DEL VALLE III Summer is a great time of year. It brings a wave of events, not only to Cancun, but the whole Riviera Maya. At The Playa Times, we know the obvious options are beach-related, but what about other events? Don’t look any further; we have a bunch of things to do and see while you remain dry (kind of).

Don’t look any further; we have a bunch of things to do and see while you remain dry (kind of).

August 12: Astral Flyers in Cancun: They are an international freestyle motocross acrobatic group that will be presenting their amazing tricks in the Autódromo Cancun (south city limits, right before La Roca mall) as part of their AF meets Riviera Maya tour. If you enjoy the adrenaline rushes caused by seeing other people risk their lives, then this is for you! Tickets are between $200 MX and $1200 MX and you can get them at Italian Coffee, Hard Rock and miboletera.com

August 13: Mercadito Vegano Cancún: Our friends from Savia (at Las Torres Avenue) will be hosting this event from the Mercadito Vegano. Mercadito started in Playa and now it’s bringing the best animal-free catalog to Cancun. There is always great music and the friendliest vibe. It’s the perfect spot to spend a Sunday morning!

They are always in constant search for new producers. If you have a vegan product that you want to sell, make sure to contact them.

They are probably the biggest showcase for the vegan movement on the Riviera Maya.

August 17: 1st International Catchball Tournament: Catchball players from around the world will gather in Cancun to participate in the First International Catchball Encounter, and First International Catchball Tournament. This international competition is organized by the global Catchball Association (@CatchballAssociation) and Catchball Cancun. Catchball Cancun has its own league and is always looking for new players to join.

August 31: Warren Hill’s Cancun Jazz Festival: Taking place at the Hard Rock Hotel, this festival will bring some of the best exponents of the contemporary jazz scene. It will have classic performers including George Benson, Kenny G and Warren Hill himself. For prices and packages, visit cancunjazz.com

CANCUN

15

Photo: Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III

Stay Fresh in Cancun ;^Zm ma^ \bmr l lnff^k a^Zm bg Ûo^ ^Zlr lm^il

BY ANDRÉS MENDOZA DEL VALLE III

L

Photos: Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III

ike that inspirational Baz Luhrmann theme says: Wear sunscreen. Temperatures will stay above 30 °C (86 °F) for the whole summer with a few occasional showers. We recommend using a 50+ sun protection factor (SPF) because sunbathing won’t be optional around noon.

Stay hydrated. Drink water, and when you have had enough, get yourself a real summer drink. For those looking for a healthy option, try Blanca Flor juices and milkshakes - a personal and local favorite in the region. Only experts know about this place. It’s not near any popular landmark, so a quick Google search will help to find the exact location. It’s totally worth it, clean and safe. Unico & Fresco also offers a great selection of juices too in three different locations: Facebook/@unicoyfresco.

Go for a swim and have a party on the beach. Mandala Beach will be presenting their Tropical Feelings parties every weekend. They have the coolest beach and pool parties in Cancun, with great DJs and promos. This is one of the most popular spots in Cancun so it’s the best place to show off your summer body (every single body is a summer body during the summer)! They have day and night events, so there’s no excuse for not dancing barefoot on the sand!

What about staying hydrated during the night too? Amarula Con Acento Tropical is an avant-garde mixology bar in the heart of Cancun. The place is beautiful and the mu-

We recommend using a

50+ sun

protection factor (SPF) because sunbathing won’t be optional around noon. sic is always in tune - fun yet sophisticated.

Wednesday is ladies’ night, so you can try their new cocktail menu. They have a unique way to mix seasonal fruits that you are going to fall in love with. Mezcal cocktails are a must. For reservations call 8848046 or visit their official page, Facebook/@AmarulaConAcentoTropical.

Indoor activities: Puerto Cancun Marina Town Center Mall opened recently. It’s huge and has a new 4K IMAX movie theater. It’s basically the biggest and highest definition screen in Cancun, so it’s the perfect time to catch all of the season’s movies!

16

TPT FOODIES

August 2 - 15 2017

Aguachiles and Agua de Jamaica Two fresh summertime recipes from Rivera Kitchen Tulum

Photo: The Playa Times

BY LILY FROM RIVERA KITCHEN TULUM

H

ola amigos! Summer is here, and these long, warm days inspired me to share a fresh, delicious and super easy recipe with you: Aguachiles (including a veggie option!)

Aguachiles is a dish originally from the state of Sonora, in the

north of Mexico. Traditionally, we eat it with tostadas (toasted flat corn tortillas), but you can use totopos (tortilla chips) and you will have the same delicioso resultado!! To go with aguachiles, let´s prepare agua de jamaica (hibiscus water), and once everything is ready, just pick your favorite book, or movie, and enjoy the summer. Buen provecho!

Aguachiles Ingredients • 500 g uncooked fresh shrimp OR 1 can of palm hearts (veggie option) • 2 regular sized cucumbers • Chile serrano, as desired (This is a must! If you do not like a

lot of heat only add ¼ of a small serrano) 1 cup of lime juice 1 small red onion 1 medium garlic clove 1 small bunch of cilantro Salt and pepper to taste To serve: tostadas and avocado

sliced cucumber and purple onion.

Check salt and pepper one last time, add if necessary and listo!! Serve on top of tostadas with avocado slices … fresh, easy and delicious!!

Preparation First, let’s clean and disinfect all our vegetables (in Mexico we use Microdyn, easy to find at the vegetable section in supermarkets). Now, let’s clean the shrimp (remove head, legs and de-vein), open them butterfly style, add salt and pepper, mix, add the cup of lime juice and mix again.

Make sure all shrimp are covered in lime juice. (I always use glass containers, better for keeping the flavor intact). Cover with plastic film and put in the refrigerator to cook (the acid of the lime will break down the protein of the shrimp and voilá, cooked shrimp without flames!)

While our shrimp are in the fridge, we´ll cut the red onion in thin julienne strips, the same with 1½ cucumbers (cut in half, lengthwise, and remove all seeds with a spoon), put the other half to one side.

After two hours, our shrimp will be fully cooked; remove the lime juice and store it. Now, let´s coarsely chop the ½ cucumber we kept, and blend it for one minute with the chile serrano, the small bunch of cilantro, garlic clove, ½ teaspoon of sea salt and ½ cup lime juice in which we cooked our shrimp. Once perfectly blended, add it to the shrimp and mix. Now add the

Ingredients • 2 liters of water • 1 cup of jamaica (dry hibiscus flowers, easy to find in any Mexican market or supermarket) • Sugar to taste • Ice • 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)

• • • • • •

A g u a d e J a m a i ca ( H i b i s c u s wat e r )

Preparation Rinse your hibiscus flowers just once and quickly. In a pot, add the two liters of water; bring it to the boil for 10 minutes, turn off the stove and let it rest until cool. You can add the cinnamon stick when boiling, to add a special touch! Once cool, strain into a pitcher, add ice, sugar to taste, mix well and listo! My secret? I add a touch of red wine in my glass…awesome!

I can´t wait until next month to share more Mexican dishes with you, as always with a vegetarian and vegan option! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Vlog, where we love to share more information, recipes, cooking secrets and Mexican culture … and remember: the secret ingredient in any recipe is a good amount of passion and love! So grab your favorite drink, play the music that inspires you and cook! Hasta pronto queridos amigos!

August 2 - 15 2017

TPT FOODIES

17

In Season: Fresh, Fresher, Freshest Produce Nl^ ma^l^ bg`k^]b^gml _hk fZqbfnf ÜZohk mabl lnff^k

BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

Summer Sauté

T

his month you will begin to see hues and shapes you didn’t see in July. No, it isn’t the opening of a new art gallery, but a cornucopia of Mexico’s fruits and vegetables that are currently in season. Aromas that during other times seemed dull and bland are now stronger and more enticing. Or maybe it’s just because summer is in the air.

Although chile poblanos have been in the grocery stores since May, it is the chile serrano that is looking for space in the produce section, as you are reading this, until October.

Bananas that seemed greener and harder are now sweet. They are a beautiful bright yellow, and as always, are high in dietary fiber, potassium, manganese, making it a good source of vitamins A, B6 and C. Green zucchini are in season for the next six months, making summer salads brighter. Other squash varieties like pumpkins will show up just in time for the holidays.

Most mango varieties have already ripened in June and July, including my favorite, the Ataulfo.

There are still some late bloomers that produce fruit through August.

Aromas that during other times seemed dull and bland are now stronger and more enticing … or maybe it’s just because summer is in the air.

Summer fruits help make hot weather bearable! / Photo: Agency

Make the most of preparing big tomato salads, because in another month they just won’t be as red, juicy and sweet. Just like back home, there is an array of choices.

Just remember that if you are looking for a roma tomato they are called jitomate, while tomate is Mexico’s tart, green tomatillo.

Corn is sweetest when it is freshly picked, as over time the sugars gradually turn to starch. So grill a couple of ears, smear them with mayo and butter, and crumble some cotija cheese over them.

Top them with a sprinkle of guajillo chile and a squirt of lime.

From now until the first months of next year is the ideal time to buy onions. Sauté them slowly until caramelized, then add some fresh veggies and you have the best side dish.

As you walk down the produce aisle don’t forget to pick up some blackberries, as they have just come back in season. They are loaded with vitamin C, and are low in calories and rich in antioxidants. They are really beneficial to our health.

Summer veggies are great in a sauté / Photo: public domain pictures

By Catherine Pawelek Let’s give those summer vegetables a run for their money with a triple purpose. Here is a quick, simple, and versatile sauté of fresh vegetables.

Use as a side for a main with an added protein or incorporate into an entirely different dish with the addition of eggs. You will be the summer hit of the party.

Ingredients ½ cup vegetable oil 1 large squash, sliced 1 large onion, sliced 4 roma tomatoes, diced 2 bell peppers, sliced (1 green and 1 red) 1 garlic clove, minced ½ chile serrano seeded and minced (Adjust amount to taste) 1 cup fresh corn 2 tablespoons fresh parsley 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro Black pepper and salt to taste

In a large sauté pan, heat the vegetable oil and add all ingredients. Stir and sauté for 10 minutes until all vegetables are almost cooked through. Serve as a side dish.

TIPS Add pork or chicken for a wholesome dish.

Place vegetables in a small casserole dish, add 4 beaten eggs, bake in the oven for a crustless, quiche-like entrée Wrap vegetables in a tortilla, add some cheese and salsa verde, bake in the oven for a vegetarian version of an enchilada.

18

ENTERTAINMENT

August 2 - 15 2017

SPECIAL EVENT CAMP WAYAK, Tuesday, August 1 to August 4 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Back by popular demand, this day camp will have various workshops and activities for your kids. In English and Spanish.

Limited space. Inquire with Alex for cost and information 984-142-8088. Rancho Linda Vista, Avenida Benito Juarez just past Mayaland School.

Facebook/CampWayakSession2 WOLFERS PARKOUR CAMP FOR BEGINNERS, Monday, July 31 to Friday, August 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Kids ages 10 and up can enjoy learning the basics of Parkour and free running. In English and Spanish. Limited space. Contact Edgar at 984-2043615 via What’s App. to inquire about location and cost. Facebook/WolfersParkourTeam

AUGUST 2 - 15

2017

COCO’S VIDAS CLINIC, Friday, August 4, 8:00 a.m. - Wednesday August 9, 5:00 p.m. ViDAS Free Spay/Neuter clinic in Playa del Carmen. Poliforum Avenue Juarez and Avenue 115, Ejido, Playa del Carmen.

Faceboo/Coco’sViDASClinicAugust2017 MICHAELA PRINTING WITH FLOWERS AND PLANTS ON GARMENTS, Saturday, August 5 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. You are invited to the next conscious workshop where you will learn how to dye garments with pigments from plants and flowers.

The workshop consists of 4 hours and includes everything you need to learn how to use natural pigments.

In Spanish. $ 1,200 MXN. ccommunitymx@gmail.com Facebook/MichaelaPrintingwithFlowers&Plants KKIS OPEN DAY, Wednesday, August 6, from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Join us for music, food and fun. See what we are up to, meet our mentors, become a volunteer.

KKIS HQ, corner Calle 32 and Avenue 35.

DANCE CAMP, Monday, August 14 to Friday

August 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Dance Club Playa is hosting an intensive urban dance summer camp. Ages 6-11 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and ages 12-20 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call 984148-0499 or 984-142-4094 for more details or check Facebook/DanceCampbyDCP

M AYAKOBA

FARMERS MARKET, Sunday, August 6 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 TACOS FROM THE STREET & MOLCAJETE SAUCES, Tuesday, August 8 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. $50usd. Federal highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km.

298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba CINE CLUB (CHILDREN) Thursday, August 10, from 7:00p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Outdoor movie night presenting “Beauty & the Beast”. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900.

Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba FARMERS MARKET, Sunday, August 13 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

LGBT

LGBT FRIDAYS, every Friday from 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Life is a Beach Productions will sponsor a different DJ. Admission is free. Mexican Caribe Bar & Grill, Calle 26 and 1st Avenue. Facebook/LifeIsABeachProductions

Mexican Caribe Bar – Los Viernes LGBT / Photo: Ginger M.

Playa’s Friendly Bars

BY GINGER M.

A

s most readers may already know from my previous article, Playa del Carmen is officially a LGBT-friendly city. So where can we go for a drink any day of the week? Let me introduce you to some of Playa’s LGBT-friendly bars where you can enjoy a delightful evening in great company.

Mimosa Resto & Canteen is located on 30th Street between Fifth and Tenth Avenue and re-opened late April of 2017. They joined Playa Amigable, which put them on the map for our friendly community. Don’t miss their famous Sunday nights ‘Boys Don’t Cry’ and monthly events, Tinder Tuesday and LGBT Networking Evening.

Mexican Caribe Bar & Grill is on the corner of First Avenue and 26th Street. This is the meeting point for the lesbian event ‘LesMex’ and inclusive event ‘Los Viernes LGBT’ (LGBT Fridays) It offers different musical styles every week.

Wabi Bar is described as the new Dolores,

the underground electronic music bar that shut its doors in January. Located on the rooftop of Wabi Hostel (Tenth Avenue between Sixth and Eighth Street), they are open from Tuesday to Sunday.

Don Mezcal is another underground music bar which has been there for quite some time now and has not followed the wave of bars shutting down in the area. You can enjoy a great variety of mezcals and cocktails. They are open every day of the week and ladies’ night is on Thursdays from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Located on Tenth Street between Fifth and Tenth Avenue.

A place that is visited quite a lot by our lesbian community is the famous strip club Tapanko on 40th Avenue and Fourth Street Bis. The club is clean, the ladies working are good-looking and there is always a positive vibe going on. It is more than a regular strip club; they have performance and contests making everyone go crazy! Overall, it is an affordable place to go with all of your friends.

Reina Roja Hotel has collaborated with Playa Pride for various events such as the Ecos Queer Film Festival, and three pool parties during Pride, as well as a pool party last Sunday, July 30. I’m looking forward to spending another beautiful warm afternoon in their pool soon on 20th Street between Fifth and Tenth Avenue.

20

ENTERTAINMENT

August 2 - 15 2017

The Har Har Har State of Flux Band As the band got ready for their anniversary celebration & CD release at the Galeón Pirata Espacio Cultural in Bacalar, Teena sat down with with Carlos Medina Mendoza.

BY TEENA CLIPSTON

C

arlos Medina Mendoza, director of the Har Har Har State of Flux band, has once again returned to the music scene, resurrecting the band after the loss of its singer Ynez Tulsen last year.

“Ynez was a great performer and singer,” said Carlos. “It was hard on me when she left the band, she was my right hand, she gave her all at every show, and I miss having her. But she left on a personal agenda that included her moving back to England. We are still good friends. She is like a sister to me.”

The Har Har Har State of Flux band, formed in 2012, was back on stage just a few weeks ago at a Bluesfest event held at Hard Rock in Cancun and Zenzi in Playa del Carmen, with special guest vocalist Jimena Segovia. Their new CD, recorded live at the Bluesfest, will be released on August 26 at their fifth anniversary celebration to be held at the Galeón Pirata Espacio Cultural in Bacalar. The CD, called The Har Har Har State of Flux Plays the Blues for Peace, contains songs from Willie Dixon, Muddy Waters, BB King, and Etta James to name a few. It is being produced by Angel ‘Mollo’ Tejeda from the Mudd Club México (Zappa Fan Club).

“We play old school blues, and we are starting to add some original stuff. As you know, Playa is not the best environment for original music, no matter what genre you play.

But we will be introducing our originals in a special kind of show, highly influenced by

Jimena Sergovia and Carlos Medina Mendoza / Photo: Juan Carlos Martinez Reyes

Frank Zappa’s music with the theatrical antics of Jethro Tull.”

Carlos hails from Mexico City and has made Playa del Carmen his home now for 30 years. His father was a renowned saxophonist Ruy Medina.

Ruy was the leader of the popular Mexican band, Los Aragon in the 60s and 70s. Carlos grew up with music in his veins. His major influences were the Rolling Stones, Jethro Tull, and Frank Zappa. He has toured parts of the U.S., Mexico,

and Europe. He has also shared the stage with Chicago blues singer, Jenny Lynn, Spanish flamenco rock singer, Mar Castro, Canned Heat, ex-Grateful Dead keyboard player, Vince Welnick, and violinist and singer, Kristina Kopriva from Big Brother and the Holding Company (the Janis Joplin band).

Carlos plays bass and slide mandolins, as well as being the director of the Har Har Har State of Flux band.

“Currently, the Har Har Har State of Flux is me with the best musicians available,” Carlos laughed. “That is why we are in the state of flux! Our special guest singer at the moment is Jimena Segovia. The other musicians include Johnny Baker (guitar), Charlie Hauptvogel (drums), Juan Carlos Alfaro Monroy (tenor sax), Pedro Encinas Flores (alto sax), Antonio Alvarez Holly (baritone sax), and sound engineer Victor Meneses from Viña del Mar Chile.”

Jimena, one of the most talented female vocalists in the Riviera Maya, has a unique and vibrant sound. Check out the last issue of the Playa Times for a full story on Jimena and her other band projects.

The Har Har Har State of Flux will be performing in Bacalar on August 26 at 10 p.m. at The Pirate Galeón - Centro Cultural Independiente. The venue is a unique space that was created for artistic expression and cultural convergence. The Pirate Galeón is located at Calle 1 and Calle 32. Entrance to the venue is free, with consciousness volunteer cooperation, otherwise known as a donation.

For more information on the Har Har Har State of Flux band and where to buy their CD, contact Carlos at www.facebook.com/ harharharplaya 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.

Refreshing Handcrafted Cocktails to Beat the Heat

BY NASH Looking for a refreshing cocktail to beat this heat? Many restaurants in town advertise 2x1 margaritas, but many of them are loaded with sugar and low-quality alcohol. If you are looking for something special to imbibe, we did some research in the centro and this is what we found: quality thirst-quenching original cocktails for your sipping pleasure. These craft bartenders take care to create each drink from all-natural ingredients.

Piola: They have two locations, one in centro at Calle 38 and First Avenue and another at Avenue 115. Their fabulous cosmopolitan martini is crisp, with the perfect balance of sweet and the tartness of freshly squeezed lime. You can also cool down with another of Piola’s famous cocktails; a frozen basil martini that is light and refreshing.

This green slush is sure to make you return for another.

Passion Wine cocktail at Patio 8 / Photo: Nash

These craft bartenders take care to create each drink from all-natural ingredients.

La Perla Pixan Cuisine & Mezcal Store at Calle 34, just up from Fifth Avenue. Are you feeling adventurous? Then try their Mezcalita, it is their original version of a margarita, made with handcrafted mezcal. It has a slightly smokey flavor, with freshly squeezed orange juice and lime. One of their best-selling cocktails is the Xochipilli, named after the essence of the goddess of flowers. It comes with fresh jamaica water, peppermint, and mezcal.

How about a chocolate cinnamon mezcal martini, made from

natural cocoa, for dessert? There are no artificial flavorings here.

Patio 8 is located on the corner of Calle 8 and Fifth Ave. The main focus of this establishment is topshelf gins. They also offer a choice of crafted cocktails made with other top-shelf spirits. One of the best sellers is called Passion Wine, made with Absolut vodka, real passion fruit, pineapple, basil and prosecco wine. All of the ingredients are natural; they manually juice grapefruits, oranges, and limes. On a hot, humid day, you may want to try a Cucumber Ricky: Absolut vodka, fresh cucumber, cranberry, tonic and freshly squeezed lime juice.

The rum drinker may enjoy a Limonada Patio 8: Captain Morgan white rum, Malibu liqueur, sparkling water and fresh lime juice. For tequila enthusiasts, try El Diablo: Tequila Blanco 1800, cassis, muddled berries, cranberry and fresh lime juice.

Salud!

August 2 - 15 2017

HEALTH

21

Does Pranic Healing work?

By Sanación Pránica

Stay Cool We are experiencing the hottest period of the year now and with high humidity, it feels even hotter; here are some tips to combat the heat

BY SARA JONES

P

laya del Carmen in the summertime is not everyone’s cup of tea (more on tea later!). High heat and high humidity can lead to a few uncomfortable months, especially when you don’t have air conditioning or you’re trying to limit its use to avoid the dreaded DAC electricity tariff.

Here are some handy ways to stay cool, and a few myth busters: Stay hydrated Drink water often throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid exhaustion and headaches.

Wear breathable clothes Light colored cotton or other breathable natural fabrics allow sweat to dissipate and keep you cool.

Cold showers Who needs their water heater on in the summer? Take a cold refreshing shower to help your body stay cool.

Cool your pulse points On the neck and wrists the blood runs close to the skin so using a cold compress, ice or a cold pack for 5-10 minutes can help to cool you down.

about pickles and see what happens!)

Imagining ourselves in snow or cold weather can actually help reduce body temperature.

Avoid body oils and thick moisturizers Instead use an aloe based lotion or gel that won’t seal moisture and heat into the skin but will allow heat and sweat to evaporate.

DON’T: Drink hot tea & eat spicy food to cool down People will tell you a hot drink or spicy food will cool you down because it induces sweating, the purpose of which is to cool the body. Is there anyone who is not already sweating in this heat? Anyone? I’ll assume not, so inducing more sweating to cool you down is only relevant in places where there is a breeze and less humidity, allowing the sweat to dry. On the off chance you have a nice breeze and have trouble sweating, go ahead and try this!

Hi, my name is Diana, Around February 2016 I was feeling depleted, I had a terrible relationship with my boss at that time. I tried to find an answer as to why I was in this situation. I was sure that it had nothing to do with my personality since I believed I was a friendly and caring person, and a pretty smart employee and trustful. I was not aware of the deep lesson I was about to learn.

I went to my first therapy session in the Pranic Healing Center of Quintana Roo, with an amazing healer. I started to talk about my boss and how “evil she was.” Within the first session, I discovered that I was holding a lot of resentment towards my mother, and the relationship with my boss was only the reflection of the bond with my mom. When I was a child, I experienced abandonment. My mother had no idea how to love a person, not even her children.

My sister and I were left alone, and for that, as adults, we were unpleasant with our mother.

I continued with therapy for a couple of months, and I was able to see my former boss with compassion, love, and understanding.

I also understood that since my mother was treated very badly as a child and her parents had abandoned her, she could not know how to

love a person, she was only repeating the pattern. All those therapies helped me to see life from a different point view.

On June 2016, I took the first course to become a Pranic Healer, the world of energy just opened an amazing door for me, my lifestyle, my relationships, and my understanding of how to live the life from a loving way. I still keep training myself.

Recently, I moved to the beautiful city of Querétaro, because I want to keep with Master Choa Kok Sui’s dream of “manifesting Heaven on Earth” by giving Pranic Healing therapies and extend the knowledge.

The Center for Pranic Healing is located in Playacar Fase II, Paseo Tulum, Edificio Bugambilias. For more information visit Facebook/ Sanación Pránica Quintana Roo

Manifesting Heaven on Earth through pranic healing / Photo: Sanación Pránica

Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

Daydream about snow Our bodies react to our thoughts all the time. (If you don’t believe this, think

Pioneering renewable technologies are what sets Los Amigos Tulum apart / Photo: Los Amigos de Tulum

Changing the Real Estate Market in Tulum

By Emilio Valderrama Founded in 2012 by two friends who met as international travelers in Guatemala, Los Amigos Tulum has become the most influential developer in the region. They offer worldclass architecture, innovative design, enduring quality, state-of-the-art technology, and a unique and award-winning rental program.

The Smartflower solar system, a biotech water treatment system, the first zero emission electric car in Quintana Roo, and a Tesla charging station are just a few of the pioneering renewable technologies that Los Amigos have implemented. They continue to raise the standards in sustainable building and design to a Imagining ourselves in snow or cold weather can actually help reduce body temperature / Photo: Shutterstock

new level in Tulum.

Their portfolio showcases developments from a sleek designer villa with a smart solar system to the latest iconic projects such as Central Park Tulum, The Highline, Panoramic 360, and Sanctuary Tulum. These have become the most successful residential developments in the history of Tulum. Los Amigos’ commitment to architecture, design excellence and their determination to exceed expectations of investors and clients are what drive this passionate team of professionals.

With more than $30,000,000 USD in projects under development in 2017, the company guarantees investors the highest returns in the market. They also offer the most successful operating rental program with five-star hotel service to provide all the services for you.

There is no better time to invest in Tulum, and when investing in sustainable development, you can rest assured that your investment will be protected for years to come. For more information on residential projects by Los Amigos Tulum, please visit www.losamigostulum.com

22

ANIMAL WELFARE

August 2 - 15 2017

The Secret Life of a Cockroach

BY NASH Most people fear waking up at night and seeing a cockroach in the house. Research on this prehistoric, nocturnal creature shows an interesting side to their personality. They are intelligent, highly social and can suffer from loneliness. Roaches recognize their own family members, and all generations live together, even eating together as a family.

A young roach living alone will suffer health issues and take longer to reach sexual maturity and molt its young body. Constant physical contact with each other is required for proper development. Unlike most insects, there is no hierarchy; they work as a team, making group decisions and communicating about food, shelter, and danger.

Females can store sperm and produce eggs at a later time.

Considered thigmotropic, they need to be touched, if not by each other in tight spaces.

If you´re hot, imagine how hot your dog is! / Photo: pexels.com

Dog Days of Summer Pets suffer just as much as we do in the heat, so here are some tips on how help them cool down

BY NASH

A

re you having a hard time with this heat? Imagine being covered in fur. High heat and humidity can be a deadly combo for your pets.

Keep your pets in the house with air conditioning, a fan, or blackout window coverings. If a dog is outside, there must be plenty of shade and lots of fresh water.

Never leave a dog in a parked car! Animals can suffer brain damage and die of heatstroke within 15 minutes inside a parked car.

Walk dogs early in the morning or after the sun goes down to avoid the risk of heat stroke. Check the pavement or concrete; if you cannot keep your hands on it for 10 seconds, it could burn your dog’s paw pads.

Buy a kiddie pool for your dogs so they can cool down.

Make ice cubes or “pupsicles” with dog cookies inside.

High heat and humidity can be a deadly combo for your pets.

Keep a bowl of water out for street dogs but change it often to avoid mosquito larva.

Take a trip to the beauty salon and have the dog’s hair shaved off. He may not be impressed but will appreciate it later.

Take extra caution with brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs with a small airway making it difficult to breathe. Overweight and older dogs are at higher risk of heatstroke.

Watch for the symptoms of hyperthermia and heat stroke.

They include: sticky and dark or bright red tongue and gums, excessive panting, restlessness, rapid heartbeat, staggering or walking in a stupor, followed by bloody diarrhea or vomit and seizures. The dog may go into a coma and succumb to organ failure if it does not get immediate veterinary treatment. Find a cool place, wet it down with cool water. Ensure the dog has plenty of water, and put wet cloths on its feet and neck.

Cats are not immune to heat stroke. Watch for signs such as rapid breathing, redness in the mouth, lethargy, staggering, vomiting or unconsciousness. Cool the cat with ice packs and get to the vet immediately.

They are not fond of us either. If you touch a roach, it will obsessively clean itself to remove our germs. They are compulsive about this. Keeping their legs and body clean is a matter of survival as they are covered in tiny hairs that act as sensors. These can feel the slightest change in air movement. The feelers and mouth are used to smell, and their brain and nervous system are located in the underbelly. This is why they can survive almost a month without a head, eventually starving or dehydrating.

Although they do not carry diseases, their feet and bodies do pick up bacteria and then transfer them onto items in our homes. The dander and excrement of the roach are known to cause asthma.

Roaches are incredibly hearty and can chew and digest anything. They are very resilient and have lived unchanged for over 350 million years. This scavenger is an important part of the environment as they rid the world of decay and replace it with nutrients for plants. Birds, amphibians, lizards and small animals feed on this insect. You may be surprised to hear some people keep Madagascar roaches as pets.

Did you know that roaches are intelligent and highly social? / Photo: Wikimedia