Paddle Boarding In Paradise

One morning, as I walked along the beach near my home, I was struck with awe at the sight of a paddle boarder as he glided over the calm sea, the sunrise his backdrop. That peaceful and picturesque moment lingered in my mind for the rest of the day. I knew I had to try it for myself!

Three separate attempts to play swan on the water produced nothing but fails. Either the water was too rough, the water sport shop was closed for lunch or one of the boards was in disrepair. I began to wonder if my time would ever come try this popular Caribbean activity.

In the meantime, as I scrolled through images of friends on Facebook out boarding across the turquoise waters, my heart longed to have a paddling adventure of my own. As luck would have it, I ran into an old friend who had developed a passion for the sport herself. She had two boards and encouraged me to join her. It took hardly a half second of convincing before I was booking a private lesson with her.

It was a classic beach scene from a movie as we pulled up to the bay in Puerto Aventuras, a community fifteen minutes south of Playa del Carmen. Her jeep coasted up to the path, boards strapped to the roof rack. The smooth-as-glass ocean drew me near as I scrambled to the shoreline lugging paddles and beach bags.

The long-anticipated moment had finally arrived! It required every ounce of patience to wait to hear the necessary beginner’s instructions. My concentration seemed to be more focused on the question of whether I would be able to stand up and hold my balance on the teetering board.

At last, we placed our paddle boards in the pristine water and took a test drive around the scenic cove. She guided me through the quiet canal areas past a magnificent stretch of homes lining the waters’ edge. Turning back towards our starting point, we paddled facing the direction of the vast, greenish-blue seascape. Being out on the still water, under azure skies, gently rowing and taking it all in, I let out a deep sigh of satisfaction. The experience had definitely lived up to and surpassed all of my expectations.

We spent an hour gliding, laughing, and practicing yoga poses atop our boards. The Mayan Riviera sun, as usual, was a constant companion on this glorious morning. I reluctantly left, but with a wide grin slapped across my face and resolved to join my friend again soon. These simple connections with nature are what fill my life with the purest sense of joy. These bonding moments with Mother Earth in all her glory are precisely what my husband and I had envisioned in our wildest dreams and what we were willing to risk our too comfortable and convenient lives for.

As a friend recently declared after her first exhilarating paddle boarding session, I can “Knock that off my bucket list!” Now on to the next!

If you enjoy the outdoors and are planing a trip to “The Heart of the Mayan Riviera” in the future, I highly recommend that you add paddle boarding to your list of things to do. There are several companies offering lessons and board rentals speckled along the sublime Mayan Riviera coastline. In town, paddle boards are available to rent for approximately $25 USD per hour. If the open sea is a tad intimidating for you, there are tours which include rentals and transportation to calmer lagoon or cenote waters near Playa del Carmen.

For more information, visit http://www.pdckiteboarding.com/SUP.html or http://www.supyogatulum.com.

Top 10 List For Fun, Adventure And Culture In Playa del Carmen – Part 1

After four years of calling Playa del Carmen home, I have met two people that were actually raised in this magical city. There is a common thread woven within the storyline of most residents here. Often what began as a one week holiday turned into twelve years, or what was to be a one year cultural experience in Playa became a full decade’s worth of existence in tropical bliss.

Blooming into a metropolitan city from what was once a sequestered, fishing village thirty some years ago, Playa del Carmen developed from of a diverse collection of sun-seekers in search of a simplistic way of life by the sea. Located on the Yucatán Peninsula in the entrancing Mexican Caribbean, Playa del Carmen is a cultural, gastronomic and nature-enthusiasts’ hub. European and North American expats have converged with citizens from all regions of Mexico to form a dynamic, multi-cultural community within a paradisiacal setting.

With new developments and attractions sprouting up along the alabaster shores each year, the Mayan Riviera offers a limitless variety of family friendly, adventure-themed activities as well as hundreds of virtually untouched natural wonders to explore.  May we present Part 1 of our #top10 list of things to do in and around Playa del Carmen!

1) Stand Up Paddle Boarding Yoga In Tulum

SUP Tulum is the Mayan Riviera’s first and only Boga Yoga floating studio. The class takes place on the stunning, turquoise waters of lagoons and cenotes near Tulum, which is only a 45 minute drive south of Playa del Carmen. The company offers a 3 hour class for groups of 3 or more which include transportation to and from the Tulum meeting point, a cold pressed juice, a raw vegan energy ball, a paddle board, instruction class, a Boga Yoga floating yoga class and a photo session. SUP Tulum also hosts Boga Yoga retreats at various times throughout the year. For more information, please visit http://www.supyogatulum.com

2) Golfing

The endless summer climate in the Riviera Maya presents over three hundred glorious sun-filled days, perfect for those who enjoy polishing their skills on the links. There are dozens of scenic, championship quality courses in and around Playa del Carmen which offer all-inclusive options and special summer pricing. To view a list of impeccable courses in the area or to book a tee time, please go to http://www.playgolf.mx.

3) Eco-Adventure Parks

There are four adventure parks near Playa del Carmen in which families, honeymooners, or thrill-seekers alike can partake in a memorable day amidst the surreal beauty of this fascinating region.

Xcaret is mystical park featuring shows and events depicting the culture and traditions of the Mayan people. Swim through caves, learn about local flora and fauna and witness an elaborate spectacle in which the performers sing and dance their way through various aspects of Mexico’s colorful history.

Xel-há is a natural wonder where visitors have the opportunity to commune with nature during an unforgettable day of snorkeling, zip biking, cliff jumping, and floating down a lazy river on rafts.

Xplor is an adventure-themed park consisting of six lengthy zip lines which stretch over the jungle’s canopy. This exhilarating journey includes riding an amphibious vehicle through the remarkable underground caves, swimming in seemingly glowing aqua waters and beneath waterfalls, floating along the subterranean river and exploring the impressive stalactites.

Go Native’s Park is a protected natural reserve with jungle paths which lead to stunning cave formations, crystal clear cenotes and the property of one of the area’s original settling families.

4) Cenotes

The Yucatán Peninsula is made up a shelf of porous limestone. Thousands of years ago, the underground river system which runs beneath the surface of the region, caused the limestone to collapse in some places resulting in hundreds of fresh water sink holes throughout the area.

Each cenote is unique in size and formation. Some are open, while others are hidden gems within caves which display impressive stalactites. The blue-green waters are crystal clear and are appealing for both swimmers and divers.

There are several a short driving distance from Playa del Carmen with very reasonable entrance fees varying from $40 to $80 Mxn pesos per person. Cenotes are an excellent way to spend a memorable day in the Mayan Riviera.

5) Diving, Fishing and Sailing

Just off the pristine shores in the Mexican-Caribbean is the awe-inspiring Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. In the early 1960s, Jacques Cousteau and his team declared Cozumel one of the best diving sites in the world due to the superb visibility and healthy variety of marine life.

There is an abundant selection of dive centers in Playa del Carmen including http://www.abyssdivecenter.com and http://www.mexicobluedream.com. For additional options for an extraordinary day of fishing or sailing on the open sea, visit http://fatcatsail.com or http://rivieramayafishing.com.

Stay tuned for next week’s post where we continue on with our top 10 list for fun, adventure and culture in Playa del Carmen!

Xel-há, Where The Water (And Magical Memories) Are Born

We are excited when family comes to Playa del Carmen for a visit because we get the opportunity to play tourist! Although we live here, just like in any other city of the world, life happens and we slip mindlessly into a monotonous daily grind – work, carpools, soccer practice, gymnastics class, laundry, grocery shopping, and the list goes on.  It is not every day that we have a chance to go and explore the unrivaled beauty of the Mayan Riviera.

There is one particular place that recaptures my heart every time I am fortunate enough spend time there.  Xel-há is a natural aquatic center located 40 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. This majestic Eco-park was established around a picturesque inlet, turquoise lagoon and fresh water cenotes, all habitats to a plentitude of vibrant marine life.

I had been here once before and remembered this tranquil paradise fondly, but nearly a decade had passed and there was much more to explore! It was a perfect Mayan Riviera day, azure skies with the Mexican sun smiling radiantly down upon our crew which included 3 kids, aged 6, 4 and 3. The glistening waters beckoned us, so with snorkel sets in tow, we began at Children’s World.

This section of the park was a hit with not only the kids but the adults as well! We snorkeled, slid down Flinstone-like water slides, and leaped from one giant lily pad to another which turned out to be much more of a challenge than the children made it appear to be! After a couple of hours of enjoying the refreshing water, the adults hydrated with some cool cocktails and lazed in the hammocks while the kids traipsed the bridges from one treehouse station to another.

Next we hopped on bicycles and rode through lush jungle paths lined with thick, native vegetation. The short journey led us to the mouth of the lazy river where we were given tire rafts. Two by two, we allowed the slow-moving current to carry us along the river through elaborate tunnels formed by intertwined mangrove trees.

The subsequent leg our journey brought us to the Cliff of Courage. I was the first one to scurry up the ladder rungs which ascended to ledge of a 5 meter cliff. Apparently, I left my courage back in the boat because when I arrived at the top and looked down, my mind screamed “NO WAY!”  I regressed back to the ladder and was about  to scramble down, but noticed my mother, who in her 50’s, was climbing out her raft! I begrudgingly thought to myself that if my dear mom was brave enough to do it, then I had no other option but to take the leap as well. After each of us (minus the kids) had experienced the exhilaration of the temporarily heart-stopping jump, we sailed on to the aquatic zip lines.

At this pitstop, my 6 and 4 year old were thrilled to take the plunge and shrieked as their feet left the platform and their behinds dipped into the cool, awaiting waters. The zip lines were the highlight of their day, with swinging on the jungle rope into the crystalline cenote, a close second. To conclude our action-packed, laughter-filled afternoon, we dined on a Mexican feast overlooking the water.

Since we had not fully researched the activities available beforehand, we were surprised to discover the abundance of attractions Xel-há offers. From swimming with dolphins, manatees and stingrays to zip biking above the jungle canopy, the breathtaking setting is optimal for admiring the finest of the region’s many species of flora and fauna within their spectacular habitats.

There are some who scoff at the mention of these commercial excursions, however, I was very impressed by the company’s passionate approach to creating environmental awareness through conservation efforts, as well as  through staff and public education programs. Xel-há has worked hard to preserve its fragile ecosystem and the on-site nurseries have helped contribute to a massive re-forestation effort which planted more than 400,000 plants in 18 months in public areas throughout the Mayan Riviera.

According to Mayan legend, Xel-há, meaning “Where the water is born,” was the result of a collaboration between the gods, a combination of their ancient wisdom and reverence for nature’s splendor. Once their work was complete, the gods stood over their creation and were pleased. In order that their treasure be protected, they appointed 3 guardians to watch over it. “Huh” the iguana, would become guardian of the land, “Chuc Kay,” the pelican was guardian of the air and “Kay Op” the parrotfish, was to guard the water. It is believed that these guardians to this day, maintain their watch over Xel-há and all of its visitors.  Perhaps this is the reason for the mystical ambience which continues to lure me back time and time again.

5 Must See Attractions in and Around Playa del Carmen

The breathtaking beauty of the Mayan Riviera attracts millions of visitors every year.  #playadelcarmen, Mexico’s fastest growing city, also known as “The Gem of the Mayan Riviera” aptly earns its moniker.  To this day, the once sleepy fishing village continues to retain its warm charm and allure. Whether you are the adventurous type or you prefer to lay back and spend your days basking in the glorious Mexican sun, Playa del Carmen is the ultimate beach destination!

On one side, is a stretch of powdery, alabaster coastline bordering the majestic sea with its multiple shades of glistening blues and greens.  To the east, lies a vast jungle, mostly untouched and exuding striking flora, fauna and natural wonders such as the many freshwater centoes (swimming holes formed by the region’s underground river system).

This list of must sees in and around Playa del Carmen offers visitors an opportunity to experience the captivating splendor of this fascinating region and the rich culture and history of its people.

1) Xcaret Mexico Spectacular

Although this eco park just outside of Playa del Carmen has been around for a few years, the impressive evening historical show has been recently modified to incorporate new, advanced technology as well as enhanced set and costume design.  Spectators are transported through time as entertainers perform through song, dance and theatrics, the many traditional and historical customs of this multifaceted nation.  To view photos, purchase tickets or see show times, please go to http://www.xcaret.com/xcaret-mexico-espectacular.php

2) Aktunchen

Rated by National Geographic as one of the top ten underground walks in the world, this magnificent park is nestled within the lush jungle and consists of various subterranean caves and cenotes, each possessing a unique, surreal beauty all their own.  Open 9-5, Aktunchen is located 25 minutes south of Playa del Carmen.  For more info, visit www.Aktun-chen.com.

3) Go nATiVeS Park

One of Playa del Carmen’s newest adventure parks, this ATV adventure includes a stop at Dona Mary’s house, an original settler of this region, where you will learn about the lifestyle of this area’s first inhabitants.  As well, you will attend an ancient Mayan ceremony and meet a shaman.  This exhilarating expedition also takes you along Mayan jungle trails to Cenote Media Luna where you can swim in and zip line over the refreshingly cool cenote waters, explore caves and view their extraordinary formations. To book your excursion, visit http://www.alltournative.com/tours-expeditions/nativspark.asp

4) Xoximilco

Cruise through canals on famous trajineras decorated with motifs from the 32 states of Mexico.  These boat rafts were once used to transport flowers and produce grown on floating gardens.  Coast along the tranquil waters, sample authentic regional gastronomy, and experience another aspect of the centuries old culture and heritage of this vibrant country.  To view pictures of this magical encounter or for information and pricing, please visit http://www.xoximilco.com/xochimilco.php

5) Joya – Cirque du Soleil

The new venue, Vidanta, sits admist the pristine jungle 20 minutes North of Playa del Carmen.  Witness stunning acrobatics in a story about Joya, a restless, teenage girl transported to a mysterious jungle by her alchemist grandfather. The nightly extravaganza runs Tuesdays through Sundays.  To purchase tickets, visit https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/joya/default.aspx

If you are looking to book superb accommodations in Playa del Carmen, please visit www.bricrental.com. Our reservations specialists and knowledgeable concierge team would be thrilled to work with you to coordinate every detail of your stay in paradise.

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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.

Valladolid – A City Brimming With Charm And History!

It had been three years since we had visited the congenial city of Valladolid, Yucatan.  So the kids and I were delighted to have the opportunity to join friends on a day trip to the charming, colonial city.  Located two hours from Playa Del Carmen, “Pueblo Magico” as it was named in 2012,  boasts stunning architecture dated back to the 1500’s. On route, we passed through Mayan pueblitas or small towns.   Artisans displayed beautifully crafted ceramic and hand-woven wares under thatched-roofed palapas alongside the road.  We made a quick pit stop at a honey farm and purchased some deliciously sweet honey and organic coconut body cream.

Arriving in Valladolid, it is easy to understand why this colorful city, known for its clean, safe environment and friendly people, is a popular point of interest for tourists and history buffs.  The Francisco Canton Rosario Square, situated in the heart of the city, is encircled by quaint shops, enchanting hotels and restaurants nestled behind impressive sixteenth century facades.

Upon learning of some of the rich history of this Mexican city, we came to understand that it had not always garnered a reputation for peace.  For many years, the area had been afflicted with disharmony and political strife.  In fact, it was here where locals and Maya leaders formed a rebellion against a corrupt state government.  This revolt was believed to be the spark that set aflame the Mexican Revolution of 1910.

First on our city tour was “The Neighborhood Of Santa Ana”.  The park’s square was the site where the martyr Manuel Antonio Ay was hanged for conspiracy to start the Caste War in 1847.  In the center of the park is the “Rotunda of the Boy Heroes,” a rounded structure with 6 pillars.  The monument commemorates 6 young army cadets between the ages of 13 and 19, who bravely gave their lives defending the Chapultepec Castle in Mexico City from a US army invasion.  Also on the square grounds stands one of Valladolid’s 7 cathedrals exhibiting exquisite sculptures and gorgeous stained-glass windows.

Next to see was the “Convent of San Bernadino of Siena,” a monumental building constructed in the mid 1500’s over a natural cenote.  Inside, behind the altar of the church is a grand retable which ornately displays nine statues of saints including Mother Teresa and the Virgin of Guadalupe.  On our way to visit the back exterior of the grounds, we passed through the cloister surrounding the courtyard.  This customary, monastery architectural feature was where inhabitants of the convent would walk for hours with heads bowed, in silent prayer and meditation.

An on-site museum showcased artifacts, (mainly weapons and tools) retrieved from the cenote.  In the vast back garden, the kids collected oranges in the orchard, ran wild with the turkeys and peacocks, but were especially curious about the dome shaped vault built over the opening of the cenote.  They were fascinated to learn how the ancient water wheel of Sisal had once operated.

After spending the morning exploring, we had stirred our appetites.  For lunch, we dined in the “Meson del Marques,” a colonial mansion constructed in the 17th century and converted into a hotel and restaurant in the 1960’s.  In the center of the restaurant was a tranquil courtyard surrounded on the upper level by 6 of the original rooms of the mansion.  The menu offered many traditional Mexican dishes as well as local favorites.  I was enticed by the poblano chile stuffed with a ground beef, almond and raisin mixture and covered in a robust, red salsa.  The flowing fountains, lush courtyard and restaurant staff wearing traditional hand-woven hupils (or Mayan embroidered dresses) all contributed to the peaceful ambiance.

For dessert we decided to indulge in hand-churned ice cream from a local shop as we walked around the bustling main plaza, Parque Francisco Canton.  Unfortunately, the Cathedral of San Gervasio was closed for lunch, but that did not stop us from admiring its remarkable architectural details.

Sadly, our field trip had come to end and it was time to make our way home.  Being such a small city, I was surprised by how many historical sites and rich cultural attributes there were to digest.  Had we stayed another day, perhaps I would have liked to swim in the awe-inspiring cenote Dzitnup, located just 7km from Valladolid.  Another nearby attraction I have yet to see is the archaeological site of Ek Balam about a 15 minute drive outside the city.

So much to see, so little time!  All in all, our spontaneous road trip to Valladolid was a fun-filled and memorable adventure.  Most importantly, the children and I were able to experience another aspect of the diverse Mexican culture outside our sometimes sheltered, albeit heavenly beach life in Playa del Carmen.