Edition 80 by theplayatimes

B i w e e k l y · Yea r 03 · N u m b e r 8 0 · 2 0,0 0 0 c o p i e s · 2 4 P a g e s · M a r c h 2 - 1 5 , 2 0 1 6

S MAP

Xcacel:

Paradise Found

theplayatimes.c o m

IDE

This picture-perfect turtle sanctuary offers a beautiful day on an unspoiled beach difficult to find in the ever-expanding Riviera Maya. Find out more about how to get there, what to expect, and meet its little brother, Xcacelito

INS

Rock On!

Live Music in Playa

>P. 9 >P. 16

Coco´s Animal Welfare New Clinic

>P. 22

ce Xc a

lit o

Photo: The Playa Times

C e n o te

ART & CULTURE

· DISCOVER MEXICO

M AYA A L M I G H T Y

BEACH LIFE 5 THINGS YOU´RE DOING WRONG

RIVIERA HIGHLIGHTS

>P. 21

Photo: vwww.islacontoy.org

Photo: Wikimedia commons

Isla Contoy and Tulum

In this edition, meet the god, Hunab Ku in the first article in our new multi-part series exploring Maya gods and beliefs

Whether you are headed north or south, check out our Map section for these great places to visit in the Riviera Maya

We asked some locals what they think you could do differently while vacationing in the Mexican Caribbean

>P. 11, 14

>P. 7

March 2 - 15 2016

>Editorial DIRECTORY Javier Escalante Managing Director javier@meridianmedia.mx

Rebecca Page Editor edition@meridianmedia.mx

Edgar E. Mena Copy Editor copyeditor@meridianmedia.mx

Efrén Velázquez Art & Design design@meridianmedia.mx

Fabián Muñoz Key Account Manager Cell: 984 179 2110 ventas@meridianmedia.mx

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

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

BY REBECCA PAGE

Karla Mora

Sales Executive Cell: 984 142 1637 Promopack@meridianmedia.mx

laya is gearing up for what is perhaps the busiest week of the year, Semana Santa (Holy Week). This is a very popular vacation week for tourists from all over Mexico and Playa will see an influx of visitors from places like Mexico City (DF) and Monterrey. High seasons in a tourist town are a double edged sword. Places like Playa del Carmen and Tulum rely heavily on tourists dollars. Most of us who live here, Mexicans and foreigners, look forward to high season because it means we will be busy with work, making money to save for low season when visitors drop off, and so do the tips. However, we also dread more people in our town, our beaches, our bars. Mexicans who live here complain about the Chilangos from DF

Milton Rosel Distribution Supervisor distribution@meridianmedia.mx

on their beaches just like Vermonters complain about the New Yorkers on their ski slopes. As the region’s popularity continues to grow and the towns grow along with it, we will see more people visiting and more of our secret places discovered. Akumal was one of those secret places we all thought we knew about long before anyone else. Over the years, we have seen it go from a great little spot to snorkel quietly with turtles to a tourist money making machine that puts the turtles at risk. As we go to print, the most recent news from Akumal is that SEMARNAT (Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources) will declare Akumal a turtle sanctuary. We hope this will finally provide the fragile reef system and the turtles the protection they need. Xcacel, like Akumal, was our secret spot, but word got out, and now

Photo:The Playa Times

Paradise Shared

Erika Serra

more people are discovering this beautiful piece of paradise. The differences between Akumal and Xcacel are many. Protected as a turtle sanctuary since 1998, Xcacel is not available for development by big hotels. There are no turtles to snorkel with (it´s a nesting area). There are no restaurants or bars. It does, however, still need our protection as visitors and there are things we can do to minimize our impact on the environment, like pack in what you pack out and limit your interactions with wildlife. As much as we complain about the number of people in our bar, on our beach, or in our town, we need to remind ourselves that we were all visitors here once. We all had a hand in the development of this region and the popularity of our favorite spots. Our hope is that more areas will get protection before they need it.

@ThePlayaTimes 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: Plaza Paseo Coba, 2do piso local 301, Playacar fase II, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710. Impreso en talleres Grupo Megamedia Prolongación de Montejo número 301, entre 40 y 42, fraccionamiento Campestre, Mérida, Yucatán. Distribuidor: Meridian Media, S.A. de C.V., Plaza Paseo Coba, 2do piso local 301, Playacar fase II, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710.

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Photo: Wikimedia commons

By Melissa Robles

Archeological Site Charges

Cancun Airport Update

f you are planning to visit any of the archeological sites in Quintana Roo and want to take video with your cell, camera, or tablet, be prepared to pay an additional fee of 45 pesos. Access with the devices is not restricted, but visitors are asked if they wish to take videos. If you respond affirmatively, you will need to make one payment, it doesn’t matter how many cameras you wish to use. Adriana Velázquez Morlet, director of Centro INAH Quintana Roo, indicated that if the tourist doesn’t wish to record videos, they can still enter with their electronic device. This measure is an adjustment to the new technologies that people have at their disposal, which is an update from the “permission to use a videocamera” which was authorized by the tax authorities (Hacienda) for the INAH 25 years ago.

ancun International Airport, operated by Aeropuertos del Sureste (ASUR), will be the first in the country to have 4 terminals. This year alone, it is expected to transport 20 million passengers. The capacity of terminal 3 was increased by 30 percent, as was the main runway of terminal 2. The work was done for the annual growth of more than 12 percent in passenger transit, said Manuel Gutiérrez Sola, commercial director of ASUR. As the Mexican Caribbean is a tourist destination, the priority is to increase capacity for terminal 4 to 7 million additional passengers in 2017 with an investment of 2.3 million pesos. It will have platforms, walkways, and parking. Semarnat also authorized ASUR to build a hotel inside the airport which will have 126 rooms and cost 70.5 million pesos.

Punto 115 located on the Arco Vial / Photo: Punto 115

Punto 115 Opens

on West Side For those of us that live on the ”other” side of highway, we are thrilled to see new restaurants and bars opening that offer an alternative to Centro

Photo: The Playa Times

Photo: Wikimedia commons

BY MELISSA ROBLES

Xel-Ha Modernization

Playa North End Continues to Grow

ith a total of 35 million pesos, Xel-Ha aquatic park is hoping to modernize and bring new attractions, like underwater sculptures. The promoters of Grupo Xcaret filed the Environmental Impact Statement with SEMARNAT. In this project, wells, tunnels, a lazy river and toboggan will be installed. The project called Kaanah will be located within 100 meters of the mangroves, which is why they will work with CONANP (National Commission of Natural Protected Areas) for its approval. The total surface affected is 7,130 square meters. Necessary actions for preparation of the site will include cleaning and clearing the land. The Regional Environmental System contains ocelots, which are a species in danger of extinction. Xel-Ha is located approximately 48 km south of Playa del Carmen between Akumal and Tulum and is part of Grupo Xcaret that also includes Xcaret, Xplor, Xichen, Xenotes, and Xoximilco.

By Catherine Pawelek

laya´s north end continues to grow and has expanded well past 34th. Just past La Bodeguita del Medio on the corner of 34th is the once-again busy, San Pedro Plaza. Keep walking and you will find Club de la Cerveza, Salt Rock Grille + Cocktails and on the corner of Calle 38, the sweet shop Douceurs de France. Just past 38th, don’t miss the second location of Hijos de la Tostada, as well as, the area’s third Ah Cacao, the Pig and Cock Rotisserie and boutiques like Jula-Luma, La Peregrina and Hector. The block is rounded out with Hot, Burritos Factory and Steel Horse, where, if you feel the need for speed, you can rent a Harley. Heading north, the restaurants continue with De Local (Argentinean and Pizza) and El Güero (Seafood). Stop in across the way to peruse Quinta Hacienda and Art Gallery’s unique items or for an espresso at Tiramisu.

new option for nightlife can be found at Punto 115 Centro Gastronomico, located on the Arco Vial and Avenida Petempich, on the outside of the Los Olivos neighborhood. It officially opened in December, but four of the eight businesses located there will have their grand opening shortly.

We offer an excellent environment and the chance to enjoy a good dinner and drink at an affordable price. The concept is something that was missing, to have options for locals that were affordable. José Antonio Ceballos Guerrero, manager of La Inombrable Cantina

The owners and tenants are hoping to make the location a focal point of the area, as a meeting place for both adults and young people who are looking for a place to relax and have fun. It opens at noon and receives

most visitors at night. It is located two minutes from Cruz Servicios, an area which the government hopes will become a new entertainment and social center in the city. José Antonio Ceballos Guerrero, manager of La Inombrable Cantina, shared that the residents in the area have reacted very positively to the idea of a culinary center. ¨We offer an excellent environment and the chance to enjoy a good dinner and drink at an affordable price. The concept is something that was missing, to have options for locals that were affordable,” he said. “On Sundays lots of families and young people are coming, those between 25 and 35”, he added. Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest days. The house specialty is the La Inombrable cocktail, which has mezcal, chile ancho liqueur, passion fruit, and a touch of cinnamon. Manager of the Drinkería by Henry Miller, Jonathan Rodríguez, explained that the lower floor is a relaxed environment while the upper floor is meant for parties and nightlife. Sonia Juárez, a client of the locale, celebrated the fact that there is an option for locals. “Quinta Avenida is incredible but very loud, and it is totally saturated by tourists. This is a good option to have”. Other restaurants that are already in operation at the locale are Don Sirloin and Soiree while Las Helodias and La Piola will open soon.

March 2 - 15 2016

NEWS IN BRIEF

What is Going on in Akumal? The confusing battle for beach access rights continues BY MELISSA ROBLES

ourists have been going to Akumal for years to snorkel with the sea turtles that feed on the seagrass in the bay. Over the past few years, it seems that the number of tourists and tour groups has exploded, and tour groups, hotel owners, and the local people living in Akumal have been fighting over beach access rights. Now that fight is directly impacting tourism. The Akumal Ecological Center (CEA), has been in a dispute with local boating service providers and locals for years, which has intensified recently for control of the area and beach access. Residents of Akumal blocked the federal highway recently to stop tourists from going to the beach, which according to businesses created a loss of more than 15 million pe-

sos. They also tore down a metal fence and a bust honoring Gonzalo Guerrero. The CEA has previously been accused of demanding up to a $20 USD donation per person to local cooperatives that would allow entrance to the bay. Fernando Gamboa, representative of the Neighborhood Association of Akumal, explained that the community is united to confront the CEA. “I doubt that we will be able to come to an agreement with them, and we will have to denounce them, but as a community, not individually.” He reminded us that the access has been free for more than 40 years and is not subject to modification. “By law, the community access has become a right, they can’t stop people from going to the beach. On January 20, 1995, the Diario Oficial published that Mr. Pablo Bush, now deceased, left entry free to the public”.

Becoming a Naturalized Mexican Through Residency By MexLaw irst, a slight clarification to last week´s chart regarding temporary vs. permanent residency. The last benefit to permanent residency described permanent status as a good stepping stone to becoming a naturalized citizen. In the Notes column, we were not clear that the word ¨it¨ referred to naturalization or citizenship, not permanent residency. In other words, naturalization or citizenship allows holders to terminate a fideicomiso trust, not permanent residency. The process of “naturalization” or “citizenship” is optional for foreigners who demonstrate legal residence in Mexico for at least the last five consecutive years prior to the application date. Additionally, two years prior to your application you should have not been out of Mexico for more than 180 days.

There are a number of benefits to Mexican naturalization including: Buying property in restricted areas in your name without the need of a trust (fideicomiso). The possibility of dissolving a trust (fideicomiso) and having a rewritten title deed in your name. The right to vote in Mexico. No need to inform the National Institute of Immigration (INM) of every move, or job change. Avoid having to pay for changes in immigration status and/or renew your visa each year. Shorter wait time in immigration lines at Mexican airports.

Having dual citizenship and being able to get a Mexican passport (some countries do not allow dual citizenship, but the U.S., Canada and most European and Latin American countries do). It is important to keep in mind that once you obtain Mexican citizenship, your consulate can no longer provide consular protection while you are in Mexico. In the case you find yourself involved in any issues with the authorities, you will be treated as a Mexican citizen, and you cannot rely upon your home country’s consulate to support you. You should also check with a financial adviser about the implications that your naturalization may have on your personal and business tax affairs. In part two in our next edition, we will discuss the requirements for obtaining citizenship.

Photo: The Playa Times

However, according to the CEA, the Director of Urban Development doesn’t acknowledge public access. “It has never been closed. Informal vendors have been asked to use the main entrance, and the old road is only for residents of Akumal,” explained spokesperson Rafael Perucho.

Tourists, as always, are passing through without anyone stopping them, those stopped were vendors and those destroying property,” CEA spokesman, Rafael Perucho The closure of the main entrance provoked losses to legally established businesses and restricting free entrance and exit for

Access to the beaches of Akumal are in dispute / Photo: The Playa Times

visitors, blocking tourists who were trying to get to the airport, as well as people who were stuck for hours. While the blockades have been lifted it appears that the dispute will be ongoing and fought in the courts, not just on the streets.

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March 2 - 15 2016

Jaime Valenzuela and Jim Close / Photo: OL Store Weber/Jaime Valenzuela

PDC Smoked Meats The Tradition Lives On While the popular store has closed up shop in Playa, Jim Close is passing his expertise over to Jaime Valenzuela at OL Store Weber BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

t was a sad holiday season when this past fall we heard that Jim Close and his family were going to shutter their PDC Smoked Meats store in Playa del Carmen. After years of supplying the community with in-house smoked meats, handmade sausages and more, we were despairing on where we were going to get our next bratwurst, Canadian bacon and pastrami. Then, a white knight came to the rescue - Jaime Valenzuela, owner of OL Store Weber. We had a chance to hear from Jaime about his plans to continue the tradition that Jim brought to the area, as well as how he landed in Playa after living in Cuernavaca and Mexico City. “My background is in finance, accounting and I worked for seven years for Grupo Bimbo’s world operations, I came to Playa del Carmen looking for a place full of opportunities and development and opened the OL Store Weber in 2009.” Jaime shared with us that besides selling smokers and grills, he is also a distributor of Kobe Beef and CAB (Certified Angus Beef), which is making the transition of adding the roster of PDC Smoked Meats products that much easier. “Jim is a very wise man, has a lot of experience and has been very generous sharing his knowledge, teaching me to make all the quality products. This first season we are starting with beef jerky, roast beef, corned beef, pastrami,

black forest ham, smoked ham, Canadian bacon, bacon and smoked salmon.” When asked when we can expect to start seeing these items in his store, he answered, “They are ready to enjoy now and for the next season we will produce some sausages as well.”

10 to 15 grams Amount of protein in 3 0 g r a m s of beef jerky For those of us not yet barbecue or smoker pros, the OL Store Weber hosts quarterly cooking trainings, coordinated by the Weber brand. The PDC Smoked Meat products and current merchandise will go perfectly with their next class where he will also familiarize us with the fact that these grills and smokers, whether charcoal or propane are the only ones that resist the climatic weather conditions in the Riviera Maya. When Jaime isn’t brining, smoking, salt-curing or drying meats you can catch him working out (Crossfit) or with his second love as a financial and tax advisor.

BEACH LIFE

TPT Meets: Miguel Cobo What began as gathering of beer lovers turned into a business venture on Quinta Avenida BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

all them buffs, aficionados, geeks or fans but we prefer to call them beer lovers or cervezaphiles. They gather at places like Club de la Cerveza in Playa del Carmen. Miguel Cobo, one of the founders, said they wanted to create a place where friends could enjoy good beer, and where craft beers could be brought to the general public at affordable prices. TPT: You are originally from Argentina. How did you end up in Playa and with a beer bar/ restaurant? Miguel Cobo: While traveling around, I fell in love with PDC. Having been a beer lover from an early age, I felt this was the perfect place to start the club. Four years ago a group of us started meeting once a month, to taste different beers, and when the group’s sense of friendship became a business idea, Club de la Cerveza was opened, with the same premise as our initial gatherings. Since a beer club concept is so unique, especially here, how do you find your customers? The Internet, Facebook, Tripadvisor as well as various beer forums. We work hard on customer service and

Four years ago a group of us started meeting once a month, to taste different beers, and when the group’s sense of friendship became a business idea, Club de la Cerveza was opened. Miguel Cobo, Co-founder of Club de la Cerveza PDC.

The team at Club de la Cerveza / Photo: Club de la Cerveza

to have a great beer selection, but of all the ways we find our customers, word of mouth is the one we value the most. Have you faced any challenges getting the beers you want in

the restaurant and how do you overcome them? The logistics to bring the beer down here can be challenging as there are not many transport companies, and they don’t always fulfill their delivery dates. Sometimes the product arrives

broken or with missing cases, plus shipment costs vary every time. Do you host any special events throughout the year? Our main dates are 17 March, “St. Patrick’s Day”, 19-21 July “Belgian

Beer Fest” and the last weekend of September, “Oktoberfest”. In each festival, we try to reproduce as truly as we can the essence of that beer event in its original country. For St. Patrick’s we have stouts and green beer, for the Belgian we bring in 50 different Belgian beers, food and chocolates and the bar is decorated to create the ambiance of the original festival and the music we play is also related to the event. Any future expansion plans? We are trying to remain small so we can keep offering great customer service. The only thing we’re always working on is to expand our beer selection!

March 2 - 15 2016

o t i l e c a c X Xcacel and

Photos: Rebecca Page

HOW TO GET THERE:

By Rebecca Page

THE PERFECT BEACH DAY Looking for a picturesque beach without the club music? How about a lazy day of doing nothing but reading a good book, getting some sun, and taking a dip in a cenote all in one spot? Well, look no further than Xcacel. ocated approximately 47 km south of Playa del Carmen, just south of Akumal, Xcacel was declared a protected natural area in 1998 and is a preserve for sea turtles. It is considered a principle Mexican nesting site for loggerhead and green sea turtles. 95 percent of the vegetation on the 362-hectare site is original and includes jungle, mangroves, coastline, cenotes and coral reefs. No, you will not be able to snorkel with turtles here. This is a spot where turtles come to lay their eggs. During turtle nesting season, the workers and volunteers at Xcacel are very busy marking nests, assisting hatchlings, conducting research and making sure the turtles

are left alone to do what they’ve been doing for thousands of years. Xcacel is also home to 45 species of birds, 24 species of reptiles, 18 species of mammals and 11 species of amphibians. There is an entry fee of $20 pesos per person, and Xcacel is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

Car from Playa: Drive south on Highway 307 past Akumal. You will pass Bahia Principe, the Pemex Station and finally an overpass for Chemuyil. Once past Chemuyil, you will take the retorno to head northbound. You will see the entrance for Xcacel and Xcacelito on your right. Colectivo from Playa: The colectivos pick up in Playa on Calle 2 between Avenidas 15 and 20. Wait in line for the next colectivo and tell the guy loading the vans that you are going to Xcacel. Cost is $40 pesos. Avoid using $500 pesos bills. They may not have change. You will get dropped off shortly after Akumal. When you see Bahia Principe, just remind the driver by saying Esh-Ka-Cell. He will drop you shortly after the overpass at Chemuyil. To get back to Playa, just walk back to the highway and wave down the next colectivo.

INSIDER TIPS: Go during the week. There are fewer people, and there are days in the summer you will have the beach almost entirely to yourself. The weekends are more crowded, especially Sundays. Bring a cooler and snacks. There are no restaurants, bars, or clubs (and why we love it). Pack out what you pack in. This goes without saying but make sure to pick up every piece of garbage you create, and then stop and pick up some more. This is a turtle sanctuary, and anything you leave on the beach could be harmful to a turtle or other animal. Pay attention to the flags. When it is windy, the water can get rough, and the currents can be dangerous. Red flag? Stay out of the water or be a strong enough swimmer to self-rescue.

DISCOVER MEXICO

XCACELITO Roasting on the beach and need a refreshing cool down? Don’t forget to check out the little cenote, Xcacelito that is located here. If you have your back to the sea, to the left you will see a wooden tower. Head towards the tower and follow the southbound path that winds through the lush vegetation, including picture-perfect palm trees. It is about a five-minute walk to the cenote along a sandy beach path and finally a boardwalk that winds through the mangroves. We recommend not thinking about how cold the water is and jump right in! Also, it is a lot easier as the stairs off the dock are very slippery. The fish will give you a free pedicure while you listen to the waves crashing on the beach in the distance. Oh, leave the beers at the beach. Alcohol is not allowed at the cenote. Remember, this is a small cenote and not a lot of room on the dock.

You’ll want to leave the majority of your stuff at the beach. There is no extra charge for Xcacelito, and it is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

DISCOVER MEXICO

The Crystal Caves of Chihuahua In 2000, a couple of miners discovered unique crystalline formations in the underground cavities of northernmost Mexico BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

n the northern Mexican state of Chihuahua, nearly 1,000 feet below the desert floor, a discovery was made by two mining brothers. Chihuahua, which borders New Mexico and Texas, is home to the Cave of the Crystals. This cave system is unique due to its giant, glistening crystals. It wasn’t until 2000, while drilling through the Naica fault and excavating a new tunnel for the mining company the magnificent Cave of Crystals, a horseshoe-shaped cavity was discovered. Its floor and ceiling covered with perfectly faceted crystalline beams, up to 11 meters long (36 feet). Jutting from all four corners, making you feel like Superman amidst the Planet Krypton, these pillars flawlessly refract light like diamonds in the sky. At the same time two other smaller caverns were discovered: Queen’s Eye Cave and Candles Cave. It is estimated that these giant

500,000 years

The estimated age of the crystal formations.

meters The height each crystalline beam can reach. Some of the largest crystals ever found are located in the caves of Chihuahua / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

structures, formed when groundwater saturated in calcium sulphate filtered through the cave system, are upwards of 500,000 years old. The caves are accessible by scientists today thanks to a mining company’s

44°C

The temperature the caves can reach.

pumping operations that keep them clear of water; but were they to stop the caves would again be submerged in water. The Naica Project is attempting to visually document the crystals before they are either sub-

2000 The year the first cave was discovered.

merged in water again or deteriorate due to their exposure to air. A team of scientists specializing in cave minerals and led by the crystallographer Paolo Forti from the University of Bologna explored

305

meters The depth the caves can reach.

the cave in detail in 2006. Due to the extreme temperatures of the caves, 44°C (112°F), with 90 percent humidity, the scientists wore specially designed refrigerated suits with cold breathing systems. The suits had refrigeration tubes over the whole body, connected to a backpack holding a cold water and ice reservoir, weighing 20 kg. The cooling provided by melting ice was sufficient to provide approximately half an hour of autonomy. The most recent cave found during a drilling project in 2009 is known as the Ice Palace. At 150 meters it is thankfully not flooded, but its crystal formations are much smaller, with small ‘cauliflower’ formations and fine, threadlike crystals. Although silver, zinc and lead have also been found, it is the crystals that catch your eye and the tip of the crystal iceberg may still be waiting to be found. Due to its location and extreme temperature, this natural wonder is not open to the public.

170

The number of crystals they contain.

March 2 - 15 2016

DISCOVER MEXICO

Isla Contoy By Edgar Mena Talk about a deserted island! If you are a nature lover, Isla Contoy is a must see for you. It is an unpopulated island located approximately 30 km from Isla Mujeres and 50 km from Cancun. It is managed by the National Commission for Natural Protected Areas, CONANP. The island has been protected by the government since 1961, and in 1998, they declared it El Parque Nacional Isla Contoy, which includes the island and 4,900 hectares of the surrounding sea. The name of the island comes from the Mayan word pont贸, which the Maya used to name all birds from the family of the Pelican, and the island showcases a large variety of them.

HOW TO GET THERE ake sure you book ahead of time! Contoy has a limited capacity of 200 visitors a day. Since it is protected, it is necessary to sign a permit and book a tour to visit the island, as only authorized boats are allowed to visit. In Cancun, you can book in Plaza Bonita mall. If you are in Isla Mujeres you can go to Cooperativa Isla Mujeres located in the corner of Rueda Medina Av. and Francisco I. Madero in the city center. WHAT TO SEE The reef. At the south of the Island you have the Ixlach茅 reef, where the Great Mesoamerican Reef begins. You have to snorkel here! The Whale-Shark. This colossal fish arrives to the Mexican caribbean between May and

Photos: www.islacontoy.org

September and it is often seen feeding in the area surrounding the island. Book a snorkel tour that many consider a life-changing experience! Nature. As a part of the attractions included in the tours, there is always a biologist available to delight and inform you about the island. View. Visit the museum located by the dock. Take a walk along the two only walking paths of the island and make sure to bring your camera to the top of the observatory to take home some unique pictures of paradise. We can assure this experience is unlike anything you have seen before. We are lucky to have this pure and virgin place so close.

March 2 - 15 2016

ANIMAL WELFARE Photo:Agency

n u g a L ta n u P d n a a b o C

By The Playa Times Perhaps the largest Classic period city in the northern Yucatan Peninsula, Cobá was founded around a series of small lakes that clearly aided its development. Cobá is an enormous site with all the sites lost among the dense jungle of the Nohoch-Mul, making this ruin unique. After every visit to ruins, there are always nearby cenotes that beckon, to help you cool down and relax from all the trekking.

Distance in miles from Cancun: 108 km; Playa del Carmen: 68 km HOW TO GET THERE Car Take Highway 307 south. From Tulum take the road to Cobá, and drive a further 20 minutes. You’ll come across a roundabout, with a signpost for Cobá. The parking lot admission fee is $50 pesos. For the cenotes, keep driving past the Cobá ruins’ entrance, on a track that takes up behind the town. You’ll drive for 20 minutes up the mountain and until you see three cenotes sign posted. For the drive from the ruins to Punta Laguna: return to the roundabout on the Tulum-Cobá road, take the exit that leads to Cancun. Located 15 miles from Cobá, follow the direction for Nuevo Xcan, you will drive for about 25 minutes before you see a signpost for Punta Laguna. Bus Getting to Cobá by bus may be an adventure but it is possible! The ADO bus leaves from Playa to Cobá at 9 a.m. Fare is $120 pesos one way. Then take a colectivo to the Cobá ruins or to Punta Laguna, they leave opposite from the ADO bus terminal on 574 Tulum Poniente Avenue, in Tulum´s downtown. There is no set schedule for the colectivos. The return bus from Cobá to Playa is at 3:10 p.m.

Photos: Wikimedia Commons

Taxi From Tulum, you can hire a taxi from downtown. Agree to a price with the driver before getting in. WHAT TO SEE Cobá ruins A visit to the ruins is normally included in the most-see list of the Yucatan Peninsula. Climb Nohoch Mul Group, the main 138-foot high pyramid and 120 steps, where you can enjoy superb views from the top temple. $59 pesos entrance per person. We recommend you hire the bikes for an additional $35 pesos and trici-taxis with a driver for $170 pesos for two hours available for rent at the entrance. Mon-Sun 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cenotes Ten minutes from the Cobá ruins, there are three cave cenotes side by side, Choo-Ha, Tankach-Ha and Multun Ha. Entrance to all three is $100 pesos per person. Punta Laguna Monkey Sanctuary A sanctuary for over 600 howler monkeys and spider monkeys, which also showcases jaguars, pumas, crocodiles, coati and dozens of bird species. Entrance fee $80 pesos per person, or an hour tour with guide for $300 pesos. There is also a zip line over the lagoon, a rappel into a cenote, and a Mayan purification ceremony.

March 2 - 15 2016

ENTERTAINMENT

Live Music in Playa del Carmen We rock out to some amazing bands - on both sides of the highway! BY CRYSTAL MITCHELL

laya has a great live music scene. With venues on the beach, on Fifth Avenue, and now on the west side of the highway, you can enjoy some really talented bands all over town.

Quinta Avenida

Strolling down Quinta, it seems you could drop into almost any of the restaurants or bars for live music. Fah Bar, located between Calle 8 and Calle 10, is a popular place with an open air stage and bar. This is a great place to start your evening, and then head north on 5th towards great places like Kixten, located between Avenida Constituyentes and Calle 20. Procer, a well known local rock band, frequently plays at Kixten, as well as the alternative rock band, Gentleman Jack’s. Kixten was featured

in The Culture Trips’: “The Top 10 Bars To Try in Playa del Carmen”. Another popular bar on Quinta is McCarthy’s Pub, located on the corner of Calle 22. It has had some fantastic bands, including a Queen cover band recently that was amazing. You will find the alt-rock band Gentleman Jack’s playing, there as well.

The West Side

Live on the ¨other side¨ of the federal highway? No need to travel into Centro for good live music. Check out La Drinkeria, located in Plaza Punto on Avenue 115, catering to alternative rock and blues bands. A popular local band called Vang, plays there on Thursday nights and draws quite a crowd due to the popularity of their original written songs. Don´t have a car but still want to check it out? Take a taxi from Centro for approximately $45 pesos.

Photo: Facebook/Fah Facebook

Don´t worry! There are still really great bands in Playa! / Photo: Facebook/Vang

March 2 - 15 2016 COMEDY Every Wednesday, Stand Up Comedy at Lucky Luciano’s, 28th and 5th. 8 p.m. $100 pesos. Facebook/Comedy Below Sea Level

COMEDY PLAYA,

WORKSHOPS & COURSES at Basic Foodie, Plaza Steren, Federal Highway. Fridays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and on Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Call (984)109-1948 or (984)109-4129 to reserve your space. $600 pesos per class. $2000 pesos for four classes. Extra: Ingredients are between $50 and $150 pesos per class. Facebook/Basic Foodie BAKING AND COOKING WORKSHOP

ANIMAL WELFARE

COCO’S 7th ANNIVERSARY COCKTAIL PARTY, Saturday March 12, 8 p.m. Come

celebrate Coco’s Animal Welfare’s 7th Anniversary at the Blue Parrot (12th Street & the beach). Tickets on sale at Mom’s bar (4th Street with 30th Ave) and at Coco’s for $250 pesos each or $300 at the door. Tickets include 3 hours open bar and canapés. Live music and silent auction. For more information, call 984 120 0572 or visit www. cocosanimalwelfare.org.

LIVE MUSIC & KARAOKE MARCH 2 - 16

2016

CRAZY TOY (rock and classic rock) every Thursday and Saturday at PG´s Mexican Caribe Bar & Grille, 6:30 p.m., Calle 26 on the corner of 1st Avenue next to the Grand Hyatt.

Every Friday, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Concert starts at 7:30 p.m. sharp. Music: Classical, Chanson and Boleros. El Jardín, 20th Street between Ave 10 and 15. Beers $20 MXN.

NOCHE DE DIVAS,

SOS el Arca DOG WASH , every Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Have fun giving the dogs baths while allowing them to socialize. Check Facebook/SOS el Arca.

Every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. PG´s Mexican Caribe Bar & Grille, 6:30 p.m., Calle 26 on the corner of 1st Avenue next to the Grand Hyatt.

KARAOKE

MARKETS KAVA KASA LOCAL MARKET every Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kava Kasa, 22nd St. and 10th Ave. Organic produce, fresh home baked goods, artisan crafts and more! Shop local and support Playa.

SPECIAL EVENTS

to benefit SOS el Arca, Accion Animal & Coco´s Animal Welfare, Wednesday, March 16, 7 p.m. at Off the Vine, 1st Avenue between 26 y 28, $169 pesos, includes salad, main course, 2 glasses of wine, dessert. Bring your furry friend and Deli Pets will provide a special meal for them! Information & reservations: Joshua Barrios 984 143 8047.

FAIR, every Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tenth St. between Ave. 100 and Av. 105, Colonia Ejido. Don’t buy pets, rescue them! Check Facebook /Acción Animal.

Coco´s KITTEN CUDDLING , every Saturday 1:00 p.m to 3:00 p.m. Volunteers needed to help socialize kittens. It’s also a great de-stressor! For more information, contact info@cocosanimalwelfare.com.

OFF THE VINE DINNER

ACCIÓN ANIMAL ADOPTION

CHARM SCHOOL, every Saturday, 9 a.m. for 2 to 3 hours. Have fun helping dogs become leash trained, balanced and exercised. Volunteers are picked up at Mega Supermarket, 30th and Constituyentes. Contact info@playaanimalrescue.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

EL ÁRBOL PLAYACAR MARKET, every Saturday,

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tulum Avenue, Local 6. Playacar Fase II.

every Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Condos Alizes, Avenida CTM and 46th St. Homemade bread and baked goods, gluten-free products, fresh herbs, organic eggs, handmade products, cosmetics, clothing and much more.

COCOS BEACH ORGANIC MARKET

TPT FOODIES

Martinis:

Doña Paula´s:

Shaken or Stirred?

A Playa Can´t Miss Restaurant By Rebecca Page

By Catherine Pawelek

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Although Bond, James Bond may want his shaken, not stirred, you can have yours however you wish. A great martini starts with a well-chilled glass, quality ingredients, and just the right amount of ice cubes in a shaker. The shaking (or not)is the most important part of making the martini. Some purists don’t want a “bruised” martini. Drape a lemon peel on the side of the glass, plop a blue cheese, olive or cocktail onion in that glass of gin and you are on your way to a simply classic concoction. Add a muddle of fresh fruit, basil, chocolate, ginger or cucumber and you have taken the martini to a new height. Almirante PECH’s “Green Cucumber Martini” is a refreshing concoction: vodka, triple sec, cucumber, mint, lemon, salted rim. Facebook/Almirante PECH. Piola’s “Frozen Basil Martini” is the adult version of a slushie: basil, vodka, lime, sugar, ice. Facebook/Piola Playa del Carmen. Plank’s “Lychee Martini” has an Asian inspiration: citron vodka, lychee nuts and coconut milk. Facebook/Plank Gourmet Grill & Patio Bar. Sur’s “Ginger Martini” has that little bite: vodka, ginger, triple sec. www.grupoazotea.com/sur/ Salt Rock Grille + Cocktail’s “24Karat Martini” will give you some bling: vodka, Campari, orange juice, simple syrup, gold sugar rim. www.saltrockgrille.com.

oday, I went to one of my favorite spots right in Centro. Sometimes it seems that for every restaurant that opens, ten more close. However, Doña Paula´s on Calle 6 between Avenidas 10 and 15 has been open for eight years and still going strong. You´ve probably never seen this restaurant, even though you’ve walked by it a million times. From the outside, Doña Paula´s looks like someone’s apartment. If you walk up Calle 6 from 10th, it will be on your left before 15th – a blue building with stairs. This tiny restaurant is home to some of the best comida casera (home cooked food) in Playa. When you walk in, you will be greeted by large pans on the counter filled with the comida del día (food of the day). Today, they were offering: pollo en chipotle (chicken in a chipotle sauce), costillas en salsa verde (ribs in a green salsa), mole con pollo (mole served over chicken), cochinita pibil, picadillo (a stew made with ground beef), bistec a la mexicana (Mexican-style steak), pozole, caldo de pollo (hearty chicken soup), and caldo de res (hearty beef soup). The comida del día comes with soup, agua sabor (flavored water) such as jamaica or tamarindo, and a side of black beans and rice. And of course, a side of tortillas! The prices range from about $55 pesos to $65 pesos ($3-3.60 USD). In addition to their comida del día, they have a large selection of other meals. Just look up on the walls to read the handwritten posters for options and prices. Still don’t see what you were hoping for? Then, just ask. They might be able to cook it up for you!

Salt Rock Grille´s 24Karat Martini / Photo: Salt Rock Grille + Cocktails

Canibal Royal’s “Zacapa Honey Royal” can be served in a martini or cocktail glass: Zacapa rum with black tea, piloncillo, orange juice & cinnamon sticks. www.canibalroyal.com Martini mixing tip: Too many cubes and there is no room for your ingredients to blend nicely. Only put a single cube and rock it back and forth instead of creating a clash of the titans.

Today´s comida del día / Photos: The Playa Times

I decided to ask my Mexican co-workers what they thought of Doña Paula’s food. I brought back four meals: the chicken in chipotle, the Mexican-style steak, the cochinita pibil, and the picadillo. They loved it, but the cochinita pibil was the biggest hit.

$75 pesos The most expensive item on the menu Tips: Bring smaller bills. English is not spoken but pointing out what you want works! Doña Paula´s is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. They are located on Calle 6 between Avenidas 10 and 15.

HEALTH

Experience a Traditional Temazcal Wearing full makeup seems to help this woman sleep / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Five Tips to Help You Sleep BY SARA JONES Sometimes it is hard to sleep well. Whether you are away from the comfort of your own home or not. I tend to sleep in a lot of different beds. Now, now, it’s because I travel a lot! Here are a few things I have learned to help send you off into the land of nod: 1.Control Light Light in the room can be a real distraction, even more so if it comes from a source you can’t control: headlights outside your window, a flashing smoke detector, etc. Invest in a comfortable eyeshade to eliminate visual distraction and remember; white/blue light stimulates the brain to wake up, so resist looking at screens when you can’t sleep. Wellness Tip: Use red/orange nightlights in case you need to get up in the night, this will have the least stimulating effect on the brain.

A Temazcalero performs a smudging / Photos: wikimedia commons

A type of ceremonial steam bath dating back to pre-Hispanic times is available in a variety of locations throughout the Riviera Maya BY SARA JONES

he Temazcal is a traditional Mesoamerican spiritual ritual of rebirth and a fantastic cultural experience to enjoy while spending time in the Riviera Maya. It was practiced during the Maya splendor with the name Zumpul-Ché. A type of pre-Hispanic steam bath, it is indigenous to the people of Mesoamerica. It combines both a therapeutic treatment of physical detoxification and a spiritual, healing ritual of renewal. The origins of the term Temazcal stem from the Nahuatl word tem-zcalli (house of heat), or from the Aztec teme (to bathe) and calli (house). The domed structure, made from mortar and stone, represents Mother Nature’s womb; hence, you are ‘reborn’ as you emerge after the ritual. A Temazcalero first performs a smudging with the smoke of copal incense to cleanse the aura, before guests crawl into the mystical chamber one at a time and take a seat in the circle, typically on a mat, blanket or towel. Using steam created by herb infused water poured over glowing hot rocks in a central pit, the Temazcal ceremony purifies the body and the spirit. The Temazcalero, both a shaman and therapist, incorporates the

elements and leads the practice of this ancient healing therapy to the level of a spiritual experience. The four elements include: Water - symbolizing blood, fluids and emotions. Earth - physical matter and ‘the body’. Air - the herb infused aromatic steam is symbolic of our breath and life’s energy. Fire - the embodiment of the spirit via the hot volcanic stones.

During the four stages of the Temazcal, known as the four ‘doors’, the intensity of the heat rises and with it, feelings and emotions are liberated. The experience is shared but individual at the same time. Between each stage of the journey, a welcome influx of fresh air rushes in, as the blanket-covered entrance to the Temazcal is uncovered. The ritual ends with either a dip in the ocean to cool down in the waves or a refreshing cold shower and possibly a swim in a pool depending on the setting. The Temazcal is a unique experience not to be missed, and one that can’t be replicated in other parts of the world. Prices can range from a few hundred pesos to a couple of hundred dollars depending whether you choose a more rustic, local setting or a luxury resort.

2.Reduce Noise You can try your best to reduce the noise in your immediate vicinity. However, there’s no controlling noise from outside. While earplugs can be uncomfortable and fall out in

the night, they can help you get to sleep if you are in an unusually noisy environment. Wellness Tip: If you can’t reduce the noise, try adding to it! Download a ‘sleep sounds’ app to your phone and listen to white noise such as rain or waves. 3.Use Aromatherapy Lavender can be an excellent sleep aid, as studies show it lowers heart rate and blood pressure, helping you relax. Add a couple of drops of pure essential oil to a tissue placed by your pillow or onto the edge of your eyeshade. Wellness Tip: It’s important to use high-quality essential oils. Synthetic aromas won’t have the same effect! 4.Less Alcohol, More Water Now I certainly won’t tell you not to enjoy a drink while out in Playa del Carmen, but drinking a lot, late at night, can disturb your sleep. Perhaps ease off the alcohol later in the evening and alternate sparkling water with your favorite cocktail. Be sure to hydrate well once you get in, you may need a nighttime trip to the bathroom, but it should still help you sleep more soundly.

March 2 - 15 2016

ART & CULTURE

lonial era of Spanish and Mexican descent. This intellectual entered the convent to have access to books and knowledge, her transcendence lies in the strength of her poems and her defense of women’s rights. She wrote sonnets, rhymes, and plays. One of her most famous poems reads:

Foolish men who accuse women without reason don’t see themselves as the reason for their blame….

By Edgar Mena

Hunab Ku Mysterious and ancient, the gods and beliefs of the Maya are explored in our new series

Elvia Carrillo Puerto, the first feminist and socialist in Mexico / Photo: wikimedia commons

considerable amount of information about the Maya was destroyed with Spanish colonization. However, thanks to well-preserved archaeological sites and painstaking research, archaeologists have been able to piece together the Maya culture and their beliefs. In our new section, Maya Almighty, we will explore how the Maya explained the creation of the universe by presenting their gods and beliefs.

250+

The number of

dieties represented in Maya culture

H U NAB KU Considered the supreme figure in the creation of the universe, it was said that Hunab Ku could create life, as all dualities were granted to him: male and female, order and chaos. In texts such as El Chilam Balam, he is referenced as The Only God. Even the name suggests it. Hun-ab meaning the only one, and Ku meaning God. But wait! Were the Maya monotheist, then? Th e oldest reference s you will find o f him are in El Diccionario de Motul,

Illustrious Women in José Argüelles’ abstract representation of Hunab Ku / Photos: Wikimedia commons

writte n in t h e 1 6 t h ce n t ur y after t h e Spanish co n q ue s t . S o, i t ma ke s se n se to think th a t t h i s go d wa s i n t ro duce d by C hristian i ty to pro p i t i a te a t ra n sition from po ly t h e i s m to m o n o t h e ism. The lack o f a sy m bo li c re p re se n tation of h i m i s co n s i s te n t wi t h t h e C hristian co n ce p t o f go d. Th i s i s by no means a n ew co n ce pt . I t i s ca lle d religious syncretism, a n d i t i s se e n wi t h the Roman s a n d t h e i r co nve rs i o n o f Gre e k myt h o lo gy. If you do a Google search, you may find a very popular representation of Hunab Ku. The author is José Argüelles, one of the authors who defends the existence of Hunab Ku in the pre-Columbian Maya era. This image became particularly famous in 2012, the year when some believed the Maya predicted the end of the world. Although we don’t have a significant amount of written history on him, Hunab Ku has managed to remain relevant and is still credited with the creation of the universe. But the Maya god Itzamná may not be very happy about this, and he may come to claim his throne in our next issue.

Mural by Diego Rivera showing the burning the Maya literature

Mexico BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, we remember four women who, through their ideas and struggle, contributed to the rejuvenation of the role of women in this country. One of these great women is Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz (1651 - 1695), the most famous representative of literature in Mexico, born in the Co-

Another female pioneer in the fight for women’s rights was Elvia Carrillo Puerto (1878 1967), a Yucatecan and Quintana Roo native, sister of Felipe Carrillo Puerto, former Governor of Yucatán. She is considered one of the first Mexican feminists and socialists. She was the first female representative elected to the Yucatan local congress in 1923, and she fought for women’s rights and the right to vote, which was achieved in 1953. She worked in and for the Maya communities to improve their conditions and quality of life. María Izquierdo (1902- 1955) was a Mexican painter and one of the representatives of fine arts and modern art in Mexico. A contemporary of Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo, she was the first Mexican to exhibit her work in the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Her work reflected the colors and “Mexicanness” of the era. During her time, Mexican machismo prevailed, and she broke the stereotype of women dedicated to the home and children. Rosario Castellanos (1925 - 1974), a great writer, journalist, and diplomat. In her poems, stories, novels and essays, she let her rebellious and melancholy spirit flourish in a world where females were dominated by the men of that era. She also brought to light the inequality of many social groups in the country, such as indigenous people.

Providing Organic & Natural Products BY BIO-ORGANICOS When most of the products you find in major supermarkets are genetically modified so growers and producers can have more product in less time, health-conscious shoppers are looking more and more towards organic and natural products to avoid the ingestion of products that are hazardous to the human body. Every day new organic and natural businesses are opening their doors all around the world, especially in cities where the population is multicultural such as Playa del Carmen. We would like to welcome you to Bio-Organcios. In our store and restaurant you will find products and recipes made with both organic and natural ingredients. We give special attention to bring to your table high-quality products, and we are strong promoters of fair trade products working with local producers. In our store, you will find organic superfoods like quinoa, maca, hemp, spirulina, vegetable protein, honey and maple syrup. You will also find herbs like moringa, boldo leaves, neem and dandelion. In our restaurant you will find vegan and vegetarian recipes, some are authentic Maya cuisine like our famous tostadas de sikilpak, a maya recipe made from pumpkin seed and roasted tomatoes. Come try our famous lentil and almond hamburgers with banana cheese and our homemade hamburger buns. Our seaweed salad will

bring a smile to your face. Our quinoa bowl is fresh and healthy, and our specialty Vietnamese rolls are a local favorite. We have power smoothies made with superfood, fresh fruit lassies form different flavors, and energetic bowls will surprise you with a unique flavor combination. Come see the lifestyle products for a healthy life. Calle 26 between 5th and 10th avenue, Playa del Carmen, 984 8032881 info@bio-organicos.com.mx

ANIMAL WELFARE “It starts as a dream, with lots of support, and with people that believe in your dream, it can be done.” Laura Raikes, President and Founder.

about this new clinic? This new facility is built with expansion in mind, with room to grow. The clinic is being built to international standards and high-quality protocols to ensure strict procedures in dealing with infections and disease control. There will be enough space for all aspects of treatment, plus the multipurpose room to continue with the education program, a garden area in which to hold monthly adoption fairs and bazaars to raise funds. We have incorporated suites in the facility which will be used to house volunteer veterinarians or veterinary students looking to fulfill the mandatory six-month social service portion of their education. It is a win-win situation,

Coco’s new clinic in Playa del Carmen / Photos: The Playa Times

Coco’s Animal Welfare New Clinic: Meeting the Needs of the Community

How can people donate to this amazing project? We have a few fundraising projects on the go. We are offering memorial engraved tags to be displayed in

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veraging 20 sterilizations a day, Coco’s Animal Welfare has hit their limit in the current space in the Las Flores neighborhood. With so much more work to do, it is time for a larger clinic. The new space is centrally located in Playa del Carmen and better equipped than the current space to take on the needs of our communities. What made you want to take on the challenge of expanding and relocating Coco’s? We started off filling a hole in rescue, providing assistance to people who rescue animals, providing sterilizing and low-cost vaccines, but the demand for help has become too big for the current building. We support all rescue groups and shelters in the area and the

2015 Coco´s Animal

Welfare Stats

Being a nonprofit organization, how were you able to take on such a major project? A very generous woman who knows the work Coco’s does, donated the property, and with help from IFAW (International Federation of Animal Welfare) and The Dog Trust, plus our own fundraising and supporters, we are able to make this happen. We still need to raise $30,000 USD to purchase medical equipment. What is the most exciting thing

animals sterilized at Coco’s clinic.

CAW Community Caregiver – Donate $5000 USD and sponsor one of six rooms used for recovery and housing of rescued or medically treated cats and dogs. CAW Community Healer – Donate $10,000 USD displayed in our Surgery Room. CAW Community Educator – Donate $15,000 USD and have your donor name highlighted on our Multipurpose and Education room. CAW Community Green Friend – Donate $15,000 USD displayed in our garden area, the Adoption and Events Patio/Garden. CAW Community Hero – Donate $20,000 USD to be displayed in the reception area, the focal point of all CAW. You can subscribe to be a monthly supporter of CAW or sponsor a specific dog or cat’s treatment. Just follow CAW on Facebook to keep up to date on the tireless work being accomplished. Come out and support us on March 12th as we celebrate our 7th anniversary at The Blue Parrot. Enjoy an open bar from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., canapes, silent auction, and great music. Tickets are $250 pesos or $300 at the door. Please contact us if you have a business and are able to donate a prize for our silent auction. Your generous support is needed to help us continue our work in our community and the surrounding area. Facebook/ Coco’s Animal Welfare Playa del Carmen or www.cocosanimalwelfare.org. Coco’s Animal Welfare (CAW) is a nonprofit organization with a mission to alleviate the suffering of animals through education, clinic services, arranging foster and adoption of unwanted cats and dogs. support for rescue groups and shelters, organizing and participating in mass sterilization campaigns, community outreach and so much more.

poorer communities. It is frustrating to run out of room when you can see there is still so much more that needs to be done. How can you turn a blind eye? You have to do more. Playa del Carmen is the fastest growing city in Latin America, and with that comes more animals in need.

3,849

the new clinic with a donation of $60 or $300 USD. Also available for larger donations, have your family name, company name or beloved pet’s name engraved on a plaque and displayed in one of these areas:

363 animals sterilized in mobile clinics in Tulum by Coco’s team with Help Tulum Dogs.

2.781

animals sterilized in two high volume VIDAs clinics, free spay and neuter campaigns.

524

animals aided through the rescued dog and cat support programs.

I f y o u h a v e a n y q u e s t i o n s a b o u t t h e a va i l a b l e d o g s f r o m P l a y a A n i m a l R e s c u e , c o n t a c t P a t a t i n f o @ p l a ya a n i m a l r e s c u e .o r g

Monthly Sponsors Needed Monthly sponsors are so important to these animals and part of the monthly support community that covers over 1/3 of the costs of taking care of the animals. Someday, hopefully, PAR will have enough

monthly donors to take away the fear of not having enough funds to cover expenses. PAR is a U.S. registered 501c3 organization and your donation is tax deductible. Your donations are so appreciated. Start you r mont h ly d o n a tion today!

R an ge r

Our lovable, handsome Marco is still looking for his perfect family. Marco was born in September 2013 and arrived to the shelter on February 5th, 2015. He weighs about 23 kg, is neutered and current on all vaccinations and preventatives. Marco was rescued from the

street in Puerto Aventuras with a broken leg. He is all healed now and ready for his next adventure. He is outgoing and energetic! He loves to go for walks and gets along with his doggy roommates well. He is a larger dog and would benefit from an active owner. Do you need a friend to go on walks with you?

M ar co

March 2 - 15 2016

BEACH BOARD

Are the questions you answer real, or do you just make them up to be “funny?” Honestly Asking Well, honestly, I’m not sure which to address first – your improper use of quotation marks outside the question mark at the end of your sentence, or the fact that you put quotation marks around the word funny to begin with. Anyhoodle … This is a question I get asked with some regularity; no sense dodging it. Yes, the questions are real. Are they reprinted exactly as asked? No. Are they always in the form of emails? No. Why am I parsing people’s emails and/ or questions? Because. First, you would be amazed (or maybe not) by how many emails I get that are clearly baiting me to take a stance on one issue or another. Most of these questions are too obvious, racist, or idiotic to answer with sincerity. Also, this is supposed to be a “funny” column, so I weed the potentially incendiary out.

Second, most of the questions are poorly written, or use a texting shorthand which is barely decipherable, or contain so many typos that to include them all would appear to some that I am making fun of the partially literate. I’m not here to insult anyone for something they can’t help, aside from using spell check or paying attention in the 5th grade. Third, many of my questions come to me through conversations that I have with tourists. Many people know that I am a comedian and that I write this “funny” article, so they ask me questions in the hopes that their funny funny questions will make it to the most widely circulated English newspaper in the Playa del Carmen area. Of course, I temper their rabid egos by changing their names, for the most part. Unless someone takes a personal swipe at me and includes his or her real, or screen, name. (I’m looking at you, Zed.) Finally, I do try to be funny with all

of my replies. That being said, I’d rather be talking about politics, or why the only road in and out of Akumal keeps getting illegally blocked by profiteers, or why there are so many office spaces in Playa that keep getting built and remain empty for months on end with no apparent purpose but when I try to get a factura for a very small job, all of a sudden hacienda’s on my ass for undeclared $350 pesos. If this keeps up, I’m going to chuck it all in and get a job selling belts from one of those carts. Looks like a totally legit, not money-laundering venture at all. Naturally, I think we can all relate to that moment when you’re walking around the Caribbean and all of a sudden, you really need a belt.

YOU MISSED IT…..

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CURRENCY

*Source BANAMEX

DOLLAR Buy 17.70 Sell 18.45

REAL Buy 4.51 Sell 4.64

DOLLAR CANADA Buy 13.23 Sell 13.60

ARGENTINIAN PESO Buy 1.1 Sell 1.1

POUND Buy 24.89 Sell 25.59

SWISS FRANC Buy 17.97 Sell 18.48

EURO Buy 19.63 Sell 20.19

RUSSIAN RUBLE Buy 3.04 Sell 3.04

YEN Buy 0.15

Sell 0.16

EMERGENCY 060

HARBOR MASTER 887 2695

POLICE 872 0599

HOSPITAL GENERAL 206 1690 / 91 / 92

TOURISTIC SECURITY 1800 987 8224

CLINIC AMBULANCE 873 0885

FIRE DEPARTMENT 879 3669 / 70

HYPERBARIC CHAMBER 873 1365

CIVIL PROTECTION 877 3053 / 54

TRANSIT 877 3340

RED CROSS 873 1233

SOS MARINA 767 627 462

Playa del Carmen Beach Clubs Our article on beach clubs in Playa del Carmen was a big hit on our Facebook page proving that the beach is still the biggest reason we’re all here in Playa! Want to read all about it? Check us out on Facebook/The Playa Times or www.theplayatimes.com.

RENTALS & PROPERTIES

Hope that helps,

Craig Norton is a Canadian expat and one of the founding members of Comedy Playa. If you have a question email dcraignorton@gmail.com

IN CASE

Want to sell something? Buy something? Find something? Why not take out an ad in our Beach Bulletin Board? For as little as 20 pesos per word (10 word minimum). Contact us at info@meridianmedia.mx.