Edition 115

B i m o n t h l y · Ye a r 0 4 · N u m b e r 1 1 5 · 2 0 , 0 0 0 c o p i e s · 2 4 P a g e s · A u g 1 6 - S e p 5 , 2 0 17

Gentle Giants

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

International Whale Shark Day is August 30 and in this edition, we celebrate these annual visitors to our waters

S P A M E ID

INS

DISCOVER MEXICO The Whale Shark Case

Photo:wikimedia commons

>P. 9

ANIMAL WELFARE Whale Shark Facts

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· ANIMAL WELFARE

· ENTERTAINMENT INTRODUCING PEDRO CASTILLO Aug 16 - Sep 5

Not all tours are created equal.

Make sure you select one that respects the sharks, the environment, and you!

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Photo: Pedro Castillo

Photo: Pixabay.com/simonesaponetto

CHOOSING A RESPONSIBLE WHALE SHARK TOUR

A successful young figure in the business arena of Playa del Carmen, Pedro is also an active member of the local LGBT community

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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.

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August 16 - September 5 2017

Editorial

We’re Gonna Need a Bigger Boat...

BY REBECCA PAGE

DIRECTORY

W

ho can forget Roy Scheider as police chief Martin Brody in Jaws? Jaws hit the screen in 1975 and terrified millions of moviegoers across the globe. (Let´s be honest, I still look behind me when I swim in the ocean). It also had a detrimental impact to sharks, but we’re not here to talk about the giant carnivores with mouths stacked with rows of serrated teeth. In this edition, we talk about whale sharks - the largest fish in the sea.

Whale sharks migrate to this region each summer by the hundreds to feed.

They typically gather off the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. If you have not had the opportunity to swim with whale sharks, it is quite the experience.

I went about four years ago with a group of friends, and it was one of those things you do in your life that you will never forget. When we arrived at the whale shark aggregation, there

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were loads of them. At first, it took a moment for me to realize that the water was teeming with them. Then, I saw one and then I saw two and three and it kept going from there. Our captain expertly maneuvered our boat to avoid any contact with the sharks. We were all so excited to get in the water and our guide gave us the instructions on who would go in first. We went together in pairs, each getting an equal amount of time. The water is very, very deep and darker than the crystal clear waters that we are all used to here in the Caribbean. But I felt no hesitation when I slid in and began finning towards the nearest shark.

The first thing that strikes you is how insanely large they are. My brain couldn’t really place what I was seeing. How was I in the water, so close to a creature so large? You´d never walk towards an elephant in the wild and get within a few meters of it.

But here we were, surrounded by filter feeding, bus-sized creatures and we couldn’t have been more content.

Obviously, the reason we can swim with them is that they are harmless, but they are big and powerful, so your guide will tell you to keep your distance to protect both the shark and yourself. They move slowly and deliberately but their tails are massive and you want to steer clear of it. You had to be constantly aware of your surroundings, ready to move out of the way, which I was unsurprisingly motivated to do when they came straight at me, giant mouth agape.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also have manta rays (I had two huge ones swim directly below me. What a treat!), sailfish, marlin, and other creatures from the deep honor you with a visit. If you have the opportunity to do a whale shark tour, please be sure to choose a responsible tour company (see page 22 Choosing a Responsible Whale Shark Tour) and learn as much as you can about these gentle giants to give you a greater appreciation of your time in the water with them.

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CONTACT US AT: 984 -147 5597 & 147 5571 info@meridianmedia.mx /theplayatimes @ThePlayaTimes

Photo: shutterstock

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.

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BEACH LIFE

August 16 - September 5 2017

Protect

the Whale Shark How can tourists protect this amazing animal at risk of extinction?

Make your purchase easy and safe / Photo: Pexels

Legal Basics for Purchasing Real Estate

BY THOMAS LLOYD, FOUNDER OF TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE Are you thinking of buying a property in Mexico? Check out these legal basics you need to know to make your purchase easy and safe.

The Restricted Zone This area covers 50 km from the ocean and 100 km from the border. Foreigners can’t directly acquire a property in the restricted zone, however, Mexico’s Foreign Investment Law allows ownership in this area through two legal entities: the bank trust or the Mexican Corporation.

Both have pros and cons, so talk to your buyer’s representative about your goals and needs to choose the best option for you.

BY MELISSA MÉNDEZ ORANTES

T

he whale shark is the largest fish in the world, yet it does not represent any danger to human beings; it is harmless to us. However, despite being small in comparison this immense creature, we can still cause it huge, irreparable damage.

Today the population of the whale shark is very low. In 10 years, more than half of its population has disappeared worldwide. The Mexican Caribbean offers millions of tourist activities that generate important income benefiting the whole country. However, there is a major risk when some of these activities involve an animal in danger of extinction. This is the case of the whale shark, which feeds for short seasons in the waters of Holbox, Contoy Island, Punta Sam and Isla Mujeres.

Here is some advice to follow so that we can protect the whale shark and raise awareness of them: • If you’ve already decided to experience swimming next to a whale shark, please check that the tour company you choose has trained and certified guides, with all their permissions in order. Check out our article on how to select a responsible tour company on page 22.

• The tour boat should not go fast.

Whale sharks and their calves are often hit, scraped and even mutilated by boats that are not carefully driven.

• There should be no more than 10 people aboard each boat and there should be no more than five boats around the whale shark. A distance of 100 meters must be kept between boats (by law). Although it is very common to ob-

yy 7/ Photo:

In 10 years more than half of its population has disappeared worldwide. serve up to 20 boats suffocating these helpless animals, please do not stay silent. Complain to the authorities or to the organizations that protect these animals.

• Do not touch the whale shark for any reason and only two people per boat can take turns to swim at a distance of three to five meters from the whale shark.

• Do not litter or use water-polluting chemicals. The destruction of natural habitats and the deforestation of mangroves are also destroying the food sources of this animal (plankton, algae and coral). It is also proven that as tourism increases, the whale shark stops eating and changes direction and it is more difficult to detect its location.

The main threat to the whale shark is unregulated tourism. Don’t be part of this threat; even better, be part of the solution!

Spread the word about how we can and must protect this unique and incredible species. Let’s not become predators of the world’s largest fish, but become their biggest protectors!

Type of Properties When looking for a home or condo, you have two options: • Buy a re-sale, which is when you purchase a property directly from an individual who already owns it. When buying a re-sale, using an escrow account to transfer the money is recommended.

• Buy a pre-construction, which is when you purchase directly from the developer. In this case, usually the money goes directly to the developer, so instead of an escrow you need to pay extra attention to your promissory contract to make sure that you have ways to protect your investment.

An attorney will help you with all the legal aspects of your purchase

Purchasing Process • The first step is the reservation, which requires making a deposit to hold the unit.

• The second is the offer to purchase. This contract includes a purchasing price by the buyer, details for the payment, and other requirements.

• Third is the promissory contract, covering all the legal aspects of the sale.

• The last step is the title deed, the definitive process to transfer the rights of ownership to the buyer.

It is important to use an attorney throughout the process. An attorney will help you with all the legal aspects of your purchase, make sure that it satisfies all the legal requirements and that the title of the property you want to buy is clear.

At Top Mexico Real Estate we can help you in the process of acquiring a property safely. You can learn more by downloading our kit about the purchasing process here https://topmre. com/purchasingprocess

6

BEACH LIFE

A camp experience for all kids / Photo: Crystal Mitchell

Camp Wayak

BY CRYSTAL MITCHELL While driving westbound on Avenue Benito Juarez early in the morning, something was stirring inside of me. I was excited about where I was going, and my 11-year old daughter next to me was excited too. We were going to summer camp!

The invite to come and spend time at Camp Wayak was a special one for me, because I would watch my daughter’s first experience at camp. The project is the work of Alex Garcia, who grew up in Torreon in northern Mexico. Every summer since she was nine she would go to camp in Texas, but little did she know this would shape her for her life’s

August 16 - September 5 2017 mission: to bring the knowledge and happiness of the camp experience to all kids. She is still living her dream, literally, here in Playa del Carmen with Camp Wayak.

“Wayak” means dream in Maya and Alex has dreamed of a way to create a camp experience for all kids, no matter their situation.

In July, she had a weeklong camp at Rancho Linda Vista that was co-sponsored by Explayarte and was so successful that parents were asking for another one. She refused as she wanted the camp experience to be authentic and rich with adventure and did not want to dilute it by having a repeat one too soon.

Well, the parents and kids won, and another shorter, but just as rich camp was planned for August 1-4.

Summer Camp Wayak is just the introduction to the project Alex is proposing year round. She wishes to bring the camp to the school setting for a shorter session, just a few days. She hopes to find sponsors and scholarships to help provide the camp experience to schools whose kids would not normally be able to afford a camp experience, such as low-income areas or Maya villages. She wants to create a community where people and companies can bring their strengths and gifts to share with the children so they can find what their passion in life is. Through her vision, she wants to bring the arts, cooking, and most of all, the sense of community and connection to all of our “future”, because everyone deserves that camp experience at least once in their lives. This is her wayak come true.

Are you an “older kid” who has never had a camp experience? Alex plans to bring the vision to adults as well, because everyone deserves this opportunity of fun and learning.

Be on the lookout for her adult camps too.

To learn more about Camp Wayak visit Facebook/CampWayak or call Alex directly at 984-142-8088

Exploring Art for a Better World

BY CRYSTAL MITCHELL We cannot control what life we are born into as. Some children are more privileged than others and sadly, some end up on the streets.

Fortunately, there are organizations to help children that are abused or abandoned or end up in situations they cannot control. Cancun Pro Kids is an organization that works to bring education, healthcare, housing, and culture to children finding themselves in difficult situations.

On Thursday, July 20, I was able to meet 20 of these kids here in Playa del Carmen in Le Lotus Rouge. The owner, Natacha Alban, organized with Adriana Santos, the director of Cancun Pro Kids for an excursion into art. Natacha proposed an encounter through the arts to open up their minds and souls to other civilizations throughout the world. A beautiful program for the kids to get out of Cancun and experience culture outside of their normal environment.

The arts open us to other dimensions that traditional teaching cannot. The event took place in Natacha’s restaurant and art center where the children got to visit each room rep-

resenting a different continent. The children were on a worldwide tour while searching for hidden onions which were the theme of the day, based on the poem by Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda.

After the world tour, the kids took to the stage. Using props and musical instruments, they acted out the poem “Cebolla” in an improvisation-style performance. It was wonderful to see the kids break out of their shyness and tap into their creativity. This is Natacha’s dream to spread smiles and joy, as well as knowledge of culture to kids around the world. Her method helps to erase boundaries and helps kids to think globally.

Cancun Pro Kids works hard to bring the basics to children along with special trips such as this one. But they cannot do it alone.

The organization works to find sponsors.

They house almost 50 children while also running a kindergarten through to a 12th grade school for them. The kids and teenagers also take tae kwon do, swimming and art lessons to help them develop their skills and talents. They need to get their mission out there in order to find funds to keep their organization going.

Please visit their website www.cancunprokids.com, write an e-mail to info@cancunprokids.com, or visit Facebook/CancunProKids to see how you can help support them.

An excursion into art / Photo: Crystal Mitchell

Pu ro b ea c h - U r b a n O as i s Opening in December 2017, this Mediterranean-style beach club aims to satisfy all the senses of its clients

Photos: Puribeach

By Claudia Hurtado Valenzuela

I

recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Peter Steve, Commercial Director of Purobeach Playa del Carmen, to learn more about this exciting new venture for the city. His laugh is contagious and he comes across as a genuine admirer of his surroundings, one who enjoys the planning stages of a project as much as its execution.

Purobeach is a Mediterranean-style beach club concept. Already operat-

ing in several popular destinations in Spain and Portugal, Purobeach Playa del Carmen, scheduled to open at the end of the year, will be the first Purobeach in the Americas.

Mexico was an obvious choice, according to Peter. He believes in Mexico. “It’s like finding a girl you like and asking, ‘Where have you been all my life?’” He finds the Mexican Caribbean to be a perfect match, for him and for Purobeach “The Purobeach brand combines perfectly with the

location; we are very organic, social, natural, authentic, from the heart.

I’ve traveled all over and something that always stands out is people’s character. Mexico is a very social and kind country. Mexicans are ambassadors in their own country.”

So what can we expect from this much-anticipated new offering to Playa del Carmen’s beach club scene?

“One of Puro´s principles is integration; a guest cannot feel like they are in a copy paste box from

another destination. Puro Beach in Playa del Carmen will be an Urban Puro; simple and elegant with wood and no metals, where you will have a sensation of plenitude. Walking in, you will find peace and tranquility”, Peter explains.

Purobeach Playa del Carmen will put an emphasis on gastronomy, sea views, relaxation and wellness and quality music. As Hemingway said, “For every time of the day there is a cocktail”. At Purobeach, for every time of the day there is a specific type of music.

Characteristic of the Puro brand, their M3 concept of food will feature at their Playa Del Carmen location. With the aim of making 100% of their guests comfortable, with choices that appeal to every taste, their menu will reflect cuisine from Miami, Marrakesh, and Melbourne.

Each M will have 10 to 15 representative dishes and drinks - all organic, healthy and regional cuisine.

The beach club will be located at The Fives, one of Playa’s latest luxury hotel and residences. Peter deems The Fives “a perfect match for our product”. If you want to have your senses delighted, then start the countdown. This urban oasis of well-being and sociability will open its doors in December 2017.

The Purobeach brand combines perfectly with the location; we are very organic, social, natural, authentic, from the heart Commercial Director of Purobeach Playa del Carmen

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ART & CULTURE

August 16 - September 5 2017

The Maya and Maritime Trade

BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO The ancient Maya were not only great astronomers, and the builders of great pyramids such as Tulum, Chichen Itza, Coba, Ek Balam and so many others. They were also great traders and much of their trading was executed via rivers and their tributaries and, of course, the Caribbean Sea. The Mayas reached the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and as far south as Honduras. They had a large commercial network with the peoples settled there, not only on the banks of rivers and coasts, but also with the cultures or nations developed within the territory. Among the ports of great importance are the ancient Polé (where the park Xcaret is located today) and where there are still remains of the buildings of that time. The other port is Xel Há, which today has also become a recreational park.

The Mayas reached the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and as far south as Honduras.

The Caste War / Photo: Wikipedia Commons

The 170th Anniversary of the Caste War The history of the state of Quintana Roo is strongly tied to the \hgÜb\m maZm mhhd ieZ\^ a^k^ ho^k Z \^gmnkr Zg] Z aZe_ Z`h'

BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO

T

o know the history of the Caste War means to also know the history of Quintana Roo. This state has opened its doors to Mexicans from all over the country and foreigners from so many countries.

On Sunday, July 30, the anniversary of the Caste War (also known as the Maya Social War) was celebrated. The event was held in Tihosuco, a municipality of Felipe Carrillo Puerto. There was a solemn session of the state congress, at which governor Carlos Joaquín González was present. The event looked back on historical events that occurred 170 years ago, in the year 1847 during the long pilgrimage of war that lasted more than 50 years. They spoke of the Maya leaders and heroes of the Yucatan Peninsula who fought with great courage against the oppression and false promises of Mexicans, ecclesiastics and great Spanish landowners.

Among those recognized with the Maya Indigenous Medal of Merit were “Cecilio Chi” (Maya hero), and Crescencio Pat Cauich, a descendant of the great Maya warlord Jacinto Pat. In addition, the System of Charges of the Mayan Sanctuaries of Central Quintana Roo was also recognized as an intangible cultural patrimony of the state. This system of charges is installed through a permanent guard of the sanctuaries located in Tixcacal Guardia, Felipe Carrillo Puerto, and

Maya leaders of the Yucatan Peninsula fought with great courage against the oppression and false promises of Mexicans, ecclesiastics and great Spanish landowners.

Tulum, among others. It responds to a military organization, derived precisely from the nineteenth century during the war.

In Quintana Roo, the commoners among the Maya took refuge in the jungle. At that time, they took control of these lands, their milpas, their lives, their beliefs, their culture and their freedom.

Through this was born the Maya-Catholic cult of the Talking Cross, which was guarded in the sanctuary by a system of guards that continues today. This is the reason it has been distinguished with the appointment of patrimony.

To learn more, you must travel through the towns of Quintana Roo and its Maya Zone. For more information on the Caste War, I recommend reading Nelson Reed’s book: “The Yucatán Caste War”.

These Maya navigators had different types of canoes, according to whether they had to navigate by river or by sea, depending on the currents and obstacles. The canoes were made of hardwoods from a single trunk.

They marketed all kinds of goods like salt, grinding stones, cocoa, copper axes, metal products, ceramics, cotton fabrics and henequen. This included products from other cultures such as the Aztecs’ metal smelting instruments, thus proving contact between Mesoamerican peoples.

The Genoese explorer Christopher Columbus is said to have encountered a boat or “kayak” of Mayan traders near the Honduran coast during his fourth voyage.

The canoes measured the length of a Spanish galley, 2.5 meters wide with a cabin in the middle. There were 24 rowers led by a captain.

Religion was also an important aspect of their commercial activity. Large pilgrimages were made to the island of Cozumel to the sanctuary of the goddess Ixchel, in search of her protection and for good fortune in business.

Source: J. Sharer, Robert. The Mayan civilization. Fce. 1998. Mexico

Trading was executed via the Caribbean Sea / Photo: Wikipedia Commons/ogwen

August 16 - September 5 2017

DISCOVER MEXICO

9

Whale sharks and tourists in near Isla Mujeres / Photo: Florencia Cerutti

Wildlife is Worth More Alive than in Soup: The Whale Shark Case Whale sharks are now globally protected, mostly thanks to the understanding of their high value for the tourism industry

BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI

T

he first records of organized tourism with whale sharks are from Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia in the late 80s when local tour operators understood the seasonality and accessibility of whale shark aggregations. This animal is a shark and not a whale despite its name, and it is known to gather in some areas of the world where its main food source, plankton, also gathers. They are large animals reaching up to about 12 meters and weighing up to 21 tons! However, as they feed on tiny animals, they do not pose a threat to humans and tend to swim slowly while feeding. This is why whale shark tourism has become a success.

Many sharks are fished for liver-oil extractions, meat, and, more importantly, for their fins. Shark fins are used for a soup is these days a demanded dish in some Asian countries

Whale sharks can reach

12

meters

(almost 40 feet) & can weigh 21 tons and shark meat is consumed in many more countries and often sold as other fish. Sadly, sharks cannot keep up with intensive fisheries as they generally have very few pups, grow slowly and take many years to be able to reproduce. Whale sharks were fished too, but they are now globally protected, mostly thanks to the understanding of their high value for the tourism industry, alive rather than in

soup or as fish and chips.

Nowadays, there are many spots where we can find whale shark aggregations like around Holbox and Isla Mujeres in the Mexican Caribbean, the Gulf of California (conservation), Honduras, Belize, Seychelles, the Maldives, the Philippines (conservation), or Mozambique (conservation). These activities have slowly changed the livelihood, and thus the awareness, of local communities as many of them used to fish whale sharks. However, their conservation is still a challenge. Wildlife tourism can still have a negative impact when management is uninformed and ineffective; when the rules are biased towards the economic side of the business; and whenever the few rules that are in place are ignored. If you swim with these beauties this summer, I suggest you do check out some best practices online and do leave negative feedback on Tripadvisor of those companies that do not respect our beautiful and gentle giants.

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August 16 - September 5 2017

PUERTO VALLARTA

Paradise Yelapa A trip to secluded Yelapa means a close encounter with nature for Frank

Local taxi / Photo:

BY FRANK VAN DER BURGH

A

s Frank Underwood said in House of Cards: “The harder the climb, the better the view from the top.” When traveling the same thing is often true. The harder a destination is to reach, the more rewarding the place will be. One such place is Yelapa.

There are two things that make it great: first of all, technically, Yelapa is only accessible by boat, which cuts down on potential visitors.

Secondly, almost all tourists tend to go with a tour that visits only for an afternoon. All the more reason for me to spend the night in one of the hidden mountain retreats which remind you of the Hollywood movies.

In all aspects this is a place for relaxation. There is a waterfall (during rainy season) which is a short walk from the downtown area. Getting there is artfully explained

with the directions “go left at the place that sells micheladas.”

Due to the waves being towards the north side of the Bay of Banderas, the water is light blue and calm. Snorkeling is a lot more viable here than around the Puerto Vallarta area.

Around 4 p.m. when all the tour boats have left the bay, serenity returns.

When I visited, I watched a wild turtle slowly make its way out of the water. She began digging between beach beds; breathing, left foot, right foot and repeat. For 20 minutes, we watched this female turtle struggling until she closed the hole and patted the sand down for added protection.

While slowly making her way back to the beach, under a sun setting over the water, I came to the conclusion that I was in paradise. If you are looking to avoid the hordes of tourists this weekend, come out to Yelapa for a taste of its hidden natural beauty.

Technically, Yelapa is only accessible by boat / Photos: Frank van der Burgh

Gray whales can thrive in shallow water / Photo: Wikipedia Commons

The Gray Whale

BY FRANK VAN DER BURGH At the beginning of the year, I wrote about seeing whales in the Bay of Banderas. We are still waiting for them to return, as the season is generally between December and April. So while we wait, let me tell you about a special species that you can find around the Baja California area: the gray whale.

While their name is not as cool as the killer whale, do not underestimate these giants.

Once almost hunted to extinction, they are now thriving on the longest migration patch of all types of mammals. Gray whales swim from Arctic waters all the way south to the Pacific coast of Mexico.

One of the things that makes them so special is that they will only give birth in three locations in the world, all of which happen to be in Baja California. It is a long trip, but nonetheless worth it because the lagoons in the area are shallow and protected from the strong currents that are normally found in the Pacific. More importantly, the gray whale’s only predator, the orca, will not enter shallow water, thus leaving the babies free to learn the basics for survival.

As the only whale that can thrive in shallow water, it makes it easier for us

They will only give birth in three locations in the world and all three of them happen to be in Baja California.

to see them. Because of their migrating needs, they are almost impossible to contain for longer periods of time, hence you won’t see any of these in aquatic parks. A n interesting fact is that one beached herself in California, and was then was rushed to Sea World San Diego. After a year, she was released after outgrowing the facilities. At over 8,500 kilos and almost 10 meters long, she was the largest animal ever contained.

The best way to see them is to take small boats into the waters and experience their size, sounds and beauty from as close as the boats can go.

August 16 - September 5 2017

COZUMEL

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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 at # 499 Avenida 25 with 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 987 869 0826

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

Just Cruising around Cozumel

BY ZULMA RODRÍGUEZ ESQUIVEL When I first heard of the ‘Island of the Golondrinas’, I did not know that it was a reference to Cozumel; that is its meaning in Mayan.

Some years ago, Playa del Carmen was part of the Municipality of Cozumel. In 1570, the island was a haven for French, Spanish, and English pirates and corsairs, supplying water, food and a place to repair their caravels. In 1956, the island became famous thanks to René Cardona who showed its coral reefs to the world and began to reach lovers of diving. Today, this island is famous for the number of international cruise ships that dock in its harbors (Punta Langosta, Puerta Maya, Costa Maya, SSA México).

The ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel invites tourists to visit the plaza, restaurants, shops, bars, museums, but there are no beaches near the center at which to swim.

Walking along the harbor (malecón) is fantastic; there are no hotels blocking the

view, and it’s fun to watch the ferries coming and going, as well as the international cruise liners, and small tour and fishing boats. A frequent sound when walking the malécon is the crash of metal from the trucks loaded with oxygen tanks for diving, and even from military trucks with oxygen tanks for training.

My friends recommended a trip to Palancar, in the southwest, for the best beaches to snorkel or dive and marvel at the colorful tropical fish and calm waters. We rented a taxi to get to Palancar at 2 pm. During the journey one realizes that the island has miles of virgin jungle. Admission to the beach is free and there is a good restaurant for margaritas, beers, ceviche, fish fillet with garlic, shrimp cocktails, etc. Most of the beach clubs close at 5 pm and at Palancar they did, they closed the gate!

Our mistake will help other tourists, the best time to enjoy it is from 9 am to 5 pm. Enjoy a massage by the beach, or a nap in a hammock or just feel the fine white sand between your toes and delight at the horizon.

The view is always good in Cozumel / Photo: Zulma Rodríguez Esquivel

Consult an Attorney for Real Estate Transactions in Mexico

Photo:shutterstock

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By MexLaw

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here are many procedures to tackle before a foreigner becomes a property owner in Mexico; it can be a complicated, risky process. It is strongly recommended that the buyer hires a reliable law firm to guide them through the sale.

Who is involved in the purchase?

• The seller, their real estate agent, the buyer, and a benefactor who will be named in the fideicomiso as a substitute trustee in the event of death. Note: it is imperative to have a Mexican will as there are no rights of survivorship in Mexico.

• The notario público (notary public) is a licensed attorney, certified and appointed by the government to ensure the legality of the title deed transfer and registering the deed in the public registry. Note: the notary does not solely represent the buyer.

• The Trustee Bank is the Mexican bank au-

thorized by the federal government to act as trustee (fiduciario). As a fideicomiso property owner, you have all the rights and privileges of property ownership.

• The buyer’s lawyer: not only will the lawyers ensure your investment is secure, but they will do the leg work and deal with various government offices collecting and verifying certificates, documents and paying fees. Although the state property registries will issue certificates of no encumbrances, if a human error or discrepancy is found after the fact, the buyer will have no recourse. The lawyer’s due diligence will reveal any liens before hand; they will coordinate with the bank, the notary public, and review the seller’s documents, submit the permit to the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and ensure all documents are in order to complete the sale and deliver the title deed.

Read more about closing the deal www.mexlaw.ca

Sea turtles are peaceful animals / Photos: Xcaret

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Days of Whale Shark Tour Guide For many visitors to the Riviera Maya, swimming with whale sharks is the highlight of their trip. For David Rodríguez Pandilla, it was his daily routine.

BY IAN MACKENZIE

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first met David Rodríguez Pandilla two years ago, back when his job as a tour guide involved taking clients out to sea to swim with whale sharks. In this conversation with David, I asked him to share some of his experiences from 2015.

The Playa Times: David, walk me through a normal day for you as a whale shark guide.

David: Oh well, on a typical day, I would wake up at 4:00 am to meet the driver and pick up the passengers at their resorts.

After two hours of this we would arrive at the docks in front of Isla Mujeres and then go navigating for one hour to find whale sharks.

I would explain the process and nature of the whale sharks to the clients, and then we would start jumping off the boat and swimming with them. Afterwards, we’d stop at Isla Mujeres to relax for a while and grab a bite of ceviche before heading back to the docks in Cancún. Then we would do the drop offs, say goodbye and thank everyone for being such an important part of my day.

What is the most amazing thing you ever saw?

I often would get really amazed by the whale sharks. On some days

One time I was rammed by a whale shark. I ended up rolling all over the animal!”

David Rodríguez Pandilla, former whale shark tour guide

you would also see a lot of manta rays. One day I saw 20 manta rays in the water and 20 whale sharks in the surrounding area. I got so involved with the wildlife that I almost forgot about my 10 tourists getting seasick on the boat!

Tell me about one of the funniest things that happened on a tour.

One time I was rammed by a whale shark. I ended up rolling all over the animal!

Any tips for people?

My advice is do your best to prevent seasickness. Many people who do the whale shark encounter end up not enjoying their experience as much as they should. Also, trust your tour guide, follow the rules, and don’t try to touch the animal.

Don’t hesitate when jumping off the boat, just go for it! And enjoy the whole process of going out into the wild to meet the whale sharks.

David suggests ways to make the most of your whale shark experience - including listening to your guide! / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

August 16 - September 5 2017

CANCUN

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Café Tacvba: Live in Cancún!

BY ANDRÉS MENDOZA DEL VALLE III

Whale sharks can be spotted around Isla Contoy / Photo: Amigos de Isla Contoy AC

Whale Sharks Tours from Isla Mujeres

Café Tacvba is not the biggest Mexican rock band, but few others have the versatility of rhythms and the fanbase they have. With 30 years of career behind them, Cafe Tacvba has shaped Mexican popular culture. Their hits span generations, from the classic tunes of RE (1994) to their new material Jei Biebe (Hey Baby) released this year (I like the oldies better).

Everyone in Mexico knows who they are, and know at least one song, The frontman is a well-known Riviera Maya neighbor; people will randomly stop in the street to take pictures with him. Their music has been in movies and they are pretty famous outside Mexico too. They’ll be all over the USA as part of their Niu Gueis (New Ways) Tour before getting to Cancun. Just like that Tom Waits song, they are big in Japan too.

Whether or not you are familiar with their music, this is your chance to see a great show. They put on a fantastic live performance, always fun to watch, with masks and dance choreographies included.

Prepare to be surprised because their music is hard to describe — a mix of rock ‘n’ roll, Mexican folk music, ska, electronic pop, 80s disco, funk and experimental rock. They are a band for everyone, no matter the gen-

A short ferry ride from Cancun, the island is a comparable alternative to Holbox for whale shark tours

BY ANDRÉS MENDOZA DEL VALLE III

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s you probably know by now, the annual whale shark season put Holbox island in a serious predicament. Some public services collapsed, water supply included, so they have had to close access to the island until this gets fixed. They will also limit the tourist occupation, probably all summer long. But that doesn’t mean our chances to see these beautiful visitors (not you, the whale sharks) are over.

In January, one specimen was seen in Cancun, about 100 yards away from the coast, which is extremely rare. It was a completely free experience only a few paddle boarders had the luck to witness up close, and it’s not likely to happen again. Even though Holbox gets all the attention, lots of them can be spotted around Isla Contoy, due to its plankton concentration, and the best way to get there is to depart from Isla Mujeres.

Isla Contoy is a beautiful, small, inhabited island with a limited visitor capacity of only 200 a day. On my recent visit to Isla Mujeres (see The Playa Times past edition’s visit to Tortugranja), I saw many tours and options to swim with the whale sharks, from small boats to luxury catamarans. Some offer the full Isla Contoy trip that is totally worth it, in my opinion. One of the best is John Vater’s

Isla Contoy is a beautiful, small inhabited island with a limited visitor capacity of only 200 a day Ceviche Tours. After the Holbox incident, a trip departing from Isla Mujeres stands as the best option to experience this adventure. You can meet the shark and stay on the island or go back to Cancun and watch the Mayweather-McGregor fight at your favorite bar the very same day. (That night I’ll be in McCarthy’s pub, if you need me).

Isla Mujeres has a whale shark festival every year in July. 2017 was no exception; there was live music, art exhibitions, and everything you need to know about the biggest fish in the world, courtesy of Amigos de Isla Contoy. They know better than anyone about Isla Contoy, as they have been working for its conservation for over 20 years. Contact them if you want to know more: 998 884 7483 or islacontoy@live. com.mx @cevichetours / cevichetours.com whalesharkfest.com islacontoy.org

Photos: Yissel Alanis and Areli Equihua

Their music is hard to describe — a mix of rock ‘n’ roll, Mexican folk music, ska, electronic pop, 80s disco, funk and experimental rock der or age, no one is out of place at a Cafeta gig. Maybe bringing small children is not recommended because, due to their popularity, their concerts are big events of thousands of people. And they are long; they are known for multiple encores. I have seen them play for over three hours until people could dance no more.

Café Tacvba will be playing on Saturday, October 28 at the Autodromo de Cancun (south city limits) as part of their Niu Gueis Tour. Ticket prices and point sales will be revealed soon on their official social media; stay alert, a sold out gig is guaranteed! @cafetacvbaoficial

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TPT FOODIES

August 16 - September 5 2017

Chocolate Truffles a la Mexicana Toss the truffles in cocoa powder / Photo: pixabay.com/katetsib0

A sweet treat that requires little preparation and provides great pleasure

By Catherine Pawelek Ingredients (Makes about 25 truffles) • 315g 50 - 70% dark Mexican chocolate 2/3 cup heavy cream • 7g pure vanilla • ¼ teaspoon chipotle, minced • Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting Preparation Finely chop the chocolate and place in a large metal bowl. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring heavy cream, vanilla and chipotle to the boil. Turn the heat down, wait 10 seconds and bring to another rolling boil. Pour the mixture over the chocolate, mixing with a plastic spatula to make sure all chocolate has melted. It will look shiny.

Place in fridge for one hour till thickened.

Remove from fridge and using a teaspoon,

scoop about 14g of the chocolate, roll in palms (remember to wear gloves) to form nice little balls. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly round.

Toss the truffles in the cocoa powder so they look like their namesake, freshly dug from the earth. Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips Add a small pinch of sea salt, ground nuts or a squirt of dulce de leche.

Add a tablespoon of raspberry or orange liqueur.

Add a touch of rum extract and then roll in coconut flakes for a tropical flavor.

Roll them in powdered sugar.

If you do add a liquid, remember to adjust the heavy cream amount.

So many flavors….so little time.

August 16 - September 5 2017

TPT FOODIES

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Bronze Gin & Beer Music Bar

By Ian MacKenzie If you take a walk down Calle 38 from Fifth Avenue to the beach, you will find a bar and restaurant tucked in on the south side. It is a cocktail bar called Bronze with a particular specialty: gin.

On a warm summer evening, I sat down with owners Marcos and Martha to find out more.

Tell us about the concept behind Bronze.

Why the focus on gin?

We realized that there is a large market for gin. Just like vodka and whiskey attract certain specialty crowds, we feel that now is the time for this spirit. 18-25 year olds are enjoying gin and tonic, and it’s great for the weather here in Playa. We manage more than 23 brands of gin, and we are the first in Playa del Carmen with most varieties of gin and tonic. We have a lot of refreshing drink mixes that you can combine with natural fruit; all of the juices are made here.

What kind of experience does your staff bring?

Our first mixologist designed our menu. He used to work at Gin Gin, which is in Mexico City and is another gin-based concept bar. The idea was to have all-natural products, using lots of

Photo: Bronze Gin

fresh fruit, nothing artificial. This applies to all our drinks, whether mojitos or margaritas.

What kind of menu can visitors expect?

We have brochettes with Philadelphia cream cheese, tuna, arrachera and ceviche. We also have tacos arrachera. But our biggest sellers are our freshly-prepared burgers.

Do you have any discounts for Playenses?

Mondays are 2 X 1 for Playenses. We have a special for $120 consisting of pasta, with a gin and tonic. On Wednesdays, we have a pints for 120 and 45 peso beers.

How about a ladies night?

Yes, from 8-11 on Fridays there is an open bar for ladies.

Photo:Agency

What hours are you open?

We are open all week. Right now, we are open from 11 a.m to 1 a.m. On Fridays, we sometimes have DJs. We want Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays to have more movement, with more energetic music, so we invite everyone to come down and visit us.

For more information about Bronze, visit them on their Facebook page: Facebook/ bronzeplayadelcarmen

The Simply Irresistible

Señorita Margarita

By Catherine Pawelek • • • • • •

1 ½ oz tequila blanco 1 oz fresh lime juice ½ oz triple sec 2 lime wedges Salt Ice Moisten the rim of your rocks glass with a lime wedge. Place the salt on a shallow plate, then dip the glass to rim it in salt.

Fill a shaker 1/3 of the way up with ice, add the tequila, lime juice and triple sec.

Shake vigorously.

Pour the ingredients including the ice into the glass and garnish with the lime wedge.

Shoebox Bakery A labor of love has grown into a succesful local business for Mercedes Miatello

Salud!

HINTS Never use a pre-made Margarita or sweet and sour mix. Add 2 oz of fresh nectar of guanábana (soursop), prickly pear, pomegranate, starfruit, dragonfruit, papaya, mango, tamarind or passionfruit and wake up a humdrum margarita in a flash.

Make your next margarita a golden or cadillac by switching out tequila blanco with a reposado and, instead of using triple sec, use Grand Marnier or Cointreau.

Want to make a frozen version? Just place all ingredients in a blender and pour into a margarita glass.

BY CRYSTAL MITCHELL

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hen you walk into Shoebox bakery you will find it is as quaint as its name. From comforting quotes on the walls to gourmet yummies staring back at you from all sides, you will swoon, or at least your stomach will. Mercedes Miatello, from Argentina, has created a beautiful, homey environment where you want to sit down and eat those masterpieces made for the taste buds.

Mercedes Miatello has created a beautiful, homey environment where you want to sit down and eat those masterpieces made for the taste buds.

Gourmet yummies at Shoebox Bakery / Photo:Crystal Mitchell

Mercedes first found herself here 15 years ago, so she has grown up in Playa. Located in the plaza at Constituyentes and Avenue 10, it is an easy location from which to grow her already established clientele.

She began four years ago baking in the evenings when she got home from her full-time job. This wasn’t work for her because it was something she enjoyed. She picked up customers pre-ordering and requesting custom treats for themselves and for

events. The cute name came from her desire to stand out from the competition since she was just working out of her home. Her boyfriend, a graphic designer, created special boxes customized for the customer or event.

The idea came from a gift of shoes from New York where the box was almost cuter than the shoes themselves.

When she became pregnant, her desire to stay home during her pregnancy and with the baby nourished her other baby, her dream. She had time to market via her website and Facebook page and ask her customers to recommend her by word of mouth.

She was already known for her specialties from Argentina, Spain, France and other parts of Europe.

She wishes to create an ever-growing inventory which she alternates each day, including vegan for Fridays and gluten-free on various days. She says her main ingredient is love. You can feel that when you meet this charismatic owner and when you see the twinkle in her eye as she speaks about her specialties, especially her amazing cheesecake. She not only offers these to locals but also to tourists who come for an event or who want to send a special treat to family or friends they are visiting here. She loves to surprise with an unexpected custom delivery to a hotel for a special occasion!

Try her sweet beauties, such as vegan brownies, cream puffs, marmalades and even ice cream!

Check out her Facebook Fan Page Facebook/ShoeboxBakery or her website at http://www.shoebox.mx/

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August 16 - September 5 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

AUGUST 16 - SEP 5

2017

SPECIAL EVENT NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE, Wednesday, August 16 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The student will learn how to handle and use the digital camera, setting, light, composition and creativity to take photographs of natural diversity, flowers, plants, landscape, animals. It has 2 levels, 1 introductory to the use of the camera and the light and a second that offers different specializations like landscape, nature, animals. Requirements: camera preferably digital D-SLR (with DSLR

system) and possibility of shooting in manual and automatic. Have basic photography skills. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125. Facebook/NaturePhotographyCourse ORIGIN OF LIFE, Wednesday, August 16 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Dr. Antonio Lazcano Araujo has specialized in the study of the origin and early evolution of life, through the analysis of meteorites and experimental simulations of the prim-

itive Earth, as well as through the analysis of sequences of very ancient genes. Tickets for $40 mxn can be purchased at the planetarium box office from Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 6:40 pm. Only cash.

Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

Facebook/TheOriginofLife CELEBRATION OF PARTIAL SOLAR ECLIPSE, Monday August 21, 11:00 a.m. to Tuesday, August 22, 3:30 p.m. A full schedule of events with functions for children for $30 mxn and adults $50 mxn. Making the observation from the terrace is $20 mxn.

Event is subject to weather conditions.

Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

Facebook/AugustSolarEclipseEvent THAI FOOD FESTIVAL, Thursday, August 24 7:00 p.m. to August 27 10:00 p.m. Authentic Thai food and delicacies prepared by internationally acclaimed Chef Renu, will be paired with fabulous wines and spirits, all in a unique setting of unaltered relaxation and bliss. Banyan Tree Mayakoba Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/ThaiFoodFestival LIVING FLOORS, Saturday, August 26 from 10:00 a.m. to Sunday, August 27 at 2:00 p.m. Directed to the general public who have Organic Gardens or gardens, who wish to nurture and regenerate their soils in an ecological way and increase their productivity and health. To recover or increase the fertility of the soil, applying organic farming methods, allowing a dynamic balance in the microbial biodiversity of this and that is reflected in the health and productivity of the garden or garden. $1,000 mxn for the workshop cost and $50 0 m xn fo r m ate r i als .

Co n tact porlatierramoceyax@gmail.com or 984-169-3926. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.Facebook/LivingFloorEvent

CANCUN JAZZ FESTIVAL, Friday, September 1 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Check http://cancunjazz.com/ for details. Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya Federal highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 72 Facebook/CancunJazzFestival MAYAKOBA MIXOLOGY & TOSTADAS WITH TEQUILA PATRON, Thursday, August 17 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 FARMERS MARKET, Sunday, August 27 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 (CHILDREN) Thursday, August 31, from 7:00p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Outdoor movie night presenting “Smurfs the Lost Village”. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba PUERTO MORELOS ONE MONTH ASHTANGA YOGA AND SACRED RITUALS, starting Sunday, August 20 from 7:30 a.m. This workshop will include daily Traditional Ashtanga (except Mondays) and Pranayama Practices, Philosophy of the System of Ashtanga Yoga and initiation to Sanskrit, Sutras chanting and special mantras, Raw Food Diet, Kirtan with collaboration of Michael Stewart, Temazcal and other sacred ceremonies of purification.

Contact Facebook page for details and cost.

One Breath of Yoga Shala, Calle 2 Zona Urbana, MZ 13, Lote 1, Puerto Morelos. Facebook/ OneMonthAshtanga

Playa del Carmen’s Newly Opened Frida Kahlo Museum Enjoy a few hours of culture diversion and celebrate the life and work h_ hg^ h_ F^qb\h l Zkmblmb\ `^fl Zm mabl k^\^gmer bgZn`nkZm^] o^gn^

Building Bridges, Not Walls The John Welsh Bank / Photo: Courtesy of Hype Music

BY NASH An artist who broke with convention / Photo: The Playa Times

By Erika Serra

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he second museum in the world dedicated to Frida Kahlo opened in Playa del Carmen on Sunday, July 30. The museum uses technology to connect the public to Frida through immersive sensory experiences, interactive displays, projections and video mapping. The images you see in her paintings are circulating the world; 14 works at a time will be displayed on a rotational basis, as in her lifetime she painted more than 150 works of art.

We live in Fridamania times, but how much do we really know about her? How much have we explored the intimate universe of the woman who contributed such unique work to the world of art?

Alejandro Tamayo, president of the Frida Kahlo Riviera Maya Museum, says that “there

is no separation between the personal life and the work of Frida, as it is impossible to understand an artist without integrating her experiences.” Visitors to the museum will not only discover the story of her pain, but also encounter her formidable rebelliousness and the universe that she experienced in both body and soul.

The museum was built and financed with private funds and with contributions from Mexican entrepreneurs who invest in culture.

Alejandro states that the main objective is to show the world Frida as a woman - “No sugarcoating or off-limit issues, just the woman who never feared breaking with convention.”

Where: Calle 8 with 5th avenue.

Open every day of the year from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm.

Cost: $15 (USD) for foreigners, 50% for locals and special prices for nationals.

Canadian recording artist John Welsh recently stopped in Playa del Carmen for a rest after a five-day press tour of Mexico City. It included 35 interviews with some of the biggest media outlets in the country. The Abbotsford, BC-based musician was in Mexico to promote his new album Vamonos Mi Chica! which was released in Canada in May. It debuted #2 in the Canadian iTunes World Music Charts.

Mexico has fallen in love with this band thanks to their music video Sayulita, which has gone viral on Facebook with over 1 million views since April. Their album is a perfect mix of both English and Spanish lyrics, blending reggae and Latin music with a healthy dose of upbeat folk and rock. Fans in this country appreciate that it shows Mexico and its people in a positive, happy way, without mentioning the troubles with Donald Trump. John quotes Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau when he says “We are building bridges, not walls.”

John is a fluent Spanish speaker. At the age of 19, he spent six months learning the language in Guatemala and later perfected the language with Mexican friends at university. The Mexican media were pleasantly surprised when he spoke Spanish.

The band performs at musical festivals in Canada and the US, but thanks to their new fans in Mexico, they hope to tour here shortly.

John is influenced by artists like Rastrillos (a Mexican reggae band), Gypsy Kings, Bob Marley, Sublime, and musician Manu Chao.

The John Welsh Band’s percussionist Courage Eigbike has also influenced the band by bringing West African vibes to the group. Together they bring their version of world music to audiences all over North America. The John Welsh Band are committed to making music that makes people sing along and dance, regardless of language. “It is about bringing all ages and cultures together,” said Welsh.

We look forward to seeing the band on tour in Mexico next year. Until then, put a smile on your face by checking out their tunes.

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ENTERTAINMENT

August 16 - September 5 2017

Love Is in the Air An interview with The Lovers duo, Thompson Robles and Alejandra de Garay

Thompson Robles and Alejandra de Garay. / Photo: Dolla Photography (Noe Menéndez)

BY TEENA CLIPSTON

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resh, colorful, funky, jovial, and unique describes The Lovers, a duo performing fresh versions of grooves and great hits of funk, soul, blues and rock. This unique band also brings a perfect vibe to the beach, as their love comes through their music and seemingly makes everyone around them smile.

The couple who fell in love in Playa del Carmen bring their romance to the forefront with their musical collaboration in The Lovers – Thompson Robles on vocals and guitar and Alejandra de Garay on vocals and drums.

Teena: What is it like to be working with the person you are in a relationship with? Is it always love and romance? Do you always agree on everything?

Alejandra: It’s wonderful, music brings us closer as a couple. We understand each other and love each other more. Of course, like all relationships we have disagreements.

Actually sometimes we even have disagreements backstage, but then, right after we are smiling and forgetting. We have never been apart from one another more than one day or in a fight for more than two minutes. It’s a very healthy and creative relation-

ship. We enjoy working and playing together, we have a great chemistry.

It’s a unique love, I never get bored of sharing life and music with him.

What is one thing you can tell us about Alejandra that makes you crazy in love with her?

Thompson: How much fun she is, her charisma, transparency, her talent and how spontaneous she is living life with joy and love. The fact that she is unique.

Was it love at first sight?

Alejandra: The first time we met we had a couple of drinks together and I left without saying goodbye. Tom didn’t know if it had been a dream or reality.

What attracted you to Thompson?

Alejandra: I was attracted by his charisma. I remember I had asked the universe for someone like him, and one month later, we found each other and it all began.

It is very unique to see a woman singing and playing drums at the same time. Why did you choose to be a drummer?

Alejandra: Yes, it’s hard to find a female drummer, and even more a female drummer that sings. The drums are a tough instrument, and sometimes painful when you have many shows in a row. It’s tiring to do both things at the same time, but I suffer for the love of the music. I started playing the drums because I wanted to start a female band, and I couldn’t find a female drummer.

Years ago I had an original music project in Mérida in which we were all women, that’s when my career as a drummer started.

I have seen your music video of your Mustang Sally cover, very creative!, as well as your photos, and other media that includes posters. You have a unique image and it is portrayed very well in everything you do. Not many musicians take care of this aspect of their business. Do you do create your own promotions? Where is the inspiration coming from?

How are the ideas formed?

Thompson: We do everything we can to give people the best of us. Ale is in charge of making the flyers, and video editing. I help by shooting video, and the creative instrumental aspect. Ale also makes

the outfits for our shows and promotions. It is a great collaboration between the two of us.

Tell us about the music you play.

Thompson: Some of our favorite songs include: You Really Got Me, Man’s World, House of the Rising Sun and Personal Jesus. But we enjoy all of our repertoire. We make a selection, and then transform it into our own style. But we are also playing several of our original songs in our live shows. We hope to enter the studio at the end of this year. W e are also making live session home videos. Live videos! As for sound, we don’t have a defined sound, because of our diverse musical tastes. We are inspired by many artists, James Brown, Michael Jackson, Little Richard, Queen, Nirvana, Pink Floyd, Amy Winehouse, and The Beatles, to name just a few.

Check The Lovers out Every Friday at 9:00 p.m. at Merendero Surf on Fifth Avenue between Calles 30 and 32.

Every Saturday at 8:30 p.m. at Zero Zero on 38th Avenue between First Ave and Flamingos.

Follow them on Facebook and YouTube @theloversduo, Instagram @theloversduoo, and on Soundcloud Alejandra de garay/theloversduo.

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.

Introducing Pedro Castillo

BY GINGER M.

Turning Hotels and Vacation Rentals into an All-Inclusive Property ASAP Playa was founded in 2014 by a young married couple who met in Jerusalem.

Abby and Shay visited the Riviera Maya on their honeymoon and fell in love with Playa. Abby remembers, “We rented an amazing beach-front apartment, and we never wanted to leave. However, there were not any services included, so we had to figure out for ourselves where to eat, where to buy groceries, and which tours to go on.” That is when they came up with the idea for ASAP (All Services At Property).

ASAP has become a model in the customer service arena, setting new and higher standards for vacations. They offer an all-inclusive vacation service operating 24/7, providing their guests with a variety of food assembled into one unique and colorful menu and accompanied by high-end premium liquors and wine selection. Deliveries are made on demand making wishes come true day or night. ASAP delivers tours and attractions information and tickets by a team of Riviera Maya tours experts. They can also provide relaxing and refueling massages and

beauty treatments by a professional and certified team of masseurs and cosmeticians.

Traveling with your family? ASAP also has a team of English-speaking au pairs, babysitters, and other unique services for traveling with a family. They can also offer a full cleaning service package including housekeeping and cooking, house cleaning, laundry and dry cleaning.

For those who are traveling with a pet, ASAP offers a pet-friendly service by providing general information about pets in Playa del Carmen, food and accessories delivery, and a veterinary service.

ASAP operates an information call center to provide information 24 hours a day for its guests.

ASAP Playa offers a high standard premium vacation service for tourists, hotels, and vacation rentals owners.

In light of the high demand, ASAP will be opening a branch in Tulum in the near future.

For more information about ASAP playa, please visit our Facebook page: Facebook/asaplaya

Have you ever heard the name, ‘Pedro Castillo’? If you have read my articles, you definitely have!

Pedro represents Mimosa Resto & Canteen at Playa del Carmen. He has been living in Playa del Carmen for almost five years. He is originally from the state of Quintana Roo, but has lived in various locations around the globe. When I asked Pedro what he does in life, he answered, “This is one of the most annoying questions I have to answer, because people think I’m lying! I’ll start with the basics. I work in the hotel industry as a manager of spas. I own Style Studio (beauty salon), Bridal Studio (make-up service) and to put a cherry on top, I work in Mimosa, the new gay bar of Playa del Carmen.” Pedro is definitely a guy in demand!

Mimosa is officially a gay bar for those who don’t know yet. “The story of Mimosa is that I was born gay, but I was in the closet more or less for the first few months of working with them (Mimosa). I refused to say I was gay but 90% of our clientele is from the community, so I decided to get out of the labor closet and hang the flag. In the end, it is a bar and everyone is welcome. We just want the customers to be comfortable and feel at ease!”

I asked Pedro what is his role in the gay community. “From the age of 15, I knew that something was different and immediately expressed it to the person I care about the most, my mother. As a result, I have been involved in the LGBT community of Playa del Carmen through Mimosa and I can tell you that it is something that I will never let go of.

Pedro is a guy in demand! / Photo: Pedro Castillo

I believe this generation is very lucky with the work and devotion of older LGBT leaders but nevertheless, it is still an ongoing fight and we need to keep contributing to keep evolving.”

Pedro and Mimosa invite you to like their Facebook page to know all about their menu and next events.

Facebook/mimosaplaya/

August 16 - September 5 2017

HEALTH

21

Choosing Cruelty-Free Cosmetics

BY SARA JONES

We know it’s hard but you CAN do it! / Photo: Pixabay

Four Ways to Start Exercising

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BY SARA JONES

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unning, walking, weight training, swimming, cycling, yoga, tai chi, volleyball, basketball - the options for exercise are endless. The best thing you can do is to find a form of exercise that you love, and then start moving!

• Doing Something Is Better Than Nothing. Get 30 to 60 minutes of exercise, three to five days a week and you will see an increase in your energy levels.

At the same time, you will be preventing disease and building lean muscle mass. If you can only do three times a week, remember three is better than nothing. If you only have 10 or 15 minutes, you will still get the benefit and feel better afterward. Here in Playa, we have one of the easiest and best activities right on our doorstep. Who doesn’t love a walk on the beach?

• Keep Track Of Your Activity. You can track your activity with a pedometer, fit band or the activity tracker on your phone that counts your steps in the background.

Once you are monitoring your exercise and activity on a daily basis and setting targets, you are bound to start increasing week by week.

• Strength Training. Lean muscle mass burns more calories. The more you have, the faster your metabolism will be.

Strength training doesn’t mean you have to join a gym or buy equipment for lifting weights. By using just your bodyweight and

perhaps a resistance band you can exercise your whole body. There are even apps with seven-minute workouts you can try. Who doesn’t have seven minutes a day?

We have the easiest and one the best activities right on our doorstep. Who doesn’t love a walk on the beach?

• Don’t Forget Your Core. Core training and balancing exercises strengthen your internal muscles to protect your spine and prevent back injuries. Change your exercise routine to challenge both strength and balance by incorporating one-legged balances in the warm up and some abdominal exercise like crunches, reverse crunches and twists at the end.

Don’t worry about what you look like. Yes, it is hot and humid outside. Embrace it, sweat and most importantly, have fun!

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

In this day and age there is really no need for cosmetics companies to test on animals. With today’s technology, in-vitro testing and cultured-tissue testing are perfectly viable and often advantageous methods for ensuring the safety of cosmetics.

There are many great brands that are now cruelty free-literally thousands! Therefore you should not be hindered by lack of availability, as may have been the case in the past. Choosing where you spend your money, and purposefully selecting cruelty-free cosmetics brands will encourage more companies to adopt these practices.

Many governments around the world are now banning the practice of animal testing for cosmetics, including the European Union, India, Norway and Switzerland. Unfortunately the US and Mexico do still allow testing.

Here are 10 top brands that still test on animals according to PETA.org: • Avon • Benefit • Clinique • Cover Girl • Estee Lauder • L’Oréal (who also own Kiehl’s, Maybelline and Lancôme) • Makeup Forever • Maybelline • OPI • Victoria’s Secret To ensure you are buying cruelty-free cosmetics, look for the Leaping Bunny, Cruelty Free and Not Tested on Animals logos. You can also search through thousands of brands

of cruelty-free cosmetics on the PETA database here: http://features.peta.org/cruelty-free-company-search/index.aspx Here are 10 top brands that DO NOT test on animals: • Aveda • Bare Minerals • Bath & Body Works • Jane Iredale • Lush • NYX (Owned by L’Oréal) • The Body Shop (Owned by L’Oréal) • Too Faced (Owned by L’Oréal) • Urban Decay (owned by Estee Lauder) • Wet N Wild Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

Look for the leaping bunny logo / Photo: Pixabay.com/ Clker-Free-Vector-Images

22

ANIMAL WELFARE

August 16 - September 5 2017

Ten Interesting Whale Sharks Facts

By Nash

A friendly giant closeup! / Photo: Pixabay.com/simonesaponetto

Choosing a Responsible

Whale Shark Tour Not all tours providers are the same; ensure you select one that respects the sharks, the environment and you!

BY NASH

W

hale shark tours have become increasingly popular here in the Riviera Maya. If you are hoping to see these friendly giants up close, you need to do some research to find the right tour company.

What to look for in a whale shark tour company: • Seek out a tour operator who genuinely respects the environment and is aware of the impact we have on the ocean.

Are they eco-conscious?

• Make sure the tour company is authorized by the Mexican government.

• Safety: Are there emergency procedures in place? Do the guides and captain have first aid training and certification?

Choose a tour company that is connected to the mainland

via GPS or radio.

• The boat must be well maintained.

• Bilingual guides for safety purposes; you need to understand and follow your guide’s instructions.

• What experience and certifications do the guides have?

Do they attend continuous refresher courses?

• Ask if the company carries liability insurance.

• Is the tour company committed to raising awareness?

Are they involved in other projects focused on protecting the species?

• Do they offer small tour groups? Not only will this enhance your trip, but it is better for the whale sharks as well.

• Do they offer remote locations for an intimate encounter with the whale sharks?

• Do they limit the number of snorkelers in the water at

one time?

• Is the tour all-inclusive of transportation, food, beverages, life jackets, and snorkeling equipment?

• As part of a conservation measure, the number of tour operators authorized by the Mexican government is limited. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.

• What is their policy on cancellations? Of course, they can not guarantee you will see the sharks, but if they cancel, what recourse do you have?

• Are other activities included in the tour? Will you have the opportunity to explore other natural wonders of Mexico?

1. A whale shark’s life span is estimated to be 70 to 100 years.

2. They do not reach sexual maturity until they are 30 years of age.

3. These majestic giants are not whales at all, they are sharks. In fact, they are the largest fish in the world; larger than the mighty great white shark, but not as terrifying.

4. The wide flat body of the whale shark is dark blue-gray with patterned speckles and a white underbelly with unique spotting which provides camouflage underwater.

5. They are massive. Like all big fish tales, there are rumors of a whale shark measuring 60 feet long. According to the Shark Research Institute, the largest whale shark is confirmed at 40 feet long, caught in India.

6. They are passive, gentle creatures. Even their feeding method is passive; swimming with their mouth wide open, they feed on plankton, krill, squids, jellyfish, and crabs, and other small schooling fish. Their food is processed by a filter organ. It is a mystery why they have several thousand teeth.

7. Whale sharks are solitary animals but will gather and travel to feeding grounds together.

8. They give birth to live offspring. According to the Shark Research Institute, a Taiwanese fisherman once caught a female shark, and her uteruses contained about 300 embryos, which proved the eggs are hatched inside and born live. After mating, a female can save sperm and stagger the fertilization of her eggs.

9. Whale sharks travel in open tropical oceans around the world. Between June and September, they can be seen in Caribbean waters of Quintana Roo. 10. The whale shark is considered endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The major threats to their survival include the fishing industry, bycatch injuries and death, vessel collisions and careless tourism.

Source: www.sharks.org

Once you have chosen the perfect tour company, enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your guide will provide strict rules regarding swimming with the sharks, as well as a safety briefing before you hit the water.

Whale sharks are passive, gentle creatures / Photo: Pixabay.com/JimmyDominico

The Snoopi Project The Snoopi Project’s mission is to provide shelter from the harsh elements, in the form of a dog house for pets whose owners may not otherwise be able to afford one. This nonprofit organization has already improved many lives.

The Snoopi Project began in July 2015.

Since then they have delivered 389 dog houses,

sterilized 242 animals, and rescued and rehomed 61 dogs. They’ve treated eight dogs for TVT (transmissible venereal tumor) which includes 6-10 weeks of chemotherapy, vaccinated 15 puppies against the deadly distemper virus and built also puppy enclosures. The Snoopi Project has helped countless owned pets by providing assis-

tance with medical treatment, food, shelter and sterilization. All of this has been made possible through donations.

If you would like to follow this amazing project or make a donation so they may continue to help animals and the community, visit Facebook/The Snoopi Project- Riviera Maya