Edition 55 by theplayatimes

S MASP IDE

Biweekly · Year 02 · Number 55 · 20,000 copies · 20 Pages · March 18-31 , 2015

www.theplayatimes.com

Getting a Revamp BY JOEMALDONADO

ince its foundation in 1975, Fifth Avenue has undergone several changes in its appearance, and is always looking for ways to improve. Over the course of the following weeks, the popular strip, and the economic heart of the city of Playa del Carmen, will be subjected to new remodeling efforts, with an investment cost of up to $15 million pesos. Few remember that the life of this strip began with the initial paving from Juarez Avenue to 2nd Street at a cost of $800 pesos, of which half the funds were contributed by 200 inhabitants at that time and the other half by the government of Cozu-

mel, as the city was then part of that delegation. In fact, the paving of this section was one of the first jobs of the first city delegate, Chief Don Jacinto Aguilar. According to Eddie Flores Serrano, Director General of Public Works of the municipality of Solidaridad, the $15 million pesos investment will go towards the new infrastructure aimed at attracting tourism to Fifth Avenue. He stated that the municipality already has the assigned amount, though, they are still waiting to increase the budget in order to start the project and be able to finish the work completely. The resources come from the three levels of government, municipal, state and federal. Before going ahead with the works, the municipal authorities

More on La Quinta roadworks A pedestrian-friendly strip. Improvement in the paving stones. Benches. Lighting with underground cabling (in case of hurricanes). Tourism Police Station. Trash cans. Greenery and planters.

Repairs in April start from CTM Avenue working up towards 38th Street by May. Daily rate of 12,000 pedestrians a day is set to increase with revamp Predicted start in April ending in May, with a break for Easter Week.

Du Québec à Playa

L’Agence Consulaire Française du Quintana Roo vous invite à la dégustation de Goût de France dans notre page pour nos lecteurs francophones

>07 ·SPECIAL · DISCOVER MEXICO

Riviera Highlights Discover the yellow town of Izamal, and witness the accuracy of Mayan astronomy in Chichen Itza wonders and handcraft workshops in our section for independent travelers.

>08 LOCAL News Public Beach Access

Find out about the latest bureaucracy with public beaches in the Riviera Maya, from privatization plans to new legislation

Photo:

Major city center roadworks are due to start in April ending in May as part of a $15 million pesos improvement project

ON PARLE FRANÇAIS!

Photo: Agency

Quinta Avenida

contacted the representatives of the Business Coordinating Council of the Riviera Maya (CCERM) and the National Chamber of Commerce (Canaco) so that its members are informed of the times and hours of road work, to avoid problems with users and operators on this important strip. The work includes improving the paving stones and emulating the concept of a pedestrian friendly street in the stretch of the Colosio and CTM Avenues with benches, walkways, lighting with underground cabling due to this area being in the hurricane zone, as well as planters and trash cans. An estimated 12,000 people pass through this street on a daily basis, as it currently extends from First street South to 42nd street. The current plans for renovation will start at CTM Avenue and work up towards the center of town. The name, La Quinta Avenida, was assigned to the strip in the early 1980s, when large cruise liners would come to Playa del Carmen and local artisans from Cozumel would approach and sell their crafts to tourists. To draw the attention of visitors, the street was colloquially referred to as “Fifth Avenue” in spanish, to emulate the famous and most import shopping street of New York City. The remodeling project also includes the installation of a Public Safety control station for the Tourism Police which will be located on CTM Avenue.

Panoramic view of the new stretch of La Quinta Avenida: Rodrigo de la Garza, RdelaG.com

>Editorial

The Playa Times Reader’s Survey What would you like to see inclu ed in the remodeling of Fifth Avenue?

DIRECTORY

12%

Javier Escalante Managing Director javier@meridianmedia.mx

10%

Claudia Salas Key Account Director operations@meridianmedia.mx

Beatriz Lucas

Editor edition@meridianmedia.mx

Catherine Copy Editor catherine@meridianmedia.mx

Fabian Muñoz Sales info@meridianmedia.mx

3% 1%

hen news broke out that the · No wil d animals as municipal government had props for photographs started efforts to remod· No big monstrosities (shopping malls and el Fifth Avenue, our social large hotels) media networks were buzzing with desire to find out about the potential improvements to the area and there was talk of the upcoming elections for new federal delegates as a possible reason for the re· Benches modeling. Clearly, this topic is important to many of our readers, and rightly so since Fifth Avenue is at the very heart of our beloved home in paradise. Quinta · Free exercise Avenida is Quintana Roo’s picturesque equipment equivalent to New York’s Fifth Avenue, · Solar powered cell it is our version of Hollywood Boulevard phone char gers and our Grafton St. (Happy St. Paddy’s · Wifi spots day everyone!) in the very heart of the Caribbean. Neither Cancun, Tulum nor Chetumal can claim to have such a bustling, ·Re-establish Calle cosmopolitan and famous strip. For PlayCorazón enses, that is something to be proud of. ·Less restaurants As a community newspaper, we were ·Better drainage really pleased to hear from so many of you. Our job is to showcase the perspectives, queries and upcoming news and information of those who roam the streets of Playa during their travels, those who · Bike path (c lear of taxis an d parked cars) are curious to find out more about this tropical city, and those who make it a vi-

brant metropolis all year round. We gave you the task of answering a simple question, as a quick survey, to understand your feelings on the remodeling of our treasured street. We asked What would you like to see included in the remodeling of Fifth Avenue? We received 126 responses, all of which were submitted to our Facebook page / The Playa Times. All the answers have been translated into this handy infographic. This type of feedback and communication is something we want to encourage from our readers.

www The Playa Times is a communication platform for the community to voice its hopes, dreams and concerns for the future of Playa del Carmen. In addition to our Facebook page, carry on the conversation on Twitter @ThePlayaTimes, take a look at some of the most scenic views on our Instagram account /Playa Times, or go directly to our website www.theplayatimes. com. Keep an eye out for more questions to the community. We are looking forward to hearing from you shortly.

11%

· More trash cans

· Restrooms · Trees and

6% 2%

green spaces

· Rid the sales people selling illicit products

· Bike racks

Total 126 responses Source: The Playa Times, March 2015

Community Manager & Marketing marketing@meridianmedia.mx

TESTAMENT

With the growing investment taking place in real estate in the Riviera Maya, The Playa Times is a great help when promoting this destination as a safe place to invest for foreigners

Efrén Velázquez Iliana Ceballos Graphic Design desing@meridianmedia.mx

Milton Rosel Distribution Supervisor distribution@meridianmedia.mx

Costa Realty

SPREADING NEWS

Ana Martínez

Erratum Dans la rubrique “On Parle Français” du numéro 54, publié le 4 mars, dans, The Playa Times a fait l’erreur de dire que Bob le pompier était le fondateur de la Chambre de Commerce Québécoise de Riviera Maya, alors qu’en réalité c’est Rollande Morin qui en est la fondatrice. The Playa temps aimerait s’excuser pour notre erreur.

PromoPack Bags Shopping Deals to Your Door 3,000 PROMOTIONAL BAGS DISTRIBUTED DOOR TO DOOR

TOTAL OF $ 3,000 PESOS SAVINGS FOR ALL YOUR CUSTOMERS COMBINED

DO YOU LIVE IN THESE NEIGHBORHOODS: BOSQUE REAL, SANTA FE, LA TOSCANA? Chances are you will be receiving promotional fliers in a little plastic bag. In these bags, you will find deals, discounts, on a number of key businesses in Playa del Carmen. Keep your eyes peeled as these are a great shopping resource. Are you a business owner or in charge of sales and marketing? Don’t miss this promotional opportunity and get in touch with us. We can even design your adverts and fliers and print up them up for you. Contact Karla Mora: promopack@meridianmedia.mx, or speak to Karla directly: 984 179 8347

PromoPackPlaya

www.promopack.mx

@ThePlayaTimes THE PLAYA TIMES RIVIERA MAYA'S COMMUNITY PAPER Periódico Quincenal.

Número de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional de Derechos de Autor: (PENDIENTE). Número de Certificado de Licitud de Título: (en trámite). Número de Certificado de Licitud de Contenido: (en trámite). Domicilio de la publicación: Plaza Paseo Coba, 2do piso local 301, Playacar fase II, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710. Impreso en talleres Grupo Megamedia Prolongación de Montejo número 301, entre 40 y 42, fraccionamiento Campestre, Mérida, Yucatán. Distribuidor: Meridian Media, S.A. de C.V., Plaza Paseo Coba, 2do piso local 301, Playacar fase II, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710.

TPT 10 DAY WEATHER WED 18

THU 19

FRI 20

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SUN 22

MON 23

TUE 24

WED 25

THU 26

FRI 27

86°/73° F

87°/77° F

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Partly cloudy 0% chance of rain ESE at 12 mph

Partly cloudy 10% chance of rain WSW at 9 mph

A couple of showers 64% chance of rain N at 12 mph

Mostly sunny 4% chance of rain NNE at 7 mph

86°/69° F

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Mostly cloudy 5% chance of rain NNE at 9 mph

Mostly sunny 25% chance of rain ESE at 13 mph

Mostly sunny 55% chance of rain ESE at 12 mph

Mostly sunny 10% chance of rain ESE at 13 mph

Sunshine 5% chance of rain ESE at 14 mph

Mostly cloudy 10% chance of rain SE at 15 mph

March 18 - 31 2015

LOCAL NEWS

ADVERTORIAL

Thinking About Vacation Rentals? BY COCOBEACHRENTALS

laya del Carmen has become one of the top-destinations in the world thanks to its delicious restaurants, shopping, incredible dynamic nightlife and its privileged location that makes it easy to explore the Riviera Maya. Over the last years, tourism has been evolving very quickly and today it is the most important activity in this area. While Americans and Canadians usually come between December and April, tourists from Europe, South America, Russia and Asia travel the rest of the year. As a consequence, there is almost no low season in Playa del Carmen.

All year round, these visitors represent a great source of opportunities. People have a great time here with friends or family. A lot of them stay a few weeks and enjoy the surroundings so much, that they cannot dream of a better place to spend their next holidays. In such a context, it makes total sense to invest in real estate in Playa del Carmen. ARE YOU PLANNING TO INVEST IN A HOLIDAY RENTAL PROPERTY? Now is the right time to take the plunge with us. Prices are

still low here compared to other international beach resorts. Coco Beach Rentals is dedicated to spotting the best properties for rental holidays. Investing through us gives you a real warrantee for the future. TAILOR-MADE SERVICES FOR EACH CLIENT Do you already own a property in Playa del Carmen? Would you like to get the best profits back from it? Coco Beach Rentals is here for you. Our experts are ready to fulfill your project and do everything in their power to make you a satisfied owner. Our main concern is to treat your home as if it was our own. We provide a wide range of property management services, and we will keep working for you so that you benefit from the highest level of value. From leasing to tenant screening, including inspection services, our multilingual agents

Free Internet for Parks and Schools BY JOEMALDONADO There are 25 public spaces in the municipality of Solidaridad with free internet service, where up to 100 people can get online. This is part of one of the projects of the current administration to provide residents with the tools to support the local economy and strengthen their children’s education. The objective, as stated by Román Alfredo Gómez Osorio, director of Information Technology and Communication,

Areas Under Consideration for Free WiFi Fifth Avenue. ADO bus terminals. Leona Vicario library. Mario Villanueva sport center. Municipal market. is to establish 190 wifi spots this year. Schools, health centers, and especially public parks of which there are 83

Public parks. Colosio sports complex. Fifth and 30th Avenue. Civil Registry. Plaza 28 de Julio. Bachilleres College. dotted around the municipality are all being contemplated for the project. As part of the federal program

know exactly how to manage every single aspect of residential property operation. A CRUCIAL ASSET Marketing-wise we have extensive knowledge of tourism in Playa del Carmen. That gives us a crucial asset: we create the opportunity to concentrate our efforts in different markets from all around the world. Depending on the season, and on which part of the world people come to visit Playa del Carmen. We know how to target them using our vast international online network. Effective marketing strategies have made Coco Beach Rentals a player in the most important international markets. This guarantees you, as an owner, excellent occupancy for your holiday home and a great return. Our professional team specialized in property management; real estate and online marketing is dedicated to make the best out of your investment.

“Connected Mexico”, the municipality of Solidaridad is joining this effort in order to gain free WiFi access. The first 25 places were selected by a committee comprising not only government but various business and social sectors, such as business associations, College of Engineers and Architects and non-profit organizations. These places are: Fifth Avenue; ADO bus terminals; the Leona Vicario library; the Mario Villanueva sport center; the municipal market; the public parks in neighborhoods of Gonzalo Guerrero, Lázaro Cárdenas, Villas del Sol, Bellavista, Villamar I and II, 28 de Julio, Casa Ejidal, Villas Riviera, Gua-

dalupana, Poliforum, Villas de Sol Segunda etapa, Bosque Real; the Colosio sports complex; the center and on 30th Avenue; the Civil Registry, Plaza 28 de Julio, and the Bachilleres College. Furthermore, the municipality is currently in the planning stage and performing technical check points in the selected spots for this service. This consists of insuring that the areas meet certain criteria of accessibility for a WiFi connection, and from these results, the areas will be subjected to further scrutiny from the committee to see which areas are approved for the program. While access to the network is free, there are certain restrictions for inappropriate content, which are set according to the international framework of Human Rights, and include streaming (of video and music) which can cause the WiFi network to slow down. The aim is to have free, efficient and accessible WiFi for all.

LOCAL NEWS

Beach Permits for Zofemat BY THEPLAYATIMES

Akumaleños would be exempt from the beach access fee Photos: Agency / Operation Wallacea

Beach Protection

Ecological or Financial Reasons? The proposal from the environmental non-profit organization, CEA, of establishing a seafront access fee has been met with discontent from Akumal and Puerto Aventura residents BY MELISSAROBLES

he Akumal Ecological Center (CEA) sparked a new controversy when its director Hector Lizárraga Cubedo announced in early March the proposal to limit access to the public beach as well as imposing quotas for access. However, Lizárraga Cubedo’s rational and arguments for these plans were quickly disproved as he claimed that more than 150,000 bathers a year come to Akumal causing the beach to become saturated with people, and in order to preserve the natural beauty, entry to the beach should be restricted to only 900 people a day, which sums up to 328,500 people annually, more than double the amount for which he is currently stating. His argument is that excessive tourism threatens marine turtles that live and nest in the area. However, villagers accuse the majority of private tour operators as the root cause for disturbing the turtles and the building of hotels. The Secrets Hotel, currently under construction in Akumal Bay, will have 750 rooms. Allegedly, Carlos Ortiz Salinas, president of CEA, is the owner of the new hotel, besides already being one of the members of Hotel Akumal Beach, a hotel with 350 rooms. Laura Bush Wolfe, an entrepreneur associated with the CEA, owns Club Akumal Caribe.

According to residents of the community, the aim of the CEA is to privatize the beaches exclusively for the use and enjoyment of tourists staying in hotels.

More than

150,000 bathers a year come to

Akumal

Carlos Ortiz Salinas proposes to establish an access fee to the area managed by the CEA, for residents of Quintana Roo, and for domestic and foreign tourists. The only people who would be exempt from payment would be the Akumaleños, residents of Akumal. Residents of Puerto Aventuras have also raised their voices, as they do not have access to a public beach themselves and thus end up having to go to Akumal instead. The CEA’s states they are only seeking to regulate the use of private land for commercial purposes. Akumal Bay has a total of seven public access points to the beach, none of which would be affected by this proposal. Proceeds are said would go towards supporting the community by investing in the local economy and improving infrastructure. Manuel Jiménez, member of the cooperative Piratas del Caribe, an association serving large businesses such as hotels and restaurants who own land by the sea, claimed that the CEA was using “questionable” ecological arguments.

Coastal areas in Mexico are designated as a 20 meter land strip, which goes from the high tide line to inland. This strip is known as the Federal Maritime Land Zone (Zofemat). Although it belongs to the nation, the federal government provides concession grants for these areas to individuals who want to use the space for a variety of purposes. According to the Federal Maritime Land Zone (Zofemat) there are 490 concessions in Playa del Carmen. 150 of them are general use grants which means that the beneficiaries may install palapas, deck chairs and use it as a recreational area. Ercole Carpineti Rico, director of the Zofemat in the municipality, explained that anyone can apply for a concession before the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT). There are three types of concessions: General use, Ornamental -which allows for green areas and structures that do not require foundations-, and Conservation -which aims to preserve the environment and does not allow any construction-. To illustrate, Carpineti said that the areas next to Coco Beach Resort are conservation concessions granted to the hotel. “This area cannot be modified, it has been granted solely to preserve the natural area. To the south of the hotel there are two other areas, ornamental for green areas where structures of the federal area cannot be modified, and the other area is for general use and this one allows amenity services to be made available. Zofemat is the dependency in charge of processing grants for individuals before SEMARNAT. The Zofemat Offices are on the third floor of

Playa del Carmen Treasury Department Building in Ejidal district, on 125th Ave. and 14th St. Those interested must fill out a form called Formato Único de Trámites de Zona Federal Marítimo Terrestre (Application Form for Federal Maritime Land Zone Processing.) They also require an identification or acta constitutiva (articles of incorporation) in case you apply as a business as well as documents related to the area expected to be granted such as plans and a use description.

General-use maritime land concessions cost $30 pesos per square meter of beach land Conservation or ornamental use are $11 pesosper square meter The requirements for getting a concession are: the latest measurements for the area limits, a written request, photos of the area and a description of what the land will be used for. These are carried out before the Urban Development Office and the payments are made to Zofemat. “We have 490 concessions, of which nearly 150 are for general use and the rest for conservation or ornamental purposes; the latter two have the same cost, from $11 pesos per square meter for conservation or ornamental use and the general use concession grant is $30 pesos per square meter,” Ercole Carpineti Rico states “By law any citizen can request them.” He concluded by saying that there were no concession areas to the north or south of Playa del Carmen.

March 18 - 31 2015

Mexico and Ireland:

A Common Bond More reasons to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Mexico BY THEPLAYATIMES

raditionally a holy day in Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day in the United States has evolved into a legendary day of heavy drinking, excessive amounts of green clothing, and a sudden infusion of Irish genetics into everyone you meet. Thanks to a large population of Americans visiting and living in Playa, bars and restaurants are gearing up for St. Patrick’s celebrations. Although surprising to some, a celebration of all things Irish here in Mexico is not as strange as one might think. Yes, both cultures are stereotypically known for their love of a drink, but Ireland and Mexico share more interesting cultural similarities and historical connections you may not have considered. Many are unaware it was an Irishman who first proposed independence from Spain for Mexico. In 1642, a 31-year-old was arrested

after draft declarations of independence were found in his apartment. Later, during the Mexican American War (1846-1848), a Mexican

S t . Pa t ri c k ’s B a tt a li o n

Ir is h in clud ed m an y d defe cted Ca th olic s w ho ha rm y an d from th e U.S . A against fo ug ht fi erce ly U ni te d t h e i n va d i n g e M ex ican States du ri ng th A m er ican War

PROFESSION I sold my business. I was a car finance broker. RESIDENCE Playacar, Playa del Carmen. We normally spent around four or five months a year in Playa. We want to be home for the holidays to see our children, and my wife is still working.

NAME Jan Voesenek ORIGIN The Netherlands, but we live in Belgium two kilometers from the border with The Netherlands.

However, like the Irish before them, through hard work and perseverance, Mexicans have established themselves as a valuable economic, political, and social demographic in the U.S. Additionally, these two predominantly Catholic countries share a love of storytelling and magnificent folklore, passed down through generations by Irish grandparents and Mexican abuelos. They share rich literary and art heritages, and yes, some say they share a love of a drink! Perhaps their similar personalities and behaviors developed from a shared history of resilience in the face of economic and social hardships. This St. Patrick’s Day, if you find yourself here in Playa celebrating being Irish (even if just for the day), remember that Irish and Mexican cultures are more alike than you think. Raise your glass to both.

(1846-1848)

EXPAT PROFILES

Photo: Jan Voesenek

battalion known as el Batallón de los San Patricios, or St. Patrick’s Battalion,

fought fiercely against the invading United States. This battalion included a mix of nationalities and many were Irish Catholics who had defected from the U.S. Army. Between the 1840s and the 1930s, the Irish immigrated to the United States. by the millions. Escaping famine and desperate economic conditions, they were greeted with discrimination and resentment. It was not uncommon for a business to display a “No Irish Need Apply” sign. When they were able to find work, it was generally as servants and day laborers. Also looking for economic opportunities, the Mexicans migrating into the United States have met similar discrimination and resentment.

COMMUNITY

FAVOURITE SPOT It used to be Playa del Carmen, I also like Tulum, and the beaches there are very nice. Playa became very crowded. There is a big difference between the first time we came in 1998 and now. My wife and I love the beach, we live very close to the beach in Playacar but there is no shade there so we go to Mamita’s.

What can you tell us about SAFETY I feel very safe here. People say that there are a lot of police on the streets, but I don’t mind. It’s normal, they want to give the tourists the feeling that they are safe. We also live in a gated community. Nothing has ever happened in the seven years we have been living here. COST OF LIVING IThe cost has risen. Seven years ago the gasolina was seven pesos, now it is $13 pesos. I am not going broke, but everything has become more and more expensive, for instance the prices in the restaurants. Also, if you don’t ask for the cab prices before getting in, they charge whatever they want. HEALTH CARE We live in Playacar so we have

Hospiten round the corner, it is a very good hospital. At the hospital the first thing they ask is for your credit card, but it is not a problem, as we have insurance that covers the cost of our health care in Mexico. The hospitals do a good job here, and they don’t charge too much, it is reasonable. All the doctors speak English that makes things easier. We have no complaints about the health care. BUYING OR RENTING When we bought our house we did it how you are meant to do it here, you have to go to a lawyer and they tell you what to do from A to Z. We didn’t have a problem buying. Many people think that when you sign a contract for a house you start giving money. That is not so. Do not pay until you receive the title deeds.

Do you want to take part of our Expat Profiles? Email edition@meridianmedia.mx

People have to inform themselves better on how to buy property in Mexico, before buying. GETTING A VISA We are never here for more than 180 days, so we come on a tourist visa. LEISURE ACTIVITIES Lying on the beach. We walk every day, reading on the beach, we love the beach. It is one of the main reasons we come here. DID YOU KNOW THE PLAYA TIMES? In our condominium, the information desk has a copy of The Playa Times, so we pick it up there. We liked the article on the lionfish recently, as well as the articles about the house prices and salaries in Mexico.

COMMUNITY

March 18 - 31 2015

Le Chef Michel Mustière, représentant le restaurant Piaf à Playa del Carmen / Photo: Agence Consulaire Française du Quintana Roo

A l’initiative du Ministre des Affaires étrangères et du Développement international Laurent Fabius, l’évènement de dégustation est organisé par le gouvernement français le 19 mars 2015

PAR AGENCECONSULAIRE FRANÇAISE DUQUINTANA ROO

nviron 1300 chefs français sont ainsi invités à faire découvrir la cuisine française, sous toutes ses formes, dans plus de 130 pays. Bien entendu, le Mexique et la région du Quintana Roo y participent ! Le Chef Michel Mustière, représentant le restaurant Piaf à Playa del Carmen, a été sélectionné par le chef Alain Ducasse dans la catégorie « Restaurant de haute gastronomie ».

pomme de terre truffée et poêlée de légume « Tamay », romance de vin rouge au thym et lavande – de bons fromages français – et une délicieuse surprise pour le dessert... Ne tardez plus, il ne reste plus que 30 places ! Réservez vite votre table au Grand Velas Riviera Maya pour déguster cet appétissant menu : 984 877 44 00 ext. 8101 Le Maestro Marco Pat accompagnera votre dîner par un concert de harpe. Prix : $1550 pesos (vin inclus). Cinq pour cent des fonds perçus seront reversés à la lutte pour la protection de l’environnement

Cinq

ENVIE DE DÉGUSTER : – une élégance de thon saupoudré au « Sishuan », petits légumes et jeunes pousses, crème et sorbet au jasin/citron jaune, croutons de pain d’épices – des ravioles d’escargots façon Amélie : purée d’ail et petits pois, aire de persil, fromage Comté, jus court au Cognac – un filet de poisson, carottes en purée monté à l’huile vierge, « Denisette » crémeux de poireaux et fleurettes de choux fleurs, jolie croquant de poudre d’amande et ses folies, sauce d’oursin et de moules à l’anis étoile – une viande de Kobé sautée au beurre sur

SAVEZ VOUS

Bob en tant que pompier à Montréal / Photo: Bob le pompier

Vous trouverez davantage d’informations sur la page internet de l’évènement : www.goodfrance.com

PAR ROBERTBÈLANGER « BOBLEPOMPIER» Grâce à cette nouvelle chronique francophone et mensuelle du journal The Playa Times, j’aimerais vous faire découvrir et aimer ce « p’tit coin de paradis » qu’est Playa del Carmen. Lorsque j’ai pris ma retraite en 2007 après 29 belles années de carrière en tant que pompier de la ville de Montréal, je rêvais de m’établir quelque part vers au sud par souci d’économie versus mon fond de retraite de la ville de Montréal. J’ai donc décidé d’aller passer trois mois à Playa del Carmen pour repérer les lieux, tester sa qualité de vie et voir les possibilités qui s’offraient à moi pour y vivre convenablement. Dès mon arrivée et après avoir embrassé le sol, je savais que je venais de découvrir le paradis! Je suis tombé littéralement amoureux de son peuple, de ses valeurs traditionnelles et familiales et de sa joie de vivre. Je décidais finalement de m’y établir en permanence, décision que je n’ai jamais regrettée…oh, que non! Je fus tout d’abord recruté comme responsable des relations publiques par la chaîne d’hôtels Sandos Resort & Spa du Mexique pour leurs trois hôtels de la Riviera Maya où je suis resté jusqu’au au jour où j’ai fait la connaissance de Daniel Gingras, lui-même canadien, qui venait d’ouvrir son célèbre resto-bar Los Tabernacos Bistro Lounge et qui, au vu de mes contacts dans le domaine de l’hôtellerie, m’a embauché comme gérant. En plus de gérer Los Tabernacos Bistro Lounge, je me suis associé à un de mes amis François Bizier Brière qui cherchait un partenaire pour promouvoir ses différentes entreprises : location de condominiums, agence

d’excursions de plongée et de mariages mayas. C’est pour moi une occasion supplémentaire d’impulser la francophonie tout en étant au service des canadiens.

Bob “Le pompier” Dernièrement, je viens d’être recruté par le grand cabinet d’avocats-conseils canado-américain Mexlaw, dont le siège social est à Montréal mais j’y reviendrai plus en détails dans une prochaine édition lors d’un entretien avec le président de Mexlaw, M. Charles Tibshirani. Sur ce, je vous laisse profiter de ce paradis et sachez que ma mission est simple à Playa del Carmen : « Faire de vos belles vacances, des vacances inoubliables! »

Erratum

correspond à:à: Le nombre nombre de defrancophone francophonequi quihabitent habitentààPlaya Playadel delCarmen Carmen correspond

QUE... 200-250

1200 ET 12400

14,537

159,310

personnes Canadians Francophone

personnes Belges Francophone

personnes Français

personnes Habitants de Playa del Carmen nés à l’étranger

personnes Habitants à Playa del Carmen

Source: Agence Consulaire du Canada du Quintana Roo 2015, Agence Consulaire Française du Quintana Roo 2015, Consulat Honoraire Belge à Cancun 2015, INEGI Censo de Población y Vivienda 2010

Dans la rubrique “On Parle Français” du numéro 54, publié le 4 mars, dans, The Playa Times a fait l’erreur de dire que Bob le pompier était le fondateur de la Chambre de Commerce Québécoise de Riviera Maya, alors qu’en réalité c’est Rollande Morin qui en est la fondatrice. The Playa temps aimerait s’excuser pour notre erreur.

DISCOVER MEXICO

Cancun

Spring Break Still on Top

zamal is a great place for a weekend break as it is near the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá, where you can witness the wonder of Mayan astronomical accuracy in the phenomena of the shadow of a snake descending the great pyramid. Izamal is also a wonderful place to visit a wide variety of artisan workshop and to sample authentic Yucatec gastronomy.

Distance in miles from Cancun: 158; Playa del Carmen: 148

HOW TO GET THERE Car If you drive from Playa del Carmen and Cancun take the 180D Cancun-Merida. The trip from Playa del Carmen and Cancun takes two hours and 35 minutes. Bus The bus station is in Izamal´s downtown just by the central square. It is an easy walk to anywhere in the town center. There are no direct bus connections from Playa del Carmen or Cancun. The best option is to go to Valladolid by ADO and change at the Valladolid bus terminal for another bus to Izamal. The principal services for the latter are Oriente, Mayab and Express (2nd class).To Valladolid, there are nine departures a day from Playa del Carmen and from Cancun for $186 pesos one-way. You can check routes and schedules on www.ado.com.mx. Valladolid to Izamal is $41 pesos, only two daily departures at 12:45 p.m and 3:50 p.m.

Cancun is still in the top three destinations for students, while families choose to spend their time off in Playa del Carmen

ffering amazing white sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and all day all night parties, Cancun is the perfect destination for spring break. According to numerous spring break agencies, travel websites and news publications, Cancun remains one of the top destinations for American college students. In fact, U.S. News and World Report lists Cancun as the number three spring break destination after Miami Beach, Florida and San Padre Island, Texas. With the brutal winter much of the United States is experiencing and the highest peso to dollar exchange rate in over five years, it seems this spring break will be no exception! Spring break starts at the end of February and ends in the middle of April. While Playa del Carmen does not experience the onslaught of college students like Cancun, we do see an increase in the number of visiting families taking advantage of February and April school vacations. There is good news for students hoping to travel to Cancun this year. American travelers can enjoy the best dollar to peso exchange rate in over five years. Some banks are advertising $15.30 pesos to one dollar. This means students can expect their money to go further. Remember, while many stores, bars, and restaurants accept U.S. dollars, it is best to

exchange your dollars into pesos. Some businesses will use an exchange as low as $12 to $1 when your purchase items using dollars so you are paying more. It’s always best to exchange your dollars at a bank, exchange booth, or use your ATM card to take pesos out of a bank ATM.

Flights There are private flights from Cancun and Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza, which is 41 miles west of Izamal. 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 52.5 miles west of Izamal.

WHAT TO SEE Another piece of good news is according to the U.S. State Department website, there are no travel advisories for the state of Quintana Roo, which includes Cancun and Playa del Carmen. However, this does not mean spring breakers should not take steps to protect themselves! In our next issue, we will offer suggestions to all travelers on how to protect themselves while visiting Cancun and the Riviera Maya. Thanks to those white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and more partying for your dollar, students can expect to have the time of their lives in Cancun this year. Maybe next year, we can make it to the top of all the travel lists!

Historic downtown Izamal has a beautiful colonial-style downtown area that you can easily explore on foot. Do not miss the San Antonio de Padua Convent, City Hall, Zamna Square, the Cultural Centre - a stunning museum of modern day arts and crafts, Kinich Kakmo pyramid, and Tuul (the rabbit pyramid). Mondays to Saturdays from 8:30 p.m. at the San Antonio Convent is a light show “The Mayans Light” that combines images, sound and narration, taking you back to the time of the Mayans. Photo : www.shutterstock.com

BY THEPLAYATIMES

The Handcraft Route You can walk along or get a horse-drawn buggy to take you along the handcraft route, a trail of workshops dotted around the town, where miniatures are made, hammocks are woven, paper maché butterflies and dragonflies are crafted, wooden jaguars, crucifies,

Photos : www.shutterstock.com & Map The Playa Times.

boxes and more are carved. Jewelry from the cocoyol seed and the tips of the henequen plant are also available. This route is a genuine and unforgettable journey into the homes and lifestyles of Yucatecan artisans. Chichen Itzá This is one of Mexico’s top archaeological sites and was the capital of the Mayan civilization. On March 21, during the spring equinox, the late afternoon sun creates the illusion of a feathered 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 $258 and $348 pesos respectively. The ruins are open Tuesday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adult tickets are $64 pesos plus $45 pesos if you are taking photos.

March 18 - 31 2015

DINING OUT

By Beatriz Lucas

Chaya The Mexican Tree Spinach

haya is an excellent legacy of Mayan culture it had a significant importance to ancient peoples as a domesticated leafy green vegetable of the Maya region of Guatemala, Belize, Southeast Mexico and the Yucatán Peninsula, and parts of Honduras. The chaya plant offers many attributes as a food crop: potential year-round yields; ease of cultivation and propagation; highly nutritious; tasty; productive; minimal pest or disease susceptibility; fragrant flowers that attract butterflies, moths and bees; useful forage for domestic animals. When cooked these leaves have been recognized for their healing properties by the Mayans and to this day it is common to observe chaya trees growing around Mayan temples.

An infusion of leaves cut into thin layers produces a milky juice and helps to lower blood glucose levels. Eating a small amount of chaya after or as part of a meal will also promote cleansing of the intestines due to its high fiber content. Cooked leaves can also be applied on swollen joints or for rheumatism as a poultice. The milky resin from the stem and leaves can be applied to pimples to induce their healing.

Lowers blood sugar levels and eases diabetes. Cleanses the intestines. Eases rheumatism and swollen joints. Induces healing of pimples or open skin cysts.

BY ROCÍONORZAGARAY

Chef Jonatan Gomez Luna Photo: Le Chique Restaurant

es, many of them right in front of you. He uses ingenious techniques and presents them in a very original way, on natural materials or by using very avant-garde utensils. For example, once I witnessed them using a test tube,

the taste. The tender leaves may also be added to omelets, the larger leaves are best chopped and cooked. This common shrub of the Yucatan contains very high amounts of A, B1, C, proteins, minerals, especially calcium, iron and phosphorus and is also very high in carbohydrates and fibers. Introducing chaya into your diet will be beneficial for you digestion, circulation and respiratory system. The leaves may be harvested as soon as they reach 5 cm in width. Just be sure to not eat it raw, and not to consume in excess, as too much protein has been reported to produce cancerous tumors. Also do not cook in aluminum cookware as the juices or broth attacks the aluminum, making the beverage toxic as a result.

Photo:Agency

Chaya is mainly consumed in tea, soups, casseroles, corn dough, spaghetti sauces, and salsas without affecting

Le Chique Within hotel Azul Sensatori, located between Playa del Carmen and Cancun, is the award winning and spectacular restaurant Le Chique, which is in itself worth the trip. With an extensive menu of over 20 dishes carefully designed by the chef to create an explosion of sensations and flavors that honor local and national products, all are fused together with the delicacies of international cuisine. Chef Jonatán Gómez Luna, winner of the “Iron Chef” Award, has captivated diner’s curiosity and amazement with his menu to delight all our senses. The Chef prepares award winning dish-

Benefits:

which reminded me of my chemistry class, to boil ingredients of a Mexican soup. None of this would be possible without the strong and qualified staff. They have a mastery of technique and timing and do not seem overwhelmed by the demands of the entire staging. As a result, when you dine at Le Chique you are not just in another mysterious space with dim lighting surrounded by echoes of chitter chatter from neighboring guests, you become a spectator enjoying the theatrical performance of each step of the process. The server, sommelier and Chef Gomez Luna are all a pleasure to observe. Undoubtedly Le Chique has caught the attention of many experts with Chef Gomez Luna’s bold and cutting edge cuisine. Do not hesitate to visit this restaurant, as it has become a very attractive place in the Riviera Maya. See you in the next edition. Meanwhile, I will be looking out for new culinary experiences to share with you.

A Brief History of Greek Gastronomy BY CHEFAPOSTOLIS BLOUGOURAS

Rocío Norzagaray is a sommelier and a private chef. Contact her at info@privatechefplaya.com and www. privatechefplaya.com

Photo : www.shutterstock.com

gencies Photos :A

Uses

Since ancient times, the Greeks gave a lot of importance to their food. The word gastronomy is of greek origin (Gastro= stomach, nomos= law). The Greek’s diet is based on seafood and fish, little meat and a lot of grains. Their favorite grain is chia. Bread made with chia was very appreciated and was consumed thousands of years before Christ. About a hundred years ago, by order of the government, chia cultivation was prohibited, for reasons which are not very clear. New research have revealed that the consumption of chia as a staple food helps stimulate neurons, increase the potential of artistic creativity, and it is a trigger for clearer thinking. Olive oil and Kalamata oil (an extra virgin Greek olive oil), are also an ancient element of Greek cuisine, which is used in most dishes. Olive trees are prominent throughout the region and adds a distinctive flavor. Wine is part of the Greek daily regi-

men, just like food. Since ancient times, the fermentation process was not well understood, they assumed it was a gift from the gods. Wine was embodied in the deity, Dionyssus, the son of Zeus and Semeli. Dionyssus inspired many artists and philosophers. Festivities, such as “Anthestiria” or “ The Festival of Flowers”, were held in honor of Dionyssus. In modern times, Greek gastronomy is considered one of the best in Europe, due to it being considered healthy and tasty, by Europeans and everyone along the whole Mediterranean coast. The beautiful sea view of Playa del Carmen is a perfect reminder of Greece Chef Apostolis Blougouras, a postgraduate in Mediterranean Cuisine, he owns and runs Milos Restaurant on 38th and the beach. His mission is to promote the healthy Mediterranean diet throughout Mexico. He has opened restaurants in the state of Sinaloa. Now, he brings his culinary knowledge to Playa del Carmen. Milos Restaurant is open every day from 12am to 12pm.

March 18 - 31 2015

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info@meridianmedia.mx t. 984 8031446

ENTERTAINMENT

INTERVIEW Tommy Ryman & Darryl Lenox

More Laughs From The 4th Akumal Comedy Festival BY CRAIGNORTON

Photo: Tommy Ryman

Tommy Ryman, one

of the semi-finalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing will return to the Akumal Comedy Festival to help raise funds for the Mexican Red Cross chapters in Tulum, Playa and Akumal.

OMMY, THIS WILL BE YOUR THIRD APPEARANCE AT THE AKUMAL COMEDY FESTIVAL. WOULD YOU FEEL A FAIR SAT QUESTION WOULD BE: “STEVE MARTIN IS TO SNL AS TOMMY RYMAN IS TO THE AKUMAL COMEDY FESTIVAL”? TOMMY RYMAN: I feel that is very accurate!

WITH ALL OF THE TALK ABOUT BULLYING IN SCHOOLS THESE DAYS, DO YOU REGRET BEING KNOWN AS THE HIGH SCHOOL BULLY AT ALL OF THE SIX HIGH SCHOOLS YOU ATTENDED? I am not sure what you are talking about, I never went to high school. I went straight into the NBA after elementary school and started comedy when I blew my knee out. LAST YEAR, THE AKUMAL COMEDY FESTIVAL HELPED RAISE OVER $96,000 PESOS FOR THE MEXICAN RED CROSS. HOW DID IT FEEL TO BE A PART OF SOMETHING LIKE THAT? Felt amazing that is really my favorite part of the festival.

Leading up to the 4th Akumal Comedy Festival, Playa resident and comedian Craig Norton will be talking to two of the headliners Darryl Lenox and Tommy Ryman who will be performing April 14 to 18 in Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Akumal. Partnering up with the Mexican Red Cross these headlining comedians are making a difference while doing stand up for the 4th Akumal Comedy Festival. For the full lineup and tickets consult the festival’s website

www. akumalcomedyfestival.com.

Ryman has earned the title of Semifinalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing Ryman’s act can be described as absurdist and clever, masked behind a very likable and innocent demeanor, often thought of as disturbingly adorable Akumal Comedy Festival

YOU HAVE GOT AN ALBUM OUT WITH STAND UP! RECORDS, CALLED “BATH TIME WITH TOMMY RYMAN.” IS THERE ANOTHER ALBUM IN THE WORKS, AND IF SO, WHAT ACTIVITY WILL BE FEATURED? Just recorded! It will be out later this year. It will feature many animal jokes. FINALLY, THE QUESTION THAT HAS BEEN ON EVERYONE’S MIND: WHEN ARE YOU FINALLY GOING TO MAKE YOUR RETURN TO THE UFC? 2069. Enh? 69? Get it?

Craig Norton is a Canadian expat and one of the founding members of Comedy Playa. If you have a question email: d c r a i g n o r to n @ g m a i l .c o m

Photo: Darryl Lenox

Darryl Lenox

ARRYL, YOU ARE ORIGINALLY FROM LAS VEGAS, NEVADA. YOU ALSO LIVED IN LOS ANGELES FOR A TIME. WHAT WOULD POSSESS YOU TO MOVE TO SURREY, BRITISH COLUMBIA? Divorce. Only a handful of things can get you a one way ticket to Surrey. A dream of being in a motorcycle gang. Thinking you can take over the $3 an ounce cocaine cartel. And a divorce. I had the divorce.

After driving a car less than 25 times and totally destroying five cars, a city bus and maybe an accidental hit and run of a slow walking Taco Bell customer, the world and me are in a much safer place with me as a comic.

Being a comedian is punishment enough and we can stack our special needs against anybody’s

YOU WORK A LOT WITH THIRD WORLD EYE CARE SOCIETY (TWECS). THE AKUMAL COMEDY FESTIVAL BENEFITS THE MEXICAN RED CROSS. DO YOU FEEL THAT MORE COMEDIANS SHOULD DONATE THEIR TIME FOR GOOD CAUSES, AND WHAT PUNISHMENTS DO YOU THINK THOSE WHO DON’T SHOULD SUFFER? Being a comedian is punishment enough and we can stack our special needs against anybody’s. I think charity work is a personal passion choice and not an obligation. Plus comedians cannot fake sympathy or empathy.

IF YOU HAD TO BECOME A TREE FOR A DAY, DO YOU THINK YOU COULD DO IT, OR DO YOU THINK IT WOULD DRIVE YOU TO MADNESS? A pear tree, yes. A high school sweetheart carve initials in me tree? No, make toilet paper out of me instead.

YOU ONCE SAID IN AN INTERVIEW THAT I JUST MADE UP THAT YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A RACE CAR DRIVER. HOW DOES IT FEEL TO HAVE TO GO TO YOUR FALL-BACK AS A STAND-UP COMIC?

WHAT DOES BEING A PART OF SOMETHING LIKE THE AKUMAL COMEDY FESTIVAL MEAN TO YOU? It means I love Mexican food, women, and tequila. That is a hell of a festival. Oh, and there will be comedy.

DARRYL LENOX Comedian

March 18 - 31 2015

Soho Playa Art Presents León Alva The Mexican painter presents his collection Versatile World during the special event showcasing contemporary original prints from established and innovative artists BY BEATRIZLUCAS

or the last year, Soho Playa Art, located in Soho Hotel, has been exhibiting a different artist every two months. The art collective describes itself as a unique platform to display and “promote both Mexican and International artists and be part of all the upcoming art festivals in town.” In February and March they are featuring Cancun resident and painter León Alva; a Mexican visual artist who creates a beautiful synergy between otherworldly figures, explosive color, imagination and surrealism. Alva’s collection on display Versatile World features 15 paintings, including Rainbow Dreams and In love with the sky, reflecting the different styles and periods in Alva’s lengthy and successful career. From the moment you enter the lobby you are greeted by serene characters that bring about a sense of joy, innocence, playfulness and luminosity to the hallway. From his book ‘1982-2008 Art Work’, the poem Who is León? States that “He is the dance of the cosmos. Happiness. He is friendliness amidst chaos, He is the artist of the

imagination,” words that are a perfect embodiment of his work and his persona.

He is the dance of the cosmos. Happiness. He is the artist of the imagination From the book 1982-2008 Art Work by L. Alva

“At soccer games as a child, I would take binoculars to observe people in the crowd. I was fascinated by the details, the stadium, the birds flying overhead,” explains Alva, who mentions that life, people, food, and other cultures inspire and fuel his curiosity. “I grew up in the La Roma district of Mexico City. I was fortunate to grow up in a family of artists. It is a privilege as a youth to have the opportunity to go to museums, galleries and be surrounded by culture.” As a Cancun resident for 29 years, he said that it hasn’t been easy, but his one tip for anyone with a dream of becoming an artist is to have faith in your success, have conviction and be self-disciplined. He also claims his stubbornness has been an ally in his career. Evidently, Alva’s hard work is paying off. He has been invited to exhibit his work in Canada, USA, Switzerland, Germany, Italy and Japan. Thirty of his most important pieces were exhibited in the Palace of Nations, a United Nations building in Geneva, Switzerland. You can also catch his work at the International Public Art Festival (IPAF) in Holbox, April 13-19. To find out more about León Alva, and to see more of his work, you can access his website at www. leonalva.com, as well his Facebook and Instagram / León Alva. For more information on special art events from Soho Playa Art, you can check Soho Hotel’s website page www.sohoplayahotel.com.

The word graffiti comes from the Italian graffare meaning to scratch, as in on a surface. Yet, today the term graffiti means any sort of unsanctioned application of a substance, whether it is spray paint, pencil markings, or even stickers. In Playa del Carmen, urban art emerges from the walls. A young and cosmopolitan city still divided by a downtown area and the suburbs, the floating population, nature, culture, and fun young people who express themselves on walls, with messages and forms. From the graffiti scrawled on the walls of the ancient city of Pompeii, socio-political murals in Northern Ireland from groups like the IRA and Sinn Féin, to communal projects like The Great Wall of Los Angeles, scholars have begun to recognize the importance of and value of these communications and political statements. Graffiti is now

Mexican

Movies for Film Fanatics By Rodrigo de la Garza

Mexican won the (arguably) most coveted award at the Academy Awards a couple of weeks ago. Alejandro González Iñárritu took home the Oscar for Best Director for Birdman, the tale of an aging actor trying to reinvent himself and find meaning in his profession. What is most impressive is that this is the second year in a row for a Mexican winning this award. Last year’s Gravity director Alfonso Cuarón had the same privilege. Mexican film-makers being the talk of the (Tinsel) town now, we thought it would be a good opportunity to highlight some of Mexico’s past productions that, as a film fanatic, you don’t want to have missed. BUST OUT THOSE SUBTITLES IF YOU NEED TO, THESE FILMS ARE WORTH YOUR TIME: 1. Los olvidados (The Young and the Damned) (1950). Directed by Luis Buñuel, the father of cinematic surrealism. The tale of young criminals living in the slums of Mexico City and the gradual corruption of their morals. Best Director at Cannes 1951.

2. Temporada de Patos (Duck Season) (2004). A quirky comedy about an uneventful Sunday for a pair of modern Mexico City teens. An insightful look into the minds of middle class kids and their lives in the monstrous capital.

León Alva with his painting Rainbow Dreams Photo: Rodrigo de la Garza, RdelaG.com

recognized as a legitimate source of academic study, and it is being studied as a reaction to injustice and disenfranchisement, a cry for revolution, a way to create awareness of socio-political issues, an expression of hope for the future, an effort to reclaim public spaces, or an attempt to beautify the urban environment, among others. While graffiti operates within a closed community, street art is an open invitation for anyone to interact, consider, and discuss. Furthermore, street art is drawn with a pictorial focus rather than textual, and it is rebellious but not purposefully destructive as there is intent to beautify the urban environment. In Playa del Carmen’s Colosio neighborhood, or Chan town for locals (chan means “small” in Mayan), showcases a corridor of graffiti from CTM avenue to 110th street, beyond 5th Avenue. Around here, you will find restaurants, bars, craft shops,

3. Como Agua Para Chocolate (Like Water for Chocolate) (1992). A beautifully shot tale of love and social relationships at the beginning of the 20th Century. Like Birdman, filled with Magical Realism (a literary style), integrating magic into everyday life. 4. Y Tú Mamá También (And Your Mother Too) (2001). The ultimate teenage road-trip movie where the protagonists embark on a path to discover life, sex, each other and themselves.

Playa’s Urban Art BY ALEJANDRA BARRADAS

ART & CULTURE 13

5. Amores Perros (Love’s a Bitch) (2000). Alejandro Iñarritu’s first film. A harrowing story of a car crash that brings together very different people dealing with betrayal and loss in love. 6. La Ley de Herodes (Herod’s Law) (1999). Dark satirical comedy of Mexico’s corrupt government institutions. Followed by Un Mundo Maravilloso (2006) and El Infierno (2010), not to be missed either. Maya graffiti, 104th street / Photo: Alejandra Barradas

poetic action, urban artists and local people from around the world that make the walls less traveled by tourists, the most expressive and colorful art. The lions, whales, shamans, Mayans, flowers, fish, birds and phrases like “Do not Judge others because they do not sin like you” or “Let poetry save us from the world”, beautify the streets. Playa del Carmen is definitely a

place for the sake of artistic explosion, it is worth taking the time to explore and discover its streets both downtown and in the suburbs, to feel the essence of the community. Alejandra Barradas is a freelance writer, photographer and illustrator. To see more of her work, check her Facebook pages / Alejandra.Barradas.3 and /barradasproductionswebsite?

7. Alamar (To the Sea) (2009) A bonding tale between a Mexican man and his half-Italian son during the boy’s short visit to the Mayan beaches. See more film suggestions on our website www.theplayatimes.com

For more information, talk to me at hello@rdelag.com

HEALTH & SPORTS

Diet Detective

ADVERTORIAL

Going Nuts about Peanuts By Ana Acosta

A Hysterectomy Alternative,

Explore Your Options Getting a hysterectomy affects a woman’s health and longevity. It is important to be fully informed of your options before making a decision. BY DR. GREGORIO VIRAMONTES -COSTAMED

e spoke with Dr. Gregorio Viramontes about the options available to women regarding hysterectomies and why there may be a better choice. If you experience excessive menstrual bleeding, increased abdominal volume (appearance similar to that of a pregnant woman) and pressure on other organs you will want to read this. A hysterectomy is one of the most common types of surgeries in the world for women (following a caesarean-section), in which the uterus is removed. But is it the best choice? THE PLAYA TIMES: WHY DO I NEED A UTERUS? DR. GREGORIO VIRAMONTES: It is a sexual organ. After a hysterectomy, many women report a loss of physical sexual sensation. WHAT ARE OTHER ADVERSE EFFECTS? Heart diseases increase due to the loss in the production of

prostacyclin (a protective hormone against clot production) Weight gain. Painful intercourse, vaginal damage. Displacement of bladder, bowel, or other pelvicorgans. Loss of stamina. ARE THERE OTHER OPTIONS? There are many options, such as endometrial ablation, hormonal treatment, myomectomy, high focus ultrasound, and uterine artery embolization. WHAT IS A UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION? It is a procedure done by interventional radiology. Embolization agents are injected into the artery that leads to the uterus, cutting off blood flow to the smaller vessels leading to the fibroids. Within a few hours, the fibroids die due to lack of blood supply and then shrink gradually. HOW IS A UTERINE FIBROID EMBOLIZATION DONE? A tiny incision is made in the femoral artery. A catheter is placed through the incision, and under X-ray guidance, maneuvered into the uterine arteries. Embolization agents are injected to block the blood vessel supply. Deprived of blood and oxygen, the fibroids die and gradually shrink. IS IT ACCEPTED BY THE AMERICAN COLLEGE? In 2008, guidelines by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, called the procedure “safe and effective.” WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF UTERINE FIBROID EMBOLIZATION? Shorter hospital stay (one night). Faster return to normal activities. Sedation is used, instead of general anesthetic. Dr. Gregorio Viramontes the only Interventional Radiologist in the Riviera Maya

hen I started selling homemade peanut butter at the eco markets my friend Arianna, who knows my passion about child nutrition, shared an article published in The New England Journal of Medicine about the early introduction of peanuts in infants before the age of one and the correlation with developing peanut allergies. It is well known that milk, egg and peanuts are the most common food allergens in infancy and childhood but the prevalence of peanut allergy among children in Western countries has increased during recent decades. It is less common than other food allergies yet most often associated with severe allergic reactions. In the study “Randomized Trial of Peanut Consumption in Infants at Risk for Peanut Allergy” hundreds of British babies between 4 -11 months old with a high risk of developing a peanut allergy were randomly assigned either to be regularly fed food that contained peanuts or to avoid it. When the children turned five years old they were given another allergy test showing that only 1.9 percent of those who were fed peanuts were allergic to them, compared with 13.7 percent of the children who had avoided peanuts. The conclusion is that an early introduction of

peanut-based food significantly decreased the frequency of the development of peanut allergy among children at high risk and modulated immune responses to peanuts. Another study with similar results of peanut allergy testing in the UK and Israel, found that the rate of peanut allergy in Israeli children was only about one-tenth that of Jewish children in Britain proving it can’t be accounted for by differences in atopy, social class, genetic background, or peanut allergenicity. The best explanation for this was that Israeli infants consumed high amounts of peanut protein in the first year of life whereas UK infants avoid peanuts. The American Academy of Pediatrics (APP) guidelines released in 2000, recommended that peanuts be withheld from children at risk of developing allergies until they were three years old, but in 2008 the AAP itself has revised its guidelines due to a the lack of scientific evidence and no longer recommends further delay in the introduction of allergenic foods beyond four to six months. Before starting the allergy testing these babies were checked to make sure they didn’t already have a peanut allergy, since for some people, even traces of peanuts can be life-threatening.

1 Du Toit, et al. 2015. Randomized Trial of Peanut Consumption in Infants at Risk for Peanut Allergy. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2 Du Toit, et al. 2015. Early consumption of peanuts in infancy is associated with a low prevalence of peanut allergy. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

Ana Acosta is a Nutritionist specializing in maternal-child nutrition, pregnancy & lactation. Contact her at ana@nutrimama.mx - 984 5938702

March 18 - 31 2015 ADVERTORIAL

SPORTS & LIFESTYLE

First Frescobol Tournament

Serves Off on March 21

BY COLINGLENNON

Styling Trio Fabulous from Beginning to End Houston-raised make-up artist and founder of Styling Trio, Adrian Guerra, recently styled a 1980s themed step class for his team at THE GYM, he also took time to tell us a little about their services and what sets his agency apart from the competition. Plus a few tips to look good in this tropical climate. BY THEPLAYATIMES

WHAT TYPES OF SERVICES DO YOU PROHE PLAYA TIMES: VIDE TO CLIENTS? WHERE DO YOU WHAT KIND OF SPEGET YOUR INSPICIAL EVENTS DO RATION FROM? YOU APPLY MAKEUP Adrian Guerra: EvFOR? ery client that comes Over the years my way has somethe agency has grown thing unique about to over 30 amazing themselves, the personstylists. We just about ality trait that sets them do it all. Amazing hair apart. It is my job to find styles for any event, mink that trait and build that into lashes, a little Mehndi for our the perfect look, keeping it Indian brides, and last but true to themselves and alWorking up a sweat and staying cool not least our amazing MAC ways comfortable. Living with Styling Trio make up / Photos: The HD airbrush makeup appliand working in the Riviera Playa Times cation. We are across the Maya is most definitely the Riviera covering events such as productions, foundation of my inspiration. It is always fashion and lifestyle shoots, even underwamagical and always in touch with nature. ter TTD (Trash the Dress) Our brides seek Since moving here I have seen so many difus out based on talent and attention to deferent facets of fashion; this incredible mix tail. Nothing makes me happier than of vintage, touches of retro, spiked a bride smiling when the look is with that classic feeling of the revealed. Confidence in your 80s and 90s, perfect base to look is the key to a fab wedgetting a little creative crading! ziness. Mexico is a country FINALLY, CAN YOU of so many colors and TELL US YOUR SECRET vibrant energy, I felt FOR KEEPING MAKEUP like the 1980’s themed FROM RUNNING IN step class was the perA HOT A HUMID CLIfect mix for the shoot. MATE OR WHILE WORKING OUT? WHAT IS IT ABOUT Never a full face of founYOUR STYLE THAT SETS dation. Correcting, concealing YOU APART FROM OTHER and blending tiny bits of makeup ARTISTS? over uneven parts of the skin. Then we apThat’s easy, true beauty! You have to ply one or two layers (few drops per layer) appreciate a woman’s face while at the same of the long lasting anti-humidity airbrush time identifying with her to even begin to makeup. Then for a little extra insurance create that special look. It’s not about covwe spritz a little Model in a Bottle over the ering it up and wearing a mask, on the conface and chest, basically anywhere there was trary, it is about uncovering her beauty and makeup applied to the body to seal the deal. with a few brush strokes you can bring out Feel free to let loose and dance the night the best in her. This is also how you achieve away! Hold on to your veil ladies, it’s windy that special “click” with your client, resulting down here! in more beautiful makeup.

The first Frescobol World Championship runs from March 21 to 26 at Mamita’s Beach Club. Over 200 players from 16 countries will take part in the tournament with Brazil having the largest contingent with over 30 players. This is a historic event as it is the first time there is a tournament of this kind outside of Brazil. The event has been heavily promoted in Canada, Greece and Italy. Frescobol is very similar to beach tennis with the goal to keep the ball in the air as long as possible by passing it to the opponent and not letting the ball hit the ground. The sport was very popular in the 1950s in Venezuela and Brazil and has now spread to Mexico and Europe. During a press conference on March 5 at Mamita’s Beach Club. Ramón Ledesma, international representative of frescobol, stated that this World Cup will give way to the next tournament taking place in Japan on August 8 and 9, 2015. Forty of the world’s best players will be selected to play in Japan. From the Mexican delegation, the contender in the singles category is Pablo Castañeda, and for the couples Yulia and Jhonattan. They will be competing against Brazil, United States, Canada, Germany, England, Spain, France, Argentina, Venezuela, among others. Riviera Maya was chosen as the first seat for this tournament played outside of Brazil, due to having all the major elements for staging an exciting game: sea, sand, sun and the perfect infrastructure and services for hosting a worldwide event. To promote the tourna-

ment, the Mexican Federal of Frescobol are giving demonstrations of the game every day from March 3 till the start of the event, at 3 p.m. in Playa del Carmen. For more information on the tournament, check the Facebook page /Fresco Pok Ta Pok Mexico.

Frescobol demonstrations every day at 3 p.m. at the beach in Playacar / Photos:TD Photography

ENTERPRISE FOCUS

Startup Weekend Playa Creating New Businesses With the help of key mentors, advisors and sponsors, entrepreneurs are given a networking platform to incubate their ideas and practice their business pitch to perfection BY BEATRIZLUCAS

HAT IS THE STARTUP WEEKEND?

GRISELL BALDERAS JONGUITUD: The second edition of Startup Weekend Playa del Carmen (SWPlaya) is an event bringing together entrepreneurs interested in launching projects that benefit the community and the economy. Additionally, the participants see our events as an opportunity for socio-cultural exchange. This year’s SWPlaya took place from March 6 to 8, over the course of 54 hours. The

Committee of Startup Weekend Playa / Photo: Leticia Díaz Novelo

program, which is published on our web page www.swplaya.org, included conferences, mentoring sessions and awards for the best business projects. What is the purpose of the Startup Weekend in Playa? Our mission is to inspire, educate and encourage individuals and communities on the entrepreneurial culture. How many people attended Startup Weekend Playa? This is our second event, for which a total of 70 entrepreneurs participated including mentors, judges, speakers and organizers. You will find more information on each of our mentors and our sponsors on our web page. Can you summarize the schedule for us? Friday, participants are given 60 seconds to pitch their business plan. Then, Saturday and Sunday, participants are arranged into work groups and put through a series of steps for building the best business blueprint and pitch, with the help of a team of specialised mentors and advisors. The event is wrapped up with a five minute final presentation of their business pitch. Judges then select and

award the best projects. What are the characteristics or key milestones of a startup that leads to success? Validation and viability of ideas is key. During the Startup Weekend we use the methods employed in the Business Model Canvas, which describes how to create, deliver and harvest value. It acts as a roadmap for developing business ideas. Why does Playa attract entrepreneurs? Because it is a paradise and real entrepreneurs know that in order to ensure their business is a success they must first live a full life; this city provides the ideal work environment; it is a multicultural region that has become a melting pot for entrepreneurs from many countries, which enriches the cultural and business exchange. When is the next Startup Weekend Playa, and how can people find out more? The next SWPlaya will be next March 2016. All the event information is available on our website www.swplaya.org and our Facebook page / SWPlaya and Twitter account @SW_Playa.

ADVERTORIAL

The Coming Shock Very good opportunities for investment ahead / Photo:Agency

BY PATTIEBERRY- INTERCAM The US stock market, seen through the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (S&P500), an index for stocks, has been rising since the first quarter of 2009 (1Q09), when the worst of the panic associated with the mortgage crisis bottomed out. From 2009 to 2011, prices went through a couple of financial waves that were hard felt, but were really not very impactful, and from 2011 through to today, we have seen nothing but a consistently clear uptrend. For the last couple of years, we have been asking ourselves if the trend is sustainable, and not least of which because the slope has been tirelessly steep. Every time something comes up, be it less than stellar earnings results from companies, geopolitical problems, serious questions about global growth, stock prices wobble for a few days and then reach out for a new historical record. Take the Nasdaq Index, which has been closing in on the record it established above 5,132 back in 2000, at the height of the dot.com bubble. The Dow Indices, Dow Jones Industrials, Transports and Utilities have been holding back

a little bit from reaching new highs in the last few days, but it is probably only a matter of time before they catch up, according to the S&P500. So far, company earnings have taken the dollar’s strengthening in stride, a 13.1 percent rise in the Dollar Index from the end of June to its close in December, but we have yet to see results in in the first quarter of 2015 (1Q15), or the effect of a further 8.1 percent hike in the value of the dollar on overseas profits. Most of all, we have to see the reaction to the Fed’s first rise in the Fed funds rate since the end of 2008, when it was taken down to almost zero. Judging from the economic data, the Fed should start to prepare markets for the rise in rates at the coming monetary policy meeting, on March 17 and 18. The hike will most probably take place in June, or July at the latest. With the stock market accustomed to rock bottom interest rates for seven years, the transition to a rising trend could well come as a shock, no matter how much it has been expected. We suggest you buckle your seatbelts and save a bit of cash, because there will most likely be very good opportunities for investment.

March 18 - 31 2015

HOMELIFE

ADVERTORIAL

BY GMB

laya del Carmen is considered the Ibiza of Latin America, it has been growing at an immeasurable pace during the past 10 years and has become The City to invest in the Riviera Maya and one of the most profitable in Mexico. Visionary companies as GMB have understood the lifestyle, the needs and expectations of Playa del Carmen buyers, and have launched the most successful real estate projects in the last three years in the Riviera Maya.

WHAT ARE THESE NEEDS AND EXPECTATIONS? People who come to Playa look for a mixture of relaxed lifestyle but with all the comforts of modern life, they look for a safe investment and some of them a new beginning. This is why GMB is providing for the city to be. The City is the new project of the GMB family, this time GMB not only participates as the Sales and Marketing agency but as a part of the developer team. Located in the heart of downtown Playa on the most commercial street, Avenida Constituyentes, less than 5 minutes’ walk from Playa main attractions: the sea, the famous Fifth Ave, the new Quinta Alegria Shopping mall, the biggest super market, the most important banking institutions, and a great variety of local restaurants, “The City” promises to be the most successful real estate project of 2015. GMB CEO, Mr. Marc Pujol tells us why: “Our goal is to place our brand Menesse Condos as the leader in the real estate market, offering the best of Mexico in one unique place.” First of all we have the best design in the world, bringing to this residential project two of the best Italian brands: Doimo as one of the most important furniture factories in Italy for kitchen designs as well as designs that create the perfect atmosphere in

Playa del Carmen

The City to Live In

My Menesse The City / Photos: Playa Best Buy / GMB

The GMB Team

your condo, and Vespa, the best transportation method, providing an easy, chic and cheap way go the beach or to go dinner in Playa del Carmen, allowing you to stop right in front of your favorite restaurant or beach club.

The City offers you the best of Mexican great service from your arrival or check in to your condo; you will have people helping you with the luggage, as well as a concierge, among others.

Why not have a club sandwich in the snack bar, at the pool. There are four elevators, two heated pool, a gymnasium, a spa where after a sunny warm day you can relax in the

steam or receive a massage, and for those who like films The City will offer you a cinema with air conditioning and a very nice Kids Club. If you like privacy, the condominiums will offer you a very nice adult pool on the top and a fantastic Sky bar. If this is not enough you can always go down to the commercial area without going out of The City and enjoy a great dinner or do some shopping in our exclusive boutiques. We have been developing and conceptualizing projects in Mexico over the last 10 years, we also work internationally in many different markets around the world, to help those looking for the best destination to escape the winter back home. Our international buyers are mostly from U.S.A., Canada, Italy, Spain, France, Colombia and Chile. It was difficult for us at the beginning to design a project in a place where most of the people are from different countries. Finally we found the perfect location in Playa del Carmen to create a new concept of homes, a new lifestyle, a new City, we discovered that My Menesse The City could be the perfect place for owning a part of the Riviera Maya, with studios that offer everything you need at a very low cost $99,000 USD, or one bedroom condos at $165,000 USD, or for those who have a family a two bedroom for only $245,000 USD. Finally our question was What happens while I am not in Playa del Carmen? Most of our international buyers asked us about who was going to maintain the condo, and the most important thing who was going to pay for the service. With our Vacation Rental team, our international buyers will make between 8 percent to 13 percent ROI (Return On Your Investment) thanks to our reservation department and Property management service. Do you The City?

TAKE A BREAK

HOROSCOPES PISCES (FEBRUARY 19TH-MARCH 20TH)

Money matters continue to be of interest. If you are changing jobs, there is a chance your income will go up as a result. Money could come in and go out just as quickly, so put the brakes on your spending.

ARIES (MARCH 21ST-APRIL 19TH)

Get ready! Fun and fortune could be yours. Your desire for something different could entice you to move in new circles midweek.

TAURUS (APRIL 20TH-MAY 20TH)

Expect the unexpected, especially if you have been quietly hoping for a minor miracle. Pay attention to any vivid nighttime reveries, especially those that seem to have a haunting quality come morning.

GEMINI (MAY 21TH-JUNE 21TH)

Your social scene has plenty of snap, crackle, and pop. Key influences encourage you to be proactive about networking and exploring new social options.

CANCER There could be good news concerning jobs and money. A positive blend of energies hints that there is an opportunity for a new contract, promotion, or perhaps small windfall. Grab it quickly whatever it is, as it may not be around for long.

LEO (JULY 23RD – AUGUST 22ND)

The more you are willing try new things, the more doors will open for you. If you have a strong desire to travel or study, this is the time to do it.

VIRGO

CROSSWORD

(JUNE 22ND- JULY 22ND)

(AUGUST 23RD – SEPTEMBER 22ND)

If you are willing to act on an intuitive hunch, it could pay off financially. Where joint finances are concerned, you may need to make one or two big payments and keep things running smoothly.

Relationships sizzle whether you are looking for new love or already involved. You may connect with someone a little bit special and know that there is potential mileage here.

SCORPIO (OCTOBER 23RD- NOVEMBER 21ST)

You are in a prime position to make the most of a job opportunity or chance for greater exposure for your business. A delightful aspect early on could be the catalyst that sees you forging ahead, but grab it while you can.

WORD SEARCH

LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 23RD – OCTOBER 22ND)

SAGITTARIUS

Across 1 8 9 10 13 15 16 17 19 20 21 24 25 26

Down

Engage in delaying tactics — General Jackson? (9) Large luxurious car (4) Something unusual (that killed the cat?) (9) Yemen’s chief port (4) Participate in a tourney (5) Haphazard (6) Knock down (6) Stock of wines (6) Season for a candle? (6) Pleased (5) Profound (4) 24 Fondness (9) 25 Mode of transport (4) 26 Heritage (9)

The temptation to splurge is apparent, so go easy if you notice an urge to spend impulsively. There is plenty of activity at home as stirring energies encourage you to remove clutter, redecorate, or do some serious DIY.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20THFEBRUARY 18TH

This could be a very conversational week. Shared information and opportunities could enhance your luck and that of others. Bright ideas sparkle with potential, so you might find yourself drawn to collaborate with a likeminded someone.

SUDOKU PUZZLE

CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 22ND-JANUARY 19TH)

Therefore (4) Digital plate (4) Sagacity (6) In vogue (6) Fairground ride (3,6) He wrote The Eve of St Agnes (4,5) Course of action (9) Painkiller (9) Bringer of bad luck (5) Mixture of spirits, sugar and hot water (5) Affair (anag) (6) Become visible (6) Stalk (4) Proceed (2,2)

DIRECTIONS ACROSS AHEAD AROUND BACKWARDS BEHIND COMPASS FORWARD OPPOSITE OVER SIDEWAYS STRAIGHT UNDER

(NOVEMBER 22ND-DEC 21ST)

Feelings of positivity can give you a boost, particularly when it comes to romance and leisure options. Even so, you will need your freedom and a chance to do your own thing even if it means someone’s temporarily put out as a result.

2 3 4 5 6 7 11 12 13 14 18 19 22 23

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

LAST ISSUE'S SOLUTION

March 18 - 31 2015

CLASSIFIEDS

Classifieds Why do the guys on the street who book tours to Chichen Itza and places like that offer me a discount if I go for breakfast at a hotel first? It seems kind of “scammy.” No Such Thing As A Free Lunch

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

Dear Lunch, They offer you a discount because they want you to get a chance to see how unbelievable the newest hotels in the area are at serving breakfast t tourists. There is nothing scammy about it; just good old fashioned Mexican hospitality. And if you enjoy that, then you’ll love the vacation clubs that come along with the breakfast. (They are vacation clubs not timeshares.) C.

NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY SERVICES Management, rentals and sales at their best. Playa del Carmen, Mexico. CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY! 984 873 3548 website: rentals@nasplaya.com

GENERAL SERVICES

Dear Craig, I keep getting offered drugs on the street from guys who are also working for jewelry stores. Are drugs legal in Mexico? High On Life

MEDICAL & DENTAL OFFSHORE HEALTH BENEFITS LTD. Global medical insurance and air ambulance for expatriates throughout Latin America. 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

Dear High, Drugs are not legal in Mexico, but they are not exactly illegal either, if you catch my drift . If you get caught with drugs, the police will arrest you and then allow you to pay cash for the invisible ticket they are about to give you. However, if you do not have any drugs, some police officers can tell you where you can find some. They will then arrest you so you can pay cash for the invisible ticket they were about to give you. It is just good old fashioned Mexican hospitality. C.

BOKANOVA DENTAL CENTER 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 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.

have a lot of Mexican friends. I mean, not really that surprising since I live in Mexico. My friends post things on Facebook I don’t always understand because, as much as I like to think I am, I am not Mexican. I started seeing a lot of memes involving flip flops and Mexican mothers. When I asked my friends about it, they all said the same thing, their mothers could fling a chancla more accurately than a highly trained sniper. In Mexico, flip flops are called chanclas. Mexican mothers use their chanclas to discipline their children, to get their attention, and to generally establish who the boss is. I thought these stories were exaggerations; more Mexican folklore like the chupacabra. That was until one fateful day, when I witnessed it for myself. It was a hot, humid day and the fifteenth of the month, pay day. I remember the date well because I was standing in a 45 minute long ATM line. The Bank and ATM lines are very lengthy on pay days here. Anyway, it was hot but we were all patiently waiting our turn. That was all except the four year old boy who had had enough of waiting. He began to wander away from his mother and ignored

her when she called him back to her. He decided he wanted to sit away from her. She wanted him next to her and we watched the showdown begin. “Come here” she said to him in Spanish. He crossed his arms and stood his ground. A bit more sternly she demanded, “Come here, now.” Again, he crossed his arms and shook his head. A collective gasp went through the crowd. They knew what was coming while I only had a vague idea of what might happen. Then, I saw her move - like Bruce Lee but faster. The chancla was in her hand and that one lightning fast move had its desired effect! With a screech, her little boy was at her side and remained there, quietly, for the duration of her wait. Thanks to my friends and my experiences living here in Mexico, I have learned to appreciate many things. Now, I appreciate the fact that my mother never wore flip flops and never learned how effective a disciplinary tool they could have been!

RESTAURANTS RESTAURANTE PATANEGRA Delicious homemade Spanish food. Try the best tapas, paellas 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

CONTACTS & PERSONALS ROTARY CLUB PLAYA DEL CARMEN SEASIDE Weekly meetings at SOHO HOTEL. 24 St and 10 st avenue. Tuesdays 12.30pm Visitors are welcome, for more information email: scotlyall@live.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

RENTALS & PROPERTIES

Jake was born approximately May of 2009 and arrived at the shelter shelter November 2012. He weighs about 17 kg (38 pounds), is neutered and current on all vaccinations. Jake came to PAR from the “Bonfil” Sterilization Clinic. He is a wonderful, playful guy who loves everyone. He is extremely energetic, and needs to find a companion that will take him for lots of walks and exercise! For more information about Jake or any of the dogs of Playa Animal Rescue please email pat@playaanimalrescue.org

Jake

If you have any questions about the available dogs from Playa Animal Rescue, contact Pat at info@playaanimalrescue.org