In a celestial spectacle that dazzles skygazers worldwide, Mexico is the primary host for the highly anticipated total solar eclipse 2024. Scheduled for April 8, 2024, this astronomical phenomenon promises awe-inspiring moments across all 32 states of the country.
In less than six months, Mexico will play host to not one but two spectacular solar eclipses. On October 14th of this year, we’re gearing up for a remarkable annular solar eclipse that will cast its shadow as a partial eclipse across the country. The iconic “ring of fire”, characteristic of annular eclipses, will grace parts of the Yucatan Peninsula. Specifically within the path of annularity that passes through Campeche, Calakmul, Chetumal, and then ventures further into Central America. But that’s not all – mark your calendars for April 8th, 2024, when a total solar eclipse will steal the spotlight, particularly in the country’s northern regions, including Mazatlán, Durango, Torreón, and Monclova.
Regarding Mexico retirement, there are many enticing destinations to consider. However, one place that stands out as a hidden gem is the Yucatan Peninsula. Specifically, we are talking about Valladolid, one of Yucatan’s most emblematic “magical towns”. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and affordable living, Valladolid has undoubtedly become a magnet for retirees seeking an idyllic retirement destination. In this article, we’ll introduce you to a unique spot that epitomizes the essence of Yucatan living: Xkopek, a beekeeping farm park perfect for your weekend getaway.
Photos provided by: Xcopek Facebook
Are you in search of a serene and rejuvenating retreat surrounded by nature? Look no further than Tulum, Mexico, a picturesque destination offering a nature-immersive weekend getaway. Right at the heart of the Riviera Maya, Tulum boasts a perfect blend of stunning coastal landscapes, ancient ruins, and pristine natural wonders. This article will take you on a journey through some must-visit places in Tulum. Perhaps you’ll fall in love with this unique town and want to turn your weekend getaway into your Tulum Retirement.
In our ongoing series, “Beat the Heat,” we explore ways to stay cool and comfortable during the hot summer months in Mexico. With the scorching summer heat in full swing, finding ways to stay cool and comfortable is essential. Don’t miss our following blogs as we keep sharing creative ways to beat the heat and enhance you Mexico retirement journey.
In this article, we’ll discuss the power of plants in providing natural shade and keeping your Mexican home fresh, indoors and outdoors. Not only do these plants offer respite from the scorching sun, but they also add beauty and enhance the ambiance of your property.
The Cenote Route in Puerto Morelos is located in the beautiful Riviera Maya region of Mexico, this stunning route takes you through a series of cenotes while immersing you in the exuberant jungle of Puerto Morelos. In this article, we will provide recommendations of 3 cenotes perfect for your weekend getaway journey. Additionally, we will highlight the Mexico real estate opportunities in the area.
Making Collective Compost
In this post, we ponder the reasons for making compost, the taboos around it, the types of compost, how they are made and what materials they carry. We review examples of collective composts and how the community can put it in practice, generating neighbor participation, and where everyone can enjoy the benefits. Continue reading
Once you own the property of your dreams in the Riviera Maya, there are other aspects to consider such as: the best trees to plant to make your garden a spectacular space.
Something special about the Riviera Maya is the beautiful weather year round. Also, having a beautiful garden to entertain or to hang your hammock and enjoy a nap is very important. Most developers in the Riviera destroy the jungle before building; nonetheless this shouldn’t stop you from having a beautiful tropical garden in your backyard.
It is important to consider the available space, as trees will grow and may affect the construction. There are plenty of trees that will grow in the poor soil of the Yucatan Peninsula, but we decided to focus in trees that are adequate for urban spaces, with reduced space.
AKTIS
This is a small tree, its maximum height is 16 feet and it has plenty of foliage to provide shade. It has beautiful bell shaped yellow flowers.
BALCHE
This is the Mayans sacred tree, and an endemic species of the Yucatan Peninsula. The tree can grow up to 30 feet, and has beautiful purple flowers. The bark is used by the Mayans to prepare a fermented beverage with the same name.
FLOR DE MAYO
This tree has a maximum height of 26 feet, and an interesting and unique look. The flowers can be many colors and have a beautiful parfum that will linger in your garden.
Any kind of citrus tree
The Yucatan Peninsula is a great place to grow citrus. There are many kinds of oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes that will thrive with little care. The most traditional citrus in the Yucatan is the Naranja Agria, which is used to cook traditional regional dishes such as: Cochinita Pibil and Lechon al horno, it is also ideal to prepare margaritas as it is naturally sour.
Citrus aurantium can only grow up to 26 feet high, with dark shiny leaves and small white flowers that have a beautiful fragrance.
There are so many trees that can grow in the Riviera Maya, we would never finish this list. But we encourage you to learn more about native trees and chose the one that fits your space, taste and budget.
Choosing the right tree can increase the value of your property and provide shadow, oxygen and beauty for many years to come. If you want to learn more about trees that will grow in the Yucatan Peninsula, have a look at this page.
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing…” – Billy Connelly
As we all know Playa del Carmen is known for its beautiful white beaches and sunny days. But with the recent storms and with the promise of more upcoming rain a question arises: what is there to do in Playa del Carmen when you can’t be outside? Surprisingly Playa del Carmen still has a lot to offer.
Here in Playa del Carmen there is a number of malls that may not be as big as you are used to in the United States or Canada but are great for an enjoyable way to pass a rainy day.
One of the main malls is Plaza Las Americas, located north of Playa del Carmen has many department stores, a grocery store, Sears and even a Sally’s. For entertainment Plaza Las Americas has a 12 theater cinema with many movies in English to choose from and a small casino and video arcade.
Closer to the center of Playa del Carmen on the highway towards Tulum you will find the Centro Maya mall, this mall is quite small but it does have Mexican known stores, a grocery store and a cinema next to the food court that shows movies in both English and Spanish.
If you are feeling brave and think you can make it shop to shop through the showers the Fifth Avenue has 2 malls, the newest is La Quinta. This 3 level modern mall (partially outdoor) has many well-known shops that include American Eagle, Forever 21, Victoria Secret and brand sport shops plus more.
The second shopping area on the Fifth Avenue, Paseo del Carmen is at the entrance of Playacar Phase 1, the south end of the Fifth Avenue. At this open air mall all of the department stores are next to each other if do need to make a mad dash between showers to get to the next store. This quaint shopping area carries on the cobblestone pavement and is the home to many stores for all ages such as Zara, Diesel, Ultrafemme, jewelry stores and even a Harley Davidson shop.
If you are not in the mood for shopping and the storm has settled why not head to beach with your favorite Starbucks coffee for some easy exercise to listen to the roaring waves come in. While you out for your leisurely stroll you will see many surfers on the beach. As you know this is a highly unusual sighting for Playa del Carmen and this is the only time you will see people surfing since the water is normally calm, but on these rare occasions when the heavy rain comes it also brings these huge amazing waves that surfers cannot help to take advantage of.
In the end we are very lucky here in Playa del Carmen, we have more sun than we do rain so another option is to simply take advantage of this weather. Stay home guilt free with your feet up and catch up on your favorite TV show, start or finish that book you’ve been meaning to read and listen to the rain against your window enjoying a hot cup of coffee or bowl of soup.
Enjoy your time off!
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…
we make it happen!
Last month the Xenses Park in Mexico’s Riviera Maya opened to the public, becoming the sixth adventure park to open inside the Xcaret development grounds. Recently I wrote about how Xcaret in Cancun and the Riviera Maya were recognized as the best international theme park and the best water park, winning the 2016 Travvy Award held in New York City. This new addition is a 23-hectare property and was made possible with an investment of $25.5 million.
Getting to Xenses is easy. It’s approx 15 minutes by car from the entrance of Playacar Phase II’s across from Centro Maya. You can also take the bike path which runs along the east side of the highway all the way to the inside of the park. Keep an eye for some of the local wildlife like the iguanas, who will quickly run under the pavement when they see you coming.
Once inside of Xenses you will find a variety of things to do, including zip lines and slides, a river of mud and a waterfall. One of the more intriguing things you will find is a bizarre looking village where everything looks off. The houses seem like they are completely crooked and the road appears to incline but in reality it is flat. The optical illusion that it creates is so believable that you will likely struggle to walk properly as your sense of balance is upset.
The timing for this new park couldn’t be better, as this year is the 25th anniversary of Experiences Xcaret. According to the Riviera Maya News the concept is to “offer a range of new experiences for visitors.” For those of you who have never been to Xcaret or to the Rivera Maya this is a great way to explore the environment of the peninsula in a manner which is challenging and fun.
Xenses Park can be found between Xplor and Xcaret and is currently operating from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. Because it’s has just opened you can take advantage of there being less visitors, making your waiting times short. Admission for adults is $59, children under 5 years get in free and those aged 5 to 11 get in for half price.
To quote the developers: “Upon leaving Xenses, all your senses will be awakened. You will distinguish in more detail the world around you. You will be a Xensei.”
If you’d like more information about living in Playa del Carmen or are interested in purchasing property here, we invite you to visit our main website where you can search further. Please get in touch with one of our agents who will gladly assist you in any questions you might have.
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…
we make it happen!
