Life's a Beach | Expat Life in Playa del Carmen : Community

Paula Liebe Launches "The Queen's Trilogy" with Playa del Carmen Rotary

Rob Kinnon — Sun, 05 May 2013 06:21:00 GMT

Last Tuesday, the Playa del Carmen Seaside Rotary Club had the honor of hosting the official launch of The Queen's Trilogy, a series of autobiographical novels penned by well known Playa resident, business owner, yoga teacher and performer Paula Liebe. I have known Paula, casually, for about 7 years. As members of the Playa del Carmen real estate community, our professional paths would cross occasionally. Socially, the expat community being quite active, we would often rub elbows at the same events and parties. We share many of the same friends. But it was not until the last year or two, that her emergence as a singer/performer really grabbed my attention. I was impressed, of course, by her talent but even more so by her complete dedication to developing and honing her craft. As Paula is also a skilled marketer, I have made every effort to support her promotional efforts, posting her upcoming events on the blog and the Riviera Maya events calendar. When my daughter decided to audition for the role of Cosette in Explayarte's production of Les Miserables, I immediately sought out Paula to lend her skills as a vocal coach to prepare her for the try-outs. By know, you all know how that audition turned out and Paula was instrumental in that success. (Thank you Paula!!)

For those of you who know Paula, you know she is no shrinking violet, no delicate fern, nobody's idea of wallflower. (Forgive the botanical references. I am writing al fresco in the yard.) Everyone who meets Paula can tell she is a force to be reckoned with. Everything she attempts, she tackles head on 110%. She is a person who makes you think twice. She is interesting and smart and you can just tell she's got some juicy back-story, a compilation of intriguing life experiences that all put together create the Paula we all know today.You can't help but be curious...to want a peak behind the curtain.

And this is exactly she affords us, the reader, with The Queen's Trilogy; a privileged look at the unique situations and circumstances in the life of a fascinating woman. During her spirited presentation, Paula offered us all a tantalizing taste, reading excerpts from her books, sharing poignant moments from her youth and some eyebrow raising teasers from her early days in Playa del Carmen. None of the names have been changed because no one is innocent. Scandalous? Perhaps. But, as Paula explains, it was more likely she would lose friends for the truths she reveals about herself rather than other people.The cover art alone which depicts the author naked, perched on the rim of a martini glass executing an advanced yoga pose, might in itself be scandalous. I think when you read the books, the significance will reveal itself. I would be remiss in not mentioning that at very least, Paula is a person that one might actually WANT to see naked as opposed to the hirsute trolls who seem to find me on the beach in Tulum.

*shudder*

But I digress.

If the excerpts we heard and the protagonist are any indicator, this series should be a "must read", not just for Playenses but for any expat, any woman, anyone who enjoys a good story told by a good story-teller. I feel certain we have this in Paula Liebe and The Queen's Trilogy.

I've got my books on order from Amazon and I can't wait for them to arrive. (Don't let me down Amazon Global Shipping!) Until I can give you my review of the series, here are some thoughts from my dear friend and local yoga teacher Ellen De Jonge:

"I read all 3 books in a short period of time. You are kind of forced to read them all because after reading book 1 you simply need to get your hands on the other books.
A fascinating style of writing brings you easily into the real life experiences of Paula. The Queen´s Trilogy got it all. Honesty and raw go hand in hand. I laughed many times, I lifted my eyebrows lots of times and sometimes had the feeling of being part of her sadness and her road to finding love. Paula finds a way to let her love and curiosity for life and spirituality shine through the heartbreaking periods of her life. A brave woman, an even braver book!"

To get your copy of The Queen's Trilogy in paperback or for Kindle visit Amazon.com.
To get your copy for iPad or e-reader visit lulu.com.

To contact the author, email TheQueensTrilogy@gmail.com or call +52 1 984 130 9823.

Explayarte's "Les Miserables" Packs the House at Xcaret!

Rob Kinnon — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 20:57:00 GMT

Last week, Playa del Carmen's Music and Performing Arts School, Explayarte presented its full scale production of the award winning musical, Les Miserables. The show ran for three nights to packed and overwhelmingly enthusiastic audiences in Xcaret's Foro Abierto. This is the 5th Explayarte production that I have seen, my 4th as a corporate sponsor and the 3rd that Cat has participated in. I think it's fair to say that I am no longer what anyone would consider objective about these shows and the production company! Anyone who has been anywhere within earshot of me for the past few weeks has heard me wax effusive about the school, the leadership, the teachers, the curriculum, the production process and the level of talent that Explayarte demonstrates and shares not only with our children but with everyone who makes the effort to come out and support these shows.

For years, I have heard people lament that there is no culture in Playa del Carmen. No museums, no dedicated performance spaces, art galleries, few opportunities to expose our children to the arts in a meaningful way. I'm pretty sure that not a single person who attended any of these performances can deny that we are blessed to have music theatre of this caliber to enjoy and even take part in! As I looked back into the audience each night, I was really pleased to see so many families and even better groups of teens and almost teens who had come to see the show together. Certainly the timing of the production, falling after the overwhelming success of the star studded major motion picture, must have had an affect on attendance. Above that however, in the weeks and days leading up to the show, the energy and excitement surrounding the final rehearsals and the performers was absolutely palpable. It had to be infectious as nearly everywhere I went I could overhear people talking about the show....what night they were going....who they knew in the show....would be like the movie. It was this infectious excitement and anticipation that packed the house each night and had the audience leaping to their feet and cheering

If you were unable to make it to the show, here's a little taste of what you missed. If you saw the show, this will help you to relive some of your favorite moments from this amazing and very emotional production.

Animal Welfare Reform Coming to Quintana Roo?

Rob Kinnon — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:00:00 GMT

Over the past few days, I have been helping to solicit online signatures for a campaign to reform the current animal welfare laws in Quintana Roo. As many of our readers are English speakers, we have had the document translated so that everyone can keep up to date with these initiatives and, hopefully, lend their support to this movement. The petition is somewhat lengthy but worth reading through in its entirety.

If you have not already signed the petition, I urge you to do so. The wheels of change here turn slowly. Yucatan State recently enacted new legislation for animal protection and see no reason why Quintana Roo should not follow their lead. Lend your name to this cause HERE.

Thank you to Lisa Love Juliot for translating this for me on such short notice.

______________________________________________________________

REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF INITIATIVES IN QUINTANA ROO:

1. REFORM THE STATE ANIMAL WELFARE AND PROTECTION ACT

2. CRIMINAL CODE PENALTY FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY

The law for animal protection, as it is written now, for the State of Quintana Roo, is obsolete because it does not address the general concern for the many situations arising from interactions between humans and animals which our society calls for change, based on a legal framework consistent with reality. Thus, aware of the need for legislation to ensure and guarantee the fundamental rights of all living beings, we presented October 4, 2011 the proposed reform initiative to the law for Animal welfare and protection to Quintana Roo, which was recently analyzed by the body of the Congress of Quintana Roo and given permison be presentes as a draft opinion and may be voted on next month in May of 2013.

This initiative aims to:

-Have an ethical, inclusive and applicable law.

-To promote good Government practices that are efficient, responsible and congruent with the use of public resources.

-Involve the State's intervention in different levels of Government.

-Promote a participatory society among citizens.

-Count on budget allocations for the implementation of the law.

-Convert Quintana Roo into a destination at the forefront in the field of animal protection.

This reform includes among other proposals:

1. Elimination of the method of electrocution as a population control for dogs and cats and replace it with permanent, massive, extensive, systematic and free sterilization programs.

2. Incorporation of Animal welfare and protection content in the State educational system.

3. Prohibition of shows that promotie animal abuse.

4. Prohibition of the sale and exploitation of animals in public.

5. Regulation of the use of working animals.

6. Creation of a Fund as well as a Board of Trustees for Animal welfare and protection.

7. Regulations on the transfer, trade, alienation, capture and slaughter of animals.

The State of Quintana Roo requires legislation that is directed towards an improvement in animal protection and an initicative that will require its correct application and enforcement of all proceedings of municipal regulatory adjustments to infiltrate the daily conduct of all sectors.

Similarly we asked them to decide the "Iniciative of Animal abuse in the criminal code of Quintana Roo" because violence against animals is a tool of reliable prediction of interpersonal violence, animal cruelty is therefore a clear indicator of violence and abuse of people and an indicator of crimes that can be committed in the future against the society; proof of this is in the study presented in May of 2004 by the Secretary of Public Security for the Federal District Government, which pointed out that 87% of criminals, thieves and sexual predators, admitted to having burned, hanged or stabbed animals. Therefore, it is a fact that these acts of violence are not separate, but they are part of a cycle, proven by the FBI, which has a unit dedicated to studying this connection and to use as evidence for predictive purposes and research. These studies should serve to alert authorities, teachers, social leaders and parents, about the importance of animal cruelty as a potential indicator of dysfunctional family relationships and future antisocial and aggressive behavior against people.

In this way, we seek to go one step further in the administrative modernization of the State, by looking for the most suitable legal mechanisms to achieve the purposes that we have set for acting fairly according to the legal framework and with all measures within our reach, to satisfy the demands and needs of the population.
Therefore, we ask that both initiatives be decided next month, May 2013, and that you "vote in FAVOR" of them so that these inicitavies are not left behind by yet another administration and so that we can generate the long-awaited changes that our society demands.

SINCERELY

COMMUNITY OF QUINTANA ROO

To:
Manuel Jesus Aguilar Ortega, Delegate
Lark Maribell Herrera Pavón, Delegate
Luis Alfonso Torres Llanes, Delegate
Leysdi Soledad fleet Medina, Delegate
Marylin Rodriguez Marrufo, Delegate
Juan Carlos Pereyra Escudero, Delegate
Lourdes Bautista leydi Pech, Delegate
Jorge Enrique Elias Nahim Aguilar Cheluja
Leslie Berenice Baeza Soto, Delegate
Patricia Sanchez Carrillo, Delegate
Demetrio Celaya Cotero, Delegate
Mariana Anahi Aranda Arjona, Delegate
Cristobal Castillo Novelo, Delegate
Oscar Alfredo Velázquez pillar, Delegate
Linda Saray Cobos Castro, Delegate
ENA Miriam Gamboa, Delegate
Armando Palomo Miguel Gomez, Delegate
Telma Yolanda Cervera Villanueva, Delegate
Mauricio Morales Beiza, Delegate
Lucelly Marianela Roldán Carrillo, Delegate
Ramon Loy Enriquez, Delegate

Mr./Mrs. Delegate, on behalf of my family, I want to have an ethical, comprehensive, operable law and a consistent, efficient and accountable use of public resources by the Government to promote: the sterilization of dogs and cats, animal welfare education, responsibility and care of pets, the application of sanctions for animal abuse and neglect, as well as the participation of the State and society.

This initiative aims to:
-Have an ethical, inclusive and applicable law.
-To promote good Government practices that are efficient, responsible and congruent with the use of public resources.
-Involve the State's intervention in different levels of Government.
-Promote a participatory society among citizens.
-Count on budget allocations for the implementation of the law.
-Convert Quintana Roo into a destination at the forefront of the field of animal protection.

This reform includes among other proposals:

1. Elimination of the method of electrocution as a population control for dogs and cats and replace it with permanent, massive, extensive, systematic and free sterilization programs.
2. Incorporation of Animal welfare and protection content in the State educational system.
3. Prohibition of shows that promote animal abuse.
4. Prohibition of the sale and exploitation of animals in public.
5. Regulation of the use of working animals.
6. Creation of a Fund as well as a Board of Trustees for Animal welfare and protection.
7. Regulations on the transfer, trade, alienation, capture and slaughter of animals.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

News in the Fight to Keep Exotics Off of 5th Avenue

Rob Kinnon — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 16:36:00 GMT

Today's online edition of the Playa del Carmen newspaper La Respuesta featured an update about the fight to keep exotic animals from being exploited to the tourist trade in Playa del Carmen. Those of us who have been a part of the process, sending letters and petitions to PROFEPA and SEMERNAT will not be satisfied with the comments issued by Carlos Rafael Muñoz Terab, Secretary of Ecology and the Environment.

What follows is a translation of the article posted online today:

After praising the work of the Federal Attorney of Environmental Protection (Profepa), the Secretary of Ecology and the Environment (Sema), Carlos Rafael Muñoz Terab, recognized that while federal law allows permits for owning exotic animals the display of these specimens will continue on Fifth Avenue.

He argues that it is currently "difficult" to exhibit exotic species without proper authorization, since noncompliance implies a sanction, confiscation of the animal and up to imprisonment for the offender, the official went on to comment, that for these reasons it is considered that "most have the corresponding authorization".

"I do not agree that nothing has been done about this issue, it seems to me that historically, Profepa has done a tireless job on Fifth Avenue of trying to enforce the law as it applies to the specimens of wildlife that are displayed: the wildlife law establishes the possibility of ownership of a species with do process, if there is “proper handling" and if it is specified as, “no problem", said the official, who added: “As much as we try to enforce the law, it is necessary that people make an official complaint against those who do not comply with the law, that is the remedy for these illegal practices and to obligate those who have permission from Semarnat to give the animals proper treatment”.

He admitted that the agencies are understaffed and remarked that, "the best staff are citizens, they are the best tool". “However”, said Muñoz Terab, "a complaint against an activity must be proven".

"It is difficult to attend complaints, the agencies are understaffed, and it is important to understand the legal process, if there is no evidence we can not take action", and added:
"I insist, the the only solution is to be informed of who has permits for ownership. At this stage it is difficult to own and exhibit an exotic species without permission".
Carlos Rafael Muñoz insisted that "as long as federal law allows ownership of these species, this situation will continue, the activity will continue".

While it is somewhat encouraging to see this issue being raised by the media and addressed in some way by government officials, we at BuyPlaya believe that the best way to combat this type of activity is economically. Do not have your picture taken with any of the exotic animals being displayed on 5th Avenue and please do your best to educate other travelers to also avoid these vendors. It is a simple matter of supply and demand. Trade in exotic animals is expensive. If we can eliminate the demand, there will be no reason for these people to continue in this business. Please share this information on TripAdvisor, playa.info, In the Roo, LocoGringo and any other place where travel and destination information is exchanged.

The original piece on Diario Respuesta can be found here.

Rotary Club Rubber Ducky Regatta in Cancun MOVED to May 12th

Rob Kinnon — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 11:28:00 GMT

****The Rotary Club Rubber Ducky Race has been postponed until May 12th!!****

On May 12, Rotary Playa del Carmen Seaside will be participating with other Quintana Roo Rotary Clubs in the Grand Rubber Ducky Regatta! First prize is a house in Cancun!!! Additional awesome prizes include a motorbike, home appliances, furniture packages, flatscreen TVs and much more!

Be sure to buy your Rubber Ducky to participate - $120 pesos each! Ducks are available locally from Rotary Club members. Email pdcrotary@hotmail.com for more info or inquire on the Rotary Club Facebook page.

You don't have to be in Playa del Carmen to participate in the Rubber Ducky Regatta! You can get in the race from anywhere in the world by adopting a duck or ducks! Each duck adoption is $10US or $120MX. A PayPal account has been established for easy payment via credit card. There is no limit to the number of ducks you may adopt!

Once you adopt and make payment, your Rubber Ducky race number(s) and a photo of your souvenir duck(s) will be emailed to you! If you like, give us your address and we will mail them to you when a Rotary member returns to the US/Canada.

Be sure to check the Facebook page - Rotary Playa del Carmen Seaside - on May 12 as fun photos and the race results will be posted. Ducks have been adopted from all over Canada and the US. Don't miss it! Proceeds from Seaside Chapter's sales will go toward ongoing projects and providing computers, learning software programs and essential school supplies to Playa del Carmen's less fortunate school children! Read HERE for more information on these important Rotary programs.

Dates Set for 2013 Riviera Maya Jazz Festival

Rob Kinnon — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 18:37:00 GMT

Organizers of the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival have released the concert dates for 2013. This year's festival will be held November 28 - 30, 2013 at Mamitas Beach Club in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

The Riviera Maya Jazz Festival brings together music lovers of all kinds and combines the best selection of famous jazz musicians worldwide with the breathtaking view, relaxed atmosphere and culture of Playa del Carmen. Three nights of great tunes under the moonlit sky, on the beach, for free... what more could you ask for!?

Stay tuned for more information....

Expat Interview - Janet Lowe

Rob Kinnon — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 11:00:00 GMT

This month's Expat Interview features Janet Lowe. Janet is an artist who moved from the United States to Playa del Carmen in 2007. Janet and I have been involved with several of the same charitable organizations in Playa and now we are both members of the new Playa del Carmen Rotary Club Seaside Chapter. When I saw the gorgeous painting she was donating for the KKiS auction last month, I approached her about contributing her point of view about expat life in Playa del Carmen.

As soon as I walked into her home, I knew I was in the home of an artist. Janet's original works dot the walls throughout the house. Each a colorful vignette of her life in Playa and favorite scenes from her travels in Mexico. Her unique shell and bead mobiles turned slowly as we walked past. As luck would have it, I was able observe a private art class she was giving. Janet teaches painting and drawing to locals and visitors who would like to improve their art skills. On this day, I was intrigued to discover that she also exchanges her art classes for other services; in this case, trading art instruction for yoga practice with Arielle Thomas Newman at Yoga by the Sea. I love this idea of bartering skills and services and wish there were more people willing to do the same.

Q: Where are you originally from and where in the Riviera Maya are you living now?
A: I lived in Philadelphia, PA for 30 years. Now I live in Playa del Carmen in a rented house.

Q: How long you have you lived there and what made you chose that area?
A: I moved here in 2007, having visited many areas of Mexico.

Q: What made you chose the Riviera Maya as a place to live? Had you visited the area many times in the past? What attracted you to Mexico and this region?
A: The warm air and beautiful sea were a big influence. I like Merida but there is not Caribbean Sea. I had visited many place in Mexico and kept returning to Playa. The reasonable cost of living was decisive in choosing Mexico.

Q: What did you do for a living back home? What do you do here?
A: I was an artist in the US working with clay. When I decided to move to Mexico I gave away my equipment to young people and began painting in oils. That is what I do here, and teaching painting classes.

Q: What do you enjoy most about the Riviera Maya?
A: The native people.

Q: How's the quality of life? Is it what you expected or have you been surprised by anything?
A: I am very happy with my quality of life. I have learned to be happy with what is available here. I don't own a car and make do with a bicycle. I rent a house.

Q: What do you miss most about your home country when you are here?
A: Art galleries and museums nearby. But there are plenty in Merida so I visit there often.

Q: Which are the best places to live in this region as an expat? Any specific area you would or would NOT recommend?
A: I am very happy in Playa del Carmen but it is getting bigger and bigger. I like Puerto Morelos a lot it is still a small town.

Q: How do you rate the standard of living accommodations and services?
A: There are definite differences: occasional power loss, internet interruption, telephone reception that comes and goes, but I have settled into a lovely house in a Mexican neighborhood where I am very comfortable.

Q: What's the cost of living compared to home? What is cheap or expensive in particular?
A: I live much cheaper here and for me the difference is not having to pay for heat. I have learned to make do with what is available here rather than paying for imported items.

Q: Was it easy meeting people and making friends? Do you socialize mainly with other expats or do you have a lot of Mexican friends?
A: It was very easy meeting people. I started with my neighbors and expanded from there. I love to cook, so I asked neighbors if I could come sit in the kitchen and watch them cook. It was also a great way to learn the Spanish language. I do occasionally go to the expatriot gathering places which helps me meet that community. There is a large group of expatriots who gather for Friday night happy hours at each others homes and I have recently joined the English speaking Rotary Club.

Q: Do you find Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya safe?
A: Totally.

Q: Did you have a problem getting a work visa/permit?
A: I don't work for money in Mexico but have volunteered with several organizations. The year I arrived in Playa I got involved with the Diabetes Club at the Angel Notion Clinic. The first week I was there taking blood pressures and weights, it was explained that knowledge of healthy food was needed. I like to cook, so I began cooking lunch for the 25 people who had fasted before having blood tested and gave them each the recipe every week. After 3 years they each had quite a cookbook. That Clinic closed so I became involved with the KKIS Project (Keeping Kids in School) last year. We are a group of expats who raise money at an annual fundraiser (coming up Feb. 28) to buy backpacks, shoes and school supplies for children who are in need in order to help them stay in school. I also organize a group of volunteers who practice English with grade school children in a neighborhood school north of Playa once a week.

Q: How do you keep busy?
A: I attend yoga classes 4 or 5 mornings a week and usually meet my husband on the beach afterward for a couple hours of swimming and relaxing in the sun. I teach painting classes once a week in my own studio. I paint a lot and now have begun making mobiles of sea shells and tiny seed beads. My paintings are on display in the shop Siete Detalles, the talavera and pewter shop on First Ave and Calle 14. I am very involved with the KKIS Project: finding families that need assistance, buying school supplies, and reading with children at the Pelopidas School in the Guadalupana neighborhood of Playa. I also cook often and we entertain in our wonderful home.

Q: Did your spouse or partner have problems adjusting to their new home?
A: My husband has done very well. He does water aerobics with a group of expatriots and Mexican women three times a week. That community gathers once a month for a potluck party, good fellowship and often an accordion player.

Q: Did your children settle in easily?
A: My children are grown up and on their own but they have visited often.

Q: How would you rate the healthcare by cost and quality?
A: I have been very satisfied with the health care I have needed. I use the Sanar Clinic which features both western medicine and alternative treatment. My husband spent a few days in hospital in Playa and then Cancun, finally deciding to return to the US for treatment of a previous heart condition. The doctors in Philadelphia were very pleased
with the assistance he had received in Mexico.

Q: Is there any specific advice you like to offer new expat arrivals?
A: Learn Spanish and get to know the Mexican people. You can definitely get away with out that challenge, but it is well worth the trouble.

Q: Have you ever considered moving back to your home country and if so, why?
A: Nope.

Q: What brings you the most joy and keeps you here?
A: Yoga classes every morning with the Caribbean Sea as the background, smiling children's faces when I enter their classroom, sunshine and warm water.

**If you would like to take art classes with Janet, she can be reached via email at jlowepots[at]gmail.com.

______________________________________________________________

About Expat Interviews on "Life's a Beach"

Every week, I answer dozens of emails from people interested in moving to Playa del Carmen. While I am always happy to give my point of view....my perspective on life here as a foreigner.....I thought it might be fun and informative for "Life's a Beach" readers to get to know some more of the folks who have made the big leap into expat life. We began a series of interviews with local business people and families who have moved to Playa del Carmen whose journey may be of interest to those still in the planning stages or even those just dreaming about it. Unlike other expat interviews found on the web, we know all of these people personally. If you are planning to move to Playa del Carmen, they just may be your neighbors! We may not necessarily see eye to eye with everyone we interview but each of these interviews will be published unedited and in their entirety. As such, I imagine that this particular series will be interesting to follow and prompt quite a few comments and questions.

Annual Auction and Luncheon to Support KKiS

Rob Kinnon — Sun, 24 Feb 2013 16:20:00 GMT

The 2nd Annual KKiS Project Fundraiser will be held on February 28th at 11:00am at Wah Wah Beach Bar on 2nd and the beach. The event will be a luncheon and live auction with a wide array of amazing prizes donated by generous Playa locals and friends from abroad! The KKiS Project, headed up by Playa resident Gayle Collins, is an organization of American and Canadian ex-pats who provide support to under-privileged school children in the Playa del Carmen area. Their mission: to help keep kids enrolled in school by supplying uniforms, providing school supplies and backpacks, securing English language materials for the classroom and providing volunteers for the classrooms to help students learn English.

This past year, KKiS organizers and volunteers provided school supplies, uniforms and English language curriculum materials for over 275 children. With the support of the Playa del Carmen Seaside Rotary Club and countless volunteers, KKiS logged over 170 hours of volunteer time reading in English and working with children on their English language skills at the Pelopides School. Pelopides is an elementary school in the under-served Guadalupana neighborhood on the north side of Playa. These students usually come to school without the required school supplies and therefore, can't keep up with their peers.

This particular school was selected because they are one of the few private schools to provide financial scholarships their students. At the moment, 50% of their student population is afforded reduced or free tuition, known here as "becas". Some students only require a partial subsidy while others have their tuition covered in full. This school teaches English to all students for half of the day, a skill that is essential for later job placement and advancement. The school administrators and teachers have welcomed KKIS volunteers into their classrooms to help students learn English by reading to them. Just recently, KKiS has been able to initiate a similar reading program with another school in Cristo Rey, a remote community outside of Playa del Carmen. This may not seem like an extraordinary program but similar offers of assistance to public schools in the city have been rebuffed.

Tickets for the luncheon are $20USD or $250 pesos per person. You may purchase tickets from committee members or by calling 984-127-8881.Tickets will also be available at the door on the day of the event. The auction will be conducted in English and all bids will be in US dollars. Payment can be made in dollars or pesos (at a 12:1 exchange rate). Payment through Paypal is also available (bring your user name and password or your own laptop). This auction is the only fundraiser organized by KKiS in the calendar year. This year's goal is to raise enough money to supply 500 children with school supplies.

Among the many wonderful auctions items available this year are:

Wine from Off the Vine selected by Ricardo Galaxia
$300 peso Gift Certificate from Jurgen at Mom's Bar
WearEarth Eco-bags from Alicia Meno
Mexican folk art and Talavera pottery
3 - Passes for Rio Secreto
3 - Yoga Classes with Arielle at Yoga by the Sea
Talavera Iguana from Alicia at Siete Detales
An original Painting by Ellie Newman
2 All-Inclusive Golf Packages at the Playacar Golf Resort
500 Business cards from Ink Me
Dinner for 4 people with wine at Origenes Restaurant
A Music Session with award winning Blues musician Brent Parkin
A Unique Shell and Bead Mobile by artist Janet Lowe
Teeth Cleaning by Dr. Jorge Armenta
Teeth Whitening by Dr. Scot Lyall
Haircut, Pedicure and Manicure by Cece Sweatt
1 - 2 Hour Photo Session with Kat Carroll of Cats Eye Creations
2 - Cooking Classes at the Little Mexican Cooking School in Puerto Morelos
2 - $250 peso Girft Certificates for Cheesters Restaurant
Original "Valladolid Rectory" painting by artist Janet Lowe
4 night stay at Buena Madera in Playacar (up to 10 people)
Gourmet Dinner for 8 by Danish Chef Kaj Skov
Original "Palapa" watercolor painting by artist Barry Launius
1 month membership to The Gym
1 - 3 Day Spanish Course with Suzanne and Shawn Bandick
Gift Certificate for 1.5 hr massage with Emily Schwartze
2 - All-Inclusive Day Passes to the Reef Club in Playacar
2 - Passes to the Captain Hook Adventure in Cancun

For a complete list of auction prizes, please visit the KKiS Facebook page!

New this year is the "Friends of KKiS" program which will be inaugurated at the Auction. This is a means for the project to have a predictable stream of steady income, allowing the organizers to better plan their activities from one year to the next. In order to become a "Friend of KKiS", simply fill out an application at the luncheon and indicate which annual sponsorship level you are able to commit to: $100, $200, or $300 USD. You can also request an application via email from Gayle Collins sgcollins[at]charter.net. Four times a year you will receive updates and progress reports from KKiS and be credited as a supporter on the KKiS website.

If you can't be in Playa for the auction, but still want to help, please bring school supplies with you from the US or Canada. School supplies expensive and are a huge burden for most families. All backpacks and school supplies can be dropped off at JAVA coffee shop on 10th street between 5th and 10th Ave between 7am and 3pm. You can also make a donation through Paypal using the email address kkisproject[at]gmail.com.

It's Official!

Rob Kinnon — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:25:00 GMT

Last Tuesday, at the weekly meeting, I was inducted into the Rotary Club Playa del Carmen Seaside Chapter as an active member! President Bob Hyde presided over the short but official ceremony and presented me with my Rotary pin. I grew up in a family where volunteerism and community service was encouraged and expected, even of me as a child. My mother, an avid horticulturist, would take me once a month to the Child's Nursing Home where we would diligently tend the patients' gardens, pulling weeds, splitting ungainly perennials that had outgrown their space and adding in favorites selected from our own garden at home. My father was also an fantastic gardener but vegetables were more his forte. For his part, he converted several empty lots we owned in the poorer sections of the city into community gardens to be used by not only our tenants but their friends and families. I can remember long afternoons in the early spring shoveling and transporting thousands of pounds of composted manure from our property to the city gardens to enrich the soil. In the fall, we would return to till-under the dying plants into the ground putting the beds to rest for the long winter months in upstate New York.

As an adult (notice I did not say grown-up) I have worked on and contributed to countless fundraisers and participated on numerous boards and committees. I am particularly proud to have participating in the founding committee for Taste of Playa which has become one of the Riviera Maya's most anticipated events. It was through my involvement with Taste of Playa that I was introduced to Rotary when we were invited as special guests to sit in on a meeting and present our proposal to them. That Chapter has been active in Playa for over 20 years but, unfortunately, the membership is not open to women so I am pleased to be welcomed into this newly chartered club and look forward to working with them on many exciting and beneficial community projects!

I moved to Mexico with my family in 2004 with the hope of offering our children a more global education and world view. Since then, we have traveled through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala, gathering friends and life experiences and learning a lot about ourselves along the way. When we are not out and about exploring, Rob and I own and operate BuyPlaya, a Playa del Carmen real estate company and FurnitureMex. "Life's a Beach" is a catch-all blog where you may find anything from restaurant reviews, to recipes, gardening tips, commentary about expat daily life, local events, information about moving to Mexico and educating children in Playa del Carmen. You can also find me on Facebook, Twitter and Google+.

2013 About.com Readers Choice Awards - Vote Riviera Maya!!

Rob Kinnon — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 11:00:00 GMT

Greetings from sunny Playa del Carmen!!

Once again, our little blog "Life's a Beach" was nominated for the About.com Readers Choice Award for Favorite Mexico Blog. I just found out that I am now a finalist. Huzzah!!

But wait...it get's even better! "Life's a Beach" blog was not the only nod toward the Riviera Maya!

Tony and Cheri Head are in the race with Luna Blue Hotel in the running for Favorite Bargain Hotel!
Mitch and Shawn with Yucatreks have a fight on their hands to win Favorite Mexico Tour Company.
Matt Shilowitz from Acanto Boutique Hotel has his sights set on winning the award for Favorite Luxury Hotel.

Let's show the Riviera Maya some love and show the About.com readers that our little corner of Mexico is the very best place to be!

There are other fun categories to vote on as well. Votes are limited to one vote per award category per user per day. The winners will be announced on March 19th!

So please, take a minute to cast your votes and pass along these links to your friends, share them on Facebook, Twitter or your favorite social media platform! It would make me super happy and hopefully draw some good attention to the Riviera Maya!

Click here to vote for "Life's a Beach" for Favorite Mexico Blog:

Click here to vote for Luna Blue Hotel for Favorite Bargain Hotel:

Click here to vote for Yucatreks for Favorite Mexico Tour Company:

Click here to vote for Acanto Boutique Hotel for Favorite Luxury Hotel:

Thank you so much for your support!!

Used Computers and Laptops Needed for Local School

Rob Kinnon — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 11:00:00 GMT

The Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside, an English speaking club in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico - on the Yucatan Peninsula - is soliciting used PC laptops, desktops and tablets in good working order to provide to the classrooms of Mayan children in our area. The used PCs will provide these children access to software that will allow them to develop and improve their English language skills, computer keyboarding skills, math skills, and more.

If you have a used desktop, laptop or tablet PC computer to donate, it will go a long way in providing these children an opportunity to learn the skills needed for employability and a brighter future. Perhaps you know a business, university or organization that is upgrading their computer system and would donate their used equipment.

Our club is looking to collect 28 PCs for our initial school implementation, with additional schools to follow, so any PCs you are able to donate would be most appreciated.

Initial efforts include coordinating our Rotary Seaside PCs project with Keep Kids in School (KKIS), and Early Education for Every Child Foundation/Little Learners Initiative (EECF/LLI), a global organization with a Mexican/Mayan focus on the most vulnerable schools and children. EECF/LLI provides Mayan community schools with English and Math learning software programs and lesson plans. Unfortunately, most schools do not have the PCs necessary to take advantage of their offer, and that is where Rotary Seaside is stepping in. By providing used PCs to the schools, teachers and students can build stronger skills, using the software and the daily lesson plans provided.

This project falls within two of Rotary International's global objectives of 1) Basic education and literacy and 2) Economic and community development

Please contact Patricia Youngstrum, Secretary/Treasurer of Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside, at pyoungstrum@gmail.com for additional information or to make your contribution.

Go Green with the Kilo Verde Recycling Program

Rob Kinnon — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 11:19:00 GMT

Just a quick reminder to everyone that this Saturday February 16 is the next Kilo Verde recycling opportunity. The kids and I went on our first Kilo Verde "adventure" last month to the installation in the La Guadalupana neighborhood in the north end of Playa. I say adventure as there are no signs on the highway for the turn-off to the fraccionamento and once we found it we drove around for quite awhile trying to find the right park. The local police did not know the location nor did other Solidaridad workers picking up garbage just a few blocks away. *sigh*

Once we arrived, everything was set up and ready to go. We arrived fairly early and unfortunately, they had not yet received their full shipment of plants. We only had a few species to choose from but information about the complete selection of trees, shrubs and flowering plants was carefully prepared and laid out for our reference. It really helped to identify the young plants and to see what we could expect once they matured. There was plenty of staff on hand to register each of us, help sort our recyclable items and weigh electronics and other items not easy sorted. Everyone was super friendly and happy that we had made the effort to participate despite our "adventure". They were very open to the idea of posting a simple map or "croquis" showing the exact location of the recycling center so that people coming from outside the neighborhood would be able to find it more easily.

This week the Kilo Verde Program will be set up in the park in Fracc. Mision de las Flores.

Kilo Verde does not yet have the ability to accept the range of products that the other monthly "Cento de Acopio" can. They do take paper, newspapers, magazines, clean cardboard, plastics #1, #2, #4 and #5, cans, glass bottles and jars and electronics. Everything will be sorted and will be weighed. The center will operate from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. In order to support the needs of local business people trying to comply with the local government's new recycling regulations, Kilo Verde is able to provide receipts valid for proof of participation.

These are the remaining dates and locations for Kilo Verde 2013:

February 16 – Fracc. Mision de las Flores
March 16 – Col. Luis Donaldo Colosio
April 20 – Fracc. Villamar II
May 18 – Fracc. Mision del Carmen
June 15 – Domo del Ejido
July 20 – Colonia 28 de Julio
August 17 – Fracc. Villas del Sol
September 21 – Colonia Zazil Ha
October 19 - Fracc. Balam Tun
November 16 – Fracc. Las Palmas
December 21 – Colonia Nicte Ha

A Sneak Peak at the New Teatro de Playa del Carmen

Rob Kinnon — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 11:00:00 GMT

Last week, I was invited to tag along with a group from Explayarte to check out the new Teatro de la Ciudad (the theatre of the city) being built in the Ejido, next to the big Walmart on the Arco Vial. This one of several ambitious municipal projects being completed by the Municipal Government of Solidaridad. The invite came to us as a part of a new social program, also initiated by the current administration, called "Compartimos Logros" which roughly translated means Sharing Our Successes. That is exactly what the Municipal President and his cabinet are attempting to do, actually show the residents of Solidaridad where their tax dollars are going.

So, bright and early Saturday morning, we were transported by van to the work site, to see for ourselves how the project was coming along and what we could expect from this exciting new performance space. We arrived onsite and were all given stylish hard hats to wear and given a brief overview of the many plans the sitting Municipal President has for the area and the efforts the administration is making to improve the lives of their constituents. Our hosts for the day were representatives from the "Compartimos Logros" program and several engineers working on the theatre and project leaders from the Municipality.

Shane and Martina rockin' the hard hats!

Getting an overview of the master plan and the scale model

Going over the specs and plans, our group had a lot of questions about the space and the systems it would contain particularly in regard to accommodations for live bands and orchestras. While the dance schools in the area use recorded music for their recitals and shows, Explayarte exclusively uses a live orchestra to accompany their productions so having a dedicated space for the musicians and the conductor is a high priority. The current design does not include an orchestra pit but after our concerns were heard, the engineer assured us that they would address the issue and had some ideas about how to adjust the seating space just in front of the proscenium to make it suitable for that use. It was nice to see everyone so engaged and excited about the project, not only our merry crew but the engineers as well!

Sergio Tolosa explains the projected timeline for this ambitious project and the types of events the city is hoping to attract to Playa del Carmen.

Inside the theatre in what will be the lower level seating area. The theatre holds 780.....minus whatever seats need to be removed to allow for the orchestra of course. ;)

The project leaders had hoped to have the theatre completed by June but at this point, due to unusual winter weather delays, it looks more like September. Explayarte, Coppelias, On Stage and all the other dance and performing arts schools in the region are all looking forward to having this modern, fully equipped performance space to use for their productions next winter. Certainly, the stage and backstage spaces, the lighting, sound and fly systems will give us all a lot more flexibility when it comes to the scope of the productions we all can design and launch. Its location, right off of the public transportation lines will make it accessible for Playa residents from all over the city.

The structure that will house the fly system and catwalks

Explayarte and the Municipal Government of Solidaridad: Partners in supporting the arts in Playa del Carmen

Included in the new public works projects are this new 780 seat state of the art theatre, a new building to house the Municipal offices and the Portada Maya which is the dramatic new sculpture erected in the Parque los Fundadores by the Cozumel ferry dock. Recently completed is a brand new community center in the colosio with, among other things, a covered basketball court, a fully equipped and staffed recording studio and classrooms for continuing education. There will be different classes offered for the community such as food and beverage preparation and management, sewing and clothing design and much more.

It really does appear as if this administration is doing its very best to improve the lives of the citizens it serves. Even those with a skeptical view of the workings of government can't help but agree that the Municipality of Solidaridad is leading the way toward a more transparent system in which the constituents are welcomed and encouraged to make suggestions and participate. It makes me feel very hopeful for the future of Playa del Carmen.

Expat Interview - Susan de Lima from UNO Events & Catering

Rob Kinnon — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 11:00:00 GMT

This Expat Interview, the first for 2013, features Susan de Lima. Susan moved to Playa del Carmen at almost the exact same time as we did. She was one of the first people we met here in Playa, back in the good old days at Captain Dave's on 10th. We have been friends ever since, celebrating our successes and lamenting and laughing about the bumps in the road along the way. Susan is the owner of UNO Events and Catering and most recently opened UNO to Go. She is also the Head of Operations for Taste of Playa.

About you

Q: Where are you originally from?

A: The amazing country of Canada

Q: Where are you living now?

A: Playa del Carmen

Q: How long you have you lived here?

A: Since 2004

Q: Did you move with a spouse/children?

A: No, but I did make the move with a dog

Q: What made you decide to move here?

A: Many reasons....Canada is great but where I am from very cold! Due to genetics, my body does not respond well to cold climates so this seemed like the perfect place to be. My employers in Canada started a program that allowed employees to take up to a year leave of absence and return to their job. Say no more! I applied to the program and left for a year, never to return.

Q: What did you do for a living back home? What do you do here?

A: I was a prevention education consultant in my last job. When I relocated to Mexico I knew that this was not going to be something that I could continue here. I followed my passion for entertaining and cooking to become an event coordinator and caterer. More recently, I expanded this to provide my clients with home cooking to take away.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your new hometown? How's the quality of life?

A: I mostly enjoy the beach lifestyle and the fact that I now know all my neighbours and then some! Playa del Carmen, although growing rapidly, is still the quaint "small town" place that I grew to love when I first came on vacation over 15 years ago. It is a friendly, safe atmosphere where you really get to know people.

Q: How's the quality of life? Is it what you expected or have you been surprised by anything?

A: I am most surprised of how little one really needs. Downsizing from a large home to a small condo seemed daunting at first. "What about my stuff?!" Guess what, you don´t really need very much too really enjoy life and living. Bikini and sarong (sunscreen too!) and you are good to go. I have found an increase in the quality of life; especially from being around others who are doing the same.

Q: What have the downsides been in your move? The biggest challenges?

A: I would say language has been the biggest challenge. I believe it is completely up to yourself to immerse yourself in the language and culture but in Playa it is very easy not to as most people speak English. Through having a business and a desire to learn about the culture and language this has been a positive challenge. There are bureaucracies that prevail but I believe that is true in any country. Some are funny, some are ludicrous and always a topic of conversation among expats.

Q: What do you miss most about home?

A: To be honest, not much. When you live in a beautiful Caribbean place there is no shortage of visitors. I would say I miss my friends and family most from Canada but in all honesty I probably see them more with better quality of time since moving here!

About living here

Q: Which are the best places to live in this region as an expat?

A: Close to the beach! I have only lived in what is known as central Playa del Carmen where there is easy access to the beach, shops, restaurants and bars.

Q: How do you rate the standard of accommodations?

A: Depending on your budget very nice accommodations can be found here.

Q: What's the cost of living compared to home? What is cheap or expensive in particular?

A: I find it comparable to Canada. Quality clothing is expensive here and any products that are targeted to foreigners. Going out, in my opinion, is about the same to many places that I have traveled to.

Q: How would you rate the healthcare by cost and quality?

A: Being Canadian, many believe that we have the best healthcare in the world. The average Canadian pays immensely for this service which is seriously flawed. I have embraced private insurance and feel that the cost and quality is amazing. I recently had Lasik eye surgery with great success at less than half the cost in my country.

Q: What are the locals like? Do you socialize mainly with other expats or do you have a lot of Mexican friends?

A: The locals are friendly and nice. A good majority of my socializing is done with expats, however, through the years many Mexicans as well. Playa del Carmen is a somewhat unique place where even most of the Mexicans are not from here so you have a melting pot of foreigners living here and Mexicans from the entire country. This allows for interesting cultural conversations!

Q: Was it easy meeting people and making friends?

A: Yes....could be a personal thing!

Q: Do you find Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya safe?

A: Yes but within reason. I feel safer here than in many cities probably because so many people know each other here. That being said, it is a city which will have a certain level of crime.

About working here

Q: Did you have a problem getting a work visa/permit?

A: It took several months to obtain my working visa and starting a corporation. It was done with relative ease.

Q: What's the economic climate like in the city. Is there plenty of opportunity to work as an expat?

A: Business appears to be good and a constant stream of new ones opening. In my experience, I don´t believe there are many opportunities to work as an expat (except in teaching) unless you start your own business.

Q: Was it difficult to start your own business?

A: Not really. There are specific companies that assist in this for a fee and to me invaluable.

Q: Tell us about your business, UNO Events and Catering, and how it came to be?

A: During my leave of absence from Canada I knew that I did not want to go back but faced the reality of what would I do here?! I actually hosted a pool party bbq which I catered myself. Due to the friendly nature of Playa, someone brought a friend who property managed many vacation rentals who loved my food. Thus my business was born!

Q: What differences have you found between doing business here and back home? What was the most surprising difference, either positive or negative?

A: I have never had a business...always an employee so everything is new for me!

Q: What do think it takes to be successful here?

A: I believe, like anywhere else, hard work

And finally...

Q: Is there any specific advice you like to offer new expat arrivals?

A: Network, research (blogs, websites, books), volunteer, LEARN SPANISH

Q: Have you ever considered moving back to your home country and if so, why?

A: Nope

Q: What brings you the most joy and keeps you here?

A: The ocean and quality of life

Playa del Carmen Seaside - The Riviera Maya's Rotary Club for English Speakers

Rob Kinnon — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 20:31:00 GMT

It is inarguable that Playa del Carmen is one of the fastest growing cities in the world. Thousands of people move here every year from other parts of Mexico, from the United Sates, Canada and countries across the globe. Their reasons for moving to the Riviera Maya are as varied and unique as the people themselves. Some are relocated here by their employers. Some move here hoping for a simpler life. Many come to retire and live out their golden years in the comfort afforded by this warm climate. Others, seeing opportunity in this growing, vibrant economy, come to work and open businesses and raise their families here. What many of them have in common is a desire to participate in their new community and find meaningful ways to get involved with other civic-minded people. I know this because I get emails about this almost daily from expats who have settled in Playa del Carmen and are looking for community organizations which match their particular interest and skill set.

Now, Rotary Club International has chartered a new club right here in Playa del Carmen, a chapter specifically for English speakers. Rotary International (RI) is a worldwide network of clubs dedicated to making positive change in local communities and globally through "Service Above Self". Rotary Club has had chapters in Playa del Carmen for over 20 years carrying out Rotary's mission and doing good works to support the community. I have had the honor of being a guest at their meeting during the planning stages for Taste of Playa. Their meetings are conducted in Spanish, a stumbling block to inclusion for Playa's rapidly growing English speaking population whose Spanish language skills are a constant work in progress.

This new Rotary chapter, Playa del Carmen Seaside, called their first meeting to order in April 2012 with just a handful of eager residents and just 4 months later was granted their official charter by RI. It was presented to the group by the District Governor just this month at the Charter Dinner, an exciting milestone for this new club. Today, the club has 32 members and welcomes more community-minded English speaking Playa del Carmen residents to apply for membership.

Rotary promotes the commitment to "Service Above Self" and this motto conveys the humanitarian spirit of the organization’s more than 1.2 million members. In the more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, members volunteer in communities at home and abroad to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty.

Rotary has been in existence for over 100 years and its service is targeted on the following six areas:

Peace and conflict prevention/resolution
Disease prevention and treatment
Water and sanitation
Maternal and child health
Basic education and literacy
Economic and community development

In its very short existence the Playa del Carmen Seaside Rotary Club has already contributed to several local charitable organizations.

Casa Yoliguani, a home which provides shelter, counseling and support to pregnant girls and at risk unwed mothers.
KKiS Keeping Kids in School, a program that offers underprivileged children the ability to stay in school longer by providing school supplies and uniforms. Volunteers from the Seaside Rotary Club also come into the classrooms to read to the children in English every week.
Christmas Dreams, a local initiative to bring Christmas gifts to special needs children and non-perishable food items and warm blankets to needy elders in the community.

So, today I throw my hat into the ring. I have officially petitioned to be a member of the Playa del Carmen Seaside Rotary Club! I have found a willing sponsor...thank you Bob...and am following the process to become a member as detailed in the constitutional documents of Rotary International. I am attending my second meeting today where among other things I will fill out an official application. My application is then presented to the Board of Directors on Feb. 4 and then posted for the consideration of the group for the next two week. Barring any objections, I should be Playa del Carmen Seaside Rotary Club's 33rd member within the month!

Aside from the excellent commitment to community support and outreach, which is what attracted me to the organization in the first place, I was particularly taken with the Rotary "Four Way Test" with which Rotary members are asked to self-govern their thoughts, words and actions in keeping with Rotary vision. As we go about our daily lives..... in all we think, say and do.......the "Four Way Test" asks us to take pause and ask ourselves:

Is it the truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Seems like a pretty good thing for us all to keep in mind, doesn't it?

If you are interested in joining the Playa del Carmen Seaside Rotary Club or if you are just looking for more information about the group and its activities, contact acting President Bob Hyde via email at bobrotarypdcseaside@gmail.com. The best way to get to know Rotary is to attend a meeting. Guests are welcome, especially visiting Rotarians from around the world. The Playa del Carmen Seaside Chapter meets every Tuesday from 12:30pm - 2:00pm at Origenes Restaurant in the Pueblito Escondido building on calle 38 near the beach. Lunch is 120 mn and includes a choice of 2 entrees and an unlimited iced tea and lemonade. The Rotary fellowship is free.

Doesn't this look like a fun group!