Edition 96 by theplayatimes

B i m o n t h l y · Ye a r 03 · N u m b e r 9 6 · 20,000 c o p i e s · 2 0 Pages · N o v e m b e r 0 2 - 1 5 , 2 0 1 6

S MASP IDE

Cozumel´s

Punta Sur

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

Hop the ferry from Playa del Carmen and head to the south end of the island to discover a diverse ecosystem with mangroves and coral reefs teeming with life

>P. 8 7 >P.

BEACH LIFE

Do you need a property manager? >P. 5

HEALTH & FITNESS Magnificent Mangoes

>P. 16

Photo by: Vanessa Nini

· HEALTH & FITNESS

· DISCOVER MEXICO

G E T U P ! S TA N D U P !

CALLING ALL DIVERS!

Head to the beach between 4th & 6th to the Aloha Paddle Club at Inti Centro Holistic Beach Club and fall in love with stand up paddle boarding

>P. 17

Photo: : Florencia Cerutti

Photo: Aloha Paddle Club

November 02 - 15

You can help scientists from a non-profit organization (Blue Core A. C.) collect data for spotted eagle ray research. Find out more!

>P. 8

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

November 2 - 15 2016

Editorial DIRECTORY

Celebrating Life and Death

Rebecca Page General Manager & Editor

BY REBECCA PAGE

edition@meridianmedia.mx

y the time you read this, Halloween will be over, and hopefully so will my hangover. Although Halloween is not traditionally celebrated in Mexico, Playa del Carmen has adopted the holiday with open arms. My favorite thing to do is to start at the north end of 5th Avenue and head south, bar hopping along the way. It´s a big party all the way down with amazing costumes and people watching. The local kids learned very quickly that tourists will give them candy on Halloween. Some start a bit early (like a week), walking up to people in their costumes, looking for their treats. They always

Edgar E. Mena Ian MacKenzie Copy Editors copyeditor@meridianmedia.mx

Efrén Velázquez Art & Design design@meridianmedia.mx

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

seem pleasantly surprised that a perfect stranger hands them goodies. This year should be no different and here’s to hoping the rain will hold off so they can collect their bounty! In this edition, we chose to continue with a few articles on los días de los muertos which is a holiday traditionally celebrate in Mexico and throughout Latin America. I love the idea of celebrating the life and not fearing death through the traditions of los días de los muertos. Learn more in our Art & Culture section. Don’t forget to check out our article ¨Calling All Divers¨ where Florencia reminds all SCUBA divers that they can help support spotted eagle ray research by photographing these beautiful crea-

tures. On the same page, Vanessa introduces us to Cozumel´s Punta Sur. This beautiful park is located on the south end of Cozumel and you discover incredible wildlife while exploring its mangroves or snorkeling its coral reefs. Make sure to check out our Discover Mexico section to learn more. We also have a bunch of articles that didn´t make it into the paper but you can find online at www.theplayatimes.com including the Mayakoba Street Food and Beer fest, Latin Dance, and another interview regarding beach erosion in Playa. If you went out and celebrated on Halloween, send us your pictures or tag us on instagram #theplayatimes and I will be sure to share my pictures, too!

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

Octavio Moreno Sales Executive Cell: 984 179 8347 octavio@meridianmedia.mx

Omar Coral Distribution

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

distribution@meridianmedia.mx

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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BEACH LIFE

November 2 - 15 2016

5 Tips to BuY

REal Estate in Mexico Thomas Lloyd, Founder of TOP Mexico Real Estate offers ln``^lmbhgl hg Û g]bg` ma^ i^k_^\m ikhi^kmr By Thomas Lloyd, Founder of TOP Mexico Real Estate

eciding to purchase a home in Mexico is a big and exciting step! If you’re considering it, keep in mind that real estate in Mexico works differently than in the rest of North America, so you need an experienced broker who can walk you

through the purchasing process. To help with this, we prepared 5 tips to find the perfect property and the right broker to work with you. 1. Learn about the purchasing process If you’re a foreigner, purchas-

ing property in Mexico involves a few extra steps. So, do your homework and learn about the process. Also, it’s always a good idea to choose a realtor who is experienced in working with foreigners.

Photo: Top Mex

Ten Things Know About Your

Tem po ra ry Visa By MEXLAW

T 1.

he immigration specialist at MEXLAW shares some important facts to keep in mind, during and after your immigration process. A Temporary Resident Visa is issued for people who wish to reside in Mexico for a period longer than 180 days. The visa is valid for one year and renewed for one to three years. After four years, you must apply for a Permanent Residence Visa to stay in Mexico. Once you have been approved for a Temporary Residence Visa, you will have to present the sticker in your passport to Immigration upon arrival in Mexico. It is crucial that they do not stamp your passport as a tourist. They will advise you to go to Immigration within 30 days of arrival in Mexico to complete the process. If you travel outside Mexico while your visa is in process, it is important that you apply for permission to leave at the INM office or through an immigration specialist. An exit/ entry permit takes seven days to be issued. Present the permit to immigration as you leave and return to Mexico. This letter allows you 55 days out of the country. Once you receive your Temporary or Permanent Residence status, never come back to Mexico as a tourist or your residence visa will be void. A temporary resident may exit/enter the country as they please. There is no requirement on how many months per year you re-

Photo: The playa Times

10.

side in Mexico. However, if you plan on applying for Mexican Citizenship, you need to prove you have lived in Mexico most of the year. Typically, you leave Mexico to apply for Temporary Residence. Exceptions include marriage to a Mexican citizen or family ties to a Mexican citizen. As a Temporary Resident, you need to apply for a work visa. A Permanent resident can work in Mexico without legal permission. It is imperative that FMM documents are filled in correctly. If they differ from what is in the system, you will have problems and delays. Remember to inform Immigration any changes to your status, marriage, address, or employer. Procedures change frequently and differ from one state to the other; consult an Immigration Specialist for the most up-to-date information. If you have any questions about immigration in Mexico, please contact our specialist adriana@mexlaw.ca

2. Research the neighborhood Renting a place in the area that you like can give you an idea of the community, safety, noise and traffic; it’s also the perfect opportunity to see if you are ready to live in Mexico! 3. Don’t rush! Rushing into buying a property before researching might be a costly mistake. Ask your agent for advice. Ask for his insight on the building, the neighborhood, and even the beach! 4. Work with a broker (it won’t cost you more) Purchasing a property is a long process, and having an experienced broker by your side is an important part of going through

it in a safe and legal manner. Keep in mind that the commission is paid by the seller, not the buyer. Don’t skip a broker just to try to save some money! 5. Check your broker’s credentials Take the time to do some research. Does your broker have an established web page or is he using free sites to advertise? Does he have an office? These details can tell you a lot. Also, don’t be shy, ask questions about his credentials, training and experience. A professional broker will be glad to share this information with you. Do you have any questions about real estate in Mexico? I’m here to help! Contact me at info@topmexicorealestate.com

November 2 - 15 2016

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

f you spend significant time in Mexico, there will come a time that you, or someone you know will need to get back home to a known medical facility, or even to a specialty hospital such as Mayo. Within hours. Would you know how to navigate international law, the Mexican medical system, and medical evacuation companies in order to quickly get back to the States or Canada? Plus, would you be able to afford the $20,000 - $50,000 cost…payable upfront? And, God forbid, what if there is a death?

Do I Need to Hire a Property Manager? With over 45 years experience in property management, Allan Lockhart from NAS Playa answers your questions in his new column

BY ALLAN LOCKHART, OWNER OF NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

he answer to this question should be a resounding “YES” if you will not be occupying your property for more than 30 days out of any 12 month period. In your search for a reputable, honest and reliable property manager your concerns should be: •

•

Flown by pilots with an average of 14,000+ hours experience and a medical crew with a minimum 5+ years of emergency room experience and certifications. The plane flies under pre-approved blanket FAA and Mexican aviation permits and can be here to the Rivera Maya in less than 2 hours. No one can match their speed, medical skills and performance as certified by the two largest medical evacuation certification organizations in the world. No one!

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

Ask Allan:

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to know that for as low as $200 - $300 per year you can have a wonderful sense of security and all of these worries can go away? An emergency evacuation membership can cover you, your spouse, and in many cases children and even grandchildren. And insure that you get back home to the hospital of your choice so you can be near your loved ones and have access to specialized facilities and trusted doctors. Only one medical evac firm serving Mexico is integrated from “a to z” and in the past year has conducted over 400+ successful international evacuations to the US and Canada. They get the call…quickly size up the situation using in-house bilingual doctors who consult with your doctors here in Mexico… and can then quickly put into the air one of the 51 planes that they either own, or have under contract.

BEACH LIFEW

Does the property management company have the necessary KSA’s (knowledge, skills and abilities) to manage and care for your property? How long has the management company been in business in Playa del Carmen? Experience is a very important part of management when the owner might be living in another country or at least far enough away that they cannot visit their property on a monthly basis. Your home in paradise will be dealing with a lot of humidity at times, high heat and ocean breezes laden with salt, not to mention pest control. Preventive maintenance is very important in this environment to help protect your investment. Does your management company have its own dedicated support staff, so they don’t have to deal with waiting for others to show up and deal with any emergencies and or problems such as water leaks, van-

Allan Lockhart, Owner of North American Standards Property Management / Photo: Allan Lockhart

dalism, storm damage and climate control? Controlling the mold and mildew in a moist and warm climate can be very important! It can be a great cost and time saver if the management company has their own maintenance staff as well as their own housekeeping staff. This will save you a lot of extra time and expenses in the long run. Do you have questions related to property management or vacation rentals? Allan is here to help! Send questions or concerns to allan@nasplaya.com and he will answer them right here in our Ask Allan column.

ENTERTAINMENT

November 2 - 15 2016

ART & CULTURE

The Culture of Death Death makes no distinction, but the way that we deal with death is entirely dependant on the culture that we are a part of BY: ALEJANDRA CAMPO

n the occasion of the celebration of the Day of the Dead in Mexico, on November 1 and 2, I want to talk about death as a cultural issue. Even when “la huesuda” (the death) makes no distinction, there are levels even in heaven and the cemetery! Yes, all human beings have something in common: we are born, grow old and die. It’s pure biology. Every village or group understands that life and its’ surroundings start from that point. That is culture. Beliefs, religion, historical development, geography and values will determine how to understand life and death. A series of funerary rituals and customs that become traditions surround this purely biological fact, as a way of understanding existence itself. Depending on religious and spiritual beliefs, people believe that death is only a transition to another place, or a reincarnation to inherit eternal life. It is this need to transcend that keeps our memory alive. For pre-hispanic peoples in Mexico, death was a transition, a change of dimensions without much belief in heaven or hell,

For the Maya, death meant entry into Xibalba, where you had to pass a series of tests before Û gZeer k^Z\abg` ma^ underworld. where what mattered was how they died. They would designate their final resting place in the underworld. It was known as Mictlan, “place of the dead” for the Aztecs. For the Maya it was Xibalba, which consisted of levels where you had to pass a series of tests before finally reaching it. Catholic concepts of heaven and hell came to America through the Spaniards. Their system of punishments and rewards kept the indige-

Xibalba, the Maya under world, ruled by the Maya death gods and their helpers / Photo: Wikipedia

nous submissive and also kept faithful Catholics’ eyes on the divine and earthly power of church. They promised eternal life with God or conviction in hellfire.

Beliefs about death determine the place where the remains will rest. It also determines whether the dead are wrapped in cloth, mats, placed in clay urns, mummified, burned,

La Catrina BY IAN MACKENZIE

Catholic altar of the dead / Photo: Wikipedia

Death and Catrinas In Playa BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO In the coming days, Mexico will be preparing to receive and entertain the dead. A number of festivals, contests, craft shows, dining, conferences and a series of activities will be made around the topic of death. A lot has been written about a Mexican’s relationship with death. A popular saying says “hasta la muerte le pela los dientes” (death has nothing on him). The altars and offerings to the dead seen on the Day of the Dead cause great admiration among all who see them, but be aware they are not the same. Altars are dedicated to a Catholic saint or divinity, while offerings are made for a loved one, a family member, a friend or a celebrity in the community or country. Altars are derived from pre-Hispanic rituals and the Catholic religion. Both beliefs conveniently converged at this time, making for an interesting and unique blend of traditions. The rituals vary according to the region, as do the colors, symbols and shapes of these offerings. What

doesn’t vary is the deeper meaning of waiting and reuniting once more with those who have already passed away. In the Janitzio and Patzcuaro lake areas of Michoacan graves are decorated with cempoalxochitl flowers, where relatives of the deceased spend all night accompanying them, as it is believed that they return on November 1 and 2 to enjoy what they liked while they were alive. Other places like Puebla, Morelia, Guanajuato, Queretaro, Hidalgo, have elaborate altars and offerings contests. They include candles, chocolate, pan de muerto, wine, the deceased’s favorite food, toys, and crushed colored paper. In some places it has become a tourist attraction, but many people are still putting their offerings in their homes waiting for their dead, as it happens during Hanal Pixan for the Maya. Here in Playa, you can enjoy beautiful handmade pieces of high quality, as well as alebrijes (fantastic beings) from 1 to 6 November in the contest Catrinas y Alebrijes 2016. Here the audience can participate by selecting one of the winning pieces. The display is in Plaza Quinta Alegria and the awards event is on Saturday 5th at 7 pm. So come down and get to know Mexican folk art!

On November 1 and 2, while out and about on the streets of Playa del Carmen or elsewhere in the Riviera Maya, you will likely encounter the image of a skeletal figure. It might be in drawings, as large paper mache figurines, or appearing on people’s faces through makeup. It is known as La Calavera Catrina (Dapper Skeleton), and it has become an icon of the Mexican Día de Muertos, the Day of the Dead. So, what is the origin of this image, and what does it represent? It was originally created by a lithographer and printer named Jose Guadalupe Posada in 1910, although as yet it did not have a name. That came later, when painter Diego Rivera used it in one of his murals in 1948, calling it “La Catrina”. Ever since then, it has become a part of Mexican culture, symbolizing the contrasts be-

buried, left floating on water or in the sun to be used as bird food. Ideas about death cause cultural consequences, and transcend the way that people live.

tween the upper and lower classes in the country. The female skeleton is dressed in a hat that indicates the upper-class outfit of a European in the early 20th century, in particular, the French. Posada felt that people who dressed like this were trying to hide their mestizo origins and adopt European aristocratic traditions. In Mexico, the social classes have always had a great divide between them, with the highest class enjoying many privileges, with the lower classes nearly invisible. Posada stated that “La Catrina has become the referential image of Death in Mexico. It is common to see her embodied as part of the celebrations of Day of the Dead throughout the country”. In this manner, Mexico is unique among countries in the way it pays homage to death. It is expressed through songs, respect and humor; they are all common Mexican expressions towards death. Curator David de la Torre from the La Plaza de Cultura y Artes sums it up this way, “Death brings this neutralizing force; everyone is equal in the end. Sometimes people have to be reminded of that.”

J.G. Posadas’s original image of La Catrina / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

DISCOVER MEXICO

November 2 - 15 2016 Photo: Florencia Cerutti

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park BY VANESSA NINI

Spotted Eagle Ray Research:

Calling All Divers! L\b^gmblml _khf Z ghg&ikhÛ m hk`ZgbsZmbhg !;en^ <hk^ :' <'" pbee lhhg li^g] Z ehm h_ mbf^ bg ma^ pZm^k mZdbg` ]ZmZ _hk ma^ Û klm lihmm^] ^Z`e^ kZr k^l^Zk\a Zg] \hgl^koZmbhg ikhc^\m bg ma^ F^qb\Zg <Zkb[[^Zg BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI

potted eagle ray season is almost here! These magnificent creatures gather in key SCUBA diving spots such as the shipwrecks in Cancun and Puerto Morelos, as well as the reefs of Cozumel during winter. After March they are rarely seen, so scientists from a non-profit organization (Blue Core A. C.) will soon spend a lot of time in the water taking data for the first spotted eagle ray research and conservation project in the Mexican Caribbean. Spotted eagle rays are large charismatic rays occurring in tropical and subtropical waters. They are heavily fished in many areas of their range, and they are an important tourist attraction in Quintana Roo as they gather in large numbers during winter. This species has particular characteristic that makes them quite vulnerable such as slow growth, reaching maturity at 14-28 years; they have only 1-4 pups taking almost a year to gestate; they depend on coral reefs and seagrass meadows for food, both ecosystems are in heavy danger in Quintana Roo and the Caribbean Region; and, in the Caribbean, they feed primarily on an endangered species of mollusk (queen conch). Information is needed to manage and conserve any use of wildlife or natural resource: every year we see them here, and we do not know where they go after, or where they come from, or if the rays we get to admire in Quintana Roo may venture into fishing areas. So, scientists at Blue Core A.C. in Quintana Roo in collaboration with Mote Marine Lab from Florida and

Cozumel’s Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is a true natural treasure. It is an ecological reserve covering an area of 247 acres. An ideal place for taking pictures of the exotic birds living in freedom, watching crocodiles and iguanas in their natural habitat, laying on the beach and snorkeling by the coral reef which lies offshore. This is the favorite place for an eco-aware person like Alexandra, from Monterrey. “When I come to Cozumel, I love going to Punta Sur Eco beach Park. I know exactly where my money is going and I appreciate being in symbiosis with nature without feeling any negative impact of my presence. The snorkeling area is, for me, one of the best features of the island, with an abundance of fish and easy access from the shore. The waters are calm and make a great place to introduce children to the world of snorkeling. I love allowing myself to relax in a hammock under a palapa on the beach.” Colombia Lagoon is one of the main attractions of the park, with its mangrove swamps and jungles sheltering a variety of wild birds, crocodiles, fish and vegetation. There are viewing decks and towers in many parts of the park where you can observe and take fabulous pictures. You

can also take a boat trip on the lagoon and take a closer look at the crocodiles and other wildlife. In addition to these natural attractions, Punta Sur Park is also home to a Mayan Ruin site called El Caracol Mayan ruins. This unique structure has conch shells embedded in the walls that whistle in different tones depending on the direction of the wind. As the legend goes, they were meant to warn the Maya people of oncoming storms or hurricanes. If you are feeling energetic, you should really climb to the top of Punta Celerain Lighthouse. The panoramic view is just amazing. The lighthouse is also home to the navigation museum. A family from Houston, Texas says “This place is ideal for my family. A lot of experiences to share on the same day about culture, nature and history. The children just loved the museum.” It’s like they say: “Punta Sur Eco Beach Park has something for everyone” Monday-Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm, Adults $14.00 US, Children $8.00 US (3-11 years old) The park is located about 21 KM south of San Miguel de Cozumel. I recommend you to rent a car or a scooter to go there. cozumelparks.com/eng/punta_sur.cfm.

ECOSUR from Campeche (Gulf of Mexico) are using their color patterns to identify individuals through pictures taken while diving during the season and across seasons to answer these questions. With pictures gathered as far as 2003, Blue Core A.C. has created the first photo-ID library in Mexico with over 1000 pictures already processed and 282 individuals identified!

What makes this species vulnerable? Slow growth, reaching maturity at 14-28 years

There are viewing decks and towers where you can observe and take fabulous pictures

Only have 1 to 4 pups with a gestation of almost a year Depend on at risk ecosystems for food (coral reefs & seagrass meadows) Feed primarily on endangered species (queen conch) Would you like to be part of this effort? Easy! Send your good-quality pictures of spotted eagle rays with date and site to Blue Core A. C. through the Facebook page and join their research expeditions while SCUBA diving with these beautiful creatures over winter! Its mangrove swamps and jungles shelter a large variety of fauna / Photo: Vanessa Nini

November 2 - 15 2016

Living in Cozumel: Michela Nazzaruolo A move from Italy to Cozumel helped make a lifelong dream come true BY VANESSA NINI

ichela Nazzaruolo is a young Italian woman who decided to change her life a few years ago and try out a new adventure in Cozumel. Born in Modena, Michela studied to become an English teacher, so she traveled and worked around Europe for a while. How did you arrive in Cozumel, Michela? I have always been fascinated by Mexico. I found an ad that said they were looking for an English teacher in a private school, but in two weeks time! So I begged them if they could wait for me longer. Two months later, I was landing in Cozumel for the first time in my life. How was the life in Cozumel when you arrived from Italy? Some people say Italians are the Mexican of Europe, but it is actually really different there. Life in Europe is extremely fast, while here people take their time to live. Sure, it is not easy to follow the rhythm of the island people sometimes, especially when you are working. But nothing beats going to the beach after or before work. It is ideal to cure any kind of stress.

Salvador Pitagoras Larqué Guzman has dedicated his time to photography and video for about 16 years now / Photo: Raquel Garza Gonzalez

Once Once Gallery BY RAQUEL GARZA GONZALEZ The Once Once Gallery opens its doors to the public every day to share photography, a delicious Baguette, cake, truffle, smoothie, coffee or something else. The Cafè Gallery is open from 9am to 2pm and 4:30pm to 10pm. It is located on 10th Avenue between Juarez Av and 2nd Street, just outside the Magenta cultural center. It is here where photographer Salvador Pitagoras Larqué Guzman exposes all photographs, with the day-to-day takes in his walk through different places on his path. Pitagoras has dedicated his time to photography and video for almost 16 years. He became a certified diver in 2008 in order to do underwater photography. From there, he began to experience the beauty of the marine world, without leaving aside photography on land. He is sharing his artwork in the Café Gallery, displayed for the general public in order that they may buy it. He puts his heart into his work, and it shows. He captures images for himself, directed by whatever his soul leads him to. His photographs show a lot of color, enthusiasm and focus, according to their journeys, angles, roads and feelings. He will soon be exhibiting his photography work in the gallery, and later sharing space with some other artists. “I am excited to start this new project in this

You arrived as a teacher but you are now running an art and culture center called Magenta. Yes, Magenta was a life-long dream which became a reality very quickly after some tacos with my boyfriend and friends. When we found the place, I fell in love with it because

Cozumel is such a magical place. Today, I know why I needed to come here.

it was exactly what I was looking for. It was ideal for hosting the art gallery, the various courses, the kids’ camps, the concerts and, after 7pm, the bar and restaurant. These are activities that financially support Magenta. Everything became reality so fast. Cozumel is such a magical place. Today I know why I needed to come here. Do you have a favorite thing about Cozumel that you would like to share with us? I love the other side of the island, it is quiet and desert, the beaches are wild and sandy. I love going there to find energy and peace. I also love that here, I can forget my keys in my car and it will still there in the morning. I can walk alone late the night and I feel safe, and this has no price, believe me. Magenta Art and Culture center is on 10th Av. between Juarez and 2 in front of Hostelito, 5 min from the ferry pier. Facebook/Magenta Art&Culture Ristoclub.

“I am sharing and exposing my work in photography here, where people can come and enjoy brunch and the exposition” Café Gallery. I am sharing and exposing my work in photography here, where people can come and enjoy brunch and appreciate the works that are on display, which can vary according to the sales and new pieces. This gives freshness and joy to the place. People are able to know Cozumel through an artistic vision, from the heart. Those who have lived longer on this island love, respect and share a daily routine. The island has a lot to give us. To us, locals and visitors.” You can learn more on their Facebook page Once Once Galeria, where they upload photos of the gallery, its dishes and everything that happens. Or you can check it out at facebook. com/onceoncegaleria One more place to enjoy the beautiful Island of Cozumel! Life in Europe is extremely fast, while here people take their time to live / Photos: Vanessa Nini

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DISCOVER TPT FOODIES MEXICO

At the end of the tour, we ate what we caught, freshest fish you’ll ever eat! / Photos: Raquel Garza Gonzalez

Spearfishing T o d ay A^Z] hnm _hk li^\mZ\neZk ]Zr h_ li^ZkÛlabg` Zg] ^gchr rhnk \Zm\a _hk ]bgg^k BY RAQUEL GARZA GONZALEZ

e went to catch our own food with “Spearfishing Today” and it was very exciting. Starting the tour with a breathtaking view of the turquoise water of the Mexican Caribbean, with certified and passionate guides, it was the most exciting experience in the sea. On our way to our diving spot, the guides told us which fish were permitted to catch and what to respear, according to their species and size. We also received instructions and precautions in order to fully enjoy the tour. At our first stop we glimpsed a beautiful eagle ray swimming quietly. She gave us permission to approach, to see it in detail and enjoy its beauty. As if that were not enough, we continued our swim and then we saw a giant turtle swimming with great agility, putting on a show with its presence. So we continued to find more turtles and many colorful fish hiding in the reefs. Wandering around, there is always something new to see and as we went back to the shore, we came across nothing less than wild dolphins swimming around the boat! What a spectacular way to end a day of fishing.

In addition to being an unforgettable experience, it is really admirable see your teammates make attempts to spearfish, immersed in chasing their prey, and being cautious so that the fish don’t perceive fear. The tips that the guide gave us proved to be very useful.

Wandering around, there is always something new to see, Raquel Garza

The tour lasts four hours, where you will swim, snorkel and try to catch your prey. Water and fruit are included for the breaks you make here and there. You make various stops at specific locations with different depths. At the end of the tour, we ate what we caught, enjoying the freshest fish that I have ever eaten! They have a location in Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Cozumel, Holbox, Isla Mujeres and Tulum, and you can find them on their website www. spearfishingtoday.com.

November 2 - 15 2016

ENTERTAINMENT

Kool & The Gang with Gloria G ayno r at M o o n Palace A ren a By Palace Entertainment

KOOL & THE GANG ool & The Gang has sold over 70 million albums worldwide and influenced the music of three generations. Thanks to songs like “Celebration”, “Cherish”, and “Summer Madness”, they’ve earned two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, 25 Top Ten R&B hits, nine Top Ten Pop hits, and 31 gold and platinum albums. Kool & The Gang has performed continuously for the past 45 years, longer than any R&B group in history. In 1969, they released their self-titled debut album. The instrumental album was an expression of their deep love of music. It was also an introduction to their signature sound and the fierce horn arrangements created by Khalis, Dee Tee, and Spike. Their debut album spawned their first Billboard R&B charted single “Kool and the Gang” and later “Let The Music Take Your Mind”. Kool & The Gang remains one of the most active touring bands, performing hundreds of shows every year. In 2012, they embarked on a U.S. national tour with legendary rock band, Van Halen, while also appearing on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Dancing with the Stars and PBS’ 4th of July Celebration Concert, A Capitol Fourth.

G L O R I A G AY N O R Gloria Gaynor, whose music career has spanned more than 30 years, is responsible for the greatest disco anthems of all times. In 1975, Gloria made history when Billboard gave birth to the ‘Disco Action Charts.’ Gaynor’s version of “Never Can Say Good-Bye” became the first dance song to reach #1 status in dance music. Later in 1979, “I Will Survive” climbed to the top of Billboard’s Pop Charts and claimed the #1 position on two different occasions. “I Will Survive” would grow into the banner for social survival which is

Photos: Palace Entertainment

still relevant after three decades of international airplay. The song itself has survived and has been re-recorded over 200 times by accomplished artists such as Gladys Knight, Chantay Moore, Diana Ross and Cake. Gloria’s popularity continues to

flourish into the new millennium. In 2002 she was honored at the World Music Awards in Monte Carlo with the coveted LEGEND award presented by long time fan Prince Albert. Gaynor made a splash on Broadway in the longest running musical revue,

“Smokey Joe’s Café”, and on national TV, as a guest star on such popular programs as “That ‘70’s Show”, “Ally McBeal”, “The Wayans Brothers’ Show”, “Don’t Forget The Lyrics”, and more, introducing her to a whole new generation of fans.

ENTERTAINMENT

November 2 - 15 2016

The LGBT community has been waiting for a club like this! / Photos: Life is a Beach Productions

Divers Grand Opening The LGBT community in Playa del Carmen celebrates the grand opening its newest nightclub where everyone is welcome! BY NADIA MORELLA

t was a perfect night; the sky was full of stars and the moon was shining brightly on Playa del Carmen for the Grand Opening of the new LGBT nightclub, Divers. The name Divers has been chosen for the diversity of the people that are welcomed in the nightclub, and that is everyone! From gay to straight, lesbian to trans, bisexual to queer or bear to leather, no matter who you are or what you like, Divers is the place for you to enjoy amazing shows and dance all night long to the sounds of DJ Pauleto! The inauguration started at 11 p.m. with the ribbon cutting by representatives of the LGBT community, Jan Novak from Playa Pride & Fusion G and myself, Ginger from LesMex & Life is a Beach Productions. We were greeted by Alejandra Zepeda, Public Relations and Leandro Olmedo, Operations Manager. There has never been a place like this in Playa del Carmen, and we are proud to be able to join this journey. Divers is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. It has a whole new concept of nightlife for locals, expats and travelers. Former General Manager of the well known B.E.D Nightclub in South Beach, Miami was quoted saying, “This is the most entertaining and carefully thought out nightclub I have seen so far in Playa del Carmen.” She went on to mention she is looking

forward to more evenings like this one! The LGBT community has been asking for a venue like this for a while, and it is finally happening with the precious hard work of Alejandra Zepeda, Public Relations of Divers. After the ribbon cutting, everyone was invited inside, where a colorful old school dance floor, white walls and sofas were welcoming to the all aged crowd. It goes without saying that everyone enjoyed the classy look of the club, inside and out. From the lounge-style outdoor smoking room to the music, table service and the classy restrooms with linen towels, everything was perfect. They kept a full house all night, with numerous stunning performances by choreographed dancers and strippers. Fernando Romero, Divers’ Artistic Director, did an amazing job designing the fabulous outfits and the entire show. The opening was a huge success, and the staff did a great job attending to the guests. Divers is already working on exciting events for their guests such as karaoke night, laughter yoga, acting classes, art exhibition, etc. If you, dear readers, have any ideas or projects you would like to present to Divers nightclub, please contact Leandro Olmedo, Operations Manager or Fernando Romero (+52 1 984 208 5012 or +52 1 744 143 9221).

TPT FOODIES

HEALTH

November 2 - 15 2016

Eight Benefits Of Coconut Oil BY SARA JONES We’re lucky enough to live in an area where good quality virgin coconut oil is produced locally. Numerous studies have shown the benefits of this amazing oil, extracted from one of the healthiest foods on the planet. Brain Function. Coconut oil is a great source of Medium-Chain-Fatty-Acids (MCFA’s). These MCFA’s are metabolized by the liver to create ketones, accessible energy to the brain, keeping brain function optimal. Heart Health. High in natural saturated fats that not only increase good cholesterol (HDL) in your body but also help to convert the LDL or “bad” cholesterol into good cholesterol. This helps promote a healthy heart and lowers the risk of heart disease. Reduces Inflammation. The antioxidants in coconut oil reduce inflammation and can ease arthritis and other pain caused by inflammation.

Boost Immune System. Coconut oil is antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral. It is known to reduce candida, fight bacteria, and create a hostile environment for viruses. Reduce sugar in your diet and supplement coconut oil to boost immunity and avoid illness. Multi-purpose skin treatment. An excellent cleanser, moisturizer and dry skin treatment, coconut oil can also treat skin disorders like eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and minor burns. Dental Health. Oil pulling with coconut oil is a great way to cleanse the mouth of bacteria and heal periodontal disease. Swish the oil around for 20 minutes at least three times a week to remove bacteria, heal gums and keep teeth healthy. Weight Loss. It might seem counterintuitive that consuming an oil would contribute to fat loss, but it’s all due to the type of fat. Coconut oil improves thyroid function and assists the body in burning fat for energy. It’s been shown to help in shifting stubborn abdominal fat. Hormones. Coconut oil may be an excellent fat to consume during menopause, as it can have positives effects on estrogen levels.

Mangos provide a generous amount of Vitamins C & A / Photos: Flickr/Andrew E. Larsen

Magnificent Mangos

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

You think you know mangos? Think again! Because if you met them in your home country, there is a slightly chance that you aZo^g m f^m ma^ Z\mnZe mabg`' LZkZ ^qieZbgl par' Natural saturated fats help to convert “bad” cholesterol into good cholesterol / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Feel Beautiful

Beauty should be something that we accept, appreciate and celebrate / Photo: pexels.com

BY SARA JONES I recently attended the annual Global Wellness Summit, a conference held in a different country each year. This year it took place in Kitzbuhel, in the Austrian Alps – quite a change of climate from Playa! One of the predominant themes this year was beauty. In the Spa and Wellness field, beauty has become somewhat of a taboo word, with connotations of superficiality and even narcissism. However, our brains are hardwired to detect and appreciate beauty, and even to protect it. Whether we find beauty in nature, in sound, in others around us or, dare I say it, in ourselves, it should be something that we accept, appreciate and celebrate. After all, who doesn’t want to look in the mirror and feel beautiful? Here are some ways to feel beautiful: 1. Smile. Said to be the cheapest ‘beauty procedure’ ever. A smile brightens everyone’s face, without fail. It also triggers happiness in yourself and others! 2. Be in awe of your body. Whatever your size or shape, whatever your body ‘can’t’ do, be in awe of the amazing things it can and does do every single day. Love it and look

BY SARA JONES

after it, you’ve only get one! 3. Stand tall. Stand up straight, pull your shoulders back and down and embrace confidence and beauty. 4. See yourself as others do. It is usually true that we are often our own worst critics. We speak far more harshly to ourselves than we ever would to a friend. Encourage and appreciate yourself as you would with someone you love. 5. Hug. Hugging releases oxytocin in the brain, the chemical responsible for feelings of connection, intimacy and love. Hold the hug for an extended period of time to get the benefits. My close friends always know they need to hug me for at least 7 seconds, and they all know why! 6. Create Beauty Around You. Be creative with the space you live in, work in and sleep in. Surround yourself with beautiful colors, décor, furniture, light and nature. Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness Mexico magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

rowing up in England, I always believed I disliked mangos. They seemed to have a soapy taste and were not usually very sweet. Some time around my second year of living in Playa Del Carmen, I mentioned this to my mango-eating friend, who exclaimed that I absolutely must try them again. I did, and I have been hooked ever since. The mango that has spent four days on a refrigerated truck coming from India to England is a far cry from the sweet, juicy, flavorful (and not at all soap-like) mangos found here in Mexico. Mangos provide a generous amount of Vitamins C & A, approximately 76% and 25% of your daily requirement respectively. They also have a range of B vitamins, in addition to essential minerals: copper, potassium and magnesium. Here are some more reasons to eat more Mangos: • Boosts Immune System. With the high dose of Vitamin C and A and host of 25 different carotenoids, mangos keep your immune system healthy and help you fight off infections. • Aids Digestion. It’s not only Papaya that contains enzymes for digestion! The natural enzymes in mangos are great for helping you break down proteins and the pre-biotic dietary fiber improves intestinal health. • Reduces Cholesterol. With high levels of Vitamin C, Pectin and fiber, mangos can help to lower LDL serum cholesterol levels. LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein), is the bad cholesterol. • Aids Concentration and Memory. Mangos are rich in glutamine acid, a protein that is essential for brain function including memory and concentration.

Ask a local friend if they have a mango tree at home to get some of them. You might end up very surprised and with a bucket of the fruit. •

Rich in Antioxidants. Antioxidants like quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat, are present in mangos, and have been shown to protect the body against colon, breast, leukemia and prostate cancers. • Aphrodisiac. Mangos are also a symbol of love and fertility and are said be an aphrodisiac that can boost sex drive in men. As we come to the end of mango season, stock up while you can and remember: you can always find frozen mango, perfect for adding to smoothies and juices. Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness Mexico magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

November 2 - 15 2016

HEALTH & FITNESS

Aloha Paddle Club Head down to Inti Centro Holistic Beach Club on the beach between Calle 4 and 6 to get out on the water for a fun workout and maybe a bit of therapy mixed in BY REBECCA PAGE

have terrible balance. Anything that involves balance, like walking without getting hurt, can be challenging for me. So, as I headed out early one morning to try stand up paddle boarding (SUPing) with Aloha Paddle Club, I prepared myself to spend a lot of time in the water. Aloha Paddle Club is located on the beach between Calle 4 and Calle 6 at the Inti Centro Holistic Beach Club. Sander Claassens, one of its founders, was kind enough to allow me to join them for a 7:30 class on a beautiful morning. Sander has been in Playa del Carmen for almost five years, and the opportunity to get involved in SUPing occurred about two years ago and lead he and a friend to create the Aloha Paddle Club last year. Eventually, Sander found the perfect spot, right on the beach, at Inti. Â¨For me,â&#x20AC;? SandHU VD\V Ă&#x;,W ZDV WKH SHUIHFW SODFH ,WÂ?V D JUHDW VSRW ,WÂ?V UHDOO\ FKLOO , XVHG WR do yoga here, and it was the perfect addition to Aloha.Â¨ As we sat on the deck at Inti, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have agreed more. Inti Holistic Beach Club provides a perfect location for Aloha Paddle Club to offer SUP in addition to their relaxed beach

club and yoga studio. The morning of my class, our group consisted of six. We headed to the beach where the b o a r d s and paddles were waiting for us. Sander gave us newbies brief instructions including how to hold the paddle, how to enter the water with your board, where to position your body, and what was going to happen once we were all in the water. The instruction is intentionally kept brief so you arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overwhelmed, DQG OHWÂˇV EH KRQHVW \RX FDQÂ?W wait to try it out! The water was like glass when we entered and we all headed out. Even though we were all different ability lev-

Aloha Paddle Club Schedule Daily â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

6:00 a.m. sunrise paddle 7:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 5:30 p.m. sunset paddle Contact them via Facebook/ alohapaddleclub to sign up

els, I never felt intimidated. The environment that Sander and the team at Aloha creates is one in which everyone feels comfortable and welcome. Whether you are super fit or not, paddle boarding with Aloha Paddle Club is a positive and rewarding experience. Â¨Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost like therapy,Â¨ Sander says. Â¨Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working out. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re swimming. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re chatting. People really

open up the minute theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re out on the water. It has like it has healing power. The masks come off.Â¨ Our time on the water lasts about 75 minutes, during which, I might add, I never fell once despite my initial belief that I was going to be swimming more than paddling. In fact, I was already planning my next session. If you are interested in trying stand up paddle boarding or if you are already an experienced SUPer, head down to Inti Holistic Beach &OXE <RXÂ?OO ILQG WKHP RQ WKH EHDFK in Playa del Carmen between Calle 4 and Calle 6. For more information on pricing, classes, becoming a member and more, contact Aloha Paddle Club on Facebook/alohapaddleclub. You can also visit their website at www. alohapaddleclub.com.

Sander Claassens

Aloha Paddle Club is an amazing place to learn to SUP / Photos: Aloha Paddle Club

November 2 - 15 2016

BEACH BOARD

LOOKING FOR SOME THING TO DO? CHECK OUT

NOVEMBER 01 - 15

2016 www.theplayatimes.c om

The threats to this animal include loss of habit, being prey to larger animals and many others / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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porcup Mexican hairy dwarf

to climb low ing their quills to al ov m g, in at m l ro nt Females co mating ... or not s in captivity They live up to 15 year es is called a hairy dwarf porcupin n ica ex M of p ou gr A prickle. Makes sense.

A Prickly Situation Recently, this beautiful creature has been sighted wandering in the residential areas of Playa del Carmen. Because of its small size and not so obvious quills, it has people wondering what type of animal this could be. BY NASH

he solitary Mexican Hairy Dwarf Porcupine can be found living in Mexico, Costa Rica, Panamá, Guatemala, and Honduras. The porcupine belongs to the rodent family. This species is smaller than other species of porcupines; only 12 to 18 inches plus their hairless prehensile tail. The dwarf’s head is hairless, with a pink pig-like snout and dark hair that covers the body. But underneath the hair layers are the yellow colored quills. The quills are used for defense; they have micro barbs which penetrate the flesh and are painful to remove. Contrary to popular belief, porcupines can not target you and launch quills. You need to have contact to be punctured. They are an arboreal species and spend their nights foraging for fruit, leaves, and seeds.

It is typically a docile, silent animal and only vocal during mating season. There is not a lot of information about this animal. It is believed they are polygynandrous and mate throughout the year producing one pup each pregnancy. The pups are born with soft quills which harden up in about three days. The threats to this animal are loss of habit, being prey to larger animals, traffic, and illegal hunting. There are many published articles about snakes that have fed on porcupine and died from quills puncturing the lining of the gut-a porcupine revenge. Indigenous people believe their fat and skin have medicinal purposes, and the skin and quills were used for traditional clothing and headdresses. They are not on the endangered list, but as more and more habitat disappears, the Mexican Hairy Dwarf Porcupine is becoming a threatened species.

The Snoopi Project’s mission

he Snoopi Project’s mission is to provide shelter to family dogs from the harsh elements in the form of a dog house, to families who may not otherwise be able to afford it. This nonprofit organization has already improved many lives. Through donations they can help provide shelter, food, sterilization, and medical treatments. The project began in July 2015. Since then they have delivered 361 houses, sterilized 225 animals, rescued and rehomed 44 dogs, treat-

ed six dogs for TVT (transmissible venereal tumor) with weeks of chemotherapy, vaccinated 15 puppies and built puppy enclosures. The Snoopi Project has been able to help countless pets by providing assistance with medical treatment. All of this was made possible through donations. If you would like to follow this amazing project or make a donation so that they may continue to help animals and the community, visit Facebook/The Snoopi Project- Riviera Maya