Planning A Destination Wedding? Love Is In The Air In Playa del Carmen!

There is a reason why thousands of couples cross oceans and continents to get married in this paradisiacal region of Mexico known as “The Heart of the Mayan Riviera”.  Playa del Carmen offers pristine beaches, world class accommodations and top-notch wedding planning services at a fraction of the cost you would pay  elsewhere in the world. This sublime area receives on average, over 300 sunny days a year and offers a vast range of magical encounters with an adventurous, ecological or historical twist for the entire group of family and friends to partake in.

And if your travel tales do not yet extend to the land of tequila, white-sand beaches and sunshine, you are probably not aware that Mexicans know how to throw a party!  Due to a seemingly ingrained sense of hospitality and warmth, this culture delights at any opportunity to celebrate a special occasion. Creativity flourishes within a congenial setting and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

I have been fortunate to attend several weddings here in Playa del Carmen over the years, some extravagant and some simplistic, but each so enchanting they have etched a permanent mark in my memory bank.  With so many superb locations from which to hold a romantic ceremony, the Mayan Riviera offers a truly unique wedding experience.

Imagine exchanging vows overlooking the breathtaking turquoise sea, or amidst a lush tropical garden surrounded by the ones you love most. For those of you looking for a one-of-a-kind event, you might even consider performing intimate nuptials by candle light, within one of the many underground caves of the region’s subterranean river system.

Whatever your vision, the professional team of Bric Vacation wedding specialists can assist you with bringing that dream to fruition.  From securing the ideal venue, to transportation, photography, music, decor and catering, our staff will work in unison with you, the happy couple to arrange every detail of your momentous occasion.  Our experienced wedding and event coordinators will be in contact with you every step of the way to ensure that all facets of your vision are seamed together flawlessly.

Bric Vacation Rentals is arguably the most convenient route when planning your destination wedding. Our boutique hotel is centrally located within the heart of Playa del Carmen and serves not only as an option for accommodations, but a venue as well.  Additionally, we offer several ocean-front and luxury condo-retreat style accommodations around the city.

Our team of ambassadors are Playa del Carmen experts and can suggest and facilitate an itinerary for your group’s entire stay.  Whether your party consists of golf enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, water-sport fanatics, beach bums, or all of the above, our friendly concierges are able to create a customized list of sublime locations and excursions in which to indulge in the area’s remarkable natural beauty.

The young city of Playa del Carmen pulsates with a fresh and effervescent vibe, yet it is a land in which a fascinating, ancient civilization once trod. It exudes sophistication and modern amenities, yet still manages to remain true to its humble beginnings as a quaint fishing village. It is cosmopolitan city which offers world-class entertainment, yet it charms visitors to succumb to its laid back vibe. There is an alluring force that beckons travelers to return time and time again.

We invite you to allow us to design a wedding day you and your guests will fondly remember for a lifetime.  Let us exceed all your expectations and fill your important day with extraordinary moments, where all you are expected of, is to fill it with love and laughter.

For more information, please contact our events department at Kristen@bricrental.com.

Try These Tips To Make Your Vacation Rental More Appealing

To be able to have a home away from home where you can set off for some tranquility and quality time with friends and family is a dream for many people. However, when owners are only able to spend a few weeks of the year as an escape artist, the idea of offering their second home as a vacation rental becomes intriguing. The income generated from a vacation property not only offsets the costs of ownership, but can also be a financially rewarding experience when a personal approach is combined with good business sense.

What makes some rental properties more lucrative than others? Location is important, but there are many other factors which can attribute to a successful reservation rate. The key goal of a vacation rental should be to offer comfort and convenience which travelers would expect in their own homes while tending to the small details which will exceed their expectations. High review ratings provide owners with an advantage in a competitive market and word of mouth is still the most powerful way to effectuate repeat business.

Here is a list of tips we have put together which when applied, can produce a worthwhile investment for a vacation property owner and make it stand out against the competition.

1) Present the home as if your own family was going to be staying in it.

A lack of enthusiasm some owners have toward their property is clearly evident in the minimal and poor quality necessities they offer. Rock hard mattresses, a television with only 2 foreign language channels and outdated or tattered furniture are prone to lead visitors to develop an unfavorable opinion of the rental. Create a hospitable atmosphere by maintaining and replacing older furnishings, adding modern decorative touches, a fresh coat of paint and consider installing a satellite or an economical movie provider such as Netflix.

2) Showcase the attractive features of your property.

I have seen potentially breathtaking, private roof terraces with panoramic ocean views left in an abandoned state, with a couple of lounge chairs in disrepair or no furniture at all! A penthouse with an ocean view is a definite revenue earner and it is unfortunate when owners fail to play up such incredible outdoor living spaces. A few potted plants and a dining or seating area can really create a stunning transformation and present an alluring selling point for guests.

3) Exceed a guest’s expectations.

An owner is not required to spend a fortune to create a memorable and appealing ambience within his/her vacation home. Guests’ satisfaction lies within the small details. If you have a barbecue, be sure the propane tank is full and the grill is clean and ready for use. Check all batteries in the remotes and confirm that all appliances are in good working order. Consider providing toiletries, beach chairs and toys, tennis rackets, bikes, books, or board games. New visitors will appreciate an information binder which includes emergency contact numbers, appliance and garbage disposal instructions, popular attractions and restaurants in the area. Stocking milk in the refrigerator for coffee, providing laundry detergent, as well as playing soft background music upon arrival are extra touches that can have a big impact.

4) Cleanliness.

This is an obvious method to attract repeat clients, but some rentals fall very short in this category. There should be no stains in the toilets and bathtubs, white sheets and towels should be bleached, and cobwebs from ceiling fans and corners should definitely be given a swipe with the dusting wand. Have rugs and furniture professionally cleaned at least once a year and apply a stain protector to the furniture and mattresses as often as is suggested. Even an older home can have considerable appeal and charm if it is appears fresh, and in excellent condition.

5) Use withstanding materials.

As a rental owner, you can expect that your dish ware and furnishings will not last forever. It is important to choose durable materials that will withstand wear and tear. Solid color draperies and furniture are more timeless and will look less dated than a patterned material. However, for bedspreads and comforters, use a darker, simple pattern so that stains from sunscreen for example, will be less visible. Purchase white dish ware and keep an extra set in the closet so that broken ones can be easily matched and replaced. Removable seat covers are optimal for wearability and can be recovered to look like new.

6) Make your rental appealing to all types of reservations.

A vacation home which maximizes space and can accommodate a large family increases the reservation rate as it appeals to a broader clientele. If you have two bedrooms, by adding bunkbeds with double mattresses or a sleeper sofa in the guest room , you can achieve better odds of renting out your home. Providing extra bar stools or a large dining table provides ample seating for small group bookings. Also remember that it is imperative that there are enough towels, plates, utensils and glasses to accommodate the number of guests your rental sleeps.

The bottom line is that you yourself would be thrilled at the opportunity to stay in your vacation home time and time again. Ask yourself if you would feel as though you are getting your money’s worth? Your aim is to induce an emotional connection between guests and your vacation home so that ultimately, your guests will want to return and will recommend it to others.

Bric Vacation Rentals’ Inaugural Golf Tournament!

Like the majority of the 365 days a year in #playadelcarmen, Sunday, April 19 was an exceptional day for golf! Bric vacation rental owners, guests and staff played 18 glorious holes at the Hard Rock Golf Club Riviera Maya in Playacar.

A compilation of amateur and seasoned golfers partook in a fun-filled day on the links, then re-convened in the clubhouse for lunch as they shared commentaries on the day’s top shots.  Although the intensity was far short of a PGA golf classic, emotions ran high as each team forged an attempt to earn the winner’s title.

In fact, the tournament’s competitors enjoyed the golf outing so much so that Bric organizers announced there will be an upcoming tournament to be held this fall.  Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to contact the Bric offices to get their name on the player’s roster.

http://www.bricrental.com/contact-information.asp

If At First, You Don’t Succeed, Try Try Again

In August of 2011, we excitedly embarked on the 4500 kilometer journey from Canada to #playadelcarmen.  The original plan was to come to establish a central exportation headquarters for our produce business and return after one year.  We would have an interactive cultural experience, our three children would register in school and we would all be fluent in a few short months…you would think. We fell in love with the #mayanriviera, the sublime beatuy in its simplicity and the Mexican way of life.  Three and a half years later, I unfortunately still stumble on words in an attempt to formulate a proper sentence and use the correct verbiage.

Take for example the time I tried to acquire health insurance. I asked the broker, “Cuanto va a estar el pago menstrual?” This roughly translates to “How much will the menstrual payment be?” rather than “How much will the monthly (mensual) payment be?”  Too similar, wouldn’t you agree?  I chalked the slightly mortifying encounter between the red-faced broker and I up to an honest mistake. Although Spanish is the main language spoken here, there are many expats who have called Playa home for, in some cases, fifteen years with a very basic conversation level. The language barrier can make life somewhat frustrating at times.  It is not uncommon that you will, every now and again, run into a plumbing issue. It can be a challenge to make a decision when even charades fails and you still haven’t a clue what the plumber is trying to explain.

I am thankful for the Mexican custom with regards to birthdays and celebrating in grand fashion, when half of the community receives an invitation to the event.  With three young children in school and an average of thirty students per class, we accepted anywhere from one to three invites per weekend throughout the school year. It was due to those seventy plus fiestas that I was eventually able to converse in Spanish. Three years later, people even laugh at my jokes instead of looking at me with a blank expression on their face as I awkwardly laugh alone.

Sure, there have been a few occasions when I realize people are laughing at me and not with me. On one particular day I announced to the twenty moms at soccer practice that I was pregnant.  Puzzled after a couple of them came up to hug and congratulate me, one of them finally told me that I had said “I was so pregant” (tan embarazada) instead of “I was so embarrassed!” That was an important reminder that not every similar English word translates to the same idea in Spanish! After almost four years here and hundreds of birthday parties later, my accent has improved (in my opinion anyway) and I welcome each [minor] catastrophe as an opportunity to increase my vocabulary.  I know how to say ‘leaky toilet’, ‘I need air in my tire’, and the gardener and I are able to come up with a plan of attack for the pesky bats which seem to take pleasure in bombing my truck.

Although I know how to ask the store clerk where the chocolate chips are hiding this week,  most of the time I forego the inquiry. After all, many of the imported products fortunate to make it to the shelves in Playa del Carmen tend to disappear as quickly as they arrive, rarely to be seen again.

All in all, I have noticed that most of the lovely people in these parts are forgiving and practice extreme patience towards foreigners desperately attempting to express themselves.  Although there are times when I have (not intentionally) masacred the language, the locals have allowed my gringo-esque pronunciations to slide and often just appreciate the effort.  And when all other forms of communication fail, I find that a smile goes a long way!

The Riviera Maya Film Festival – Coming Soon To Playa del Carmen!

Playa del Carmen is a special place where a love of the arts is in perfect unison with a profound love of nature.  This charming Mexican city, situated between the majestic, turquoise-colored Caribbean Sea and a virtually unspoiled, lush jungle region, is home to hundreds of world-class artists in varying realms. Exquisite painters, poets, musicians, actors and dancers, to name a few, fuse together to produce a vibrant, multi-cultural art scene, where all are able to pracitce and celebrate their art forms in a nuturing, inspiring environment.

The deep appreciation for film in #PlayadelCarmen is no exception. In honor of the 2015 Riviera Maya Film Festival, which comes to town April 23rd to the 29th, we would like to present some of the various venues where locals and visitors alike can delve into an enriching cinematic experience all year round.

El Cine Club convenes every Wednesday and Friday evening at 8p.m. in Parque La Ceiba, located on Calle 1 and 60 Diagonal in Colonia Ejidal.  The projected movies are commonly in the documentary genre.  However any relevant genres which promote the restoration of communities, convey a message, or stimulate awareness, learning, reflection and action are selected as well.  There is no entrance fee and the movies are both national and international selections, sometimes with subtitles. For more information or to view the current movie showings, you can visit their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ElCineClub?fref=ts or call (984)109-6349.

On the über-chic rooftop of Deseo Hotel and Bar, located on 5th Avenue between Calle 10 and 12, are nightly showings of projected black and white movies from the 30s and 40s.  The fresh, breezy setting, with ample seating areas and lounge beds make for comfortable viewing, Caribbean style.  Having wait staff at your beckon call to serve food and beverages while taking in a vintage, silent movie?  Well that’s just icing on the cake! Showtime commences at 8pm.

Noche de Cine at Casona is located on Avenida 25 between Calle 26 and 28.  Share a love of the film with other movie buffs every Wednesday night beginning at 8pm.

The 4th Annual Riviera Maya Film Festival gets underway on April 23, 2015.  With over 60 superb film selections being presented at various locations around Playa del Carmen including Cinemax (Centro Maya Mall off the highway on the south end of Playa), Parque Fundadores (Avenida Benito Juarez and the beach), Centro Cultural (West side of Avenida 115 and CTM) as well as a touring screen which will be erected at fantastic locations along the beach, under a magnicent star-filled sky.

If you are interested in attending this year’s Riviera Maya Film Festival, please visit http://rmff.mx for a list of the movie selections for 2015 and venues.

Classic Ceviche Mixto

Ceviche (pronounced Se-vee-chay), is a popular treat during a day of fun in the sun and surf!  Speckled along the alabaster shores of #playadelcarmen, beachside eateries are serving up this tangy appetizer with buckets of beer and ice cold margaritas to their happy-go-lucky patrons.

For fellow seafood lovers who cannot wait to get to the beach to sample a batch of this light and fresh, white fish dish, here is a simple recipe that is sure to be a hit at any gathering!  Please note that you will need to prepare this appetizer about 3-4 hours ahead of time as the fish needs time to cure in the juice of the lime.

CEVICHE MIXTO

4 basa fillets

1 cup prawns, shelled, with tails removed

Juice of 12 limes

A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped

2 roma tomatoes, diced

1 jalapeño pepper, minced

2 avocados

1/3 cup onion, minced

1-2 tsp sea salt

Cut the basa fillets into 2mm slices (it needs to be quite thin to cure quickly). Squeeze the juice of the limes into a glass baking dish and add the fish along with one tsp of salt.  Mix together, cover and place in the refrigerator.  Allow the mixture to sit for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.  Chop prawns into smaller pieces and add them to the fish half an hour before serving.

Meanwhile, prepare the onion, cilantro, tomatoes and jalapeño.  Just before serving, cube the avocados.  Add them and the rest of the vegetables to the fish with more sea salt if needed.  Ceviche is best served chilled with tostada shells or nacho tortilla chips and your choice of hot sauce on the side.

Spice up your next Super Bowl, World Cup or Birthday Party with this healthy, Mexican inspired alternative!

Buen provecho!  (Enjoy!)

Tequila – A Time-Honored Aspect of Mexico’s Proud Heritage

There is a whole lot more to tequila than shooting Jose Cuervo off the belly of a girl at a frat party!  The history of the spirit is as rich as the smooth flavor of a good tequila.  In fact, special tequila glasses or brandy snifters are recommended in order to experience the full essence of this powerful elixir.

The story of tequila dates back nearly 1000 years, when Aztec’s discovered tequila’s ancestor, pulque. After being struck by lightning, someone noticed the inside of the agave plant had been cooked and had produced a sweet, mildly alcoholic juice. This syrup, usually reserved for high priests and royalty, was believed to be a gift from the gods. The Aztec people even went so far as to offer human sacrifices to ensure there would be a continuous supply!

The first actual factory to introduce the distilling process was established in the town of Tequila, Jalisco in the 1600s.  It is in this region, with its rich, red volcanic soil, that the particular agave plant prefers to grow and thrive.  Although, most of the production in Mexico occurs in Jalisco, four other states, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit and Tamaulipas, have been granted permission by the Mexican government (who holds the exclusive rights to the name “Tequila”) to produce and distribute the distinguished relative of Mezcal.

A typical growth cycle of a blue agave is seven years, after which farmers, known as “Jimadores”, strip the heart of the plant of its leaves. A mature heart, which resembles a pineapple and can weigh 80-200 pounds at harvest time, is minced and steamed.  During the ancient distilling process, “Tahona,” (still used by some producers today), a two-ton volcanic stone wheel crushes the cooked agave.  Next, the pressed fibers and juice are collected and placed inside pine wood casks in order to create “mosto” or a basic liquid. This fermented liquid is then distilled twice, once with the agave fibers and then again without.  The remaining liquid is then filtered in the final stage before bottling.  In some cases, the work of sixty or more sets of seasoned hands is necessary to cultivate and manufacture the finished product.

Just as true champagne comes from the Champagne region of France, in order to labelled Tequila, it must be produced in Mexico.  Contrary to popular myth, a bottle of quality tequila will not contain a worm at the bottom.  The “gusano” is the larvae of the type of moth which resides on the agave plant, and the idea to put it inside the bottle was conceived as a marketing gimmick for mezcal.

Tequila falls into two categories which are then divided into five classes.  From 100% Blue Agave and Tequila Mixto (a mix that must contain 51% blue agave), comes 1) Tequila Blanco/Silver/White – clear tequila that has not been aged and is normally bottled immediately after being distilled. 2) Tequila Joven/Gold – White tequila that has not been aged but to which colorants and flavorings such as oak tree extracts and sugar syrup have been added. 3) Tequila Reposado/Rested or Aged – has been left to age in wood from a period of two-twelve months. 4) Tequila Anejo/Extra-Aged or Vintage – mandates that the tequila has remained in oak barrels for a minimum of one year for a more sophisticated taste. 5)  Tequila Extra Anejo/Ultra-Aged – has been aged for a period of three years or more.  The Guiness World Record for most expensive bottle ever sold is held by a private collector who paid $225,000.00 for a Platinum and White-Gold Tequila.

Studies have shown that if consumed in moderation, tequila can reduce the risk of developing diabetes by 30-40% and can cut the risk of dementia by 37%.  Of course we know well that over-indulgence on Mexico’s beloved national drink can perhaps lead to temporary memory loss, so please drink responsibly.

For a refreshingly cool cocktail, try this cucumber margarita recipe.  Salud!

Eat Like A Local At These Top Restaurants In Playa del Carmen

The effervescent lure of 5th Avenue, with its plethora of shops, restaurants and vivacious nightlife, charms both visitors and those of us who live in #playadelcarmen.   While strolling along this magnetic, world-famous, cobblestone street, vacationers may choose from a succulent mix of native and international cuisine.  However, at times, a curiosity arises to go beyond the main tourist destinations to sample the city’s gastronomy and possibly gain a slightly richer cultural dining experience.

This list features ten top restaurants favored by locals and situated off of the bustling 5th Avenue.  From traditional Mexican dishes, to authentic Italian offerings, to regional options with a contemporary twist, these eateries are sure to satisfy your cravings for something out of the ordinary.

1) Los Aguachiles (Calle 34 and 25th Avenue)

The vast menu offers tostadas topped with fresh tuna, seafood lettuce wraps, oyster and shrimp cocktails as well as smoked fish tacos and delicious salads with ceviche-style shrimp. This popular lunch eatery known for its giant-size bottles of cold beer is open from 12-7pm.

2) Off The Vine (1st Avenue between Calle 26 & 28)

This quaint wine bar is nestled one block from 5th Avenue and features fantastic live musicians in a friendly neighborhood type atmosphere. Their exquisite wines are paired with scrumptious tapas or the chef-prepared menu of the day which includes a starter salad, entree and dessert .  Indulge in a champagne mimosa with breakfast which is served daily after 10am or reserve a table for you and your girlfriends on Tuesday which is ladies night.

3) Romeo’s (Calle 4 between 10th and 15th Avenue)

Aromas of authentic Italian cooking fill the air within this charming local favorite.  A menu of risottos, brick-oven pizzas and hand-made pastas always delight patrons’ tastebuds.  Since all items are prepared fresh,  make allowance for preparation time and enjoy a glass of wine or a cool beverage and the warm ambience.  Call 9841416507 for reservations and hours of operation.

4) Sushi Club (Calle 26 and 10th Avenue)

The best setting to enjoy sushi and saki in Playa del Carmen.  The chic ambience is perfect for couples seeking an romantic night out or for groups of friends gathering together to laugh and converse over samplings of sashimi, rolls, tempura and rice bowls.  Open 24 hours, The Sushi Club features daily food and drink specials,  and a lively Saturday Ladies Night.

5) Caguameria de Esquina (Calle 20 and 1st Avenue)

For superb casual dining and drinks, Caguameria is the starting point of a memorable night out in Playa del Carmen.  The Mexican style cantina offers a contemporary (and comical) menu which bursts with bold flavors from incredible burgers, to smoked salmon tostadas to beet salads.  Conveniently located with exceptional food and service, Caguameria is open 2:00pm – 1am.

6) Casa Sofia (On Airport Avenue in Plaza Coba, Playacar)

This newly established Italian bistro requires reservations every night of the week for good reason!  The pasta is prepared fresh daily, the wine is free flowing and the prices are very reasonable.  The pizzas are loaded with savory toppings and the terrace’s decor is whimsical and romantic.  Open 7am – 11:30pm, reservations are recommended. 984 166 4252

7) Cheester’s (Calle 4 and 40th Avenue)

Specializing in pasta and single serving sizes big enough to feed an entire family, Cheester’s presents a fun dining experience you won’t forget!  Located well away from the tourist scene, you must literally read the writing on the wall, the menu wall that is, to order.  The baskets on the table encourage patrons to leave their cell phones in order to get the most out the rich food and unique dining experience.  Open Wednesdays to Mondays 2:00 – 10:30pm, closed Tuesdays.

8) Como Como (10th Avenue between Calle 12 and 14)

This award-winning restaurant features a menu of Mediterranean-Italian cuisine in a tranquil, intimate setting. The service, food and presentation are divine as is the craft beer and organic wine selection.  Open daily for breakfast 7:00am – 1:30pm and for lunch and dinner, 1:45 – 11:30pm.  Reservations are recommended and free 2 hour parking is available in the Tendenza building across the street.

9) Cueva del Chango (Calle 38 between 5th Avenue and the sea)

An array of tropical blended juices, fresh-baked sweet breads, crepes, and a host of traditional Mexican breakfast and dinner entrees are served within a stunning, natural setting.  Youngsters enjoy spotting the inconspicuous monkeys hanging throughout “The Monkey’s Cave” as well as admiring the turtles and Koi fish in the pond.  Open  8:00am – 10:30pm, this place is a must when dining in Playa del Carmen.

10) El Fogon (Calle 6 bis and 30th Avenue diagonally across from Walmart)

The list would not be complete without a nod to a genuine Mexican taqueria!  There are several El Fogon locations in downtown Playa, but this one is the biggest with 2 floors.  For a truly authentic taco experience, I recommend the tacos al pastor, delicious shavings of spit-roasted pork topped with a slice of pineapple, cilantro and onions.  You will need an icy pina colada or a cold beer to tame the fire in your mouth from the spicy salsas that add the finishing touch to these delicious Mexican specialties.

10 Top Annual Festivals In The Mayan Riviera

The #MayanRiviera, known for its world-class beaches and picturesque Caribbean coastline, is also host to a vibrant array of festivals.  The surreal beauty of the region makes for the optimal setting for magical events including those held under a night sky glowing with millions of twinkling stars. The intriguing mix of cultural communities has resulted in an exuberant city with a progressive mindset and an ever-growing fascination for the arts.

Whether a resident of #playadelcarmen or a future visitor, here are the 10 most celebrated festivals in and around this paradisiacal city by the sea that you do not want to miss!

1) The #AkumalComedyFestival, April 14-18 2015

The 4th annual comedy fest showcases the best stand up professional comedians from across the United States.  Headliners will send you into raging fits of laughter at venues in #playadelcarmen, #akumal and #tulum with all profits going to the Red Cross of Mexico.

For more info please visit http://www.akumalcomedyfestival.com

2) The #RumTradeFestival, March 6-7, Papaya Playa Project, Tulum

This events is for those who appreciate rum as well as for those who seek an original and highly entertaining weekend experience.  Selected brands gather to introduce rum and cigar parings, professional mixologists compete to invent the RTF PERFECT COCKTAIL, and attendees may take in seminars and nightly parties with live music.

Check out http://www.therumtrader.com/event/rum-trade-festival-tulum-mexico/ for further info.

3) The #RivieraMayaFilmFestival, April 23-29

The international film industry aims to join a love for the people of Quinatana Roo and its culture with universal art through contemporary film. Mexican and foreign movies are featured  during this 6 day event which takes place at venues in and around the enrapturing, natural settings of Playa del Carmen.

To see the showing schedule, visit http://rmff.mx/?lang=en

4) #WhaleSharkFestival, Isla Mujeres, July 2015

A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, this memorable event offers spectators the opportunity to learn about these magnificent creatures and their eco-system through conferences and seminars.  Daily activities such as volunteer beach cleaning promote environmental awareness while others including sand sculpture contests and gourmet seafood samplings fill the rest of the schedule.

For further information, visit http://www.whalesharkfest.com

5) #CancunRivieraMayaWineAndFoodFestival, March 12-15 2015

Some of the best chefs from around the world convene in Cancun for the the 4th edition wine and food festival.  Sample the country’s most superior wines and pay tribute to the culinary arts.

For more info or to purchase tickets, please visit http://dev.crmfest.com

6) #SeaTurtleFestival, October 2015

If you or your children have never had the chance to watch a turtle being released back to their natural habitat, it is certainly an engaging event.  The free festival aims to raise awareness for the conservation of the sea turtle through a variety of interesting activities for children and adults alike, who learn about and are encouraged to actively participate in wildlife conservation.

7) #LifeAndDeathTraditionsFestival, October 30 – November 2, 2015

A cultural experience like no other, this alluring festival celebrates life and death in signature Mexican style – vibrant theatre and dance shows, exquisitely decorated altars and offerings of traditional regional cuisine. The riveting event takes place amidst the gorgeous setting of the famous eco-park, Xcaret.

For tickets and info, go to http://en.festivaldevidaymuerte.com

8) The #RivieraMayaJazzFestival, November 2015

Smooth jazz music at venues which allow spectators to listen under a star-filled sky has enticed fans from around the globe.  Every year in November, residents and visitors alike can be seen making their way to the white-sand beaches of Playa del Carmen with picnic baskets and beach chairs in hand, to hear the cool sounds of internationally acclaimed jazz artists.

For more info, check out their webpage at http://www.rivieramayajazzfestival.com/2014/

9) The #BPMFestival,  Mid January

Each year, tens of thousands of dance music aficionados come to Playa del Carmen to enjoy concerts performed by over 300 renowned DJ’s at this world-class, electronic music event.  Fans flock to the breathtaking Mayan Riviera coastline to hear the best underground music talent in the world throughout the 10 day festival.

To see photos or to inquire about tickets and featured artists, please visit http://www.thebpmfestival.com

10) The #ArenaInternationalFestival, end of January

This is the biggest gay and lesbian music festival in Mexico.  Held over 6 days along the palm-fringed beaches of Playa del Carmen, this event brings together the gay community to celebrate some of the top DJ’s on the dance music circuit.

To find out more about next year’s event, go to http://www.arena.mx/

For Playa del Carmen’s top luxury accommodations including professional concierge services, see Bric Vacation Rental’s website at www.bricrental.com

Come play in paradise!

5 Unique Ways To Explore The Surreal Beauty Of Playa Del Carmen

If you have never had the highly pleasurable opportunity to visit one of #Mexico’s most captivating cities, there are plenty of tours in and around #playadelcarmen designed to create memories that will last for a lifetime.

There are a plethora of action-filled, scenic excursions and adventure parks only minutes outside of Playa.  However, if you are the type of traveler who prefers to explore off the beaten path, and see the country from a more personal perspective, here are 5 unique ways to experience Playa del Carmen and the spectacular #MayanRiviera:

1) Snorkeling in the Yal-Ku Lagoon in Akumal

Located about 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, this lagoon is home to dozens of species of tropical fish, coral and sea turtles.   The water is crystal clear and only 6-15 feet deep at the maximum depth.  It is open daily from 8am-5:30pm with a cost of about 15Usd for admittance and snorkel gear.  The pristine location made for one of our family’s most memorable days.  Our children were young and snorkeled for hours off the convenient platforms, were fascinated by the live coral, and enjoyed the picnic under the palapas.

For reviews and directions, please visit https://plus.google.com/100620060318431566554/about?gl=mx&hl=en

2) Gorilax Jungle Park near Puerto Morelos (on the Cenote Route)

Approximately 45 minutes north of Playa del Carmen, thrill seekers and bucket listers can zip line a 2 km circuit over the enrapturing jungle canopy.  An ATV will take you for an off road adventure to a gorgeous, natural cenote where you can swim or zip line into the cool, glistening waters.  Bikes are available for riding through the jungle paths and bottled water, a light lunch as well as soda or beer is included in the tour package.  Transportation is available from Playa Del Carmen and there are 3 tour schedules to choose from- 9am, 10:30am or 12pm.

More information provided at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gorilax-Jungle-Park/610346082354412

3) Horseback riding at Blue Venado

This chic beach club is a hidden treasure and is nestled along a tranquil piece of the glorious Mayan Riviera coastline.  Only 10 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, the horseback riding tour includes a guided journey through the jungle and along virgin white-sand beaches, a visit to a cenote (a fresh-water swimming hole), snacks, bottled water and use of the beach club facilities (lockers, showers and towels).

For more info or to book a tour, please go to http://bluevenadobeachclub.com/english/tours_activities.html

4) Paddle Boarding at Boga Yoga in Tulum

An alternative experience to a 24/7 beer and food binge fest at an all-inclusive hotel, this stand up paddle boarding excursion will be one you will forever remember.  Transportation is provided from the town of Tulum, (45 minutes south of Playa del Carmen) to and from one of the company’s idyllic locations in and around Tulum area, including awe-inspiring cenote and lagoon settings.  Your day of soulful rejuvenation begins with an instructional class and a 1.5 hour Boga Yoga class after which you may paddle at your leisure.  A  photo session during and after the class is also included in the mini-retreat package as is 1 organic detox, cold-pressed juice and 1 raw vegan energy ball.

For more information, visit http://www.supyogatulum.com/#!supretreatsandtours/cofg

5) Wild Dolphin Encounter in Sian Ka’an

This adventure definitely takes you off the beaten path into the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve about 1 hour south of Tulum.  The road is on rough terrain but the nature-filled excursion is well worth the trip!  This eco-tour takes you through parts of over 1.3 million acres of protected wetlands which consist of mangroves and 70 miles of the world’s second largest barrier reef.  The intoxicating beauty you will experience on the tour will be etched in your memories for a lifetime as you will encounter dolphins and manatees swimming in the wild, as well as a vibrant array of exotic birds and tropical fish.  Included in the tour are transportation to and from the lodge, snorkeling in the nearby reef, a rare opportunity to observe starfish, dolphins and other wild marine life and an authentic Mexican lunch.

Please visit http://www.siankaan-tours.com/sian-ka-an-tours.html for more information.