B i mont hl y . Year 0 5 · Num ber 129 · 20,000 copies · 20 Pages · M arch 21 - April 3 , 2 0 1 8
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People of Playa: Victoria Chaires
>P. 6
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Visual Artist Ivan Rosales
>P. 8
CANCUN EL MECO - A MAYA CITY OF FORGOTTEN NAME
HEALTH REFRESH AND REORGANIZE FOR SPRINGTIME
Experience an alternative Cancun outing and visit El Meco, the little-known Maya city with the highest ruins in the north of the state
Photo: Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III
>P. 14
It’s the time of year when we welcome the fresh and new into our lives or renew what is already there, to boost our wellbeing
Photo: Pixabay.com/silviarita
>P. 18
March 21 - April 3
2018
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.
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
3
Editorial
DIRECTORY
Say Hello to Spring
Rebecca Page
General Manager edition@meridianmedia.mx
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Siobhán Gallagher
Editor theplayatimeseditor@gmail.com
By Siobhán Gallagher
W
e’re already a quarter into 2018. Spring is here, and with that comes new seasonal food, colorful flowers and plants blooming, and the birth of new wild creatures. Although, fortunately, we don’t notice a great difference in climate in this tropical location, we are still leaving winter behind and entering a period of celebration. Spring breakers are descending from the U.S. celebrating their mid-term vacations. At the end of the month, thousands of Mexicans will come to the Riviera Maya for semana santa (holy week) and Easter, one of the most significant holidays of the year in Mexico, as Alejandra explains
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Copy Editor copyeditor@meridianmedia.mx
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on page 8 in her insightful article on her experiences as a child. Let’s not forget St. Patrick’s Day last weekend - a day that is celebrated to a greater extent in Playa with every year that passes. We are truly living in an international city. Whether you decide to hang around and experience the festivities over the next few weeks, or go someplace quieter to escape the crowds, one thing is for sure - you will find something to do. Follow Andres’ directions to the little-known El Meco ruins, and the unique Stations of the Cross on Playa Delfines in Cancun, on page 14. Read Melissa’s advice for a family fun day on page 6. Ferry services to Cozumel are operating as usual after the explosion on a Barco Caribe ferry which injured more than 20
last month, and the US government travel advisories are once more the standard (level two) categories for everyone in the region - good news for all. Should you decide to stay at home and enjoy a quiet passage into spring, you might also want to be productive and follow Sara’s tips on page 18 for spring-cleaning and refreshing the energy in your home. If you find a gecko while you’re at it, read Gail’s article on page 19, before chucking it out. After that, why not enjoy some homemade refried beans with Lily’s recipe on page 15? Whatever your plans, traditions or beliefs, join us as we welcome spring to the Caribbean and remember that we always have something to celebrate in Playa del Carmen.
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The Playa Times
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., Calle 2 entre 45 y Carretera Federal, Mza. 088 lote 003-1, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710.
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BEACH LIFE
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
World Water Day 2018 How can we help preserve our only source of water on the Riviera Maya?
Photo: shutterstock_
Ask Allan:
Smoke Odors By Allan Lockhart Hi, Allan
By Thomas Lloyd, Founder of Top Mexico Real Estate
E
very year on March 22, the United Nations celebrate the importance of water in the world. This year, the theme of the celebration is “Nature for Water� and lets us explore nature-based solutions for the water challenges of the modern world. Water scarcity is a real world problem, affecting even big cities like Johannesburg in South Africa. According to the UN, every day 2.1. billion people live without safe drinking water, and these cases are only the tip of the iceberg.
The underground rivers form systems that run under the Yucatan Peninsula, and its transparent algae-free waters are the reason our beach waters are so clear. Sadly, everything we do on the surface will affect this fragile system. The Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen are growing fast, and nature around us is paying a high price and thus affecting our quality of life. This development is
Photo: Pixabay.com/JesusLeal
also affecting our only source of water, the underground river system that lies under the Riviera Maya. The aquifer of the Yucatan Peninsula is very vulnerable to pollution due to its nature; it is formed by calcium carbonate rock that dissolves on contact with water. Over millions of years, this has created large dissolution conduits or cavities, commonly known as underground rivers and cenotes. The underground rivers form systems that run under the Yucatan Peninsula, and its transparent algae-free waters are the reason our beach waters are so clear. Sadly, everything we do on the surface will affect this fragile system: bad waste management, use of chemicals, cenote contamination, etc. Think global, act local! Centinelas del Agua is a Civil Association that was born in 2011, with the mission of protecting and conserving the aquifer of the Yucatan Peninsula. This local NGO works at Mayan communities and in urban zones supporting environmental education and the participation of community bonding through forums, conferences, and public policies. If you are interested in volunteering, contact info@centinelasdelagua.org. Donations are also welcome, and they provide tax-deductible receipts. BANORTE CENTINELAS DEL AGUA A.C. Account: 0222701466, CLABE: 072691 002227014667 If you want to know more about the benefits of living in Mexico, download our free guide about this subject here: https:// topmre.com/kitlivinginmexico
Any advice for getting smells out of our condo from a renter who smoked? Martin Hi, Martin Thanks for your question. If you wash the walls with Mr. Clean and water, that will help. Send the curtains out to be professionally cleaned (if they are fabric). The sofa should be professionally cleaned, as well as the mattress. We always ask for at least a $500 USD security deposit for short-term rentals and at least $1,000 USD to cover unexpected damage like this. You can also use an ozone machine to help eliminate the smell. You might also consider asking if the person is a smoker before renting to determine whether or not to rent to them and/or to charge a larger security deposit. Best, Allan
Allan and Moli / Photo: Allan Lockhart
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BEACH LIFE
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
Springtime and Easter in Playa By Melissa Méndez Orantes On March 20 Tlahuiztlampa offered a celebration of this spring equinox! It was held at the Fundadores Park in the center of Playa del Carmen throughout the day. There were pre-Hispanic dances with live music in honor of the sun, thanking the four cardinal points with flowers and copal. This celebration was very important for the pre-Hispanic people because it meant the rebirth of life, where a new cycle of fertility begins for all species, the crops re-green, Photo: Crystal Mitchell
People of Playa: Victoria Chaires
Meet the founder of Diosas Luz, an ecological feminine product line By Crystal Mitchell
A
s spring emerges, we think of fertility. A woman becomes fertile around the age of 13 and it ends around the age of 53. This is 40 years of using disposable products that have hidden dangers to the woman and to the planet. Victoria Chaires has created a program to educate young women through the school system about the truth surrounding disposable feminine products. Though her company, Diosas Luz, she creates an extensive line of ecological feminine products, and holds workshops on how to create them yourself. I had the honor of witnessing her program in a local middle school during Women’s Day week. I learned so much and asked her about her inspiration to begin this project. Playa Times: Where are you from? How long have you been here? Victoria: I am originally from Celaya, Guanajuato. I came to the beach seven years ago because I love the paradise that lives here. How was your project Diosas Luz born? Goddesses Light Feminine Ecology, Recycle Your Cycle! emerged through my personal experience as a woman, with respect to disposable feminine products, their use, poor quality, chemicals not being disclosed on the packaging and contamination to our body and the planet. Because of the big marketing myth, I made the decision to create and make eco-friendly cloth feminine products with the clear message that this concept is not new, as many women in ancient times used cloth towels. What has been the drive to perfect this line and what is your goal with it? My inspiration comes from the need to create awareness in the new generations of women. My goal is that with every woman that is made conscious about ecological alternatives, we reduce the amount of sanitary garbage which is creating an enormous impact and ecological imbalance on our planet, Mother Earth. We need to remember that she is our sustenance, food, and home.
What has been your biggest accomplishment with your project so far? My greatest achievement at this time is that not only do women receive this information as theirs, but I also like to involve men and seeing their response to this issue has motivated me so much since their response has been a very positive one. Who would you say is your audience for this passion? Diosas Luz is for all women who want to change their lives and not just their menstrual cycles, because I have met many older women who no longer live a fertile life but suffer from urinary incontinence. This is a healthy alternative for them too. Spring is almost here! How do you feel your project correlates to nature and the seasons? I relate it to life! We are life-giving. Our menstrual blood contains stem cells that contribute to the fertility of the earth. What are your hopes for the future for women here in the Riviera Maya? My hopes are to raise awareness of our actions, take responsibility for our cycles, stop creating sanitary waste and share this information with more women. I think this is an issue that needs to be shared at an early age so adolescents receive this information. Sharing this information freely in a very positive way in conferences makes communication more comfortable and less embarrassing. There is a need to spread this message further so that it reaches more women, including the outlying communities, such as the villages. How can our readers support your goals in your project? By sharing this information and supporting it. Also, by investing in my line, you are investing in yourself and helping me to give donations of eco-friendly products to those in need. Follow Victoria on Facebook/EcologiaFeminina and Facebook/Diosa Organics and on Instagram @diosaorganics to learn more about this very important subject.
Photo: Grupo Tlahuiztlampa
improving the living conditions for everyone with health and prosperity, giving rise to a perfect balance. The Tlahuiztlampa group wants to preserve these traditions, they have been together 10 years and some members have been dancing since they were little. The members are from different parts of Mexico and they are united by the love of the pre-Hispanic traditions and culture, especially the Aztec. If you want to contact them for other events, call them at 9841360342/9841204828. Enjoy this Easter with your family! The food truck area of Playa del Carmen Mi Ranchito Playero with their Food Truck Village located in federal highway and Calle 5 south, is preparing a very fun event to celebrate the Easter festivities on Sunday, April 1st with many surprises and activities. This is their calendar of activities: • 11:00 - 13:00 am: Decoration of Easter eggs for the little ones • 13:00 - 14:00 pm: Mask paintings for kids • 14:00 - 17:00 pm: Games for the whole family • 16:00 - 17:00 pm: Find the hidden eggs in the Food Truck Village area • 17:00 pm: Break the piñata • 17:45 pm: Refreshments from the different food trucks of Mi Ranchito Playero for everyone For more information contact them through their social media! Mi Ranchito Playero and Toro Bike Playa. Enjoy it to the fullest with your friends and family!
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ART & CULTURE
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
Photo: Pixabay.com/JesusLeal
Easter in Mexico:
Memories of a Little Girl Alejandra takes us back to the days when she was young and the experiences that she and her family would have during the holy days in Mexico. By Alejandra Campo
I
n the very Catholic and religious Mexico of the recent past, particularly in the center of the country, I remember that there were great expectations during the holy days. It was a feeling that is now difficult to describe, although I remember it well. It was some kind of mystery, a secret, like something big was going on. As a child on Good Friday you
would hear the words “The glory is closed.” It was scary because from 3:00 in the afternoon onwards you could do absolutely nothing. You could not play or run, you were absolutely forbidden to watch TV, and woe to you if this occurred. If you were having fun doing something or simply laughing, you expected a scolding and probable punishment. It was unthinkable that you had the audacity to have fun while “Our Lord Jesus Christ was nailed to that cross.”
The day before, Holy Thursday, was the day of The Visit to the Seven Temples (a tradition that still continues). Around 6:00 in the afternoon we would leave the house to do a tour of the temples of the city. It was very funny because they would close the downtown streets so you could walk in the middle of the street and not on the sidewalk. And you would always find your friends from school. You went to a few of the churches, usually four or five (we would never complete all seven, since the elders could not endure walking so much). In each church we prayed a little and on the way out they had fresh chamomile – I remember that smell in each of the temples – and some small loaves that were usually hard without much flavor. On the streets, there were candy stalls, the traditional charamuscas (it’s a candy) and food. As the evening progressed and night came there would be more people on the street, so it was almost impossible to get out without being squeezed and stomped on. Finally, after this long journey, it was time to eat a delicious dinner at a restaurant.. In addition to this ritual, they would also lead us to observe the procession of silence and the washing of feet in memory of what Jesus Christ did for his apostles. Finally, Resurrection Sunday would arrive and someone would finally announce “The glory has opened”, which for my brother and I meant “time to play again.”
Ivan Rosales / Photo: Alejandra Campo
First Exhibition by Iván Rosales García in Playa By Alejandra Campo Visual artist Iván Rosales García presented his first pictorial exhibition on Thursday, March 1 at the University of Quintana Roo in Playa del Carmen. His university community and good friends accompanied the painter and draughtsman to the ribbon-cutting of this exhibition. Based in Playa del Carmen for several years and originally from Toluca, Ivan has been making his gift known, devoting himself to what he loves so much. From the age of seven he knew what he wanted to be in life. He is proud and grateful to his parents and siblings, as well as his teachers, including the great painter Luis Nishisawa. Ivan has participated in collective exhibitions of painting, drawing, printmaking and photography in his home town and in Quintana Roo. In 2012, after the exhibition of a piece at the Museum of Mayan Culture in
In 2012, after the exhibition of a piece at the Museum of Mayan Culture in Chetumal, Iván was invited to represent Playa del Carmen in the Cultural Day of Quintana Roo in Cuba. Chetumal, he was invited to represent Playa del Carmen in the Cultural Day of Quintana Roo in Cuba. He is currently involved in visual art, working as an illustrator of children’s books. The topics of interest for this young man are pre-Hispanic culture, the beauty of the native woman, Mexican fauna, realism, portraits and nudes. It’s done with great dexterity using simple pieces of paper to large fabrics, walls or theater curtains. Using oils, acrylics and watercolors, the artist demonstrates an excellent handling of line and color, exploring the emotions of the individual and the intimacy of the couple. His work also depicts the animal beauty of the jaguar and the eagle, in particular. Iván Rosales has a very serious commitment to art, culture and his work, is always occupied with quality and how to transcend the paper or the fabric, offering us unrealistic and suggestive images with a style that is entirely his own. Iván exhibits his work in the project Arte en Playa, located on 16th Street with Fifth Avenue.
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
DISCOVER MEXICO
9
Love, Marriage and Real Estate in Mexico By MexLaw
Welcome to
TAEMA
Taema / Photos: GMB
A development of urban, avant-garde design, \hfie^f^gm^] [r Ûklm&\eZll l^kob\^l Zg] Zf^gbmb^l% and a sustainable concept By GMB
E
njoy the magic and mysticism of the Riviera Maya; be a witness to the incomparable beauty of the Mexican Caribbean, because living in paradise is possible. Discover Taema, with an inclusive urban, avant-garde design, complemented by firstclass services and amenities, as well as a sustainable concept. Be part of this exclusive community, surrounded by nature in an atmosphere of tranquility, a cozy space that offers a unique lifestyle for you and your family. Located near to Puerto Aventuras, Taema is presented as a different and simply unique project in the Riviera Maya, which includes more than 4,600,000 m2 (1,137 acres) of green or conservation areas, representing more than 86% of the total of the project. Also, the owners and residents will have access to the exclusive neighbor community of Puerto Aventuras Golf, Marina & Beach Resort for use and enjoyment of its facilities, services and attractions. The project will consist of three residential phases, starting with a commercial area, followed by ample lots divided in residential spaces designed for homes ranging from 400 m2; condominiums ideal for investors with townhouse projects from 4,500 m2, commercial premises, condos, as well as modal fractional villas ideal for vacationing. Each lot is strategically located adjacent to green areas to provide more privacy between each property. The luxury residential community of 540 hectares (1,334 acres) will be developed around a private airpark that offers elite homeowners the comfort and privileges of having a plane at home, where 463 lots will have direct access to the 1,800-meter long landing strip (5,900 feet). Enjoy total tranquility with top-level amenities such as controlled access and surveillance 24 hours a day, closed-circuit securi-
ty cameras, reception, artificial lakes, parking for residents and visitors, shopping center, area for services, a garden designed for pets, ecological conservation and more than 1,500 meters of cycle path and jogging track.
Clean energies such as photovoltaic generators, LED lighting, water treatment and waste separation will be implemented. Additionally, the project will have a common clubhouse where you will find a fully equipped gym, bathrooms with showers, dressing rooms, steam and sauna, water park, cenote, wading pool, semi-olympic swimming lane, bar and games room, multipurpose room, garden for events, chapel, sandbox area and playgrounds, BBQ area and hammocks, panoramic terrace for events, yoga center, and bar, among many other services. Due to our commitment to caring for the environment, the use of clean energies such as photovoltaic generators, LED lighting, water treatment and waste separation will be implemented. Build your heritage in a privileged destination with international recognition and great capital gain, offering the best value for your investment. Its location in the heart of the Riviera Maya offers a complete project, the perfect combination of lifestyle: fly, surf, play golf and relax on the beach, all in one place. Come to live the experience, fall in love with paradise and stay to live your dreams. Welcome to Taema, where the opportunity to create your own lifestyle is a reality.
Marriage to a Mexican citizen will enable the foreign spouse to obtain a temporary visa and eventually permanent residence. The marriage will grant a foreigner one-year temporary residency, which may be renewed for a total of two years. Once the two years as a temporary resident is complete, they may apply for permanent residency. The couple must specify whether they wish to marry under the system of Joint Ownership Property (sociedad conjugal) or a Non-Joint Ownership Property (separación de bienes). When it comes to purchasing real estate as a couple, the foreign spouse should take specific measures to protect themselves. A foreigner spouse cannot purchase property in the restricted zone without a trust. However, a Mexican citizen may buy within in this area with direct title. During the honeymoon stage, it may seem like a great idea to purchase the property in the Mexican spouse’s name to avoid bank trust fees and hold a free title on the property. But, in the event the marriage dissolves, either due to divorce or if the Mexican spouse passes away, the foreign spouse will not be able to claim the property without first transferring the property to a fideicomiso. The safest solution would be for the couple to form a Mexican corporation in both names in order to purchase property in the restricted zone. Same-sex couples living in a common-law arrangement may consider purchasing real estate through a corporation since some Mexican courts still consider
Photo: Pixabay.com/jaremyWong Weddings
common-law marriage a union between a man and a woman. Same-sex marriage is legal in Mexico, but same-sex common-law unions may face challenges when it comes to property, separation or the death of a partner. As owners of a corporation, a will should be in place since the statutes state you cannot inherit your shares; a will is required to designate the shares to your partner. If the couple’s home is built on Ejido land, the foreign spouse is not able to claim the property; only Mexican citizens are entitled to this property, and Ejido property cannot be purchased by a corporation. For more information regarding forming a corporation, estate planning and real estate purchases contact@mexlaw.ca Full article https:// mexlaw.ca/love-marriage-real-estate-mexico/
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Love in three / Photo: Ginger M.ww
LGBT Relationships and Troupling Polyamorous relationships are becoming more common, but not so much in Quintana Roo By Ginger M.
H
ave you ever watched the TV series ‘Me You Her’? It is about a trouple relationship between a suburban couple and a student, staged in Portland, Oregon. It is the first TV show to openly talk about ‘troupling’. Their third season premieres on March 20. I will briefly introduce what a trouple is, since I had never even seen one myself up until recently. A ‘’trouple’’ is the mix of the word couple and triple which means a three-way relationship, where everything is equally shared between all members. It is also known as a polyamorous or polygamous relationship. Not long after watching the first two seasons of ‘Me You Her’, I noticed some trouples during Arena Festival last February. Three men holding hands, others kissing all together. It was beautiful, love is beautiful! Why not share if you can! I personally have been in a relationship where my girlfriend and I cheated on each other with the same person. If we knew trouples were even slightly possible, we would have avoided a lot of drama! I feel that something like this would have never crossed my mind before. I’m only recently being aware of a few of all the countless states of being. We are so brainwashed with all sorts of crazy ideas and models to follow since the time of our great great grandparents. We tend to forget that we are humans and we have the right to be free and live a way that makes us feel happy. Why does everyone need to be molded the same? Stop controlling, let yourself live and love! Don’t you feel Quintana Roo is still lacking open-minded people? Outside the festival, I have never seen any trouples. I feel it is taboo in many different cities such as Playa del Carmen, while in others like San Francisco it is more accepted. Polyamorous relations are more common than we think. If you are in a trouple or polyamorous relationship, I want to hear from you.
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CANCUN
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
Semana Santa and the Passion of Christ in Cancun By Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III In Mexico, like in most Latin-American countries, Catholicism is the most widespread religion. Approximately 88% of the Mexican population profess this religion. Semana Santa is among the biggest celebrations in our country, reaching its climax on the annual representation of the Passion of Christ. Holy Week is almost as big as the Day of the Dead or Christmas. The dates change from year to year; it starts the Sunday after the first springtime full moon, which means in 2018 it will run from March 25 to April 1. This last day is known as Domingo de Pascua (Easter or Resurrection Sunday).
The Stations of the Cross will be represented in many different churches around the city, but the most important one will take place in Playa Delfines.
El Mecoí / Photos: Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III
El Meco - A Maya City of Forgotten Name Visit this little-known Maya landmark on an alternative Cancun outing By Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III
I
n previous editions we talked about the Maya archaeological site El Rey, located in the south side of the hotel zone in Cancun. This time we turn our attention to a little-known place called El Meco, a Classic period Maya city whose original name is unknown. Meco is Mexican slang for many different things (some of them not nice at all). In this case it makes reference to a person with a limp or some sort of gait impairment. According to the unverified chronics of the XIX century, the pre-Hispanic name could have been Belma, but ended up being known as El Meco after a XIX century lighthouse/port keeper with the aforementioned walking condition. The real name of this person is also unknown, but the mean nickname survived to present day. It’s believed this city was the Maya connection to the north side islands of Isla Mujeres and Contoy. It was not a big settlement like Chichen Itza or Coba, but it has the highest Maya ruins in the north of the state: El Castillo - a 15-meter structure worth seeing. Located at the kilometer 2.7 point of the Puerto Juarez - Punta Sam road, this site is technically part of the Isla Mujeres municipality on its continental side. El Meco is two miles north from the Cancun-Isla Mujeres ferry station, right after the All Ritmo
This holiday is also famous for having the highest domestic tourism numbers. It overlaps with the last days of spring break, which means lots of people on the beach. I usually prefer a little getaway to Bacalar or Cozumel to avoid the stress and the traffic jams at the heart of the hotel zone. Unfortunately, this year I’m not going to be able to do it because I’m moving, so instead I’m catching the 2018 Passion of Christ presentation in Cancun. The Via Crucis (Stations of the Cross) presentations are known for being shocking and intense; they have to resemble the path Jesus walked on his way to Mount Calvary where - according to the gospels - he was crucified. In Cancun, this celebration doesn’t go to gory extremes like in other parts of the country, but is still a very demanding proof of faith. The Caribbean heat is always an adverse factor for those honored to play Jesus and carry the cross. I’m an atheist myself, but I love all the commitment and effort put into Semana Santa. I have always been a big admirer of Jesus, as an historical figure, of course. The Stations of the Cross will be presented in many different churches around the city, but the most important one will take place in Playa Delfines. This is very unique, one of the few Via Crucis in Mexico being presented at the beach. If you have never seen one, this is your chance. It’s an experience you will never forget.
This is not a big settlement like Chichen Itza or Coba, but it has the highest Maya ruins in the north of the state: El Castillo - a 15-meter structure worth seeing. Resort. Keep your eyes open because there are no big sign to this site and the entrance is discreet, located on your left hand side. The cost is symbolic, only 50 pesos/ $3 USD. The place is very modest, so don’t expect restaurants or big gift shops (although there are some fine seafood restaurants in the area). Only a few people take care of the entire place and they will tell you all the information you need to know at the entrance. There are no guides, so it’s a free, self-paced experience. There are plenty of trees so don’t worry about the sun, it’s the perfect walk. Just make sure to bring water and mosquito repellant and enjoy one of the best-kept secrets of Cancun.
Photo: Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
TPT FOODIES
15
Spring and Water ... Pure Happiness! By Jerónimo Avilés
T
he days lengthen, the sun is stronger and the warm climate gradually begins to prevail against the cold and the rain. Almost without noticing, one more spring has come to us and it is time to pay more attention to the hydration of our body, since the heat increases sweating and we lose more moisture. Meanwhile, the water of the underground rivers follows its usual course; in the caves no changes are observed, but in the green water cenotes, changes in important characteristics can be observed. In some of them the water turns crystalline during the cold months of the year, and at the beginning of spring, after the last wind from the north, the temperature gradually increases and the ideal conditions and temperature return for the development of microalgae that reproduce rapidly, dyeing the water an emerald green color for the rest of the year. Then temperatures will drop again by 25 C, a change in the conditions that microalgae cannot survive. The next day of spring on March 22, World Water Day is celebrated. The 2018 theme explores nature-based solutions for the water challenges we face in the 21st century, such as planting trees to replenish forests, reconnecting rivers to floodplains and restoring wetlands. It is a sustainable and profitable way to help nature to do her job and it is vitally important. Damaged ecosystems affect the quantity and quality
Refried Mexican Beans A meat-free recipe, appropriate for those following lent and tasty for all By Lily Espinosa Ingredients Step 1 1 kilo of dry beans - black, pinto, your favorite! ½ medium onion 5 garlic cloves 5 branches of epazote. Soak the dry beans overnight in a bowl with water. This is a very important step, not only because they will cook faster, but also because you remove anti-nutrients present in some foods like beans. The next day discard the water, and in a big and deep pot add 4 liters of water, beans, onion and garlic. Let them boil softly for about 1 to 1½ hours. Now add epazote and salt to taste, let them boil for another 10 minutes and let them cool off. Step 2 1/8 medium white onion finely chopped 2 finely chopped garlic cloves 1/3 cup of chopped epazote 1 chile serrano, seedless and finely chopped 2 tablespoons pork lard
Photo: Wikipedia Commons/Ewan Monro
In a frying pan, add the onion and fry in lard until it looks translucent. Add the garlic, chile and epazote, and once you can smell the frying garlic, add the beans with very little of their own broth. Stir and mix with the onion and garlic, and now start to press them, until they are pureed. Keep stirring for a little while on the stove on a medium/low heat, and once enough liquid has evaporated (your spoon will stand still), they are ready.
The best way to enjoy them of course will be in a taco with freshly made tortillas (if you don´t know how to prepare them send us an email). Add a delicious green or red salsa, Oaxacan cheese or panela and a nice guacamole. Enjoy! Any questions? Please let me know at riverakitchentulum@ gmail.com Lily Espinosa, Rivera Kitchen Tulum, Mexican Cooking Classes and Culinary Tours
Photos: Rio Secreto
of water available for human consumption. The Rio Secreto Reserve is a sanctum sanctuarium for water, if the rain could choose, it would rain in Rio Secreto. There, the water is protected and its quality is studied and we hope that it will be in the future as well. Trees help to generate humidity and cause rain. The reserve is also a refuge for endangered and threatened wildlife such as the jaguar and the puma that we study, thanks to our flora phototrapping project of the Rio Hydrogeological Reserve Secret. When visiting, you will have fun like never before, appreciating the nature of the cave and the jungle in all its splendor and at the same time you will help to conserve our most precious asset, water.
Photo: Lily Espinosa
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ENTERTAINMENT
Photo: Agency
I, Tonya By: Michael Renouf I, Tonya (Yo, Tonya) is a film about figure-skater Tonya Harding (Margot Robbie), based on wildly contradictory interviews with her and her ex-husband Jeff Gillooly (Sebastian Stan). For this reason, I hesitate to call this a true story, rather a movie featuring real events with real life participants. Where were you on 6 January 1994? Nancy Kerrigan will never forget, as that date is imprinted on her mind and body when a henchmen associated with Tonya Harding attacked her in an attempt to increase Harding’s chances of making the US Women’s Olympic figure-skating team. The film begins with Tonya as a little girl, showing her dysfunctional relationship with her toxic mother LaVona (Alison Janney). Hard-
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
ing is famous for two things: being the first American woman to complete a triple axel in competition and the infamous attack on rival Kerrigan. Aussie Robbie superbly captures the intensity of high-level competition in the skating scenes and both leading ladies were deservedly nominated for Oscars. Janney won the best supporting actress award for the first time for portraying Tonya’s despicable mother. They also received decent support from Sebastian Stan, as her abusive on-off husband, and Paul Walter Hauser as his deadbeat fantasist buddy Shawn, who instigates the attack on rival Kerrigan. Apart from Tonya’s coach Diane (Julianne Nicholson) none of the characters are remotely likeable and it is very hard to feel any sympathy for them. I left with a feeling that they all deserved each other. The four main characters’ views of events and themselves differ wildly and rarely agree on what scenes in the film are accurate. The actors often break the fourth wall and speak directly to the camera. This usually takes me out of the film, but on this occasion film director Craig Gillespie makes it work. The film runs for two hours and takes you on the whirlwind ride which was the redneck skater’s life. The film also has a banging soundtrack featuring the likes of ZZ Top, Bad Company, Supertramp and Dire Straits. I realise how appropriate some of those artist names are for the film’s subject matter. This week’s star of the show is Alison Janney for playing one of the most loathsome characters outside of mass murderers you will see portrayed on film. Go and see I, Tonya for a cracking good time - 7.5 out of 10.
Maya Lessons In La Kech By Michael Maurus
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his is Fermin, one of my closest Maya friends and also the one from whom I learn the most. Not just how to live in the jungle but also the Maya language. For a while now I have been researching the Maya greeting “IN LA KECH” (pronounced: inlakesh ). There are books written about it, Foundations and Universities use that name and the scholarly translations are: “In you I see my other self. We are one. I am Another You”. So I wanted to see what my friend thinks about it and if he ever uses it. When I asked
him about it, he looked at me (I think I could almost detect a smile) and he just said: “Ah this we use for people we really like” and on he went with his work and another Maya lesson was completed. Now when we meet him on our photowalks in the jungle and he greets me with In la Kech I feel really honored to have become a part of this community. For more stories from the jungle please follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikemaurus To reserve your spot on one of the photowalks in Leona Vicario and the jungle, please go to my website. http://www.mmaurus.com/
Photo: Michael Maurus
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
DISCOVER MEXICO
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Photo: Catherine Pawelek
A Door to the Unknown
Photo: kantun-Chi
By Kantun-Chi
Puerto Vallarta The tourist hotspot on the west coast of Mexico feels like coming home for Catherine By Catherine Pawelek
E
lizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton originally put Puerto Vallarta on the map back in 1963, with their romance of the century. Even Jennifer Aniston, Ashton Kutcher, Cheryl Tiegs, Orlando Bloom and Eva Longoria make frequent trips to this paradise. To say that I also have fallen in love with this town and surrounding areas of Mismaloya Beach, Bay of Banderas and Punta Mita is an understatement. This town may be known for mariachi and tequila, but its cobblestoned streets, mile-long malecon, fresh seafood and incredible people are all magnets. Many hotel companies are building in Nayarit, which may be too far to hop in a cab for a quick visit, so consider a hotel within a 20-minute ride from town. That way the true flavor of this authentic Mexican colonial city can be experienced numerous times during your stay. A day trip will include dozens of picture-perfect moments of the malecon, the bronzed statues and other sculptures. I met an artist whose small Stonehenge-type sculptures of teetering, balanced rocks fit in perfectly with the glimmering blue of the water in the background. Blink your eyes and you may miss dozens of jumping dolphins, but no worries, the bay is their playground and you will see many more. A visit to Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Church on the main square yielded a nice surprise this time, as a bride in full regalia including lacy mantilla fram-
ing her face, got into her horse-drawn carriage to ride off into the sunset.
Blink your eyes and you may miss dozens of jumping dolphins, but no worries, the bay is their playground and you will see many more. Friends mentioned their favorite taco places for lunch and each one was better than the last. For dinner, the town’s twinkling lights are mesmerizing and you can imagine why Liz and Dick fell in love. Walk the length of the malecon to La Palapa restaurant a go-to on the beach, next to Los Muertos Pier which still has the most amazing view at sunset, and sumptuous shrimp. It reminds me of The Office restaurant in Cabo, right on the beach, toes in the sand, margarita in hand. If you want to be more active, then check out some of the numerous offerings, like we did, including a mind-blowing ATV ride with a view like no other or a sea adventure, that includes horseback riding on the beach. Next time I think rappelling down a mountain, jeep buggying on Sayulita beach or extreme zip lining will be on the agenda.
For many years it was believed that the ancient Mayas made sacrifices only of women and that they only chose virgins for this type of ritual; some recent findings reveal that sacrifices were not exclusive to women. The Mayas brought men, women and even children with the aim of communicating with the gods to ask them if the year that was about to begin would be good or bad. The evidence gathered during several investigations shows that men and boys of various ages were part of more rituals than
women, and different artifacts were found that complemented the rituals. Remains of animals related to the underworld have been found, as well as the instruments used to perform the sacrifice. The ways the Mayans made offerings to their gods depended on what they wanted to ask their deities - this implied different types of sacrifice, most of which ended in drowning in the cenotes representative of their culture. The cenotes were of great importance to the Mayas; they symbolized life, death, rebirth and fertility and they believed that these water deposits possessed mythical beings.
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HEALTH
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
DIY Wellness: Cold Showers By Sara Jones
Refresh and Reorganize
for Springtime
Bm l ma^ mbf^ h_ r^Zk pa^g p^e\hf^ ma^ _k^la Zg] g^p bgmh hnk ebo^l & hk k^g^p paZm bl Zek^Z]r ma^k^ By Sara Jones
Y
our environment can contribute greatly to your overall feeling of well-being and day-today happiness and energy levels. Springtime is synonymous with new beginnings and fresh starts; creating a sanctuary perfect for your needs and tastes is time well spent. Reduce Clutter Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more cozy, homely feel to your abode, clutter should be minimized. It may be time to let go of those things you’re holding on to, but will likely never use. If doesn’t serve a purpose or bring you joy, donate it, sell it or throw it out. Organize Storage Space Clearing out cupboards, drawers and closets yearly can help to prevent mold and damp in addition to freeing up space as you let go of unnecessary belongings. Refresh or Redecorate Repaint a piece of furniture, change cushion covers or replace artwork to refresh the decor in your home for the spring – summer season. Enjoy Springtime Aromatherapy Instead of fragrancing your home with synthetic air fresheners and toxic scented candles, invest in some high quality pure essential oils and combine to create your favorite aroma. This blend can be evaporated with a simple oil diffuser or added to a spray bottle with alcohol and water to naturally fragrance areas. Essential oils are often antibacterial and anti-mold. Some great springtime scents include all types of citrus and floral aromas like jasmine, geranium and ylang ylang, while oils like lavender, peppermint and rosemary are great all year round. Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant, Speaker and Founder of Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe magazine www.spawellnessmexicaribe.com
Photo: Pixabay.com/silviarita
At the recent Global Wellness Summit, Dr. Marc Cohen, Professor RMIT Australia asked the audience “Who here takes cold showers regularly?” I put my hand up and commented to my friend next to me “Does it still count if it’s only during the summertime in Mexico?”. The practice of taking cold showers or plunging into ice-cold water is one steeped in tradition for many of our ancestors. The benefits of cold exposure are plentiful and can enhance physical, emotional and mental aspects. Trying something new for 30 days can be a great way to form positive habits, and it’s not like getting out of the shower is ever exceedingly cold here in Playa! Physical benefits • Cold stimulates muscle recovery and it can aid in reducing post-workout inflammation. • Cold showers improve circulation and reduce pain – going from cold to hot increases blood flow to the extremities, also improving skin and hair. • Cold exposure can help to burn fat – by stimulating the metabolism and increasing the activity of brown fat cells, cold showers can help with excess weight loss. Emotional benefits • Decrease depression - by promoting the release of noradrenaline, cold showers can alleviate symptoms without the use of drugs. • Improve your emotional resilience – short-term cold exposure has been shown to enhance your nervous system’s resilience to stress. • Cold showers make you happy! Imagine the feeling of achievement first thing in the morning, what could be better?
Photo: Pixabay.com/955169
Mental benefits • Strengthen your willpower – challenging yourself to do anything consistently builds will power. • Build courage – once you have overcome the fear of voluntarily stepping into cold water, you can do anything, right?
Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant, Speaker and Founder of Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe magazine www.spawellnessmexicaribe.com
MARCH 21 - APRIL 3, 2018
ANIMAL WELFARE
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A We l c o m e Ho u se G u e s t By Gail Collins
I
f you suffer from herpetophobia (fear of reptiles), you are probably not impressed when you see a small gecko running across your wall or lurking by your porch light waiting for unsuspecting insects. By understanding more about them you will hopefully feel different next time you see one.
They are nocturnal, shy creatures with vertically elliptical pupils designed to let in maximum light, approximately 350 times more than human eyes. The most common gecko you are likely to encounter in the area is the common house gecko. Originally natives of the Pacific islands, they have made their way across several areas of Mexico. In many regions the arrival of a gecko in the home is a sign of good luck They’re known as “limpia casas”,
literally translating to “house cleaners”. They help get rid of mosquitos and scorpions which are amongst their favorite food sources. They are generally nocturnal, shy creatures with vertically elliptical pupils designed to let in maximum light, approximately 350 times more than human eyes. In moments of desperation
they can lose their tails to escape but will often return to eat it due to the high level of nutrients it contains!
Gecko / Photo: Pixabay.com/Noupload
Photo: Michael Renauf
Caribbean Coatis By Gail Collins There are some occasions in life which leave an indelible mark on you. One of mine was on my first visit to Mexico. We were staying at an all-inclusive resort and had been allocated a room towards the back of the resort. This is where the well-tended lawns ended, with only a wire fence held in place by a parallel pole running across the top separating
us from a tangle of green jungle. I was leaning on the balcony contemplating the peacefulness when I saw a flash of movement. A racoon-like animal had climbed its way up the wire fencing and was balancing in a well-practiced move on the pole. It was followed by 14 others in varying sizes. I was mesmerized and stifled my squeal of delight that was trying to escape so they would not run off. I later discovered that I had been lucky enough to see a band of coatis (known as Chi’ik in Mayan) making their way home after a day of foraging. Perhaps they had also been sweet-talking hotel guests into giving them tidbits, using their cute faces and a series of chirrups, grunts and squeaks. There are four species of coati: the ringtailed and mountain coati from South America, the white-nosed coati found in North and Central America and the endangered and rarely seen Cozumel island coati, which is considered a subspecies of its mainland cousin, the white-nosed coati. The white-nosed coati is the one you will see in the Riviera Maya. They come from the racoon family but can be distinguished by their longer snouts, slimmer torsos and a reddish tone to their fur. You’ll often see them holding their long, thin, banded tails up in the air, to check and make sure that everyone is there. Since that first sighting I have seen them many times at various hotel resorts, at the entrance to the Tulum ruins and on various walks with my dog. They are nocturnal, omnivore animals with persistently curious and intelligent personalities. They forage for spiders, fruit, eggs and small animals such as lizards, birds, mice and squirrels. It is very tempting to feed them, especially if you are staying at one of the large resorts, but it is important that they forage for their own food to maintain good health and balance the local ecosystem. Happy sightings!
Geckos are parthenogenic, which means the female can reproduce without mating. But young geckos
conceived in this manner lack genetic diversity and are more prone to disease and a shorter lifespan. The turnip-tailed gecko is indigenous to the area and recognizable by its widened tail, but is less likely to be spotted. They usually reside under logs and rocks in the jungle where they can feast on crickets, termites, spiders and scorpions. If you ever do have the luck to see one close-up you will notice that they look as if they are grinning at you! The Yucatan banded gecko is found in Mexico, Guatemala and Belize. They are very pretty with a distinct, bold pattern which often serves as a warning for danger. Its additional behavior of raising its body, inflating its throat, waving its tail and emitting a soft purring sound has led many locals to believe it has a deadly sting in its tail. This is a myth as they are totally harmless! On average, geckos live up to 10 years but some species will double that. The longest recorded lifespan in captivity is 27 years. So the next time you see that flash of a tail, remember the good they can do. After all, wouldn’t you rather live with a gecko than a mosquito or scorpion?