Edition 41 by theplayatimes

Biweekly · Year 01 · Number 41 · 20,000 copies · 16 Pages · September 3-16, 2014 www.theplayatimes.com

Mexican Becomes the World’s

LOCAL NEWS CFE´s Digital Meters

Around 16,000 smart meters have already been installed in Quintana Roo. Find out how the new system works.

Oldest Living Person BY E. FLORES

Photo: Agency

In 1887 >03 ·SPECIAL · DISCOVER MEXICO Grover Cleveland was the US President Leandra Becerra with her remaining ID/ Photos:Agency

their menfolk to the front lines. “She was always a woman who fought. She was still sewing and weaving until about two years ago,” granddaughter Miriam Alvear, aged 43, told the Monterrey newspaper El Horizonte. “She is entirely lucid. She blows your mind with her stories of the revolution, how she and some of her sons hid in caves to avoid being forcibly recruited by the

Mexican army.” After moving to Guadalajara to live with one of her daughters 40 years ago, Becerra misplaced her birth certificate, but authorities are trying to issue a replacement. The Mexican Civil Registry Office was established in 1859, but most of the populace continued to record events in local parish church registries. Currently, according to The Guinness Book if Records, the world’s oldest docu-

Queen Victoria was celebrating her Golden Jubilee

Riviera Highlights

Photo: Agency

Mexican woman, originally from Tula, Tamaulipas, has just become the world’s oldest living human being, when she reportedly turned 127 Aug. 31. Leandra Becerra Lumbreras, born in 1887, was just 23 when the Mexican Revolution broke out and 82 when man first stepped on the moon. She has already buried five sons and some of her 20 grandchildren. Her last child died in 2013, aged 90. She also has 73 great grandchildren and 55 great-great grandchildren. Ms. Becerra’ family says that the secret to her longevity is eating chocolate, sleeping for sometimes days at a time, and never marrying. “She has never ceased to be active that’s why we think she’s lived so long,” they concluded. It is reported that the retired seamstress fought in the revolution as a member of the Adelitas, a group of women who followed

Discover the cool colonial town of Valladolid, the perfect place for visiting Mayan wonders and cenotes, in our section for independent travelers.

mented person is Misao Okawa, a Japanese woman who is 12 years younger than Ms. Becerra.

>06 DINING OUT

e Art of Chocolate

We visit Ah Cacao, a producer of traditional Mayan chocolate, at their facory and headquarters in Playa del Carmen.

>11

ept. 16 sees one of the most important days in the Mexican calendar, Independence Day. Which is not - a popular misconception - celebrated on Cinco de Mayo. The call to arms to confront Spanish rulers came on the eve of Sept. 15, 1810, when priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave a passionate speech during his late night mass, rallying his community to act. Father Hidalgo presided over the parish of Dolores, a small town in Guanajuato, which is now considered the birthplace of Mexico’s independence. Hidalgo’s speech hit the right chord and the following morning, the campesinos gathered, called by the church bell. His impassioned address became known as El Grito, or The Cry, and is now reenacted annually on the night of Sept. 15 at 11 p.m. by the Mexican president. From the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City, El Presidente delivers a patriotic speech that traditionally ends in the fervent finale, ¡Viva Mexico! The very bell that is rung is the original bell from the church of Dolores; it was removed and taken to Mexico City, where it still hangs today. Unfortunately, 10 months after his cry, Father Hidalgo faced the firing squad, having led a band of 90,000 rural farm laborers across Mexico. His headless remains (it was removed post-execution and displayed as a deterrent to other insurgents) are now interred in Mexico City. Independence finally came Sept. 21, 1821. Here celebrations have already begun, and it is now officially Independence Month. On the first of September, the Mexican flag, which will fly throughout the month, was raised above the City Hall, which is now bathed each night in the colors of Mexico. On Sept 15, the Fiesta begins at 8 p.m. at Plaza 28 Julio, with a Mexican show, traditional cuisine and a fairground, which is free for all to enjoy. At 11 p.m. the Sentimientos de la Nación, or Feelings of the Nation is read, this is a 23-point address made to the National Constituent Congress on Sept. 14, 1813.

DIRECTORY Emma Flores Editor Cell: 984 151 5220 editor@theplayatimes.com

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Photograpy Noriega Photographics ed@noriegaphotographics.com 984 105 3567

Photos: Agency

>Editorial

At 11.15 p.m. there will be a 15 minute firework display, after which the fiesta continues. At midnight the major, Mauricio Gongora will ring the bell from the balcony of the City Hall and address the

crowd, finishing with the traditional cry of ¡Viva Mexico! Don’t forget to purchase your tricolor from the many vendors you will soon see, trot along to City Hall Sept. 15 and break out the red, white and green!

TPT 10 DAY WEATHER WED 3

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984-803 1446 info@theplayatimes.com

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 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., 15 Ave. and 1 South, Col. Centro, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo, CP 77710.

CURRENCY

* Sept 2 * Source BANAMEX

DOLLAR Buy 12.84 Sell 13.34

EURO Buy 16.99 Sell 17.48

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DOLLAR CANADA Buy 11.86 Sell 12.201

YEN Buy 0.1256 Sell 0.1203

SWISS FRANC Buy 14.07 Sell 14.47

POUND Buy 22.40 Sell 22.01

REAL Buy 5.75 Sell 5.91

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EMERGENCY 060

CIVIL PROTECTION 877 3053 / 54

CLINIC AMBULANCE 873 0885

POLICE 872 0599

RED CROSS 873 1233

HYPERBARIC CHAMBER 873 1365

TOURISTIC SECURITY 1800 987 8224

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TRANSIT 877 3340

FIRE DEPARTMENT 879 3669 / 70

HOSPITAL GENERAL 206 1690 / 91 / 92

SOS MARINA 767 627 462

September 3-16, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

Taxi Fares to Remain Unchanged BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD

axi fares in Playa del Carmen will not increase, as was previously announced in May. Eddie Villanueva Marrufo, a representative from the Quintana Roo Ministry of Infrastructure and Transportation (SINTRA) confirmed that the current rate card, established in 2011, will remain valid and taxi drivers cannot overcharge for their services. According to Villanueva Marrufo, drivers must have the rate card on display at all times, visible to passengers, or they risk being reported to the Transportation Office. Violations may be reported by contacting 084 673 011. The rate card defines 20 zones throughout the city and extra charges can only added when passengers board a taxi at one of the cities designated taxi ranks or when ordering by phone. For Playacar (Zone 5) there are different rates for residents, hotel employees and tourists. The rate card also states that passengers are covered with life and medical insurance should an

accident occur during their journey. It also gives a list of recommendations such as only using a taxi that bears the insignia of the Playa del Carmen Union of Taxi Drivers Lázaro Cárdenas del Río, and that drivers must wear uniform and display an ID badge at all times. Reports regarding drivers not adhering to these regulations can be made on 984 877 3859. The minimum fare of $20 pesos in Playa del Carmen´s downtown remains as well as the set prices for certain journeys: Xcaret $135 pesos, Puerto Aventuras $225 pesos, Akumal $285 pesos, Xel-Ha $455 pesos, Tulum $505 pesos, Puerto Morelos $325 pesos, Cancun Airport $490 pesos, downtown Cancun $515 pesos, and $60 pesos from Playa del Carmen to the taxi union headquarters. Villanueva Marrufo concluded that any taxi driver who is reported by a member of the public for overcharging would be penalized. The taxi driver’s union can be contacted on 984 877 3859, and this number can be used for complaints, enquiries and lost property reports.

Photo:Agency

Playa’s taxi rates will remain the same as 2011 / Photo:Santana-taxi-tours.com

New CFE´s smart card / Photo:Agency

What is a Smart Electric Meter? BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD The Federal Commission of Electricity (CFE) has begun a program aimed at modernizing the country’s meter system. The scheme involves replacing old electromechanical analog meters for new smart meters, which CFE claims will improve the company’s competitiveness and service to users. Currently, around 8 million meters have already been installed in Mexico with approximately 16,000 in Quintana Roo.

The new digital meters will not change the current rates and the switch is optional. Installation, meter, and the smart card needed to take the reading, are all free. With this system, consumers can choose to scan their meter on either day 1, 5, 10, 15, 20 or 25 of each month, before they pay their bill. “With this scheduled reading system the estimated bill system ends, as users take their own reading. Now they can be sure of the exact number of kilowatts

they are consuming and paying for,” explained Capi Madera Gil, superintendent of CFE Riviera Maya. “In case that the service is suspended for nonpayment, it will be reconnected as soon as the user pays the outstanding bill, with no extra charge, as with the current system,” Madera Gil said. In addition, the digital meter protects electrical devices from power surges, as it automatically suspends the service when a change in voltage is detected, the supply is reactivated it when the regular current resumes. To take a reading, users must scan the smart card against the digital meter. Once the information is downloaded, they go to their usual payment center, CFEmatic or Customer Service Centre to pay. Those interested in changing their meters to the digital smart system can call 071 or go to CFE’s headquarters on 22nd Street and 40th Avenue in Gonzalo Guerrero district. Recently there have been some claims that digital meters may pose a health risk by emitting radiation, and that the government may use the meters to control rather than measure energy consumption. According to Madera Gil, the digital meters are “safe and do not emit dangerous levels of radiation,” and dismissed health concerns as “rumors spread on the Internet.”

COMMUNITY

First Bikini Football Team Debuts BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD

The first TBEX 2012 conference in Girona, Spain/ Photo:Agency

Travel the World Without Leaving Home BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD

ravel blogs are an Internet phenomenon; these two words alone generate more than 797 million results when searching Google. Bearing this in mind, it comes as no surprise that the world-renowned destination of Cancun has been selected as the venue for the 2014 TBEX America Travel Conference Sept. 11-13. According to its organizers, “TBEX is the world’s largest gathering of travel bloggers, writers, new media content creators, and social media savvy travel industry professionals.” Founded in 2012, the forum gathers twice a year in Europe and America. It has already visited Keystone, Colorado; Girona, Spain; Toronto, Canada; and Dublin, Ireland. This year, the Mexican meeting will be followed by its European version in Athens Oct. 23-25. Bloggers from more than 39 countries attended TBEX in Toronto last year, and 2014’s figures look promising. Rick Calvert, director of NMX Events, the company organizing TBEX, said that around 1,000 writers and media content creators are expected to take part in the Cancun conference. The TBEX forum is also an opportunity for members of the worldwide travel blog community to share experiences and meet sponsors, such as Expedia, Airbnb and TripAdvisor. The travel media conference has already given the blogging community plenty to talk about when the Cancun tourist board offered attendees a tour to

a well-known local dolphin experience park. British newspaper The Guardian reported how pressure from travel bloggers and wildlife campaigners forced organizers to drop the tour from their agenda after the blog Green Global Travel complained to the Cancun Visitors and Conventions Office (OVC.) Mike Huxley, owner of the Bemused Backpacker blog, spoke out about the decision saying, “It is my hope that travel bloggers and campaigners can now work alongside the Cancun tourism board and events like TBEX, showing them and the world that there are better options than relying on mass tourism activities that exploit and harm wildlife.” Blogs may exercise a powerful influence, however beyond the controversy, the congress also offers a wide variety of lectures that may be of interest to writers living in the Riviera Maya and Cancun. In addition, prior to the convention there are two days of writing and photography workshops. Schedules and registrations are available on www.tbexcon.com

Playa del Carmen’s first female bikini football team, the Barracudas, played their premier exhibition game in the city Aug. 24. The preseason event was held at Luis Donaldo Colosio Sports Center on 30th Avenue and 98th Street, and received an encouraging welcome from a somewhat surprised public. It was the first time that the lingerie-style team game was played in Playa del Carmen. The Cancun based Caribbean Football League (CFL) scheduled a preseason match to promote the sport among local women and to also to expand the league’s appeal to other municipalities within the state. The CFL takes the U.S. Lingerie Football League (LFL), who recently rebranded itself as the Legends Football League, as its model. Before the season began, CFL’s president Jaime Ochoa organized friendly matches between teams of players who had already competed in Tocho Bandera tournaments, a popular Mexican non-contact version of football. In June, Ochoa launched the league with seven female teams. The Caribbean Football League (CFL) numbers around 200 players. Each game brings an eight strong team together for four 10-minute quarters. It is a contact game but differs from regular football in that there are no field goals, punts, or kickoffs at the beginning of the game. Three games took place during the afternoon. Cancun’s Sirenas (Mermaids) and the Sharks were first on the field. The Sirenas triumphed over their adversaries 42-0, thanks to goals by Edna Pérez, Julieta Zepeda and Adria Carranza. Playa del Carmen’s team lost 35-6 to Cancun’s Bucaneras (Buccaneers). The Lipsticks and Diosas Mayas (Mayan Goddesses), both from Cancun, closed the event. After the warm-up games, CFL’s official 2014 season started Aug. 31 at Cancun’s

The Barracudas / Photo:Noriega Photographics

Huayagol Stadium. In three games, Diosas Mayas faced the Sharks, Sirenas played against the Barracudas and Bucaneras confronted the Lipsticks.

September 3-16, 2014

COMMUNITY

Wages in Quintana Roo Among Highest Photo:vocero.qroo.gob.mx

BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD

n Mexico, the National Salaries Commission (CONASAMI), a public agency that aims to comply with the Federal Labor Law, regulates wages. Minimum salaries are established according to two zones, A and B. Quintana Roo now belongs to zone A, along with 70 percent of the country, after be upgraded from the B rating in February of this year. Zone A has a daily minimum wage of 67.29 pesos, compared to zone B, with 63.77 pesos. In January 2014, the zone A wage was raised from 64.76 to 67.29 pesos, an increase of 2.52 pesos, and zone B by 2.39 pesos, from 61.38 to 63.77. Patricio de la Peña Ruiz de Chávez, secretary of Quintana Roo Department of Employment and Social Care (STPS), explained that the state has one of the highest average salaries in the country. The aver-

Patricio de la Peña Ruiz de Chávez, secretary of STPS / Photo:vocero.qroo.gob.mx

Quintana Roo salaries are comparable to Monterrey and Mexico City, and are higher than in most other states. age monthly wage is $5,600 pesos, whereas the national average is $5,200 pesos. “Quintana Roo salaries are

comparable to Monterrey and Mexico City, and are higher than in most other states,” said De la Peña. He added, “Although expenses such as rent and basic supplies may be higher in Quintana Roo, we are still in a very good overall position, compared to the rest of the southeast of the country.” Apart from the general minimum daily wage of $67.29 there is a 2014 table set according to profession, such as: certified builders, $98.05 pesos; warehouse managers, $88.50 pesos; garment factory machinists, $86.94 pesos; agricultural vehicle operators, $98.61 pesos; hotel housekeeping staff, $93.94 pesos; administrative clerks, $101.47, and domestic appliance salesmen, $89.43. The full list of 59 professions and occupations and their corresponding minimum wage for 2014 is available on the CONASAMI website, www.conasami.gob.mx

DISCOVER MEXICO

d i l o d a l l a V Plea to Preserve

Melipona Honey Bee BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD

iguel Ángel Pani Can, manager of the ecotourism community association Uxuxubi al Natural and pioneer in preservation of the melipona bee in Quintana Roo, has announced that the Playa del Carmen government has been asked to grant a certificate of origin for melipona honey. The aim is to help local producers protect the indigenous bee, as well as to assist in the marketing of their honey, both nationally and abroad. Pani explained that the initiative would be supported by the brand certification Hecho en Quintana Roo (Made in Quintana Roo). Currently the local government is looking to increase the number of hives to maintain “constant regional honey production.” One liter of melipona honey can sell for as much as $800 pesos due to its high quality and nutrient content. Pani stressed that maintaining melipona bee honey produc-

tion is also part of the efforts to preserve Mayan traditions. The goal is to have 300 hives in operation throughout the municipality enabling apiculture to return to a profitable regional industry. “Local producers here have a deep knowledge of beekeeping. This type of honey was used medicinally here for centuries. The melipona bee appears in the Madrid Codex, a pre-Colombian Mayan book that was taken to Spain during the conquest and is now held at the capital’s Museum of America. The manuscript describes Mayan rituals and includes the uses of melipona honey,” Pani explained. “Balché, a sacred Mayan mead made from tree bark, is fermented with melipona bee honey and if we do not preserve this species, our forests will disappear as well as our traditions. We can’t compete with big companies, so that’s why we are asking for government support. We ask them not to abandon us,” Pani said. The largest producers of melipona honey today are in the south of Quintana Roo, in Othón P. Blanco (Chetumal) and Bacalar. There are also important producers among the Mayan communities of Tulum. In Playa del Carmen, Uxuxubi village, situated 8 miles from Akumal, has stood out for its efforts to preserve the melipona bee.

Honey was used medicinally for centuries by the Mayans / Photos:Agency

alladolid is a charming city situated in the east of the state of Yucatan and is one of the few places in the Yucatan Peninsula where you will find typical colonial architecture and historic buildings, as well as a picturesque traditional plaza. Perfectly located for visiting Mayan wonders such as the ruins of Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam, Coba and Tulum, it is a great place for a weekend break. The town was built in 1545 on the site of a previous Mayan settlement that was dismantled for materials to build the new town. It was named after what was then the capital of Spain. Valladolid played a vital part in several conflicts and uprisings, most notably the Caste War (1847-1910), when the native Mayan people revolted against the rulers of the region, known as Yucatecos, who were of European decent.Valladolid´s cosmopolitan downtown is a great place to sample authentic Yucatec gastronomy. Our recommendation is to stay at El Mesón del Marqués Hotel, a building in the plaza, next to the city´s main attractions and home to a fine regional restaurant. Distance in miles from Cancun: 98; Playa del Carmen: 130

HOW TO GET THERE Car If you drive from Playa del Carmen you can either take the 307 Chetumal-Cancun Highway north, taking the 180D Cancun-Merida road near Cancun Airport, or head to Tulum and take the Coba road. The trip from Playa del Carmen takes around two hours, a little less from Cancun. Bus The ADO bus station is in Valladolid´s downtown on 221, 39th St. It is an easy walk to the town center from there, or take a taxi to your hotel. There are six departures per day from Playa del Carmen and Cancun. One-way tickets are $176 pesos from both locations. You can check routes and schedules on www.ado.com.mx. Flights There are private flights from Cancun and Playa del Carmen to Chichén Itzá, which is 24 miles west of Valladolid. One-way flights cost $997 USD and $717 USD respectively per plane for five passengers plus taxes. Check www.cancunairplanetours.com for more information. Other option may be flying to Merida International Airport, which is 100 miles west Valladolid.

WHAT TO SEE Chichén Itzá. This is one of Mexico´s top archaeological sites and was the capital of the Mayan civilization as well as a center for worship and pilgrimage in the Yucatan Peninsula. On September 21, during the fall equinox, the late afternoon sun creates the illusion of a snake creeping down the main pyramid structure of Kukulcan. There is a direct route with ADO in the morning leaving from Cancun and Playa. One-way tickets are $244 and $326 pesos respectively. The ruins are open Tuesday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adult tickets are $59 pesos plus $45 pesos if you are taking photos. Ek Balam. These pretty ruins are 17 miles north Valladolid. Ek Balam (star or black jaguar in Mayan) was recently restored and it is known that its population reached 15,000 at one point. Two concentric walls surround the site and there is also an astronomic observatory. The ruins are as set in beautifully kept lawns ideal for picnics and are usually less busy that other sites. You can get to the ruins by taxi (20 minutes), colectivo or car by taking

the Cancun-Merida Highway toward Tizimín. The detour to Ek Balam is 3 miles after Temozón village. The site is open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $73 pesos for residents and $101 pesos for foreign visitors. Historic downtown. Valladolid has a beautiful colonial-style downtown area that you can easily explore on foot. Do not miss the San Bernardino de Siena Convent, the City Hall, San Servacio Church, the former De la Aurora Weaving Workshop and San Roque Museum, which shows the history of Valladolid through an eclectic collection of photographs, documents and historical objects. Cenotes Xkeken and Samulá. Valladolid is surrounded by numerous inexpensive cenotes. The cenotes Xkekén and Samulá are next to each other, 3 miles from Valladolid. You can rent a bike in the town center and take a cycle route. The entrance costs around $40 pesos. Both are set within underground caves covered by stalactites. Swimming is allowed so do not forget your suit and towel.

September 3-16, 2014

INTERPRISE FOCUS

s we are in the midst of the current storm season, we spoke to Hurricane Solution, a Playa del Carmen based company providing hurricane protection. Hurricane Solution is the exclusive seller and only authorized distributor and installer of the strongest hurricane protection system on the planet.

Why should our readers worry about protection during a storm? Climate change is a measureable phenomenon; storms are getting stronger and more frequent. We have been very lucky over the last few years in the Yucatan, but experts tell us it is only a matter of time before we are hit directly. Many in this area rely on the hope that when a storm comes, they can run out and buy some wood for protection. Anyone who has been here with a storm approaching knows the price of wood inflates dramatically, and experience shows that wood, even the strongest and heaviest kind, offers virtually no storm protection. In fact, it can often create projectiles and make the situation more dangerous. In Florida wood is not even classified as hurricane protection by insurance companies, simply because it does not protect. The time to discover what you were relying doesn’t work is not after a storm destroys your home or business. What is so special about your particular system? Our system has withstood storms. We base everything on the latest technology complied during storms ranging from a category 1 to category 5. This allows us to understand how it performs during real world conditions and adapt accordingly. There is a fine line between using the strongest, most durable materials available, and keeping the system affordable. We are always innovating and improving.

nology we employ in real world conditions, from airports in the U.S., to major retail centers in Australia, to many hotels in Cancun and the Riviera Maya. We are the only system that has been used to protect a country’s National Refuge, which protect its citizens during a storm and their homes are no longer safe to be in.

Is it true that you supply the U.S. Military? Yes, following Hurricane Sandy a few years ago there is a heightened awareness of the risks on the East Coast of the United States. We have been engaged by both the U.S. Air Force and Navy to protect their bases and hospitals in various locations around the world.

When you say it is “technologically advanced”, what does that mean? We say the system is 100 percent “Made in the USA,” but that only tells part of the story. It is actually produced in four different factories around the United States, each one adding a different component making it stronger or more durable. When it is complete, we have a system that is proven to withstand even the strongest storms. Independent studies carried out by the U.S. military and universities all over the world proves that what we say is accurate.

Who already uses this system? In addition to the U.S. military, clients all over the world have benefited from the advanced tech-

For a no obligations free quote, call 984 803 5014 or email info@hurricanesolution.com www.HurricaneSolution.com

CANCUN

September 3-16, 2014

CALLE 44 NORTE

LBATRO

EL GÜERO

MAYA DEL CARMEN

H. MARIPOSA CALLE 22 NORTE COMEDOR LA VICTORIA

BUS STATION

PASIÓN

GASPACHOS DE LA 15

H. BARRIO LATINO CALLE 4 NORTE

COLECTIVO TO TULUM

15 AV.NORTE

20 AV.NORTE

25 AV. NORTE

CALLE 6 NORTE

CASA TUCAN

PLA YA R ECO DO

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CARIBBEAN SEA

CARIBBEAN LOBSTER LOS RANCHEROS MIMI DEL MAR BAD BOYS

PEZ VELA

HACIENDA CARIBE BUS STATION

LEONA VICARIO PARK

CARRETERA FEDERAL

KARENS

WAH WAH FAT TUESDAY

AVENIDA JUAREZ TAXI

SERVICE

The New Offices PLAZA PASEO COBA

FERRY TO COZUMEL

ERTO

FERRY ULTRAMAR

SEÑOR FROGS

FRUTA MADRE

ANTOINETTE

10 AV. SUR

25 AV. SUR

15 AV. SUR

ERTO

PLAYACAR

A E RO PU

O PU

AL DIAGON

AER

PANCHOS RENTAL

10 A V. S U

CALLE 5 SUR

L ONA DIAG

AVENTOURS MEXICO

CAFE BURBUKA

CALLE 3 SUR

30 AV. SUR

35 AV. SUR

45 AV. SUR

40 AV. SUR

HOSTEL 3B CHIC&CHEAP CALLE 1 SUR

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PUERTO MORELOS

QUINTA PLAZA

5a AVENIDA

GRAND HOSTAL

MOM'S BAR

30 AV. NORTE

B WELL CENTER

CASA ADELA

10 AV. NORTE

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CALLE 6 NORTE

LE LOTUS ROUGE CALLE 2 NORTE

CALLE 10 NORTE

PLAYA PIÑATAS

25 AV. NORTE VIVA

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MAYA AZUL

CALLE 8 NORTE ANDRADE SAHARA

HOTEL NAUTILUS

COCOMAYA

BLUE LOBSTER

CITY HALL

CALLE 8 NORTE

PLAYA PALMS BEACH HOTEL 3BECA

HACIENDA REAL

EL CHANGUIS

DIF

CLUB YEBO HOTEL

MADRE TIERRA AQUA LUNA TITI PANINI THE COFFEE STOP

ONE CALLE 12 NORTE

LOS TULIPANES CALLE 14 BIS

OASIS

· Catalonia Yucatán · Catalonia Riviera Maya · Blue Caribean · Acentos Restaurant · Hippos Marina Lounge · Café Internacional · Paparazzi · The Pub · Jessie Gelato · Hoo Haa! Restaurant · Restaurant Dolce Vita · Massimo Ristorante · Capt Rick · Aventura Gelato · Liquor Store Fantasy · Local Quickies

TEQUILA TOWN

10 AV. NORTE

CALLE 16 NORTE

EL COCODRILO

COSVER TOURS

CALLE 14 NORTE

CALLE 6 BIS

SABRINA CALLE 18 NORTE

BISQUETS OBREGON LAS FRESKAS

45 AV. NORTE

40 AV. NORTE

35 AV. NORTE

AVENIDA CONSTITUYENTES

MARKITOS INTERNET

PUERTO AVENTURAS

AH CACAO

1AV. NORTE

15 AV.NORTE

DAC

NATIVO

KAXAPA

CALLE 22 NORTE CALLE 20 NORTE

DELICIAS

CALLE 24 NORTE

LA BRULERIE LA VACA GAUCHA

MAMITA'S

PLAYA PORTO REAL

ARTISAN PATA NEGRA

1AV. NORTE

CALLE 28 NORTE

VERONICA'S MASSAGE GOLD

NAS PLAYA

20 AV. NORTE

25 AV. NORTE

30 AV. NORTE

AH CACAO CALLE 30 NORTE

MA. CARBON

CARRETERA FEDERAL

CALLE 32 NORTE

PLAYA XANGRILA

BROCHETAS THE FRESHY FISH co. KOOL BEACH

KSM SHOP CALLE 32 NORTE

EL EPAZOTE

CARAVAN PEÑITA DE JALTEMBA

EL CAMPEÓN

CALLE 34 NORTE

RESTAURANT BARRO NEGRO GLUAY MAAY THAI MILOS OLÉ RESTAURANTE

5a AVENIDA

10 AV. NORTE

CALLE 36 NORTE

CALLE 26 NORTE

· Condominios Xaman Ha · Sanima Veterinaria · Reef Club · Estética Solange · RIU Palace Riviera Maya · Laundry Riviera · RIU Playacar · Tienda Orgánica · RIU Palace México · Club de Golf · RIU Tequila · Kalipso Café · RIU Yucatán CENTRAL AREA · Iberostar Tucán Iberostar Spa Quetzal · · Vip’s · Sandos Playacar · El Gran Taco · Holiday Inn · Retrocafé · Paseo del Sol Condos · Retrocafé · Ex Sence · Explayarte · Buenerrimo Restaurant · Ecomecanina · Vaivén del Mar Condos · Playa Wireless · Sushi Restaurant · Costamed · La Vaqueria · Koosi Dental Studio · Rafaela Restaurant · Hospiten · L'Atelier de Fred · PlayaMed · Café Antoinette · Fideicomiso Riviera Maya · GRGA Accounts · Dentaris · Be You Med Spa · Correduría 14

AH CACAO

CALLE 38 NORTE

CALLE 28 NORTE

PLAYACAR

CA L L E A

COQUINE CALLE 40 NORTE

CALLE 30 NORTE

AZULRENAVA MASSAGE

QUESADILLAS EL MEXICANO

CALLE 42 NORTE

ALIZES CONDOMINIUMS ELEMENTS HOTEL

EL SHANGA-RITO

AV. 46 NORTE

PLAYA DEL CARMEN

· El Salón de La Fama · El Pirata · John Grays Kitchen · Spaguetino · Pangea Live & Music · Restaurant Palmeras · La Pepita restaurant · El Sabor de la Fama Rest · La Choza del Chaman · Mini super Franboyanes · Sophie Boutique · Las Margaritas Artesanias · El Mercadito · Super Fleamarket · Panadería del Puerto · Burger Shop · Sea Food Market · Fishing Trips · Artesanias Mariachi · Artesanias Calendario Azteca · Dive Inn · Diverspoint · Artesanias 4 Colibris · Hippie Bikes · Escuela de Idiomas

· Hotels/Hostals/Condos · Services · Restaurants/Bars/Coffee · Public Places · Boutiques/Shops · Transportation

also in...

TULUM, PAAMUL,

MAROMA & AKUMAL

HEALTH & BEAUTY

The women´s team participating at 2012 Open Water Marathon / Photo:Facebook Maratón de Aguas Abiertas

2014 Open Water Swimming Marathon BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD

laya del Carmen will host the state’s Open Water Marathon for the third consecutive year. Fernando Betanzos Tenorio, president of the Quintana Roo Swimming Association, announced the event would take place Sept. 13 from the beach adjacent to the H10 Ocean Maya Royale Hotel resort. At the media conference Aug. 21, Betanzos Tenorio said that 350 to 400 swimmers are expected to compete in this year’s event. The categories are 1,250 meters, 2.5, 5 and 10 K. On Sept. 12, the organizing committee will be briefing participants on the rules and safety protocols of the marathon. The competition stages start from 8 a.m. Sept. 13. Competitors in the 1,250 meters category will be the first to depart, followed by the 2.5K group at

8.30 a.m. The remaining groups start at 9 a.m. Betanzos Tenorio explained that each swimmer will be carrying a chip to officially record times. The Playa del Carmen Open Water Marathon has become the region’s most prestigious long-distance swimming competition since its launch in 2012. Around 120 swimmers participated that same year, and 200 took part in 2013. This year the organizing committee expects athletes from other states of Mexico as well as from other countries, such as the Argentinian national open water team. Registration costs $590 pesos and is open until Sept. 12. Spectators are invited to attend the competition at no charge. Those interested can find more information at www.entusmarcas.com, or Facebook Tercer Maratón de Aguas Abiertas, or by calling 998 151 9737.

The Art of the Mayan Chocolatier

September 3-16, 2014

DINING OUT

BY E. FLORES

or those in the know, Ah Cacao is the first stop for authentic and natural chocolate handcrafted by local chocolatiers, as well as home to a great coffee. Ah Cacao started producing high quality chocolate using traditional indigenous ingredients and methods 10 years ago, when they opened their first Chocolate Café on Fifth Avenue and Constituyentes. The company now boasts three bustling cafes in Playa del Carmen together with one in La Isla Shopping Village, Cancun. We visited Ah Cacao at their headquarters in Playa del Carmen and spoke to Mónica Tello, head of public relations. She told us about their eco-friendly chocolate factory and the history behind Mexican cacao. “Our production center has been fitted with solar panels that produce twice as much electricity as we consume,” she explained as we entered the facilities. “Ah Cacao also uses the best cacao possible, for the finest flavor. Cacao has been consumed in Mexico for over 2000 years, beginning as a ceremonial libation. Aztec emperor Moctezuma was rumored to have enjoyed up to 40 cups a day,” Mónica continued.

Raw chocolate by Ah Cacao / Photo:Agency

The story of cacao’s role in pre-Hispanic society is one of bloody sacrifice, with sacrificial victims being fed a chocolate concoction laced with blood let from the earlobes of priests, prior to being offered up to the gods. It was also given to warriors before battle. Luckily, enjoying chocolate today does not have to involve so much drama, with the careful preparation done for you by skilled artisans. Ah Cacao’s raw material comes from the state of Chiapas, and is bought directly from sustainable sources. After harvesting, the beans are left to

ferment in the pod for four days, adding intensity to the flavor. Then begins a series of refining processes and preparation techniques before it is transformed into chocolate - as we know it. After the fermentation process, the cacao beans are sundried, roasted and then ground to make cocoa solids. The raw chocolate is then subjected to conching, a process which aligns the particles and during which the texture, flavor and aroma of chocolate is developed. It is then ground once more and repeatedly heated and cooled

to further purify the chocolate, enhancing its texture and appearance before being poured in molds. Finally, it is fiercely vibrated to remove unwanted air bubbles, producing a perfectly smooth texture and appearance. Alchemy indeed, and as a confirmed chocophile, it was well worth the wait as we tried the finished product. It felt even more

decadently indulgent after witnessing the painstaking and almost ceremonial production processes. The good news is that natural chocolate is now well-known for its antioxidant and stress relieving properties, so even more reason to try a little bit of chocolate heaven direct from the Mayalands.

ENTERTAINMENT Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Foreign people in Playa del Carmen, it´s time to learn Spanish! More information on www.languageschool-chichenitza.com.

> SEPETEMBER 3-16

3 WEDNESDAY EARLY MAN IN MEXICO EXHIBITION Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mayan Museum of Cancun, Kukulkan Blvd. KM. 16.5 Hotel Zone. Discover 12,000 year old skeletal remains. $57 pesos entrance. Free entrance on Sunday. Until October 5. COMEDY PLAYA 8 p.m. Lucky Luciano’s, Fifth St. and 28th St. Stand-up comedy in English. Local and visiting U.S. acts. Every Wednesday and Sunday. $50 MXN.

MAYAN CEREMONY IN COMMEMORATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL INDIGENOUS WOMEN´S DAY 9 a.m. Playa del Carmen Cultural Center, Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Ave. With the participation of Sac-Bé folk ballet. Free entrance. COCOS BEACH ORGANIC MARKET 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. PRORECLYCLETON 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. La Ceiba Park, First St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Bring your recyclables separated and clean, receiving PET, hard plastics, glass, paper and cardboard, aluminum oil and domestic appliances. FREE SALSA LESSONS every Friday from 6.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. SPANISH CONVERSATION CLUB, every Friday from 7.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Practice your Spanish conversational skills for free with others students. MY CROWN… I AM THE KING PLAY 8.30 p.m. Le Lotus Rouge, Second St. and 35th Ave. Free version of Michel de Ghelderode´s Escurial. Facebook Le Lotus R for more information.

FREE TANGO LESSONS 8 p.m. Roof of The Palm at Playa Hotel, Eighth St. and 10th Ave. Classes by Diego and Lucila.

2014 FIELD HOCKEY ICUN CUP, 9 a.m. Universidad Tecnológica de Cancún, Cancun-Airport Highway, SM 299. Seven-a-side, men’s and women’s teams from USA, Mexico and South America. Facebook iCun Cup 2014 and Torneos Hockey Cancun.

BICINETA BIKE RIDES 8 p.m. every Wednesday. City Hall, Plaza 28 de Julio, 8th St. and 15th Ave. Explore the cycle paths of Playa del Carmen and meet likeminded local bikers.

PAAMUL ECOMARKET every Thursday 8.30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Community Fellowship Church Palapa.

5 FRIDAY

TBEX TRAVEL BLOGGER FORUM 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort Cancun, Cancun-Chetumal Highway KM 340. $197 USD registration. More information on www. tbexcon.com.

LIVE STAND UP COMEDY IN ENGLISH every Wednesday and Sunday, 8 p.m. Lucky Luciano, Fifth St. and 28th St. $50 pesos. Reservations on 984 879 44 28.

4 THURSDAY

LAS HELODIAS BAR EIGHT ANNIVERSARY 8 p.m. 28th St. and Cozumel St. Live music, open bar and circus show. Free entrance.

FILM SHOWING CINEMA PLANETA TOUR, No Hay Lugar Lejos, 8 p.m. Universidad del Caribe´s terrace, SM 78, Mza 1, next to Fraccionamiento Tabachines. Check Facebook page Universidad del Caribe.

10 WEDNESDAY

LATIN NIGHT every Wednesday, 11 p.m. Blue Parrot Beach Club, 12th St. and the beach. 2 x 1 beers and bottles. Salsa, merengue, bachata, reggaeton and Latin hits. Free entrance.

FREE SPANISH LESSONS 4.30 p.m. 6 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Foreign people in Playa del Carmen, it´s time to learn Spanish! More information on www.languageschool-chichenitza.com.

GUIDED MEDITATIONS 7 p.m. El Eden Art Garden, Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance.

THIRD OPEN WATER MARATHON 7 a.m. Ocean Maya Royale Hotel, Cancun-Chetumal Highway, KM 299. 10K, 5K, 2.5K and 1.250 meters. More information on www.entusmarcas.com.mx.

FILM SHOWING KAFKAESQUE CINEMA SEASON, Eraserhead, 8.30 p.m. Café Cardoni, 37 Coba Ave. in front of Plaza las Avenidas. Check Facebook page Café Cardoni Bohemio Cultural. $30 pesos contribution.

DOCUMENTARY WEDNESDAYS 8 p.m. La Ceiba Park, First St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Free entrance. Check the Facebook page El Cine Club for the schedule.

11 THURSDAY 6 SATURDAY CALDERITAS CHALLENGE TRIATHLON 8 a.m. Parador Turístico de Calderitas (Calderitas Village State-Run Hotel, 3 miles north Chetumal), Yucatan Ave. and Morelia St. Kayak, bike and trekking race. More information on desafiocalderitas2014@hotmail.com or Facebook Turismo OPB. EL CARACOL GASTRONOMIC MARKET 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plaza Bonita, Xel-ha Lote 1, Sm 28. Think local, choose handcrafted and meet the producers. PASEARTE COLLECTIVE & MULTIDISCIPLINARY EXHIBITION every Saturday, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Along Sunyaxchen Ave. Photography, sculpture, poetry, music and more. SPANISH PLAY TIME every Saturday, 5 p.m. to 6.15 p.m. Kava Kasa, 22nd St. and 10th Ave. Meet new people, play games, and practice your Spanish in a relaxed and casual environment. All levels welcome! $25 pesos contribution. STREET ART SATURDAYS 6 p.m. Plaza 28 de Julio, Eighth St. and 20th Ave. Enjoy free street art performances. PINK CONCH PARADE INAUGURATION 7 p.m. Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall, Fifth Avenue and Avenida Constituyentes. Six giant conch sculptures designed by local artists will be on show promoting pink conch protection. Free entrance.

7 SUNDAY

tection. Free entrance.

FIRST CUMBRES RACE 6.45 a.m. Luis Donaldo Colosio Blvd. 400 meters and 1K race

for children and 3K, 6K. and 9K. for adults. More information on www.entusmarcas.com.mx

TBEX TRAVEL BLOGGER FORUM 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort Cancun, Cancun-Chetumal Highway KM 340. $197 USD registration. More information on http://tbexcon.com.

SECOND MAYAN TRAIL RACE 8 a.m. Punta Venado Bike Park, Cancun-Chetumal Highway KM 286. 4 and 8 mile race. $350 pesos registration. More information on http://airelibre.mx.

BREAD THURSDAYS at Manne´s Biergarten, Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Fresh baked bread and rolls morning market. More information on Facebook Manne´s Biergarten.

YAXCHE, THE SACRED TREE PLAY 12 p.m. Le Lotus Rouge, Second St. and 35th Ave. Family theatre made with environmental awareness. See Facebook Le Lotus R for more information.

FOAM PARTY every Sunday, 11 p.m. Blue Parrot Beach Club, 12th St. and the beach. 2 x 1 beers and bottles. Fire show and break dancers. Open bar available. LIVE STAND UP COMEDY IN ENGLISH every Wednesday and Sunday, 8 p.m. Lucky Luciano, Fifth St. and 28th St. $50 pesos. Reservations on 984 879 44 28.

8 MONDAY FLAMENCO DANCE LESSONS Monday and Friday 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Caracol Marino Cultural Centre, 80th Street, between 10th and Fifth. For more information contact centrocaracol@gmail.com.

9 TUESDAY 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. FREE SPANISH LESSONS 4.30 p.m. 6 p.m.

13 SATURDAY

12 FRIDAY TBEX TRAVEL BLOGGER FORUM 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort Cancun, Cancun-Chetumal Highway KM 340. $197 USD registration. More information on www.tbexcon.com. COCOS BEACH ORGANIC MARKET 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. FREE SALSA LESSONS every Friday from 6.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. SPANISH CONVERSATION CLUB, every Friday from 7.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Practice your Spanish conversational skills for free with others students. POETRY FRIDAYS every Friday at 8 p.m. El Eden Art Garden, Constituyentes Ave. and 95 Street in Colonia Ejido. Listen to and read poetry favorites. Free entrance.

CONSCIOUS RELAXATION WORKSHOP 10 a.m. La Ceiba Park, First St. South and 60th Ave. Colonia Ejidal. Voluntary contribution. REVOLVER BEATS MUSIC FESTIVAL 4 p.m. Parque de las Palapas, 10 Margaritas St. 22. The best local DJs and music producers. Free entrance.

14 SUNDAY 5K RACE UNITE FOR CHILDREN WITH CANCER 7 a.m. Circuito Bonampak Ave. $250 pesos contribution. For more information call Diana Cortés on 998 241 85 66. 2014 FIELD HOCKEY ICUN CUP, 9 a.m. Universidad Tecnológica de Cancún, Cancun-Airport Highway, SM 299. Seven-a-side men’s and women’s teams from USA, Mexico and South America. Facebook iCun Cup 2014 and Torneos Hockey Cancun. LIVE STAND UP COMEDY IN ENGLISH every Wednesday and Sunday, 8 p.m. Lucky Luciano, Fifth St. and 28th St. $50 pesos. Reservations on 984 879 44 28.

15 MONDAY 2014 FIELD HOCKEY ICUN CUP, 9 a.m. Universidad Tecnológica de Cancún, Cancun-Airport Highway, SM 299. Seven-a-side men’s and women’s teams from USA, Mexico and South America. Facebook iCun Cup 2014 and Torneos Hockey Cancun.

16 TUESDAY 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. PAINTING LESSONS every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Le Lotus Rouge, Second St. and 35th Ave. $100 MXN to cover materials. THE ART OF SOCIALIZING every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Le Lotus Rouge, Second St. and 35th Ave. Paint, sip and socialize. Free entrance. FILM SHOWING KAFKAESQUE CINEMA SEASON, La Muerte de un Burócrata, 8.30 p.m. Café Cardoni, 37 Coba Ave. in front of Plaza las Avenidas. Facebook Café Cardoni Bohemio Cultural. $30 pesos contribution.

*For Cancun events, check the highlighted boxes!

September 3-16, 2014

Cirque du Soleil Show November

8 a.m. to 5 ort Cancun, 340. $197 on on www.

BY CARLOS UNDERWOOD

9 a.m. UniCancun-Airside, men’s Mexico and p 2014 and

RKSHOP 10 h and 60th tribution.

REN WITH k Ave. $250 mation call

, 9 a.m. UniCancun-Aire men’s and and South and Torneos

ENGLISH m. Lucky Luos. Reserva-

9 a.m. UniCancun-Air-side men’s Mexico and up 2014 and

every Tues2nd St. and ome baked Shop local

day, Thursand 4 p.m. St. and 35th . ry Tuesday, m. to 10.30 m. Le Lotus e. Paint, sip

E CINEMA crata, 8.30 in front of afé Cardoni ribution.

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ON 7 a.m. n-Chetumal and 1.250 www.entus-

ESTIVAL 4 argaritas St. producers.

ART & CULTURE

Designer Claudia Bo from Mimosa Atelier / Photos: Noriega Photographics

Fashion’s Summer Night Out BY E. FLORES

he first fashion show by this new collective of local designers was held at the downtown SOHO Hotel Aug.20. The rooftop event, coordinated by participating designer Maria Roncarati, showcased the work of seven couturiers specializing in beachwear, corsetry and leisurewear. A percentage of the ticket sales went to local charity, Playa Animal Rescue. The event evolved from the desire of established designers to have a vehicle by which to show their creations to a local audience. The seven participating design houses presented elegantly styled collections during the four-hour event. Maria Louisa Roncarati, creator of the Lou Lou label showed her range of flowing kaftans and maxi dresses and fluid block color casuals. Yanin Bernal Dávila and Juan Carlos López of Eclipsse Beachwear presented a selection of bikinis from a collection especially created for the show. One of the highlights of the show were the exquisite and original designs from Claudia Bo and Elissa Aguilar at Mimosa Atelier and Mimosa Beachwear, which bought together Mexican artisanal embroidery and waist-cinching corsetry centered around the theme of Mexican icon; artist Frida Kahlo. Italian Lisa Lemelli showed dresses from her Lisa Cat boutique on Fifth Avenue on 24th and 26th Street, there was also a range of ecofriendly designs courtesy of Kaia Ecostyle and Monica Rojas; with soft draping casuals made from bamboo, and designs from Acuafashion by Flora Capistran, and Atypika from Gisela Anzivino, based in Tulum. Maria Lou Lou Roncarati hopes to hold the second Fashion’s Night Out event later in the year, including designers that highlight the innovative and creative talent here in the Riviera Maya. “At our next event we will definitely have more designers and models,” she told The Playa Times, “for our first event, it went incredibly well and we had a fabulous turnout, showing that there is huge interest in our local designers. The public just needs to know they are out there.” “Also a big thanks goes out to all the participating designers for their hard work, also to

Canadian Company Cirque du Soleil will be premiering its new Riviera Maya show Joyà Nov 8. According to Daniel Damarre, president and CEO of the world famous performing arts group, Joyà aims to showcase “Mexico´s cultural heritage” not only through performance but also through the region´s cuisine and natural beauty. The construction of the purpose built 600-seat theatre, the company´s first venue in Latin America, started last year at the Grand Mayan Riviera Maya resort between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. The Vidanta Group, one of Mexico´s largest hotel development companies, invested $2 million USD in the building project, which nears completion. According to Cirque du Soleil, the name of Joyà comes from the Spanish for “jewel” but also alludes to the expression “a hidden gem.” The show will recount the story of a naturalist who journeys into the mangroves together with his granddaughter. Their discoveries mark the beginning of a magical quest, revealing the secrets of life. Damarre explained that Joyà´s theatrical set is integrated with the area’s natural jungle environment and is designed in a way that the artists will interact intimately with the audience. The show will last 70 minutes and involves 24 artists. The performance also combines

our sponsors SOHO Playa Hotel, Bistro by SOHO Playa Hotel, Bui, Tequila Revolucion, and Xochitl Proyectos Botanicos, who created beautiful floral arrangements for the night.” For more details on upcoming shows, events or local designers, contact Maria Roncarati on 984 176 0737 or email mariaroncarati@yahoo.com Photos: Agency

Daniel Damarre, Cirque du Soleil president and CEO / Photo: www.cnet.com

local gastronomy, with a gourmet dinner available by Chef Alexis Bostelmann and a champagne prelude. There will be eight Joyà shows per week from Tuesday to Saturday and is not suitable for children under 5 years of age. Tickets for Nov. 8 are sold out but other dates are available on www.cirquedusoleil. com/joya or by calling 1 800 2477837 (Mexico) or 1 844 247-7837 (United States and Canada). Tickets prices range from $65 USD to $225 USD.

TAKE A BREAK Directions

HOROSCOPES VIRGO

Tacos Dorados (Crispy Tacos)

(AUGUST 23RD – SEPTEMBER 22ND)

Mixed signals suggest that one piece of news could cause anxiety. However, giving an edgy situation the attention it requires might help ensure a relatively trouble-free time.

LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 23RD – OCTOBER 22ND)

You will have an opportunity to take up a spiritual practice such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi. Your willingness to make this a regular habit could have a positive effect on all areas of your life.

SCORPIO (OCTOBER 23RD- NOVEMBER 21ST)

A setback, hampering situation, or disappointment, possibly in connection with a friend or loved one, may test you. Instead of throwing your hands up in the air, focus on sorting things out.

Makes 10 tacos

Exciting influences prevail where your love life is concerned, though you may have to move outside your comfort zone for them to show up. This period brings a positive boost to a new project.

RECIPE

SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 22ND-DEC 21ST)

Ingredients 4 tbsp. vegetable oil 1¾ lb. chicken breasts ½ cup chopped onion 28 oz. peeled tomatoes 2 tsp. chili powder 1 tsp. ground cumin ½ tsp. salt

½ tsp. garlic powder ½ tsp. dried oregano ¼ tsp. ground coriander 3 cups Monterey Jack cheese 10 8-inch flour tortillas 1 cup salsa 1 cup sour cream ¼ cup chopped cilantro

D C

In large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over high heat until hot. Add the chicken cut into 1-inch cubes; cook until no longer pink in center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the onion to the skillet. Cook until translucent. Break up the tomatoes and add them to the skillet. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, garlic powder, oregano and coriander. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Add the chicken back to the skillet, discarding any juices. Heat the oven to 450°F. Brush 1 tablespoon of remaining oil in a baking pan. Spoon ½ cup of the chicken mixture on each tortilla and roll them up tightly. Place the tortilla seam side down in the pan, leaving a little room between the tortillas. If desired, brush the tops with the remaining oil. Bake until the tortillas are crisp and brown. Sprinkle with the shredded cheese; bake for an additional 2 minutes. Top each serving with salsa, sour cream and cilantro.

CAPRICORN A patient approach may be needed concerning a friend who is unwilling to compromise. The focus on your zone of finances encourages you to connect with folks who are successful in their own right.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20THFEBRUARY 18TH

Regarding relationships, things look very positive, but you’ll need to put in the effort to continue to reap the reward. Later, your significant other could be too tempting to resist!

CROSSWORD

(DECEMBER 22ND-JANUARY 19TH)

PISCES (FEBRUARY 19TH-MARCH 20TH)

If a long-range dream seems even more distant and out of reach, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s impossible. You may find you can attain your wish at a fraction of the cost by scaling back your plans.

Across 1 3 3 9 11 14 15 17 20 21 22 23

Down

Urban area (4) Elegant (8) Authentic (4) Was conspicuous (5,3) Surreptitiously (2,3,5) Exchange (6) High-pitched (6) Shabby — run-down (4-6) Packed with incident(8) Clotted blood (4) Riders do (anag) (8) Small flowerless plant(s) (4)

ARIES (MARCH 21ST-APRIL 19TH)

TAURUS (APRIL 20TH-MAY 20TH)

If you’ve been thinking about taking a budding romance to the next level, make it happen. If someone is being stubborn, don’t try to persuade them against their will. They may come around to your way of thinking.

BOATING TERMS

WORD SEARCH

Regarding finances, wait before applying for a loan or other credit. There is still a focus on fun, which you’ll find rejuvenating and entertaining. One romantic liaison could move to a new phase of passion.

GEMINI

AGROUND COCKPIT DRAFT FHATOM FLARE FLOOD GANGWAY INBOARD MOORING SEAWORTHY SWAMP WINGWARD

(MAY 21TH-JUNE 21TH)

CANCER (JUNE 22ND- JULY 22ND)

Social trends spotlight an interesting plan, although cooperation may be required to handle a certain relationship. A partner could be headstrong and impulsive, causing you to feel frustrated.

LEO (JULY 23RD – AUGUST 22ND)

Issues on the home front could come to a head, yet something positive can arise out of this. If you’ve been battling frustration, it’s possible that a solution can be born out of a desire for peace.

SUDOKU PUZZLE

The pressure’s on this period at work, so make a point of chilling on a regular basis so you can cope with the extra demand. You may be pushing yourself to complete projects on the home front.

Enter digits from 9 to 1 into the blank spaces Every row most contain one of each digit So must every column, as must every 3x3 square

1 2 4 5 6 7 10 12 13 16 18 19

Tie roots (anag) (8) 2 Diminish — become less tolerable (4,4) 4 Cheap booze (6) 5 Type of dog restraint(5,5) 6 Dessert of puréed fruit and cream (4) 7 Deceased (4) 10 Coffee machine (10) 12 Musician of the highest technical skill (8) 13 Trousers (8) 16 Grown-up (6) 18 Drink fermented from honey (4) 19 Pulses (4)

LAST ISSUE'S SOLUTION

September 3-16, 2014

Dear Craig Note: This week’s question was not sent directly to Craig, but by way of a local info site. I was wondering: what time does Playa open? Chronologically Challenged

Good question! As is the case with most North American towns, Playa del Carmen does have an opening time in the morning and a closing time at night. The hour that our little fishing village/shopping attraction/ electronical music festival location/ tourist trap opens is 8 a.m. Closing time is typically between “too drunk to walk” p.m., and “just drunk enough to eat street meat” o’clock. However, unlike towns in the States and Canada, Playa also enjoys a siesta hour. This is due mainly to the extreme temperatures, and on account of most of us not wanting to work very much during the day. Siesta time varies between “I need assistance”- thirty and a quarter past “inconvenient.” We also have a few other times of day that many other towns do not. Common ones are “beer o’clock,” “The Cerveza Hour,” and “Where Are All the F@#*ing CABS??” Those working in the timeshare industry also have their own times here in Playa. The first is known as “I’m On Overflow” and the last is “Do We Have Any More Tours Today? ‘Cause If Not, Can I Leave?” When planning your flights, try to avoid landing during “Unnecessarily Pushy For This Hour In the Morning” a.m. and also during “What Airline? Hey Honeymoooooners! Taxi? Taxi? TAXI!!” p.m. Hope this answers your question, Chronos.

GENERAL SERVICES

Spanish Capitalization Spanish and English capitalization (mayúsculas or mah-yoos-cool-as) is quite different, as it is much less common in Spanish. Many words that are capitalized in English are not in Spanish. Take a look to this list of exceptions and do not overcapitalize!

2. Days of the week and months of the year: Monday, Tuesday: lunes, martes January, February: enero, febrero 3. Titles. Only capitalize the first word and proper names, if any: One Hundred Years of Solitude: Cien años de soledad The Curious Case of Benjamin Button: El curioso caso de Benjamin Button 4. Languages: Spanish, English, Chinese: español, inglés, chino 5. Nationalities: I am American: Soy americano He loves Spanish food: Le encanta la comida española She married a Mexican: Se casó con un mexicano 6. Religions. The name of most religions, their adjectives, and their adherents (proper nouns) are not capitalized in Spanish. Christianity started in the first century: El cristianismo surgió en el siglo I My brother-in-law is Jewish: Mi cuñado es judío He married a Muslim: Se casó con un musulmán

CONSULATES IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN Consular Agency of Canada Plaza Paraíso Caribe 10th Avenue South, between 3rd and 5th St South, Second floor Centro, Playa del Carmen, Mexico Tel.: (984) 803-2411 Emergency tel. 24/7: (01 800) 706-2900 e-mail: crmen@international.gc.ca Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Consular Agency of the United States La Palapa on First St. South and 15th Ave. Col. Centro, Playa del Carmen, Q. Roo 77710 Phone: (984) 873 03 03 Email: playausca@hotmail.com Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Honorary Consulate of Italy 10th Ave. and 12th St. Colonia Centro, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo 77110 Phone: 984 803 4714 Email: consolato.pdcarmen@esteri.it Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.

ECOMECANICA AUTO REPAIR SHOP 29th Street South Mza 299 Lt. 2 Colonia Ejidal, Playa del Carmen Telephone 984 803 9926 info@ecomecanica.com www.ecomecanica.com

VACATION RENTALS, HOTELS & APARTMENTS NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY SERVICES Management, rentals and sales at their best. Playa del Carmen, Mexico. See our ad on the front page. CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY! 984 873 3548 website: rentals@nasplaya.com See our ad on the front page OASIS 12 Luxury Boutique Condominiums OPEN HOUSE MON to FRI 11am - 3pm 20th Avenue & 12th Street Telephone 984 111 3164 www.area-international.com PORTO BELLO PRIVATE RESIDENCE CLUB Hassle free vacation homes with Porto Bello to speak to a desination specialist call 984 873 5909 or toll free from U.S. 1855 381 4282 or Canada 1855 744 6801 ownit@experienceportobello.com www.experienceportobello.com

MEDICAL & DENTAL

Bonnie Bonnie was born about January of 2013. Bonnie, a medium dog at 17kg, along with her mother and 3 of her siblings, was rescued by a local Playa resident. Our wonderful local rescuer managed to find homes for all of this pack, except Bonnie, and so she has been with us since August of 2013. Bonnie is a very balanced, playful girl, and would be willing to give all of her love to the right family! If you have any questions about the available dogs from Playa Animal Rescue, contact Pat at info@playaanimalrescue.org

Access to top-rated hospitals throughoout Mexico, USA, Europe and beyond. 25% discount through The Caribbean Expatriate Medical Group / No application or agent fees. Vonage (USA) 512 296 4976 www.offshorehealthbenefits.com BOKANOVA DENTAL CENTRE Cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, orthodontics, oral surgery, endodontics ENGLISH SPOKEN Plaza Paraiso 10th Avenue South, near the entrance to Playacar, Playa del Carmen. Telephone 984 803 1043

Do as I say: Hazlo como yo digo

Craig

Craig Norton is a Canadian expat and the one of the founding members of Comedy Playa. If you have a question you would like to ask him (for a friend), please email dearcraig@theplayatimes.com

Classifieds

1. First person singular subject pronoun.

Dear Chronos,

CLASSIFIEDS

OFFSHORE HEALTH BENEFITS LTD. Global medical insurance and air ambulance For expatriates throughout Latin America.

MD PLAYA MEDICAL Specialists in endocrinology, cardiology, general medicine, psychiatry, orthopedics and trauma, dermatology, gynaecology ,obstetrics and children’s medicine. Plaza Paraiso Caribe. 5th Street between Avenues 10 & 15. For appointments call 984 803 0648.

RESTAURANTS RESTAURANTE PATANEGRA Delicious homemade Sapanish food, Try the best tapas, paellas, cold and more. Fine selection of Spanish red and white wines. On 26th St. between Avenues 10 and 15. Telephone 984 877 0701. Facebook Restaurante Patanegra RESTAURANT RAFAELA Offering fresh or frozen wheat grass juice, also the safest choice pasteurized eggs with no hormones or antibiotics from Kosher certified vegetarian hens. More info at www.safeeggs.com Located at Paseo Tulum, Plaza Golf Drive, Playacar Phase 2. Phone 803 23 54/984 145 6255

CONTACTS & PERSONALS ROTARY CLUB PLAYA DEL CARMEN SEASIDE Weekly meetings at LA FRAGATA Restaurant. 26 St and 1st avenue. Tuesdays 12.30pm Visitors are welcome, for more information email kwdoug1@yahoo.com NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS English spoken Tuesdays and Fridays 5.30pm. Spanish spoken Monday to Friday 7pm. 35th Avenue and 34th Street, Playa del Carmen. info@naplaya.com

EXCUSPACE Everything is included. All thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s missing is you

SHORT TERM OFFICE RENTAL AND COWORKING SPACE Professional business center offering shared and private offices with reception and 12 person meeting room. Internet/telephone/printer/scanner/fax. Single or double desk workstations available in open plan office. Private fully equipped executive offices. Kitchenette/airconditioning/24 hr underground parking. Ideally located in Playa del Carmen, close to the highway, airport, ferries and Fifth Avenue.

For more information contact: (984) 147 6502 cell (984) 169 1636 email: claudia@excuspace.com