Life's a Beach | Expat Life in Playa del Carmen : Restaurants/Bars, Fun, Announcements

Diamonds International Taste of Playa Announces Participants for 2012 Culinary Event

Rob Kinnon — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 14:39:00 GMT

Diamonds International^TM Taste of Playa's Executive Committee announces their participating restaurants and bars for the 4th annual event to be held on November 18, 2012 in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

"We are very grateful to our repeat and new participants for helping us to make this event possible," Stated Armando Elizalde, Co-Chair of the Marketing Committee. "We are delighted with the response we have had from the food and beverage community of the Riviera Maya" he added.

The participants of the 4th annual Diamonds International^TM Taste of Playa are:

Kartabar, Mahekal Beach Resort, Chez Celine, Curry Omm, Karma Bagels, Canibal Royal, Los Aguachiles, Diablito Cha Cha Cha, Fusion, La Mission, La Rana Cansada, Dirty Martini Lounge, Tequila Barrel, Tropical, Sapori di Casa, Zenzi, Ula Gula, La Casa del Agua, Pachamama, Co.Cos Breakfast & Deli, Uno Events & Catering, Cocotte Cita, Luna Maya, El Puerto, Java, Madre Tierra, Wah Wah Beach Bar, Wicky's, Mr. Chile, Elemento Ecofriendly Restaurant, Catering Tina, Ziggy Beach, La Exquisita de la 38, Babes Noodles & Bar, PDC smoked meats and more, Raices, Off the Vine, La Bodeguita del Medio, Blue Lobster, Turtle Bay Cafe.

The Executive Committee would like to thank all the participants, sponsors, and volunteers that help make this event so successful every year. See our participant's page with links to their websites: http://www.tasteofplaya.com/restaurants/restaurants-2012.html

Halloween and Dia de Los Muertos Activities on the Riviera Maya

Rob Kinnon — Sat, 13 Oct 2012 18:20:00 GMT

It's that time of year again! Halloween and Dia Day los Muertos parties are starting to be announced! This will be a running list of the events that will be updated as they are posted.

November 2 - Halloween Party, Costume Contest and LIVE Music at La Patrona Jam On!

October 29 - November 3 - You are in for some Spooky Nights at Coco Bongo in Playa del Carmen!

October 31 - Halloween Party and Costume Contest at Senor Frogs in Playa del Carmen!

October 30 - Halloween fun and costume contest at La Sala Rosa

October 31 - Halloween Party and costume contest at Diablito Cha Cha Cha!!

November 2 - Show off your best costume for Dia de los Muertos and party on the beach at Mezzanine in Tulum!

October 31 - Nightmare on 12th Street Costume Party at The Blue Parrot! Spooky!!

October 31 - Costumes required for the festivities at La Santanera on Calle 12!

October 31 - Playa del Carmen's first Altar competition in Parque Fundadores! Don't miss this!

November 2 - Live music and costume party at Playa del Carmen's La Patrona Jam On!!

November 3 - Halloween party and haunted house at La Buena Vida in Akumal!

October 31 - Have a very sexy Halloween at Luna Blue!

October 30, 31 November 1, 2 - Not to be missed is the Festival de Vida y Muerte at Xcaret!

October 31 - La Rana Cansada will play host once again to Playa del Carmen's most anticipated costume bash!

October 31 - Celebrate Halloween on the beach at Fusion!

October 31 - Halloween Costume Contest and Party at La Azotea in Hotel El Punto

November 1 - Brain Dead Comedy at La Sirena Mar y Barrio

November 2 - Brain Dead Comedy hits La Buena Vida in Akumal!

Diamonds International® Title Sponsor for Taste of Playa 2012

Rob Kinnon — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 14:49:00 GMT

Taste of Playa's Executive Committee is very pleased to announce that Diamonds International® has signed up as Taste of Playa's title sponsor for the second year in a row. Diamonds International® Taste of Playa will be held on November 18, 2012 in Parque Fundadores at downtown Playa del Carmen, on the shores of the Mexican Caribbean.

With more than 125 locations in the Caribbean, Mexico and United States, Diamonds International®, is the largest duty free jeweler in the world. Renowned for their top-caliber customer service, extensive selection of quality merchandise and value pricing, Diamonds International® has pioneered the art of duty free shopping in the Caribbean and online.

Diamonds International® offers a wonderful selection of classic, fashionable and modern fine jewelry from some of the most sought after designers in the world, all crafted by master jewelers who understand the true meaning of quality. With customers from around the world, Diamonds International® provides the finest jewelry brands to satisfy their wide range of trends, tastes and prices. Diamonds International® understands that jewelry is an expression of the person wearing it.

"We are very pleased that Diamonds International® is willing to participate as title sponsor for the second year in a row." said Armando Elizalde, Marketing Co-Chair. "Diamonds International® is at the top of the fine jewelry world. Their brand is positioned as a synonym of high quality and service; we know that their sponsorship will continue to contribute to our vision of Taste of Playa as an international destination event. We are very proud and honored to present Diamonds International® Taste of Playa 2012."

Diamonds International® Taste of Playa will offer residents and visitors alike a unique opportunity to sample a wide variety of cuisines from 40 different restaurant and bar participants from all along the Riviera Maya. In its fourth year, 7500 people are anticipated to attend this day-long event.

Diamonds International® Taste of Playa is a community-oriented culinary event celebrating the creativity and diverse cultural influences of chefs throughout the Riviera Maya. The event is open to the public with "Playa Pesos" and VIP passes available for sale on the official event website http://www.tasteofplaya.com

Diamonds International Taste of Playa 2012 VIP Passes are Now Available!

Rob Kinnon — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 15:49:00 GMT

Limited release all-inclusive VIP Passes and discounted Taste of Playa "Pesos" are now available for Diamonds International Taste of Playa 2012 through advance purchase online at http://www.tasteofplaya.com. Diamonds International Taste of Playa is a community-oriented culinary event that celebrates the creativity and diverse cultural influences of chefs throughout the Riviera Maya. Diamonds International Taste of Playa 2012 will take place on November 18 in Playa del Carmen's Parque Fundadores. The event is open to the public and proceeds will go to a food education program initiated by the Rotary Club in Playa del Carmen that will directly benefit the children and families of the Riviera Maya.

40 area restaurants, bars and specialty food retailers will participate in the daylong festival, which celebrates the cultural diversity and culinary traditions that have helped make the Riviera Maya one of the top travel destinations in the world. Last year's premiere event was so successful that organizers anticipate attendance to more than double this year, and VIP Passes are expected to sell out quickly. The passes, which cost $40 US, give holders early entrance to the event where they can mingle with the chefs and be the first to sample the signature dishes. VIP Pass holders will also have access to the exclusive VIP lounge, a comfortable seating area reserved especially for them.

"All of the VIP Passes sold out well in advance at last year’s event and we anticipate that the VIP Passes will again be in high demand for Diamonds International Taste of Playa 2012," said Executive Committee Chairperson Monica Hartlief, "This year, we want to make sure everyone who wants a pass has a chance to purchase one ... but don't wait too long, because there are only a limited number of VIP Passes for sale."

Taste of Playa "Pesos" will be available for sale in advance and at the event. To purchase your "Pesos" and VIP Passes, or for more information about the festival and its participants and corporate sponsors, visit http://www.tasteofplaya.com.

Date Set for 4th Annual Taste of Playa International Culinary Event

Rob Kinnon — Tue, 22 May 2012 20:30:00 GMT

Great news from the Executive Committee for Taste of Playa! The first official press release for the 2012 culinary event has been distributed and we are thrilled to share the information with our readers and fellow foodies across the globe! For the fourth year running, BuyPlaya Real Estate Advisors will be a corporate sponsor for this much anticipated community event. If you haven't attended one of the previous Taste of Playa festivals, take a peak at what you have been missing!

Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Mexico - May 14th, 2012 - Taste of Playa, 2012 is proud to announce its fourth annual culinary event for Sunday November 18, 2012. Taste of Playa, a premier international event, will be held at Parque Fundadores, between “La Quinta Avenida” and the beach in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Mexico.

Taste of Playa offers locals and visitors a unique opportunity to explore a wide variety of contemporary and traditional Mexican cuisine samples, created within the region. Distinctive restaurants from Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya will prepare and present their gastronomic tastes.

“We are thrilled to have the support and commitment from many of our 2011 participants and corporate sponsors.” – Stated Tracy Redwood, This year’s marketing committee Co-Chair.

“Diamonds International is very proud to have been the ‘Title Sponsor for Taste of Playa 2011’- the event was truly amazing! The organization was excellent, the weather perfect and the food was the best – It was a great opportunity for Diamonds International and we look forward to Taste of Playa 2012” Said Lilia Gordian, Marketing Manager of Diamonds International.

Originally launched in 2009, Taste of Playa has gone from 25 restaurants and beverage providers, to over 40. Taste of Playa’s increasing popularity is expected to draw over 7,500 visitors in 2012.

Taste of Playa is organized by a Committee consisting of eight (8) local business owners in Playa del Carmen. The committee’s goal for Taste of Playa is to help develop and sustain community programs that will have a positive effect on the residents of Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya.

Taste of Playa is a community-oriented culinary event that is open to the public and relies on partners and sponsors for financial support. Online sales of Taste of Playa ‘pesos’ and VIP passes start on July the 15th through the event website; and Taste of Playa ‘pesos’ can be purchased on the day of the event, which runs from 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM. For more information, please visit http://www.tasteofplaya.com. You can also find updates on http://www.facebook.com/tasteofplaya and http://www.twitter.com/tasteofplaya.

###

Media Contact:
Tracy Redwood, Co-Chair Marketing Committee
marketing@tasteofplaya.com
www.tasteofplaya.com

(+52)1-984-143-21-95 – Playa Del Carmen

Viceroy Riviera Maya Invites You To FLY FREE!

Rob Kinnon — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 19:06:00 GMT

After our amazing evening enjoying the Chef's Table Dining Experience at this elegant beachfront resort, we just had to pass along this offer to all our loyal "LIfe's a Beach" readers!

Spend four heavenly days vacationing at the Viceroy Riviera Maya and the resort will pick up your airfare!

The all-villa Viceroy Riviera Maya's "Fly Free" program offers reimbursement of air tickets for up to three guests, the maximum occupancy in one villa, when you stay at least four nights. The reimbursement per villa ranges from $9,600 pesos to $42,000 pesos, depending on the season and the villa category you book.

The Viceroy Riviera Maya is a serene hideaway of sugary-white sands lapped by the warm Caribbean and a jungle ambiance of ferns, palms and guava trees. The resort merges every luxury amenity with dramatic sea and jungle, bringing together the best of the destination. All 41 villas feature a private patio and plunge pool, outdoor shower, and a high-ceiling, thatched-palapa roof that resonates with the jungle environment. Guests enjoy fine dining on the sea-view loft of La Marea, Mexican-Mediterranean fare at beach-side Coral Grill, and state-of-the-art workout equipment in the fitness center. The resort has its own pier where guests can sunbathe, enjoy massages, savor romantic dinners, and may be conveniently picked up by boat for snorkeling, diving and other excursions. The six-acre resort is on the Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula 40 miles south of Cancun International Airport, and three miles north of popular Playa del Carmen, known for its beach scene, restaurants, boutiques and nightlife.

"Travelers are looking for more value today and our Fly Free program is an irresistible incentive," said General Manager Pedro Lara.

Fly Free is offered for stays now through December 19, 2012. Guests buy their own airfare and then at check-in present their receipt. The resort will apply the ticket amount, up to the maximum allowance for their villa category, as a credit to the bill. The credit may be applied towards food and beverage and spa services, but not the gift shop, spa retail or outside activities. The offer is subject to availability and blackout dates, and cannot be combined with other promotions, offers or packages. It does not apply to group or corporate contracts.

For more information and reservations, contact Viceroy Riviera Maya at 984-877-3000/ 01 800-012-3569 or reservations@viceroyrivieramaya.com.

Viceroy Riviera Maya's sister property in Mexico, Viceroy Zihuatanejo, is also offering a Fly Free program. For more information and reservations, contact Viceroy Zihuatanejo at 755-555-5500 or vz.info@viceroyhotelsandresorts.com.

Wah Wah Beach Bar to Open in Playa del Carmen

Rob Kinnon — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 04:53:00 GMT

Today is the day! After months of planning, construction and much anticipation Wah Wah Beach Bar in Playa del Carmen will welcome friends both near and far under its giant palapa on the beach, just south of calle 2 on the site of the old Cabanas Las Ruinas.

Wah Wah was conceived and created by Kim and J.J. Johnston and will be the new home to Playa del Carmen's beloved Nasty Bastards Band and the Jam Session Combo, two bands that have risen to the top of the Riviera Maya music scene, entertaining locals and visitors from across the globe. This exciting new venue will have live music Thursday through Sunday on the 70 sqmt stage and will welcome guest bands and performers from the United States and Canada.

The opening festivities will kick off today at 4pm with The Nasty Bastards Band taking the stage from 6-10pm.

On Sunday, February 5th, Wah Wah will host the biggest Superbowl Party in Playa del Carmen with music from the irreverent Chris Bolister and Blues musician Brent Parkin starting at noon. The game will be telecast LIVE on several screens including Wah Wah's 20' x 25' high definition projection TV screen, reported to be the largest on the Riviera Maya. The kitchen will be open and feature Smokin' John's signature smoked meats and BBQ. We are looking forward to the house made gourmet pizzas that will come out of the new handcrafted pizza oven.

If you like to hang out in the sun, drink cold beer, eat good food and listen to good music in a family friendly atmosphere, Wah Wah is going to be the place for you! We will be there tonight to christen the new bar. Stay tuned for an update with pictures!

Wah Wah!!!!

Playa del Carmen's New Paradisus Resorts Partner with Chef Martin Berasategui

Rob Kinnon — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:28:00 GMT

Playa del Carmen, Mexico - Dec.13, 2011 - Paradisus Resorts, Melia Hotels International's luxurious all-inclusive brand, which expanded its portfolio in November with two new Mexican properties, Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda and Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla, announces its brand-wide partnership with seven-star Michelin Chef Martin Berasategui. The alliance introduces a unique concept by Chef Berasategui, whose eponymous restaurant in Lasarte-Oria, Spain is the recipient of three Michelin stars, to every Paradisus property starting with Playa del Carmen, where Passion by Martin Berasategui opens its doors today. The collaboration is part of the brand's mission to continue offering guests an uncompromised level of quality and service in every aspect of its all-inclusive experience.

Located in the prestigious Playa del Carmen enclave on Mexico's eastern Caribbean shore, the resorts, La Perla for adults-only and La Esmeralda for everyone, are the area's finest all-inclusive properties and are the only all-inclusive hotels in the Americas to boast cuisine by a Michelin-starred chef.

"By partnering with a chef of prestigious caliber such as Martin Berasategui, we are elevating the Paradisus brand and guest experience to a very unique level, one that is traditionally not associated with all-inclusive resort properties," said Bernard Wyss, Managing Director of Paradisus Playa del Carmen and Area Vice President for Paradisus Resorts. "This agreement also allows us to train and develop our kitchen and service staff at Berasategui's Lasarte restaurant under his direct supervision. We believe that this partnership reinforces Paradisus' commitment to providing our guests with an extraordinary food and beverage experience, one which exceeds what other properties in the region are offering."

An innovator of Basque cuisine, Chef Berasategui is known for utilizing molecular gastronomy and fresh seafood in his cuisine, which is light, extremely imaginative and crafted with masterful technique. He brings to Paradisus Playa del Carmen a concept that elevates guest experiences and exceeds expectations by showcasing unprecedented flavor profiles to guest's palates. The dishes and tasting menu at Passion by Martin Berasategui, where local seafood plays a starring role, is designed for pairings featuring the resort's most exquisite wines. Guests are able to choose pairings from three separate wine lists that have been created exclusively for the restaurant. Passion by Martin Berasategui is an adults-only gastronomic experience, serving dinner nightly within a beautifully decorated contemporary, yet elegant, space. Guests who book Paradisus' trademark Royal Service or Family Concierge upgrades are invited to one complimentary dinner at Passion by Martin Berasategui during their stay, reservations required. Additional guests of Paradisus Playa del Carmen are welcome to experience the superb cuisine for a surcharge, giving them access to the restaurant's a la carte menu or its tasting menu. Passion by Martin Berasategui is also accessible to local residents and visitors.

"With this new venture, my first in North America, I wanted to create an elegant restaurant incorporating Caribbean flavors into my signature cuisine in addition to a showroom for my team's service standards," said Chef Martin Berasategui. "I am extremely proud to open Passion by Martin Berasategui in Mexico introducing my cuisine to a country, culture, and heritage I have the deepest respect for; it is a privilege."

Passion by Martin Berasategui is a fine dining restaurant that juxtaposes Chef Berasategui's philosophy and style with the remarkable local ingredients of the Mexican Caribbean. One of the world's most accomplished chefs, Chef Berasategui started cooking in his teens, helping his mother and aunt in their family-owned eatery in San Sebastian, Spain. Training in France in addition to other unique culinary countries and cultures, influenced Chef Berasategui's approach to service and techniques.

Today, Chef Berasategui leads the culinary direction at Lasarte y Loidi at the Hotel Condes in Barcelona, the MB Restaurant at the Abama Resort in Tenerife, the Santo by Martin Berasategui at the Eme Hotel in Seville, the DOMA at the Silken Gran Domine Hotel in Bilbao and the Martin restaurant in Shanghai. Passion by Martin Berasategui is his first restaurant in the Americas.

Paradisus Resorts is an all-inclusive luxury resort brand owned and operated by Melia Hotels International, (formerly Sol Melia Hotels &Resorts) one of the world's most successful hotel companies. The growing brand has two hotels in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Paradisus Palma Real and Paradisus Punta Cana. Boasting unique room categories and luxurious upgrade options such as the adults-only Royal Service and family-only Family Concierge, the resorts are ideal for a wide spectrum of guests including couples, family vacations, destination weddings and business travelers. The properties in Punta Cana each feature The Reserve at Paradisus, an exclusive resort-within-a-resort concept where guests experience private check-in and stay in residential style accommodations, among numerous other services and amenities. In November 2011 the brand expanded its portfolio with two new properties in Playa del Carmen, Mexico: Paradisus La Perla, an adults-only resort, and Paradisus La Esmeralda, a resort for everyone. The impressive facilities and signature amenities at both Playa del Carmen resorts include dramatic free-form pools, breathtaking artful landscapes, a YHI Spa, fourteen restaurants and eight bars providing guests with pure freedom to escape and indulge in all the properties have to offer. Paradisus Resorts will continue its growth with the opening of a brand-new property in Papagayo Bay, Costa Rica, scheduled to open in 2013.

Got Turkey? Thanksgiving 2011 on the Riviera Maya

Rob Kinnon — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 19:11:00 GMT

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving in the United States and if you are an American expat living on the Riviera Maya or perhaps just here for a visit, you will be looking for a place to strap on the holiday feedbag and enjoy some good traditional Thanksgiving fare!

Here are a few options you may enjoy!

Our friends at Wicky's fave a fabulous feast planned for Thanksgiving this year. If you happen to be in Playa del Carmen for Thanksgiving this year, Wicky's Restaurant and Beach Bar will be the place to find moist roast turkey with all the traditional fixin's. Great food...with a view!

Fusion Beach Bar and Grill is the place to celebrate Thanksgiving on the beach.

A special "turkey dish", live music, drink specials, the famous fire show and belly dancer will be featured at this Thanksgiving event.

Fusion is located on the beach at Calle 6 in Playa del Carmen.

OM Tulum will be serving Thanksgiving Dinner this year. Reservations are required. info@omtulum.com.

Turtle Bay Cafe in Akumal will be serving up a wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner with some traditional items and a few dishes that are destined to become new favorites!

Turtle Bay Thanksgiving Antipasto Platter
Wild Rice Soup with Maple Syrup
Roasted Turkey "Pibil" with French Bread Stuffing
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Slow-Cooked Green Beans
Honey Apple Glazed Carrots
Corn Pudding
Cranberry Mandarin Orange Relish

Your choice of dessert:
Traditional Pumpkin Pie with Fresh Whipped Cream
Apple-Cranberry Cobbler
Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie
Everything-but-Bread Pudding with Sweet Cream

Dinner includes two glasses of red or white wine

There will be two dinner seatings for Thanksgiving Dinner, at 5pm and 7:30pm.

$395 pesos per adult, $150 pesos for children
Reservations Suggested 984-875-9138 or 984-151-9522
or via email turtlebaycafe@gmail.com

Bad Boys Beach Bar will be holding their annual Thanksgiving Day Pot Luck on November 24. The buffet will begin at 3:00 pm. Cowboy John will be smoking the turkeys onsite!

Cost is $150 pesos per person or bring a side dish to share and eat for free.

As always, J.J. and the Nasty Bastards will entertain the crowds and get you up and dancing from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Manne and Susie at Manne's Biergarten never disappoint and have always served up some of the best food in Playa del Carmen. This Thanksgiving Dinner is certainly going to be fabulous!

$180 mn per person. Serving from 5:50pm until 10:00pm.
Reservations strongly recommended 984-133-4484 or 984-876-5363.
Manne's is located on Calle 4 between Avenidas 10 and 15.

On Thursday November 24, Tirami...su Restaurant in Puerto Aventuras is offering a fabulous Thanksgiving meal. If you were lucky enough to make it over to Donna's table at Taste of Playa you know how good this is going to be!

Rosemary Roasted Turkey
Savory Sage Dressing
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Giblet Gravy
Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Sautéed Green Beans
Homemade Cranberry Mango Sauce
Caribbean Corn Bread
Homemade Pumpkin or Apple Pie

Tirami...su is located on the main marina in Puerto Aventuras.
250 pesos per person, $150 pesos for kids under 10.
Reservations Recommended (984) 873 5654 or donna[at]tiramisumex[dot]com

For something different celebrate "El Dia de Accion de Gracias" at Luna Maya! The Chef is putting a Yucatecan slant on the traditional Thanksgiving Day offerings with Pavo Relleno and Pay de Calabaza. This four course gourmet dinner with a special welcome cocktail will be $33 usd per person.

For Reservations: ventas@lunamaya.mx or call 984-151-2724

Ricardo at Off the Vine always knows how to put out a great spread so his Thanksgiving feast is sure to be delicious!

Oven roasted turkey with all the traditional sides paired with wines from around the world!

Dinner will be served at 8:00pm. Reservations recommended. 984-803-5244.

On Saturday November 26th, Lol-Ha Restaurant will be hosting a fun Thanksgiving Holiday Dinner-Dance in its palapa on the beach in Akumal! I can't think of a more beautiful place to spend the holiday weekend!

The festivities will be from 7pm - 11pm. Music by DJ Bob.

The Countdown Begins - Press Conference for Diamonds International® Taste of Playa 2011

Rob Kinnon — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 04:24:00 GMT

Last week, I had the great pleasure of attending the press conference for Diamonds International® Taste of Playa 2011. Not my first time at a TOP press conference, having headed up the Marketing Committee for the first two seasons, but my first time attending purely in the role of Sponsor. There was a good turnout for the press conference, a nice mix of corporate sponsors like myself, press agents and media reps and members of The Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen who will once again be managing the distribution of the donation from this year's event.

On hand to speak to the press was Monica Hartlief, three year veteran of the TOP committee and this year's Chairperson, Hector Escobedo representing the Chefs of the Riviera Maya, Carlos Espindola, Manager of Restaurant Tierra Espana, President of the Playa del Carmen Chapter of The Rotary Club, Francisco Santamaria, and Lilia Gordian from Diamonds International®, the esteemed title sponsor for this year's event. Each spoke passionately about their commitment to supporting the community and participating in events such as Taste of Playa that draw positive attention to this beautiful and diverse region of Mexico. One of the presenters remarked that Taste of Playa was the finest and most well organized culinary event on the Riviera Maya. Having been a part of Taste of Playa since its inception and recalling the struggles during our first year, it was wonderful to hear the event referred to in such complimentary terms. The members of the Executive Committee, also on hand to meet and greet the media, all glowed like proud parents....and with good reason!

Over the past 12 months, I've certainly missed sitting in on the planning meetings, spending time brainstorming with my girl-friends on the Executive Committee and it was great to see them all again and to catch up on the plans for this year's event. It is obvious that the committee has implemented quite a few changes based on feedback from the two previous years and carefully incorporated these adjustments into the grand plan. From what I have been privy too, Diamonds International® Taste of Playa 2011 is going to be the best one yet!

Diamonds International® Taste of Playa will take place on Sunday November 20, 2011 from 3pm - 9pm in the Parque Fundadores in Playa del Carmen. This year, I look forward to enjoying the event and sampling each one of the signature dishes presented by our participating Chefs. Secretly, I will still be a bundle of nerves, keeping my fingers crossed that it all goes off without a hitch and saying a special prayer to Chac and the CFE Gods for good weather and an uninterrupted electrical current!

Diamonds International® to be Title Sponsor for Taste of Playa 2011!

Rob Kinnon — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:56:00 GMT

Taste of Playa's Executive Committee is very pleased to announce that Diamonds International® has been named as the title sponsor for the third annual Taste of Playa, the Riviera Maya's premier culinary festival. Diamonds International® Taste of Playa will be held on November 20, 2011 in Parque Fundadores on the shores of the Mexican Caribbean.

Diamonds International®, with more than 125 locations in the Caribbean, Mexico and United States, is the largest duty free jeweler in the world. Renowned for their top-caliber customer service, extensive selection of quality merchandise and value pricing, Diamonds International® has pioneered the art of duty free shopping in the Caribbean and online. Diamonds International® offers a wonderful selection of classic, fashionable and modern fine jewelry from some of the most sought after designers in the world, all crafted by master jewelers who understand the true meaning of quality. With customers from around the world, Diamonds International® provides the finest jewelry brands to satisfy their wide range of trends, tastes and prices. Diamonds International® understands that jewelry is an expression of the person wearing it.

"We are absolutely thrilled that Diamonds International® will head our list of event sponsors this year." remarked event Chairperson Monica Hartlief. "Diamonds International® is truly an icon in the world of fine jewelry. Their name evokes a sense of high quality and service and we feel that their support as title sponsor will contribute in making Taste of Playa the international destination event that we have always envisioned. We are very proud and honored to present Diamonds International® Taste of Playa 2011."

Diamonds International® Taste of Playa will offer residents and visitors alike a unique opportunity to sample a wide variety of cuisines from 40 different restaurant and bar participants from all along the Riviera Maya. In its third year, 7000 people are anticipated to attend this day-long event.

Diamonds International® Taste of Playa is a community-oriented culinary event celebrating the creativity and diverse cultural influences of chefs throughout the Riviera Maya. Playa del Carmen's third annual Diamonds International® Taste of Playa has been announced for November 20, 2011 and will once again be held in Parque Fundadores. The event is open to the public with tickets and all-inclusive VIP passes available for sale on the official event website http://www.tasteofplaya.com.

Playa del Carmen 4th of July Party at Wicky's Beach Club!

Rob Kinnon — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:14:00 GMT

Looking for a place to celebrate the 4th of July with your family and friends in Playa del Carmen? Don't miss the annual 4th of July Celebration and BBQ at Wicky's Restaurant and Beach Club! The festivities begin at noon with live music starting at 1:30pm and FIREWORKS at dusk! Wicky's famous Beach BBQ Buffet will be open from 2pm - 7pm. This is an event that is not to be missed if you are visitor or an expat from the US you will be sure to have a great time!

Midsummers Eve Food Festival and Fundraiser Planned in Tulum!

Rob Kinnon — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 02:00:00 GMT

****DUE to incliment weather, the Tulum Food Festival has been postponed until Thursday July 7th!!****

An exciting food festival and fundraising event is being planned to to support the Tulum Living School Project and this year’s recipient school “Huricanes Kinder”. The event will take place on Tuesday, June 21 at 6:00pm at Charlie’s Restaurant and Bar in the Tulum Pueblo. This Gourmet Festival will celebrate both traditional Mexican cuisine as well as the gastronomic influences that have been brought to the Riviera Maya from around the globe! Given the diverse population of Tulum and the Mexican Caribbean, this is sure to be a treat for the taste buds. There will also be live music and a spectacular performance of Aztec dance to entertain the guests. Tickets will be 200 pesos per person which will include access to the fabulous array of dishes and two drinks from the bar.

Local restaurants are invited to participate by creating a signature dish that will serve 60-70 guests. There will also be an online raffle and a silent auction and local businesses and individuals are all encouraged to make a donation. Hotel stays, jewelry, apparel, scuba/snorkeling packages, massages, art pieces, adventure tours or anything you can think of will be gratefully accepted and will make help this event a huge success. The following restaurants have pledged their support for this terrific event:

Altamar
Restaurant Las Estrellas @ Cabanas La Luna
Mezzanine Hotel
Sand Bar @ El Pez
La Nave
La Zebra Hotel & Linas Restaurant
Hartwood

Auction and Raffle items will include:

Altamar- Gift Certificate for 2 for Dinner
Altamar -Membership for 1 Vegan/Vegetarian Cooking Workshop- set of 4 classes
Deseire Kvaska - Hand Painted “Dia de los Muertos” Skull
El Pez Hotel @ Turtle Cove - $1,000 Hotel Credit
Gaston- Feather Earrings
Ginger - 500 peso Gift Certificate to Dinner
La Zebra Hotel - $1,000 Hotel Credit
La Llorona - Hand Woven Bag and Scarf
Margo in Mexico - Certificate for 2 Massages & Coconut Oil
Maya Michelle- Turquoise Necklace
Mexico Kan Tours - 2 tour passes for the tour of your choice
Mezzanine Hotel - $1,000 Hotel Credit
Restaurant Las Estrellas @ Cabanas La Luna- Dinner for 2 with a Bottle of Wine
Shantala Spa & Boutique - Certificate for a Massage
Tattooluum - Certificate toward Piercing or Tattoo
Yoga Adventures - Yoga Class

All funds raised from ticket sales, the online raffle and the silent auction will go toward building a palapa and a fence for the kindergarten as well as the acquisition of tables and chairs for the children. The school would also like to implement a recycling program and purchase bins for a proper recycling area.

This event will be promoted on Facebook, Trip Advisor, Twitter, Tulum.info, tulumliving.com and many other popular Tulum travel sites ensuring excellent exposure for not only the festival but also its sponsors and contributing businesses. Participating hotels will help by selling tickets for the event.

The Tulum Living School Project is a local initiative whose mission is to help improve the infrastructure of schools in Tulum while promoting recycling education. To learn more, visit www.tulumschools.blogspot.com . For information about this event and to purchase raffle tickets, contact TulumLiving@yahoo.com .

Beach Bocce Ball Comes to Playa del Carmen!!

Rob Kinnon — Wed, 18 May 2011 20:32:00 GMT

Playa del Carmen's first ever Beach Bocce Ball Event is coming to Canibal Royal! Hosted by Canibal Royal, Latido de Mexico, and Playa Maya News, this one-of-kind event is one not to be missed! The tournament will be held on May 29^th 2011 from 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM.

Originally from Italy, Bocce Ball, has become a popular sport throughout the world and now beach bocce ball has made its mark. What could be better than playing right on the blue waters of the Caribbean in Playa del Carmen? Come on out and try something new and different and join the fun as a spectator or as a team member. Either way you are guaranteed to have an amazing day with food, drinks, fun, music, and plenty of laughs.

Sixteen teams, consisting of 2 people per team, will compete for the top spot, and 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place prizes will be granted to the top 3 teams. Additional prizes will also be granted for funniest, cutest, and best dressed teams so be creative. The registration fee is $100.00 pesos per team, and includes an ice cold beer for each player. Space is limited so register now!

When: Sunday May 29^th, 2011 from 1:00-7:00 PM

Where: Canibal Royal Beach Club Av. Flamingo con calle 48

Team Cost: $100.00 MN per team (2 people per team and includes a beer)

Spectator Cost: FREE

Drink and food specials, 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd prizes and happy hour with complimentary wrist band.

For further information, to pre-register your team, or to get your complimentary wrist band contact Susan de Lima susan@latidodemexico.com 984-128-7099 or Sara Moen sara@playamayanews.com 984-120-7909.

Brought to you by: Canibal Royal, Latido de Mexico, Playa Maya News, Diablito Cha Cha cha, La Santanera, Los Aguachiles, Three Olives Vodka, Dos Equis, Off the Vine, Waves Hair Salon, Cata Maya Catamaran, and Cat Eye Creations.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo and Support Angel Notion!

Rob Kinnon — Tue, 03 May 2011 17:56:00 GMT

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in grand fashion at Ajua Maya Restaurant in Playa del Carmen! Enjoy the exquisite culinary creations of Chef Gabriel Sanchez Gomez, a Master Chef of Traditional Mexican cuisine and help support Angel Notion.

Ayuda de los Angeles A.C., better known as Angel Notion, is a non-profit medical foundation serving the needy in Playa del Carmen and the communities along the Mayan Riviera with medical care, surgery, education, and dental care along with many specialties and alternative medicines. Services at the clinic include Psychological counseling, Gynecology, Dentistry, Pediatrics, Language Therapy, Orthopedics, General Medicine, Optometry, Nutritional Therapy and Ultrasound. Angel Notion provides disabled children in Playa del Carmen with customized medical attention and rehabilitation, specialized treatment and surgery, seminars on Life Skills to promote independence in day-to-day living and enhance opportunity for job placement. The foundation also facilitates special Medical Missions to provide special surgeries for cleft palate and other birth abnormalities.

Ajua Maya will be donating 10% of their sales this night to Angel Notion, AC. We invite you to enjoy this fundraising benefit and to experience the authentic flavors of new Executive Chef, Gabriel Sánchez Gómez.

Chef Gabriel Sánchez Gómez is from the state of Puebla and was born with a passion for food, flavors, Mexican markets and traditional Mexican cuisine. As a young child he spent a great deal of time in the abundant Mexican marketplace, where his single mother worked to support her family. They had few resources however, his mother would save a few pesos each and every day until she had enough to purchase the best meat, produce and spices and some of the more expensive Mexican delicacies such as Huitlacoche (corn truffles). She showed him how to carefully select the finest quality ingredients available and taught him traditional recipes and cooking techniques passed down from generation to generation. At the tender age of 5, he was often left to care for his younger brothers while his mother worked. She would prepare a meal in advance and leave it for Gabriel to reheat and serve. Even at this young age, he would taste her dishes and then add his own combination of spices and condiments to adjust the flavors for himself and his younger brothers! From this time on, he knew he was destined to be a Chef!

This Cinco de Mayo, Chef Gabriel will share his love and passion for traditional Mexican and Mestizo cuisine. Don't miss this opportunity to sample the authentic recipes and ingredients of Puebla including the famous Mole Poblano!

Appetizers
Chalupas Poblanas
Quesadillas with Flor de Calabaza & Mashed Peas

Entrees
Pipián Verde
Mole Poblano
Goat Cheese Stuffed Chipotle

Dessert
Cornbread with Rompope Sauce & Vanilla Ice Cream
Mexican Rice Pudding

Mariachis - 7 pm - 8 pm
Salsa Band - 8 pm - 10 pm
Rock n Roll Band - 10 pm - midnight

Ajua Maya is located on Calle 4 between Avenidas 5 and 10. Reservations are recommended. Call 984 803 1118 or email fun@ajuamaya.com.

Co-Sponsors for this event are La Clínica Sacbe, City Club, Corona, y Libertad de Accesibilidad, AC.