Achiote Pork Tacos

Cochinita Pibil is a must try dish when visiting the Yucatán Peninsula. The tender, pulled pork has a smokey, slightly tangy flavor and is commonly served in soft corn tortillas.

The traditional method of cooking Cochinita Pibil uses a technique which involves marinating pork in an achiote rub, made from annatto seed, a plant found in the tropics. The meat is wrapped in a banana leaf and placed in an underground barbecue pit filled with wood. The pit is then covered with stone and the pork is left to roast for several hours.

If this process sounds somewhat daunting, have no fear. Here is a simplified recipe you can use in your own kitchen to produce similar, flavorful results.

Achiote Tacos

• 1.5 pounds boneless pork
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1 block achiote (the size of one square of baker’s chocolate)
• corn tortillas
• cilantro
• lime wedges
• diced onion
• radishes, sliced
• avocado, cubed

Cut pork into 2 inch pieces and place in a large pot with vinegar, garlic, salt, oregano, achiote and enough water to cover meat completely. Boil on low heat for 2 hours or until the liquid has been reduced, leaving the tender pork in a thick, vivid orange sauce. While the meat is cooking, prepare the cilantro, onion, radish, avocado and lime garnishes. Shred the pork using a fork and serve in warmed corn tortillas with a side of rice and beans.

Chicken is also a savory substitution for this Mayan specialty.

* Look for Achiote in the spice aisle in local supermarkets here in Playa del Carmen. It comes in an orange, rectangle package. Annatto seed can also sometimes be found in specialty stores or in the international aisle elsewhere in North America.

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.

If You Are New To Playa del Carmen, Here Are Some Suggestions For Meeting People

Like re-locating to any other city in the world, the initial days can leave one wondering if it was the right decision to move. My first week in Playa del Carmen had me seriously contemplating a return ticket home.  The man-eating cockroaches, (ok, there was one, an inch long and already dead, but scary all the same for this Canuck) the language barrier, (playing charades in the grocery store was how I spent my mornings) and oh, then there was the feeling of being on vacation 24/7, that was especially hard!

A few weeks after our arrival, my three children started the school year off and thus began the play dates, birthday parties and extra-curricular activities. Thanks to the wonderful school community, we met so many great people and have established many fantastic relationships, some like family, here in Mexico.

But what to do if you do not have kids to propel you out of your comfort zone and forge new relationships? Although Playa del Carmen is a relatively small city, there are many events, festivals, and hobbies which bring single or coupled people together. There is much more beyond the night clubs on Calle 12, places where anyone willing to bury their social angst at least once or twice, can go to for a dose of connectedness and camaraderie.

For starters, people in Playa spend as much time as possible outside. The endless summer climate promotes outdoor living and active lifestyles.  There are a few workout facilities which offer group classes such as yoga, kickboxing, spinning, crossfit, and pilates to name a few.  The Gym (1st Avenue between Calle 16 and Constituyentes), Evolve (Calle 24 between 5th & 10th Avenue), and the Unidad Deportiva Mario Villanueva stadium (Calle 34 and 10th Avenue) are just a few of the popular gyms and outdoor tracks where you can get fit and meet some quality people.

Stand up paddle boarding, kiteboarding and diving are popular water activities enjoyed by Playenses and visitors alike.  There are schools offering beginner and advanced classes all along the sublime Mayan Riviera coastline. For more information on board sports, please visit www.pdckiteboarding.com , www.playaboardsports.com, or suppdc.com.  For diving instruction, go to www.phantomdivers.com or www.abyssdivecenter.com.

There are also several meet up groups hosted around the city from tennis to personal development to paleo enthusiasts. These meet ups are a great way to get to know like-minded people who can possibly help you to become familiarized with the city from an insider’s point of view. Visit www.meetup.com for more details.

Volunteering is a noble endeavor which will not only fill your basic human need for contribution, but is a terrific way to meet people. There are many opportunities in Playa del Carmen to help including The Keeping Kids In School Project, Playa Animal Rescue, and Flora, Fauna y Cultura De Mexico A.C. For more information on how you can make a difference and build lasting relationships, click on the name of the cause for the link.

Sitting in a gorgeous outdoor classroom, learning Spanish, exploring on weekend excursions and partaking in cooking or photography classes together is another way you are apt to make friends.  With many language schools in Playa del Carmen such as Solexico, Playalingua and ALFA, you will be speaking the language and living like a local in no time.

Each month, ladies in Playa del Carmen get together for Wednesday Women & Wine.  This amicable group meets at various local restaurants or pubs on the first Wednesday of every month. Many longterm friendships have been cultivated as a result of these casual girls nights out. See the Wednesday Women With Wine Facebook page to view upcoming locations and times.

One of the most attractive aspects of Playa del Carmen is that it is a very multi-cultural community, teeming with residents from around the world, each bringing something interesting to the conversation table. Every person has a unique background, and a one-of-a-kind story to tell.  As you sit back and listen, you become aware of each other’s differences and similarities. You realize that although people arrived from different ends of the earth, most here have similar desires which ultimately led to a crossing of paths in Playa del Carmen. We were all willing to risk our comfortable lives for something more, a surreal experience – a life of which dreams are made.

5 Top Beaches In And Around Playa del Carmen

With hundreds of miles of pristine coastline to choose from, several powdery-soft white shores could have very well made the top 5 list.  However, we have selected 5 unique beach settings in and around #playadelcarmen which each in their own way, offer an original experience, while all possess an extraordinary beauty which will blow your mind!

#1) Mamitas Beach Club

Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, Mamitas Beach Club is considered one of the most liveliest and popular beaches for the twenty-something crowd.  This is where the headquarters of the world-famous BPM music festival is situated and the glistening turquoise waters attract hundreds of thousands of awe-struck visitors each year.  For a fee, beach-goers may revel in the sun and have access to sun beds, lounge chairs and food and drink service.  A variety of water sports such as kite surf, paddle board, wave runner, and catamaran rentals are available.  Every week, DJ’s from around the world travel to spin their pulsating beats at this chic bikini heaven.

2) Xpu-ha

A vast shoreline borders translucent waters in which you can wade out hundreds of feet while the water level remains at your hips.  A couple of eateries sporadically occupy the shore, but packing your beach chairs and picnic lunch is one of the best ways to enjoy the secluded beach of Xpu-ha.  Located about a 25 minute drive south of Playa del Carmen, this rustic paradise presents both the perfect setting for romance or a memorable family day at the beach.

3) Akumal

The bay of Akumal is enclosed by the world’s second largest barrier reef and offers sublime snorkeling, diving and fishing opportunities.  In fact, the Mayan name Akumal  translates to ‘Place Of The Turtles.’  It is the only area in the #MayanRiviera where you can swim with sea turtles year round.  Snorkel gear can be rented or diving excursions may be booked at the on-site dive shop. The calm, crystalline waters along the alabaster shore give you the illusion that you are swimming in a pool.  Bringing a cooler is allowed or there are several options to dine and enjoy a cool Caribbean cocktail while absorbing the captivating ocean views.

4) Maroma Beach

Approximately 25 minutes north of Playa del Carmen, Maroma Beach Club is enticing with its ample stretch of  beach and variety of activities.  For a fee of $100 pesos, visitors have access to the beach loungers with umbrellas, the volleyball court, soccer balls and of course, the alluring blue-green sea. A delicious menu of casual food and drinks is available, as is camelback riding for a rare experience!

5) Tulum

The 45 minute drive south of Playa del Carmen is certainly worth the trip for a day of fun in the sand in surf of Tulum!  Few locales in the world extend visitors the invitation to encounter such a magical scene as they splash in crystal clear waters with a backdrop of ancient archeological ruins in the distance.

There is a stretch of public beach where you can set up your own cooler and chairs or there are boundless options for beach clubs and restaurants offering loungers with umbrellas, usually for a minimum purchase of food and drink.

With so much variety and exquisite beauty to experience in and around Playa del Carmen, one week is never enough!  After three and a half years, I still look forward to a day trip of exploring the region’s many majestic works created by Mother Nature’s generous hand.

For more information, be sure to inquire with our knowledgeable team of Bric Vacation Rental concierges who are happy to assist in coordinating a memorable day trip to one of these divine beaches.

A Cross-Continent Journey Which Led To Paradise

How does a perfectly content family living in beautiful British Columbia, Canada, end up in Playa del Carmen, Mexico? The seed was first planted after becoming avid fans of the alluring program on HGTV called ‘House Hunters International.’  Our favorite theme showcased beach listings, mainly in the Caribbean. We watched month after month, as couples purchased properties in beach towns and relocated to begin a new life in the Caribbean.

In 2011, after hearing countless testimonials from people who had uprooted, moved to the Caribbean and never looked back, we longed to go on our own adventure.  It is uncanny what occurs when an intense dream forms within one’s heart.  Through seemingly random events, dreams suddenly become tangible.  An opportunity to establish an office in Mexico presented itself.  Initially, although we were open, faced with the very real possibility of moving caused many doubts to surface.  Were we willing to take the risk and leave a wonderful family, friends, a great school, house and country behind to dive into an uncertain future in a foreign nation?

My husband and I made a quick four day trip #playadelcarmen in search of a house that would suit our family’s needs. The moment we entered the gates of Playacar, I felt home!  The cobblestone streets were lined with palms and vibrant bougainvilleas. Some residents opted for a golf cart over a car and the neighborhood seemed to rise up to welcome us. The fourth home we saw checked off all the points on our wish list and we signed a year lease.

As soon as we made the definite decision to start life anew in Mexico, everything fell into place.  Our home rented in one day and we were on the plane within a month.  Our original plan to stay one to three years has since become a distant memory as we are about to complete our fourth year in this wonderland.

One of the cultural differences I cherish most is the warmth of the people.  Fathers bid their teenage sons farewell with a hug and a kiss on the cheek.  Teachers welcome their students with affectionate embraces. During my son’s soccer practice, my dad and I once watched as a young girl ran onto the field, jumped into the arms of the coach and wrapped her arms around his neck for a hug.  My father noted that the girl must be his daughter and was taken aback when I told him the child was not his, but a student.  An unabashed fondness is shared within this culture and it is a beautiful thing to be part of.

Playa del Carmen not so long ago, was an undeveloped fishing village and that simplicity of life still remains.  There are a few shops around town and a recently erected mall in the city’s center.  However, we are not inundated and lured towards insatiable consumerism as what occurs in other cities of the world.  Children’s toys are often left to collect dust in the corner of their rooms as they spend hours outdoors, swimming in the pool, playing “futbol”, golf or tennis,  riding their bikes and frolicking on the beach.

Most national and international families that come to Playa leave their relatives behind which opens wide a door to new friendships.  Due to the endless summer climate, we often gather together around the pool or in a circle of beach chairs on the sand to indulge in laughter, good conversation and cool beverages.  We feast upon natural, homemade food since most of the manufactured grocery items are imported and carry with them an absurd price tag.

I sometimes miss the majestic views of the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, however, there is something about the rhythm of the ocean waves which dance along the alabaster shoreline, that never ceases to memorize me. The awe of the sun as it rises in all its glory over the turquoise sea literally snatches the breath from the observer.

Over the years, I have had the pleasure of spending time in and living in various parts of this diverse country.  I have come to the conclusion that Playa del Carmen has a magical quality like no other region in Mexico.  I may not live here forever, so my aim is to capture and secure within my heart, each spellbinding moment of this surreal life.

If you have never had the chance to familiarize yourself with this sublime city by the sea, I hope my words might inspire you to one day travel to Playa del Carmen to experience the splendor for yourself.  Visit Bric Vacation Rentals online at http://www.bricrental.com and allow us show you the time of your life!

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.

Agua de Jamaica – Mexico’s Most Loved Afternoon Chiller

Agua de Jamaica is made from the dried hibiscus flower.  It is virtually impossible not to see it on the list of beverages in most restaurants in Mexico. This refreshingly tangy drink is almost as visually appealing as the bold, red flower itself.  It can served as a hot tea or cold, over ice and takes only a few minutes to prepare in your own kitchen!

Agua de Jamaica

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup of dried hibiscus flower (packaged in bags, found in any grocery store usually near dried chile section)
• 8 thin slices of ginger
• 1/2 a cinnamon stick
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1L of water for the concentrate
• 3L of water
• Sugar, to your preference (apprx. 1/2 cup) or alternative such as honey or agave nectar

Directions:

Bring 1L of water to boiling with ginger and cinnamon.  Add the jamaica leaves and remove from heat.  Allow liquid to cool completely.  Strain the concentrate into a large pitcher and discard remains. Add sweetener, lime juice and remaining 3L of water.  The beverage is most flavorful when refrigerated overnight.

Enjoy over ice with a lime wheel garnish!

Besides being a favorite afternoon refresher, Agua de Jamaica has many natural health benefits.  This caffeine free concoction has been known to reduce high blood pressure and cholesterol, is rich in Vitamin C and promotes digestive and bowel regularity.

* It is highly recommended that the tea or chilled versions not be consumed by pregnant or nursing women. Please check with your doctor if you are taking medication as hibiscus has a tendency to react with certain drugs.

MUSA – Explore Art Under The Sea In Mexico!

Living in #Mexico, I have discovered many fascinating attractions that I might never have come across had I not decided to reside here. For example, did you know there is an entire underwater museum of 500 life-size sculptures off the coast of #playadelcarmen? The notion is intriguing, but when I saw pictures and videos of these sensational works, I became determined to view them for myself!  MUSA, the Underwater Museum of Art located near the island of Isla Mujeres, is currently comprised of two galleries.  The first exhibit, The Manchones displays 477 submerged statues and the other, Punta Nizuc has 23 masterpieces.

The idea for the underwater exhibition was brought to life by Dr. Jaime González Cano and sculptural artist, dive instructor, underwater naturalist and photographer, Jason deCaires Taylor.  Two of the main focal points for its creation were to present an other world art appreciation experience, while providing what would become a platform for marine organisms such as coral, sponges, seaweed and algae to be able to grow and flourish.

Artificial reefs are usually formed by sunken shipwrecks. However, these unique sculptures made from high-density, PH-neutral marine cement, fiber glass rods and silicone are engineered to endure water submersion for many years and provide a stable base for coral formation to commence. The images were also designed with holes in order to provide shelter for and to foster local marine life.

Established in 2009, the statues were brought out to the dive site, which stretched over an approximately 420 square meter area of barren seabed. A 40-ton crane was placed on a commercial ferry and a special lift was designed to carefully lower the art pieces to the seafloor without damaging them.

Every visit to the subaquatic museum is an extraordinary encounter as over the years, the artwork acquires more live growth and is subject to the variant shifting of the environment below the surface of the sea.  Naturalists believe that over time, only the outline of the figures will be visible, as the sculptures will be overcome with marine organisms.

A third important factor behind the concept to develop the museum was to draw tourism attention away from the local decaying reefs.  Each year over 750,000 tourists arrive in Cancun to dive and explore the spectacular Mesoamerican Reef system.  Unfortunately, due to unawareness and carelessness, the reef is being destroyed by divers, snorkelers and anchors. Now, because several companies offer excursions to tour the site of the remarkable MUSA museum, the local reefs have the opportunity to recover.

Submerged in depths of 3 to 6 meters, the collection, named “Silent Evolution”, depicts both the negative and positive interactions between humans and nature.  The artist, Jason deCaires Taylar’s intention was to portray through his vision, the possibility of a functional future in which people and nature coincide harmoniously. From the negative aspect, his work displays the indifferent attitude of humans towards the destruction of the reefs caused by their own hand.

One piece called “The Dream Collector,” features dozens of glass bottles which enclose inspiring secret messages left from those hoping for change and progress regarding environmental awareness. One note from Roberto Diaz, President of MUSA reads: “May our hearts never become as hard as our heads.”

Another composition portrays businessmen with their heads buried in the sand.  Each piece tells a story of either an objective for humans and nature to integrate and coexist in unison or, from the other perspective, of people turning a blind eye to the issues of our environment such as the decimation of the coral reefs.

The response generated in the last five years has been overwhelmingly positive.  The underwater museum continues to successfully perpetuate marine conservation and encourage environmental consciousness.  The phenomenal MUSA project has generated public mindfulness and a deeper understanding of the delicate ecosystems of the undersea world.

Since these wonderfully diverse ecological communities provide food and shelter for 33% of all marine fish species, we must all do our part to help sustain the coral reefs of the world.  Reefs act as forests under the sea. Without enough coral in the ocean waters, the levels of carbon dioxide will rise and that will affect every living being on Earth.

Rising ocean temperatures as a result of global warming cause major damage and even death to entire coral colonies. By using energy efficient appliances and recycling, we can do our part to lower the effects of global warming.  Another manner by which we can help preserve reef systems is to avoid touching coral when scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as to refrain from anchoring over a coral reef.