Edition 103 by theplayatimes

B i mont hly · Year 04 · Numb er 103 · 20,000 copie s · 24 Page s · Fe brua r y 22 - Ma rch 7, 2017

REVIVING

S MASP IDE

the Storiesof Cousteau

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

A conversation with Dominique Serafini

ENVIRONMENTAL E d u c at i o n

Bringing focused learning to coastal communities

Beer! Beer!

BEER!

Visit Carmen Beer Co. Playa´s very own brewery

COZUMEL

Best Ice Cream Spots >P. 11

TULUM

Yoga Capital of t h e Wo r ld ? >P. 10

Photo: The Playa Times

· ANIMAL WELFARE

· HEALTH

THE BEE´S KNEES

BPA CLEANSE This endangered stingless bee is a not only a valuable insect for the ecosystem, it also produces the finest honey

>P. 22

Photo: : public domain

Photo: Wikimedia

Feb 22 - March 7

Unfortunately, plastic has become a part of everyday life. Learn how to avoid BPAs and cleanse them from your body

>P. 18

2017 Looking for something to do? Check out our What’s On section online at www.theplayatimes.com for a list of things to do including live music and dancing, yoga, markets and special events

>P. 20

February 22 - March 7 2017

Editorial DIRECTORY Rebecca Page General Manager & Editor edition@meridianmedia.mx

Ian MacKenzie Copy Editor copyeditor@meridianmedia.mx

Efrén Velázquez Art & Design design@meridianmedia.mx

Ana Martínez Brand Manager Photo: PROFEPA

Cell: 984 169 1637 marketing@meridianmedia.mx

Erika Serra Public Relations

PROFEPA Suspends Commercial Snorkeling Activities in Akumal

Cell: 984 119 1586 publicrelations@meridianmedia.mx

BY REBECCA PAGE

Sales Cell: 984 -147 5597 & 147 5571 info@meridianmedia.mx

Omar Coral Distribution

ell, here we are again. Akumal is in the headlines with the recent suspension by PROFEPA (Mexico’s Environmental Protection Agency) of commercial activities involving snorkeling tours to see the turtles. When I first started visiting the region in 2006, one of my favorite activities was to grab my snorkel gear and head to Akumal. My friends and I would make a day of it, alternating hanging out on the beach and quietly snorkeling with the turtles as they fed on the seagrass that covered the floor of the bay. For a few years, we could comfortably head to Akumal knowing we would be just a small group of tourists that would share the beach with other small groups of tourists and locals. Unfortunately, as with so many areas across the globe, businesses started to see Akumal as a way to make big money, and commercial snorkel tours were allowed to enter Akumal with little to no oversight. The last time I went to Akumal, about two years ago,

distribution@meridianmedia.mx

I knew I would never go back. The road into Akumal was a zoo, snorkeling tour vendors were shouting at us, ¨encouraging¨ us to hire them to see the turtles, and the walk to the beach was packed with tourists with paid tours. I was shocked to see how many people there were! Then, when we got to the bay, I nearly cried. The beach was packed, and the bay was dotted with what seemed like hundreds of tourists. My friends and I turned around and went home. We had no interest in joining the mayhem. It doesn’t take a conservation scientist or marine biologist to determine that what was happening was having a severe and potentially irreversible impact on the turtles, on the seagrass, on the reef, the quality of water - the entire marine ecosystem. I began reading articles that the turtles were displaying papilloma, a disease formed by uncharacteristic growths on the skin. The combination of overdevelopment by large resorts and the number of people in the water was taking its toll on these incredibly fragile creatures. It was then that I made the

personal decision never to go back to swim with the turtles. I have since spoken to many people who live in the area who made the same decision. Do I want to see the turtles and snorkel with them again like I used to? Absolutely! But the benefit would be entirely mine, and the negative impact would be absorbed completely by the turtles who I claim to love so much. So, I stay away. It will be interesting to see how PROFEPA handles their current suspension. Will they quietly remove the suspension and grant the commercial businesses unfettered access again like it seems has happened in the past? Or will they develop a real and lasting environmental sustainability and management plan that will help give the reef and the turtles a fighting chance? If you choose to snorkel with turtles in Akumal, never, ever touch them. Just don´t! In fact, never touch a wild animal - ever. You can pass along germs, diseases, injure or even kill an animal by touching them. There is never a benefit to the animal when you do so.

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: Calle 2 entre 45 y Carretera Federal, Mza. 088 lote 003-1. Impreso en talleres Grupo Megamedia Prolongación de Montejo número 301, entre 40 y 42, fraccionamiento Campestre, Mérida, Yucatán. Distribuidor: Meridian Media, S.A. de C.V., Plaza Paseo Coba, 2do piso local 301, Playacar fase II, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710.

TPT 10 DAY WEATHER WED 22

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BEACH LIFE

February 22 - March 7 2017

Keep Calm and Watch the Numbers TOP Mexico offers their opinion on the recent violent events that occurred in the region and its impact on investments BY: THOMAS LLOYD, FOUNDER OF TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE

lot has been said about the violence taking over the Riviera Maya and how it’s affecting the value of property here. I’ve seen comments and questions in various forums addressing this topic, and I’d like to take a few minutes to say a thing or two.

308,274

increase in the # of passengers to

Cancun airport (2017 vs 2016)

As a real estate professional, I can tell you that the value of property is not immediately affected by events like this. In Mexico, as in many other countries, a violent episode won’t define the value of a place or neighborhood, unless, of course, it’s an ongoing problem or a really dramatic situation which affects the infrastructure in the area. We have been paying close attention to the

local and national news to get a grip of the situation, and, to our relief, it doesn’t look like the violence is taking over the Riviera Maya. Still, by comments in forums and messages from our clients, it’s clear that there is fear: some expats living here talk about insecurity (which the Mexican locals don’t seem to notice), potential buyers and investors are holding up their purchases and so on. If you’re in the latter situation, I have a piece of advice for you: look at the numbers. Base your investment decision not on the comments, but on the statistics. The best indicator would be the Cancun airport statistics (available to the public), and the numbers of January 2017 show an increase of 308,274 passengers compared to January 2016. Also, the number of international visitors in January 2017 increased by 130,246 compared to the last year. Of course, we need to keep an eye on these numbers and observe the affluence of tourism for a couple of months to be sure that this destination is still popular and strong, but my point is: don’t panic. If you’re thinking of investing here, keep an eye on the numbers and then make an educated decision. Interested in checking out more numbers? Email info@topmexicorealestate.com and request our Riviera Maya Investors Analysis Report.

Send questions or concerns to allan@nasplaya.com / Photo: Allan Lockhart

Ask Allan:

Toilet Troubles BY ALLAN LOCKHART, OWNER OF NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & ACTIVE MEMBER OF THE SEASIDE ROTARY CLUB IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN Hi Allan, I have a lot of problems with my toilet tank mechanisms. When I install a new one, it seems to work well for a few months, but then it starts to leak into the toilet bowl. Do you have any ideas that might solve these problems? Thanks, Angel

I think the culprit in your case might be the buildup of calcium, as the raw water supply here in Playa del Carmen can be high in this. Hi Angel, Thanks for your question. I think the culprit in your case might be the buildup of calcium, as the raw water supply here in Playa del Carmen can be high in this. Because the toilet mechanism is submerged

Photo: TopMex

in water most of the time, it accumulates a coating of calcium after a while. The flapper on the bottom of the tank mechanism is designed to make a watertight seal on the outlet in the bottom of the tank. When new, it usually fits well and seals off the water from going back into the tank after it empties, as it is designed to do. But with time calcium can build up around the bottom of the flapper and prevent it from sealing off the water flow into the bowl. In my experience, there are two ways to solve this problem. The less expensive one would be to remove the flapper and clean it, as well as clean around the outlet in the bottom of the tank. This can be done by gently using a sponge, or you may want to soak it for 24 hours in white vinegar The other solution would be to replace the flapper, but you may not be able to find the right flapper to fit your mechanism, and you could end up replacing the entire thing. The calcium buildup might also be affecting the float mechanism, preventing it from shutting off the water flow to the tank. If you can remove the mechanism, then you should be able to solve the problem in the same manner as the flapper, by soaking it in white vinegar for 24 hours. Thanks again for your question.

BEACH LIFE

February 22 - March 7 2017

as Important as Your Passport!

John Klug / Photo: John klug

John Klug, a Senior Representative for Travel MedEvac shares his responses to frequent questions people ask about the need for medical evacuation coverage.

By John Klug

ohn, you’ve said that Emergency Medical Evacuation protection is more important than a passport. What do you mean? Pretty simple. Your passport got you to Mexico, but there is only one

way to get home to Canada or the U.S. if you have an unforeseen medical situation. You absolutely have to have dedicated medical evacuation coverage. But how realistic is the danger that something might happen here? Here’s what I tell folks, and it is absolutely true. Government statistics show there’s a one-in-seven chance for people our age that you’ll be hospitalized sometime in the next year. One-in-seven! Things happen, even if you’re in Mexico, so you absolutely have to have a plan how to get home. Don’t most people have medical protection on one of their premium credit cards, travel insurance, homeowners, etc.? It depends on what you mean by “protection”? If you look at the fine print of all those types of policies, they read the same. You’ll be taken to the “nearest appropriate medical facility”. Translated, that means to a local Mexican hospital, where you probably don’t want to be, and you will likely get stuck with a big bill. For example, do a Google search with these key terms: “Indiana woman. Trapped. Cancun hospital”. You’ll read news reports of a lady who recently had to pay a $107,000 bill before they’d let her out of the hospital!

Photo: Agency

So how can a person protect themselves? Again, only one way - medical evacuation coverage. One phone call to my company, Travel MedEvac, and within hours we would have had the lady out of the hospital and back to her home in Indiana before she ran up a large bill. Remember, we’ll take you anywhere you want to go in the US or Canada. Back to the hospitals, doctors, insurance you know and trust and near family. In summary, your passport got you here, but never leave home without Travel MedEvac. It’s amazingly affordable. For as low as $275 per couple per year,

you can be completely covered. And for life, even if your health situation changes. No deductibles. No add-ons. No hassles. One phone call.

Call or email me. John Klug, Senior Consultant Travel MedEvac 984-169-2600 (Mexico) 720-570-7883 (US) John@MexicoTravelCare.com www.MexicoTravelCare.com

Community Collaborates for the Children of Playa del Carmen BY KKIS Since its founding in 2011, the KKIS Project (Keeping Kids in School) has had the honor of helping families that live in the most challenging of circumstances, by educating and inspiring their children. Over the past six years, with the generous financial support from businesses and individuals living and working in the community of Playa del Carmen, the KKIS Project has expanded the number of children it helps by a factor of 10. Of course, that is still a drop in the bucket compared to the need, but you can contribute and be part of a proud tradition that makes this community great, inspiring the children of Playa del Carmen. In 2016, KKIS supporters accomplished the following: • It funded scholarships for 45 public high school students and saw all 10 seniors graduate. • It provided school supplies for 2,300 primary and secondary students & teachers. • It volunteered over 700 hours by mentoring scholarship students and practicing conversational English with high school students. Education is the passport to a better future Feedback received from teachers and mentors suggests that these programs are working. More students

Photo: Agency

Who Has the Best Chili in Playa del Carmen? Feedback received from teachers and mentors suggests that these programs are working / Photo: KKIS

are continuing on through 12 years of education, young students are being inspired to study. The financial burden for families whose economic situation is already dire is being relieved somewhat. With the continued help of the Playa del Carmen community KKIS is working to strengthen and grow their programs in 2017 by: • Growing the scholarship and mentors program. • Increasing the number of school supplies distributed. • Expanding English conversation practice. Kelly Caldwell, a director at The KKIS Project, describes the diversity and compassion of the Playa del Carmen community as “extraordinary.”

She says, “We see our work as an investment in children and the community, and maintain the vision that all children should receive a minimum of 12 years of free education.” One of many opportunities to contribute to this vision will occur on March 1 at the 6th Annual KKIS Auction & Dinner, held at Wah Wah Beach Bar. This important community event is a significant source of funding that sustains and makes this organization effective. This year the event will feature entertainment by acclaimed Elvis impersonator, Mark Stevenz, and accomplished Blues singer, Brent Parkin. All you have to do is raise a paddle. You can buy your tickets now at www.kkisauction.com.

BY THE ROTARY CLUB OF PLAYA DEL CARMEN SEASIDE The Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside is pleased to announce the 1st Annual Seaside Rotary Chili Cook-Off. The event will be held at Wah Wah Beach Bar on March 18, 2017, from 1:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. The organizing committee is looking for great chefs and home cooks to present their very best chili recipes and compete for the title of “Best Chili in Playa del Carmen 2017”. The winner will take home a trophy, $100 USD in prize money and, of course, major bragging rights! The chili will be tasted and voted on by members of the community, and the chili recipe that receives the most votes will win. The cost to participate is only 500 pesos. All you have to do is provide six quarts

of your chili and we will provide the table space, electricity, tasting cups and utensils. The cost to attend, taste all of the chili recipes and cast your vote for your favorite is only a 100 peso minimum donation. Everyone is welcome! The funds raised will go to the Seaside Rotary’s Charitable Giving account and will be used to support local projects and initiatives in the community. During the event, Wah Wah will be offering attendees beer during Happy Hour at discounted prices, along with two for one margaritas. This is sure to be a fun and delicious afternoon, so please join us and help the Seaside Rotary complete its mission, For more information contact Allan Lockhart allan@nasplaya.com. or Michelle at misheslah@icloud.com

February 22 - March 7 2017

BEACH LIFE

Two Expats in Mexico: Our Experience Getting Driver´s Licenses in Mexico Paul & Linda retired to the Riviera Maya and have been blogging about life in paradise. Each edition we will be sharing a post from their blog! BY PAUL QROO

ince we are full-time residents of Mexico and drive a car with Mexican license plates, we both got our local driver licenses last year. Readers often ask me what the requirements are to get a driver´s license in Mexico and that question is not easy to answer because just like in the United States, the requirements differ depending on jurisdiction. Nevertheless, I thought it might help some readers to hear about our experience in order to at least get an idea of what to expect.

Check out more info from the blog Two Expats in Mexico at https://qroo.us/ or Facebook/Two Expats Living in Mexico

The Requirements The first thing we had to do was take a 200-question written test (only offered in Spanish), followed by a practical road test where we had to perform several highspeed maneuvers on a wet test track. If you don’t score at least 90% on the written test or if you hit two or more cones on the practical test, you fail and have to wait six months from attempting it again. Just kidding! We didn’t have to do any

of those things to get our licenses. Since we already had valid licenses from the U.S., we only had to supply the following documentation and pay $388 pesos each (about $19.40 USD) to get our licenses in Tulum: • Copy of a valid passport • Copy of valid driver license from your home country • Proof of residency in the municipality of Tulum (e.g. electric bill in your name) • Certified blood test showing blood type (we

ss / Photo:

You must have residency to get a Mexican driver´s license / Photo: Two Expats in Mexico

had blood drawn at a local medical lab) • Proof of legal presence in the country (Temporary or Permanent Resident Card) The licenses are valid for two years and they take your pictures at the office at no additional charge. I knew that one of the readers would inevitably ask me if they could get a license with just a tourist visa, so I went by the Dirección General de Seguridad Pública y Tránsito in Tulum to inquire. The officer that I spoke with told me that foreigners had to either have a temporary or permanent resident card to get a license. He added that in the case of a temporary resident card expir-

ing in less than two years, the license would expire on the same date. Let’s Wrap This Up An additional benefit of having a local license is that you can use it as proof of address to get a local’s discount. Just in case you’re wondering, a resident card does not have an address on it. If you’re thinking about getting a local license in Mexico, I’d recommend getting a list of the requirements from the local office tasked with issuing them. This will save you a lot of wasted time and frustration in the long run.

ART & CULTURE

February 22 - March 7 2017

Life and Death: A Photographic Exhibition by Agata LunAzul Meet the Argentinian artist who recently held a^k Û klm lahp a^k^ bg Playa del Carmen BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO ROMO

n Saturday, February 12, the visual artist Agata, better known as LunAzul, presented her photographic exhibition “Life and Death” in the Teatro de la Ciudad in Playa del Carmen. Agata is of Argentinan background and is an artist that has spent time traveling to various countries, usually for five years at a time. Her longest stay was in Canada, where she studied Visual Arts, and now Mexico. After a few years of living in Tulum, balancing her time between working in tourism and her artistic production, she decided to move to Playa del Carmen and expand the horizons of her career, devoting herself entirely to painting and photography. Now she presents her work entitled “Life and Death,” her first photography exhibition in Playa del Carmen. Utilizing a good mixture of technical and creative skills, along with fragments of the work of Edgar A. Poe, Agata has created portraits that explore the depths of relationships, the intimacy between couples, the light and the dark, the feminine and the masculine. She depicts the sacred bond between man and woman, and the natural dynamic between life and death. In this way, she continues with her love of telling stories. The evening drew a good response from

Eduardo Matos Mactezuma spoke at Planetarium Sayab in January / Photo: Planetario de Playa del Carmen

Mexico’s Most Important Archaeologist Visits Playa del Carmen BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO ROMO In January, the renowned archaeologist Eduardo Matos Moctezuma honored us with a visit to Playa del Carmen. He was invited by Planetarium Sayab to give an interesting lecture entitled “Five Ancient Tombs: Great Finds of Archaeology. From Death to Eternity.” The visit was such a success, and the locals showed so much interest in his presentation that the planetarium had to schedule a second date so more people could enjoy this unique event. Eduardo Matos has been responsible for more than 40 years of the work in the Templo Mayor, the imposing ceremonial precinct of the Aztec Empire, located in the historic centre of the country´s capital, Mexico City.

Photo: Alejandro Campo Romo

friends and acquaintances that attended. Guests were treated to live music from the band Lecle, from Tulum, who are friends of the artist. Despite her multifaceted interests in various art forms, Agata admits that she enjoys painting as much as she does photography. She says that when she paints, she becomes a channel and that with a camera it is possible to capture the essence of a person in the moment. Let us welcome Agata to Playa del Carmen! Thank you for the interesting shows.

In addition to his 57 years of work in the field of archaeology, he has received important awards for his valuable contributions to science and has published several books. In addition to speaking at conferences and seminars in Mexico and overseas, he has taken part in various important projects such as Comalcalco, Bonampak, Tlatelolco, and Teotihuacan. He has held important positions at various institutions, including Director of the National School of Anthropology and History, and Director of the Museum of the Great Temple. In October of last year, the archaeologist was recognized by Harvard University with the creation of the Chair of Eduardo Matos Moctezuma. When I asked him about it, he replied, “This type of academic recognition is an honor and very touching. When you receive recognition of this kind it is actually for all of the team, and for several institutions, because I do not work alone. I work with collaborators, and I receive the support of the National Institute of Anthropology of Mexico”. With regards to the pre-Hispanic cultures, Matos Moctezuma says that Mesoamerica is one of the six great civilizations of the world, along with China, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Hindu and the Inca cultures. This is due, in part, to the development of the Olmec, Toltec, Aztec, and Maya cultures, among many others. On behalf of myself and all Playenses I give my thanks to biologist Robert Rojo and his team of contributors for providing us with the opportunity to listen to this distinguished archaeologist, as well as for the ongoing conferences on science, art and culture that take place every Saturday at the planetarium.

February 22 - March 7 2017

If coastal communities live from marine resources, shouldn’t environmental education be a priority here? / Photo: Florencia Cerutti

Environmental Education in Remote Location BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI I have worked in marine science and conservation for over a decade and science is still my favorite thing to do. However, as time goes by and I work more and more with nonprofits and the community, I realize how very important environmental education is for both kids and adults. Often, I’ve seen that no matter how much information science can produce or how important it may be for management, if the community in all its levels isn’t aware of the issues and reasons behind the research, then it may not be that useful. Recently, my colleague and I

joined a project monitoring sharks and rays in a remote marine protected area of Q. Roo run by Colectividad Razonatura A.C., a nonprofit conservation organization. A large component of this project is environmental education with kids at primary and secondary schools in remote towns near the protected area where the community can have a major impact on the reefs nearby. So, we set to visit two beautiful small towns Mahahual and Xcalak to do classes and activities with kids from 4th to 8th grade. The aim of these talks was to share basic information about sharks and rays and their importance in our marine ecosystems and our economy. We aimed to raise awareness within the younger generations that sharks and rays are far more worthy alive than fished and eaten in empanadas. We were positively surprised to see that a few kids had a lot of information about the marine ecosystem, as they were children of fishers and divers. However, even though these kids live right on the coast and these communities thrive due to ‘beach and diving’ tourism, most kids did not know the most basic concepts of biology, environment, or reefs. We loved the experience, but we also saw first-hand the huge gaps in the educational system and the huge need of investing and supporting basic environmental education in these remote localities. We were happy we got to do this, but we can’t help wonder: if coastal communities live from marine resources, shouldn’t environmental education be a priority here?

DISCOVER MEXIC0

Love lobster tacos? Respect the local fishery’s regulations If you love lobster tacos, please pay attention to the regulations so that lobster populations stay alive BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI

obster fishing is a widespread fishery throughout the Caribbean region (Caribbean spiny lobster) and is one of the most important fisheries in the Yucatan Peninsula. Because of this, the populations of this species have shown declines in many areas of its range and many stakeholders are making an effort to make this fishery sustainable. For example, many years of collaborations between stakeholders in Quintana Roo resulted in a sustainable brand called ‘Chakay’ (https:// www.conecto.mx/en/chakay-2/) which is a collective brand of a marine resource with an identifiable geographical origin. Importantly, this model of sustainable branding was applied in two marine protected areas of Quintana Roo (Bancho Chinchorro and Sian Ka’an) and has set up regulations to allow the sustainability of lobster which, in turn, assures the sustainability of a trade and the community that depends on it. The association of the brand with a geographical identity means that consumers, chefs and other buyers commit to supporting

There are two major regulations of lobsters’ fishery locally: Size & Seasonal Banning / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

LOBSTER BAN: • March 1 through June 30 • Consuming lobster during the ban promotes illegal fishing

the conservation and management of this species by promoting sustainable practices within protected areas and encouraging responsible local and regional fishing practices. Many more efforts are being made to look after this source. There are two major regulations of lobsters’ fishery locally which are trying to ensure the populations remain healthy and we can all keep eating it in the future. One is the size of the lobster and another one is the banning season: 1) The minimum size estimated by experts to fish lobster is 13.5 cm of abdominal length (or tail length) and 74 cm of body length, this size limit tries to protect the younger stages so they can reproduce before being fished out. 2) A 4-month closed season (March 1 to June 30) which protects parched females (carrying eggs) and gives the population a break from harvesting. Dear lobster fans, know that consuming lobster during the ban promotes illegal fishing and an international market when there is a high-quality local market that is trying hard to regulate its resource. So, if you love lobster tacos, please pay attention to the regulations so that lobster populations stay alive.

TULUM

February 22 - March 7 2017

Tu l u m : T h e Wo r l d C a p i t a l o f Yo g a ? BY ASHLEY CAMPO There was a big announcement made during last month’s Tulum Vegan Fest: Tulum has been officially declared The World Capital of Yoga! At first, you might think, “Wow, what a great honor. Tulum really is a wonderful place to practice yoga.” But wait a minute. Tulum? Wouldn’t India be a more deserving place for such a lofty title? It is, after all, the birthplace of yoga, where so many great yoga gurus have taught and practiced. Initially, it seemed like great news, a great honor for our beautiful town. But as it turns out this was bestowed upon Tulum by local businesses and tourism boards looking to cash in on the new trend in tourism called “wellness travel”. To be self-branded the Yoga Capital of the World doesn’t seem right. Tulum has certainly been a premier yoga destination for some time, with many retreats and amazing teachers working here over the years. Practicing yoga in Tulum is a wonderful and beautiful thing to do. It is an important yoga destination, but World Capital of Yoga? Now that one is hard to get behind.

Rather than focusing on branding and clever hashtags, let’s focus on working together to keep Tulum beautiful and safe. The rest will take care of itself. Tulum is special because of the people that come here and experience it. The culture and the awe-inspiring natural beauty make this place what it is. Titles and awards are simply a way to try to cash in on the unique, beautiful experience that is offered to people that visit and spend their time here. Rather than focusing on branding and clever hashtags, let’s focus on working together to keep Tulum beautiful and safe. The rest will take care of itself.

Campanella is best known for its gelato, and rightly so! / Photo: Ashley Campo

Campanella Cremerie: Tulum´s Friendliest Cafe @^m mh dghp Mnenf l _kb^g]eb^lm \Z_^ BY ASHLEY CAMPO

ocated at the south end of Avenida Tulum, Campanella Cremerie is absolutely Tulum’s friendliest cafe. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming from the minute you walk through the patio. With friendly greetings in Italian, Spanish or English (or... quite possibly in a little bit of all three), you’ll feel like family in no time. And this is the right kind of family to have! Campanella is best known for its gelato and, rightly so. They won the second place award at the 2016 World Gelato Tour! Clearly, they know what they are doing. They change the flavors based on what ingredients are available in season, which is great. Beyond the gelato, if you can imagine it - their most famous dish is their waffles, a sweet, delicious treat for any time of the day. They also offer great sandwiches and artisanal coffees too. They know coffee and take great care and pride in what they serve, which is so important for those who appreciate the art of good coffee. Their beans are from Veracruz and freshly roasted by a group of Italians now living in Tulum. Their beans have

a smooth, rich flavor. Campanella also has a delicious cold brew for those hot Tulum days and the tastiest affogato out there for when you can’t decide between espresso and gelato. Why not have both?

The owners are there greeting guests and offering up samples of that famous gelato to anyone in need of help deciding on a flavor. Campanella has a very nice courtyard outside to sit and enjoy all of these tasty treats. Spend just a little time sitting at the tables outside, and you will quickly feel like you’re with old friends. The servers are attentive and helpful. The owners are there greeting guests and offering up samples of that famous gelato to anyone in need of help deciding on a flavor. My suggestion try the Chocoavallana! It’s a hazelnut treat that is simply delicious!

What do you think? Does Tulum deserve this ¨title¨? / Photo: Pexels

The Best Ice Cream Pa r l o r s i n C o z u m e l =bl\ho^k ma^ l^\k^ml [^abg] <hsnf^e l lp^^m mk^Zml BY VANESSA NINI There are many wonderful varieties of Mexican iced products in Cozumel, from sorbets and Mexican paletas, to ice lollies made with natural ingredients. I spoke to René Maranto, owner of the ice-cream parlor, Muak, to ask him what makes his ice cream so unique.

Our ice cream is completely natural, without preservatives, artificial flavors or colorants” René Maranto Owner of Muak, Cozumel

Dominique Serafini in Cozumel / Photo: Vanessa Nini

TPT Meets: Dominique Serafini The highly acclaimed illustrator and author of the Cousteau Lh\b^mr l Z]o^gmnk^ l^kb^l h_ \abe]k^g l [hhdl

He told me, “Our ice cream is completely natural, without preservatives, artificial flavors or colorants. We are proud to say that we only use fresh, high-quality ingredients to create the best ice cream and sorbet on the island of Cozumel. Our chocolate ice cream is made with dark chocolate from KaoKao, the chocolate factory of Cozumel. All of our frozen treats are kept at 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Our ice creams and ice

BY VANESSA NINI

or the last week, the spirit of Jacques Cousteau has been floating in the air of our Caribbean island. A special visitor came reviving the stories of Cousteau’s expeditions in the Museum of Cozumel. Dominique Serafini was a highly acclaimed painter, illustrator and author of the Cousteau Society´s L´Aventure series of children’s books. His history with Jacques Cousteau includes being part of both Calypso and The Alcyone´s expeditions between 1982 and 1997. TPT: So nice to meet you Dominique! Could you please tell us first how you decided to be an artist on the Calypso? How did it start ? Dominique: Since I was 15 years old I always knew that I wanted to be an illustrator on the Calypso. I studied at the Ecole de Beaux-Arts de Paris. I grew up in Ile de la Cite in Paris and Picasso had his workshop really close to there. I quickly convinced my school that I was only good at drawing. I discovered scuba diving in Corsica. I was immediately amazed by the marine life. I met Jacques Cousteau during a conference in the oceanographic institute in Paris, and I showed him my drawings. He said, “Very interesting. Come to see me again when you grow up.” I never gave up! Is this your first time on Cozumel? No, I came in 1975 and I dived in Palancar with a local fisherman. In exchange, I had to bring back a nice grouper. I came back last year to see a friend, and I really love this island and particularly the diving. The people of Cozumel are very friendly. I´ve met a lot of local people - locals who love their island and want to protect it. Today, I met Sergio Sandoval from Aquatic Sports & Expeditions. This man dived with Cousteau and Ramon Bravo in 1974. I will start

I met Jacques Cousteau during a conference in the oceanographic institute in Paris, and I showed him my drawings. He said, “Very interesting. Come to see me again when you grow up.” I never gave up! Dominique Serafini Painter, illustrator and author

an exhibition in the museum with my wife, Catherine Salisbury who is an underwater photographer, from March 2 to 22, called “Love of the Sea. “I also planned to do some conferences in children´s schools with the notable support of the government of Cozumel. I really feel welcome here. I like sharing my passion and try to make a better world if I can. We have to say that people of Cozumel have a special feeling for Jacques Cousteau. Around 1961 a television documentary produced by Cousteau introduced the wonder of the reef of Cozumel to the public. Cousteau declared that Palancar and the surrounding reef were among the most beautiful in world. It was then that diving became a legend in Cozumel.

http://www.dominiqueserafini.com/ http://www.dreamwrecks.com/DreamWrecks/dominique_serafini.html domiserafini@gmail.com http://cozumeldivingwithsergio.com/

What´s better on a hot island day? / Photos: Vanessa Nini

lollies are kept in a deep freezer, so they don’t lose their quality. We also offer a range of alcohol-flavored ice creams like coco con ron, which is a coconut ice cream made with rum.” They also have some ice lollies made of peanut butter, marshmallow and cajeta. Muak is located on 30th Avenue between 7th street and Hidalgo. Find them on Facebook/@muakmx. Another delicious ice cream and sorbet parlor is La Flor de Michoacana. Their knowledge of the production of ice cream has been passed down through the generations, which is what makes their products so special. Made in Cozumel, their ice creams are glossy in texture and taste very sweet. Their portions are very generous. Their ice cream, sorbets, ice lollies and Mexican paletas are made with seasonal fruits, and always offered with a smile. My favorite is the Mamey Sapote. La Flor de Michoacana also sells a large selection of sweet, fruity drinks made from lemon and horchata, which is made with rice, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. You can find them on 10th Avenue, just a ten-minute walk from the ferry. They also have a shop on the other side of the island on the Carretera Transversal - km 2.8. You can find them online on Facebook/@laflordemichoacanczm.

Green turtles are one of the six species that are found in Mexico / Photos: Wikimedia

Sea Turtle Facts Did you know six of the seven world sea turtle species Zk^ _hng] bg F^qb\h8 K^Z] hg mh Ă&#x203A;g] hnm fhk^

BY RAQUEL GARZA GONZALEZ

ea turtles or marine turtles are a vital part of the ecosystem here in the Mexican Caribbean. Six of the seven world sea turtle species are found in Mexico, of which, three are most common in this region (green, hawksbill and loggerhead). They are a common site when scuba diving in the region but only make their way to land to nest. They make their nests from 40 cm deep to a meter and there, they lay up to 50 - 100 eggs or more. The sex of the offspring will be determined by the temperature of the nests. When the females do drag themselves onto the beaches, they move slowly because their fins are designed to swim in the sea. In the sea, they can reach up to 35 kilometers per hour. The probability that these eggs will develop into adults is extremely low as there are some threats including other animal species that eat the eggs. There are also egg traffickers and the occasional curious tourists that damage them unintentionally. If a baby sea turtle does hatch and makes its way to the sea, they run the risk of being eaten by birds and other animals. For these reasons, a low percentage make it to adulthood and reach sexual maturity. Unlike land turtles, they can not pull their necks into their shells. Their ears are unable to be seen by the naked eye but are highly efficient. Other characteristics vary depending on the species, including the age at which they reach sexual maturity, life

expectancy, and their physical characteristics. They can have a strong and colorful shell, various colors and textures. Some reach sexual maturity as early as three years and some as late as 30 years, depending on the species. Some species of sea turtles can live up to 150 years. It is said that for every 1,000 turtles that come to Cozumel to nest on the beach, depositing about 100 nests each, not even half of these eggs return to the sea to become an adult and later continue the process. This is why it is so important to make an effort to conserve these species.

50 to 100

Number of eggs laid in one nesting

150 years Life expectancy of some species of sea turtles

In Cozumel, more than 25 years of work has been done to preserve these creatures. At night, the nests are monitored and registered to make sure when they return 52 days after their arrival (which is the time needed for their offspring to hatch), they will still be there and protected.

February 22 - March 7 2017

CANCUN

Any Given Sunday in Cancun Experience a sample of what the Caribbean city has to offer on a spontaneous day out BY AMOR LOPEZ

have to admit I am not the biggest fan of football. In fact, I thought Tom Brady was already retired. I’m more of a Calcio Antiguo person. Google that. On the day of the Superbowl, I had some couchsurfers staying over at my place for the weekend, and we decided to watch the game together. Since we usually wake up early and our visitors were only staying in Cancun for a few days, we made a day of it. First, we went to Sirena Morena, one of the few 100% organic-vegan places in town, and the cutest, I must say. It’s located on Cancun’s oldest street and is the perfect place to start the day with something healthy and light. After we ate we headed to the beach. We visited Playa Delfines because

Photos: Amor Lopez

El Rey is a Maya archeological site, and is probably the most important one in Cancun.

it’s the biggest of all the public beaches in Cancun. The day was a little cloudy before noon, so we chose to go to El Rey before taking a swim. El Rey is a Maya archeological site and is prob-

ably the most important in Cancun. The best part is that it’s located right in front of Playa Delfines. It may not be as spectacular as Chichen Itza or Tulum, and is only about half a mile long

with no big structures, but it’s worth visiting to check its flora and to confirm what we all know - the Maya believed that they were building for their gods, when they were actually making apartment complexes for iguanas. Specimens of all ages of Ctenosaura acanthura and similis (Iguana Espinosa) can be found here. On Sundays, it is free for Mexicans with I.D., but the entrance is cheap anyway, at 50 pesos. The clouds never completely went away, so we couldn’t get the

perfect tans that we were after, although we did burn some calories in the ocean. After a few hours of relaxing on the beach we were feeling hungry, so we went to one of the best places for raw seafood in Cancun, Mar-bella. These guys are known for their fresh fish and their chocolate clams, which are called so because of their color. They taste nothing like chocolate, but they are delicious. When you add lime, sauce and a beer, you end up with a true Caribbean feast. This place is easy to find, as it is located right after Puerto Juarez, where the ferries to Isla Mujeres depart from. Time flew by, and we headed back home when the football game was already in full swing. We arrived just in time to see the Patriots make their amazing comeback, proving that sometimes real life can be just like the movies.

TPT FOODIES

February 22 - March 7 2017

Chamorro de Cerdo (Pork Shank) BY CATHERINE PAWELEK Serves 4 4 pork shanks (approximately 500 g each) 4 tablespoons plantain flour ¼ cup vegetable oil 1 tablespoon cocoa powder ½ lemon zested 1 teaspoon ground cumin ½ small box achiote paste 1 white onion, chopped 1 cup orange juice 1 cup amber beer 4 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced 8 sprigs of rosemary 1 tablespoon dried thyme 4 tomatoes roughly chopped 240 ml (8 oz) chicken stock Salt and pepper to taste Coat each shank in the flour and gently tap off any excess. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven and brown the pork on all sides. Meanwhile, combine the cocoa powder, lemon zest, cumin, ½ teaspoon salt, achiote paste, and 1 teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl. Remove the browned shanks and rub with the above mixture. Add the onion, orange juice, beer, parsley, garlic, 4 sprigs of rosemary, thyme, tomatoes and chicken stock to a slow cooker. Then add the shanks and set the timer for 8 hours, occasionally turning the pork. If you decide to use your oven, pre-heat it to 325° F and cook for 3-4 hours until it is fall-off-the-bone tender. Top each shank with some sauce and a sprig of rosemary. Serve with rice, beans and lots of corn tortillas for dipping in the sauce. Note Achiote paste can be found in all grocery stores in Quintana Roo. It can be found in the canned pepper or canned tomato aisle. Even if your shanks are large, cook four of them anyway, any leftovers will make for a great pulled pork sandwich. Pork is reasonably inexpensive, but for a richer twist on this recipe use lamb shank instead. Make the shanks the day before serving, allowing all the flavors to mingle. Just reheat them for 30 minutes before serving. The sauce will keep them moist.

Photos: Agency

Photo: Agency

I Clamor for More Chamorro Tomorrow From pork shank and fried parsley to margaritas with mariachis, Cantina Don Pepe is the real Mexican deal BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

couple of years ago some friends took me to eat the “best darn pork shank in Playa” and I have to admit that initially, I was skeptical. Stepping into the funky, open-spaced Mexican restaurant on the east side of the carretera, I immediately felt the vibrant atmosphere. The fact that there were a couple of tables on the patio where patrons sat with their dogs, proved that the owner/host José (Pepe) Acevedo Peña was a softie at heart. We were off to a good start. Like the girl who sells seashells by the seashore, my tongue got twisted in a knot when I first tasted Cantina Don Pepe’s chamorro. It is Mexico’s version of a long-braised pork shank. The place has quirky sayings written on the walls, on a donkey cart and on blackboards, letting you know that the owner has a sense of humor. When my friends said that we should start with fried parsley before the pork shank, I thought that they were kidding. Fried parsley?

My tongue got twisted in a knot when I first tasted Cantina Don Pepe’s chamorro. It turned out to be really good, with a crispy taste that melts in your mouth, topped with a sprinkling of salt. It somehow awakens your appetite, especially when paired with a wellmade margarita. I knew that we were enjoying the beginning of a great dinner, especially when a group of mariachis came walking in. The restaurant serves many great dishes, from stuffed lotus blossom, enchiladas in mole to chapulines (grasshoppers). Try to be adventurous and order some for your table, you will be pleasantly surprised at how tasty this dish is. The restaurant is located between Calle 14 and Calle 14 Bis on the Carretera Federal and you can contact them on 984 803 3091.

February 22 - March 7 2017

TPT FOODIES

Carmen Beer Co. Takes Flight Ebd^ Zg ^qi^kb^g\^] ibehm _heehpbg` Z ik^&Ü bàm \a^\deblm% ma^ [k^p^kl Zm <Zkf^g ;^^k <h' _heehp ma^bk \a^\deblm mh ^glnk^ ô^kr [Zm\a h_ [^^k ma^r [k^p bl ]êb\bhnl BY REBECCA PAGE

hen a co-worker arranged for a brewery tour of Carmen Beer Co., I jumped at the chance to go. Since moving to Mexico, I have developed a love of beer (let´s face it, margaritas get expensive after a while). We were met in the pub by Sam Jimenez, the Brewpub Manager. Sam loves to talk beer, especially with any of you homebrewers out there. He told me they do tours for anyone, but you just need to give them a heads up. Sam walked us through the glass doors to the brewery where he explained they started out brewing three different classic styles of beer: Clara (a tropical light ale), an Irish stout (akin to a Guinness) and an IPA. We were joined by Jeff, the master brewer and director, and he walked us through the production process - the mixing of grains, hops, the sophisticated rapid cooling process the beer goes through. Once the pre-beer has cooled, it moves to the cool side of the brewery where they add oxygen, yeast and fermentation begins. Jeff explained that most beers take two weeks to two months to

ferment, and Carmen Beer Co. can ferment six different styles of beers at one time. Then, they can load the beers into kegs and ferment some more, so they can have up to 10 different styles at one time. They even have a small kitchen-size brewery set up using three tamale pots where, Jeff says, anyone who wants to brew beer can come on down!

Carmen Beer Co. Xaman-Ha Plaza Open daily from 2 p.m. to midnight Offer a variety of craft & commercial beers with light pub fare Facebook/ Carmen Beer Co. Jeff likes beers that have a lot of flavor, but what’s most important is that you have a good beer to start with before you experiment with flavor. I asked Jeff if he ever worries about the brew not coming out

good. He replied, “We haven’t had a bad batch yet. It’s pretty unlikely as long as you follow a checklist.” Like an experienced pilot following a pre-flight checklist before each and every flight, Carmen Beer Co. brewers follow a detailed checklist that includes everything from pre-brewing cleaning all the way to transferring the beer to kegs. If they follow the list exactly, it is very unlikely they will brew a bad batch. We headed back into the pub to sample their most popular style of beers. First, we tried the Clara, a blonde ale. Light in flavor and delicious, it’s easy to taste why Clara is their most popular beers. Next up was, their Negra, an Irish stout with a hint of the flavor of cacao. We followed the Irish stout with their IPA. The IPA is a British-style that Sam describes as hoppy but well-balanced and a big hit with the hop heads. Finally, their Barley Wine, an old British-style beer. If you haven´t stopped by Carmen Beer Co. to sample what they have on tap, you need to add it to your list. The beer is delicious, and they have something for everyone. The staff is incredibly welcoming and friendly, and they speak fluent beer! Salud!

Their flight is an excellent way to sample a variety of their beers / Photos: The Playa Times

Interesting Edibles BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

Fried chapulines (grasshoppers) are becoming more and more common / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

uck, ew and icky may be the first words to come out of your mouth when you see grasshoppers and other flying or crawling edible insects on a restaurant menu. Instead, while in Mexico try being like Andrew Zimmern on the Food Channel, and try one of these delicacies at least once. Maybe you too will declare, “This is the best thing I ever ate”. We pay dearly for and eat fungi (truffles), fish roe (caviar) and crocus flowers (saffron), so why not replicate some of the early Aztec diet by eating protein-rich, fat-free worms, ants or scorpions. • Gusanos. We have all seen these squiggly worms at the bottom of mezcal bottles, full of protein with aphrodisiac-like traits and tasting like French fries. Maybe. A side of mayo anybody? Don’t want to eat a whole worm? Then just a touch of sal de gusano on your burger will stop that insatiable craving. Find bouquets of hanging gusanos (like those dried chiles, so popular in the 80s) in Oaxacan markets. • Jumiles. Reminding us of the popular “Fear Factor” show’s crazy stunts, these “stink bugs” are often eaten while still alive, crawling or flying. In Taxco, they

are sprinkled with lime and have a taste profile of cinnamon and mint. A Goldschlager Mojito, with a side of jumiles, please! • Alacranes. In the Yucatan, placing bowls of water at the foot of your bed is intended to ward off any scorpions from unexpectedly crawling under your sheets and giving you a stinging surprise in the middle of the night. Craving a crunchy midnight snack? Then, find them deep fried in a corn batter, with a lemon parsley sauce. Scorpion Francese anybody? • Chapulines. This may be the most popular insect found throughout Mexico, not just in specialty markets, but even in your local supermarket, where these grasshoppers are often found dried. Tired of the ubiquitous peanuts, Chex mix or olives as a bar snack? Be a hit at your next get-together by taking the dried grasshoppers, dousing them with chili powder and lime juice. Crunch, crunch. Just do it! Editor´s Note: I have been told by my coworkers that I must try Don PP on the highway if I want to have some of these delicacies. They highly suggest a dish of escamol (ant eggs) which they swear are delicious. I’m not entirely convinced...yet.

HEALTH

February 22 - March 7 2017

BPA Cleanse How to cleanse this harmful chemical substance from your body and minimize your intake of it BY SARA JONES

nfortunately, plastic has become a part of everyday life and it’s nearly impossible to completely avoid it. As one of the most common methods of packaging food, it comes into contact with much of what we eat, depending on our diet. BPA is an endocrine disruptor linked to obesity, cancers, brain impairment, reproductive system anomalies and ADHD-like symptoms. By eliminating it from your daily food intake as much as possible and cleansing it from your system, you can prevent many health complications.

Avoid BPA • Don’t reuse single-use water bottles. I’m guilty of doing this in an effort to reduce plastic waste, but single use water bottles start to degrade after the first use and BPA can contaminate the water. • Avoid canned foods and never store or refrigerate opened canned foods, as these foods can become contaminated with BPA from the can lining. • Avoid foods covered or wrapped in plastic, especially hot foods. Heat degrades the plastic faster. • Avoid plastic utensils and storage

Photos: Wikimedia Commons

containers. Use glass to store leftover foods. • Stop drinking hot drinks through the coffee cup lids. By all means use the lid to keep it warm, but drink from the paper cup if you’re getting coffee on the go.

Cleanse BPA from the body Probiotics Kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha and kefir are all good sources of natural probiotics that you can include in your diet. If you prefer, take refrigerated probiotic tablets each day. Probiotics have been shown to cleanse BPA from blood where it is then excreted via the bowels. They also strengthen the gut to help the body break down these compounds. Sweat Induced sweating is a great elimination method for cleansing BPA from

the body. Increase your exercise level, relax in a sauna, or take a walk on the beach during the day. Black Tea Drinking black tea has been found to reduce the toxicity of BPA, among many other health benefits. This works well for me!

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

February 22 - March 7 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

Arena Festival 2017 We were originally told by the municipal government that Arena was canceled. However, Arena was able to create a comprehensive safety plan that allowed them to secure the necessary permits. BY NADIA MORELLA

laya del Carmen has been in a state of shock since the recent violence that occurred at Blue Parrot nightclub during the BPM festival. This incident, which occurred in the early morning hours of January 16, prompted the municipal governor to declare her wish for this type of event to be banned and we were originally told Arena was canceled. Fortunately, the Arena Festival, which is Mexico’s biggest gay dance music festival, was able to come up with an excellent safety plan for thousands of guests and had its permits delivered right on time for the beginning of the celebrations. From February 1 to the 7, attendees from Mexico and around the world were able to party all week long! The main concern for the government, locals and tourists was safety. How was Arena going to protect its customers? The security had strict orders and were spread out to

every corner and entrance of the multiple venues used during the festival. Everyone was searched coming in, even the guys wearing their tiny bathing suits, and a close eye was kept on the feverish crowd, with paramedics on site as well. Security did an excellent job, and no violent incidents occurred during the day or night events at Martina Beach, Coco Maya, Palazzo or Zamna. The energy was explosive, with Mexicans, Americans, Canadians, Argentinians, Poles, French and people from many other countries enjoying every beat of the music. Among the great DJs that played were Eliad Cohen from Israel and Mexican DJ, Sergio Ramirez. Boys and girls danced from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. every day, and at night from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. for an entire week. Every day saw more and more people arrive wearing event bracelets, carrying day passes, or there as VIPs, everyone ready to dance until the break of dawn. Three of the parties were in Zam-

Arena 2017 was a huge success! / Photo: Nadia Morella

This was my fourth Arena Festival, and I absolutely loved it. I had so much fun and met amazing people. I will definitely be back again next year!” Zsofia Obadovics Arena attendee, Hungary

na - Cenote Dos Ojos in Tulum, an exquisite site located in the jungle. This was one of the most successful events of the entire week, with buses leaving the ADO on 20th Avenue every hour, 52 people at a time. It was an epic event, and the atmo-

sphere was off the hook, with perfect weather and DJs absolutely on fire with their skills. “This was my fourth Arena Festival, and I absolutely loved it,” said Zsofia Obadovics, a partygoer from

Hungary. “I had so much fun and met amazing people. I will definitely be back again next year!” #Arena18 is scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 5, 2018.

ANIMAL WELFARE

February 22 - March 7 2017

The Bee’s Knees BY NASH The Melipona, also known as the Maya bee, is a docile honey-producing bee which is considered a sacred insect in ancient Maya history. The tradition of beekeeping has been disappearing, but recently there has been interest in reviving the craft for the sake of tradition, medicinal purposes, and the opportunity to make an income. This bee has come close to extinction due to deforestation, hurricanes, pesticides, and the competition for nectar, with larger bees taking over their hives. This bee is smaller than the regular honey bee and does not sting. The people tending the bee say that it is soft and sensitive, and that humans should approach it in a peaceful manner. It produces honey which has high nutritional and medicinal value. The benefits of Melipona honey include antiseptic qualities, which means it can act as a topical antibiotic. The honey has been used in religious ceremonies and traditional medicine by the Maya for thousands of years. It has been used to treat cataracts, conjunctivitis, ear infections,

respiratory issues, digestive problems, various skin problems and to reduce scarring. There is no need for protective clothing while attending to this bee, since it does not sting. There are differences in the size of bee colonies and the amount of honey they produce. A European colony can create about 40 liters a year, whereas this bee produces about two to three liters of honey per year. It’s a question of quality, not quantity. It is said that this bee is very selective about the plants that it feeds on. Because of its tiny size, it can feed on small medicinal plants and herbs, avoiding the insecticides and chemicals that are used on larger plants, thus increasing the value of its honey. Along with the bumble bee, it is the only pollinator of the tomato plant. Bees are vital to the ecosystem, and without them as pollinators, we would lose many of the plants in the Yucatan area. Local families benefit by selling bee products, such as honey and medicinal products, and even high-end spas are creating a demand for stingless bee beauty products. Look for these products in The Honey Store Tulum.

Bees are vital to the ecosystem, and without them as pollinators, we would lose many of the plants in the Yucatan area.

A boy and his dog / Photo: Lisa Leigh

MexiPaws: Saving Lives, One Puppy at a Time Sterilization and education are the key to ending the suffering of abandoned and neglected animals BY NASH

t all began when Tricia, a Canadian living in Mexico, found an abandoned puppy in the street and quickly learned the shelters operating in the area were overwhelmed with abused and abandoned animals. She knew she had to make a difference. With the support and full-time assistance of her close friend Cryss, along with their spouses, MexiPaws has grown into a multifaceted program that supports communities within Quintana Roo and the Yucatán. A foster-based program, networking with other rescues, collecting donations and adopting dogs out to Canada and the US, as well as Mexico, MexiPaws began as a puppy rescue, knowing puppies born on the street have little chance of survival. The focus was to get them medical help, including sterilization, vaccinations and a home. After a few years of experience as a volunteer at sterilization clinics, Tricia wanted to do more, so MexiPaws recently hosted its first free twoday sterilization clinic for dogs and cats. Their first clinic was held in Puerto Aventuras and with the support of DIBS Dog Rescue, Coco’s Animal Welfare, IFAW, Ce-

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

biam, Solidaridad and many volunteers, 265 pets and street dogs were sterilized. All animals received deparasite treatment, pain medication, and antibiotics. The week before the clinic, they held an Education Campaign Day in the village, educating people about the upcoming free clinic and the importance of spay and neuter, teaching children about animal welfare, dog house building demo, and training seminars, plus other fun activities for children. It was a fantastic day getting the community involved and creating awareness about their animals´ health and wellbeing. The team was able to talk with some of the poorest families in the area, offering to pick up their dogs and bring them in for sterilization, MexiPaws was also able to provide donated bags of dog food. They believe in community outreach, providing assistance to those in need and educating the public that not all dogs need to be rescued, the families just need a little education and compassion. The more foster homes available, the more abandoned dogs that can be saved. If you can donate or foster contact Tricia on Facebook/MexiPaws.

Help Tulum Dogs Help Tulum Dogs is a small volunteer rescue organization based in Tulum. It is an offshoot of the U.S.-based charity Lost Dog Foundation. Tulum has a huge dog overpopulation, which is made even more problematic due to the lack of education and financial means of the community. Volunteers help provide food, medical attention, and improve living conditions for dogs

in need by providing houses and educating owners about proper care for dogs. Help Tulum Dogs/Lost Dog Foundation is focused on sterilization, and it sponsors free clinics in Tulum. It also provides free or low-cost vaccines for dogs as often as possible. Help Tulum Dogs does not have a physical shelter. The group rescues and adopts out many dogs to good homes in the

U.S. and Canada and is entirely funded by donations. If you can help with fostering puppies or act as a flight escort, please contact them via email at: helpmexicandogs@hotmail.com. Or visit their website http://lostdogfoundation.org/ and Facebook/@lostdogfoundation and @helptulumdogs

February 22 - March 7 2017

ENTERPRISE FOCUS 23

OM Delfin LGBT Tours F^^m hg^ h_ IeZrZ :fb`Z[e^ l iZkmb\biZmbg` [nlbg^ll^l% Z `Zr&_kb^g]er mhnk Z`^g\r bg In^kmh Fhk^ehl BY GINGER M

met Delphine LeChat on a sunny Sunday afternoon, back in November 2016, on a charming beach of Puerto Morelos. It was the first time since I moved to Mexico that I was visiting this fishing village and I was excited. She had invited girls from our LesMex Facebook group to meet her some time before and that day, it finally happened. Lesbians from Cancun and Playa all drove to the central meeting point to finally meet Delphine: a French woman who has been living in Quintana Roo for the past three years and who owns a diving shop on the main street of Puerto Morelos. I present to you: OM Delfin. Managing the dive shop herself, Delphine counts on a great team of divers and national tour guides, some of whom have been working with her since the beginning. She has been diving for over 20 years and teaching for three years. Delphine shared that she had been thinking of diversifying her

OM Delfin LGBT Tours offer PADI diving courses, dive tours and snorkeling tours, not only in Puerto Morelos, but in other places of the Riviera Maya. activities by offering LGBT tours, although she had never really gotten around to it. Not too long after we met, we discussed different possibilities for creating an LGBT division in OM Delfin as an inclusive dive center, in order to promote a place of better acceptance, respect and a gay-friendly environment. OM Delfin LGBT Tours has seen

the light and is now part of #PlayaAmigable’s newborn family. The idea is to create a safe and an open-minded environment for everyone. Miss LeChat is a proud member of the LGBT community and wants to share amazing experiences with her guests in the safe environment of her tours. I am one of those lucky people, as I participated in the first LGBT Diving Day on Thursday, January 19 in the beautiful and clear blue sea of Puerto Morelos. My Canadian lesbian best friend was on the boat for her first dive ever, two French gay men were with us, as well as the dive instructor’s parents. It was an inclusive activity and we had a lot of fun under and outside the water! OM Delfin LGBT Tours offer PADI diving courses, dive tours and snorkeling tours, not only in Puerto Morelos, but in other places of the Riviera Maya, such as Cozumel, various cenotes, and Cancun’s underwater museum. Visit her Facebook page and book your next LGBT trip right away! Facebook/@OMDelfinLGBT

Delphine and her team / Photo: Ginger M.

Local Maya communities are getting upgrades for their schools through events called Days of Service / Photos: Crystal Mitchell

Days of Service to Help Maya Communities BY CRYSTAL MITCHELL

any residents of Puerto Aventuras have been enjoying the concerts recently held at the Hard Rock Hotel, from bands such as Zac Brown Band and My Morning Jacket. The groups that pay for the packages allowing them to have a personal experience with these bands are also making a huge difference in the indigenous communities of Quintana Roo and the Yucatan. Through the efforts of Positive Legacy and Dreams for Mayan Children, local Maya communities are getting upgrades for their schools, while sharing their culture with visitors through

events called ‘Days of Service’. This is a day when the group’s volunteers take a bus from the Hard Rock Hotel to the community of Dos Palmas. Here the volunteers work on the local school grounds. Many projects occur at once, including painting the classrooms, painting a mural on the side of the school, the removal of rocks for the creation of pathways, the resurrecting of the garden houses, painting of the bathrooms, and repairs to the ball court. The ball court is sacred because the kids are learning to play ancient ball games such as Pok Ta Pok, which is played using the hips to score goals with the balls. An original Pok Ta Pok court can be seen at Chichen Itza.

Many projects occur at once, including painting the classrooms, painting a mural on the side of the school, the removal of rocks for the creation of pathways, and repairs to the ball court. While the hard work is getting done, the teachers and kids from Xuuxnë music program play percussion instruments to keep the rhythm and flow going. It is a beautiful sight to see Maya children dancing around and playing drums with people from all over the United States. It is an excellent experience for both cultures.

After the work is done, the group is rewarded with a swim in the beautiful Dos Palmas cenote to cool off. This is followed by an authentic Yucatecan meal to nourish them after all their hard work. After eating, the group members enjoy an original deer dance performed by the kids from Campamento Hidalgo, who are

bussed in from Punta Laguna, two hours away. The guests get to participate in the dance as well. Finally, they are whisked away to a Maya cleansing ceremony with the local shaman, Freddy, who blesses them before their trip back to the Hard Rock Hotel. If you would like more information about this program please visit the following pages: Dreams for Mayan Children Facebook/@dmc1024 Positive Legacy - Facebook/@ positivelegacy Xuuxnë Oficial - Facebook/@ xuuxneoficial Xuuxnë Comunidad - Facebook/@ xuuxnecomunidad