Search results matching tags 'Events', 'Travel', and 'Family Life'

7 Years of Life and Death at Xcaret

435836 — Sat, 03 Nov 2012 20:22:00 GMT

Although I wanted to pull my hair out trying to get my kids wrangled into all the costumes and dance outfits they require for the various parties and events they had to attend last week, this is till my favorite time of the year in Mexico. This year we had Cat's dance group in the Xcaret parade down 5th Ave., another dance performance and a huge Halloween party at Papalote, the annual costume party at the barn and, of course, an evening at the Festival de Vida y Muerte at Xcaret.

Every year, I go on and on about the amazing work of the creative team, organizers and staff at Xcaret and this year will be no exception! The children's pavilion was awash with colored lights streaming through clouds of copal. Children moved from station to station, enjoying "cuenta cuentos" or storytelling about the ancient Maya and painting clay skulls. Always popular, the opportunities for face-painting were scattered throughout and children could choose from traditional Maya tribal designs or more modern calaveras. All the areas were well-manned with cheerful volunteers ready to explain the various exhibits and point new-comers in the right direction. I was pleased to see quite a few of the Preparatoria students from Papalote and Explayarte in the mix.

The sites, the sounds, the smells were almost overwhelming as we made our way through the park. We rested for a bit and grabbed a bite to eat at one of the many food stations set up throughout the park. Among the offerings, enormous tortas of pork and chicken tamales all serves up with pickled onions, crema, queso fresco and a variety of salsas. There were fresh baked pan muertos and crispy sugary churros for the kids. Cold cervezas and tequila kept the grownups sane.

Of course, no Vida y Muerte celebration would be complete without a trip to the cemetery and this year was no exception.

November 1st (All Saints Day) is the day generally set aside to remember children and babies who have passed while November 2nd (All Souls Day) celebrates the lives of beloved adults who have moved on to the next realm. This is a time set aside every year for everyone to recognize, remember and celebrate the lives of their ancestors and departed loved ones. This time of reflection is unique to each family and the festivities vary regionally. After my trip to Tres Reyes last year for their celebration of Hanal Pixan, I was really able to see the strong distinctions between "modern" altars for Dia de los Muertos and more traditionally Maya altars erected for Hanal Pixan. Unfortunately for me, the altars were set up in a new area this year and by he time I made it there, many of the candles had been extinguished and some altars disassembled for the evening.

Although the Xcaret Vida y Muerte Festival is held for four days, the actual Dia de los Muertos holiday is celebrated on the first two days of November. These days tend to be the busiest at the park. I recommend coming as early as you can to be able to see as many of the shows and exhibits as possible. If you can manage a full day in the park, your regular pass will grant you admittance at the festival as well which is a great deal! I think next year, I will bring the kids one evening and then come back another night by myself to make sure to catch all the elements of the festival that I missed this year. We spent a lot of time in the children's pavillion and missed out on a lot of the shows that I would have liked to see. One thing is for sure, the festival organizers have made this event better every year, adding more and more value to the very reasonable ticket price. I am already looking forward to Vida y Muerte 2013!

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+.

Experience Hanal Pixan in the Tres Reyes Village

435836 — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 11:00:00 GMT

As you all know by now, every year, the kids and I go to the amazing Festival de Vida y Muerte at Xcaret and every year we love it. Honestly, this is one of the most well-organized events that I have ever attended and I can and do recommend it to everyone who happens to find themselves on the Riviera Maya during the time of Dia de los Muertos. A few years ago, I saw some adverts for a Hanal Pixan excursion offered by Alltournative which piqued my interest but, as the week of Halloween and Dia de los Muertos is always a logistical nightmare, adding yet another activity into the family schedule was impossible. Once again, last year, the same tour was advertised and by some stroke of luck and a bit of divine intervention in the form of a rainstorm, the excursion was postponed a week or so and we were finally able to sign up!

Aside from a bus tour to Chichen Itza I took with my parents back in the 80's, this is the only organized excursion I have ever been on in this part of Mexico. Most destinations and archeological zones are easy to access and navigate and we have never felt like we needed to be herded along on one of these trips. For whatever reason, this one seemed differnt and interested me enough to sign us all up. Despite my reservations, we were all surprised and delighted by our encounter!

The day-long trip leaves from Playa del Carmen and brings guests to a Maya village called Tres Reyes which is located about an hour away, by way of Coba, just past Punta Laguna. Rather than take you through the itinerary or give you a proper trip report, I'm going to let the pictures tell the story of this remarkable experience.

Friday November 2, 2012, Alltournative will off their Hanal Pixan experience once again. The cost is just $300 mn per person which inlcudes transportation from Cancun or Playa del Carmen. You can register now by calling 984-803-9999 or 01-800-GO-NATIVE.

Have you reserved your spot yet?

I thought so. ;)

Sunday Kids Art Club! NEW at Zenzi Beach Club

435836 — Sat, 06 Oct 2012 22:03:00 GMT

The Riviera Maya just keeps getting more and more "family friendly". As a Mom, I can't tell how pleased I am to have so many great options for kids sports and activities in Playa del Carmen. Now Zenzi Beach Club is offering an entertainment for kids during their popular Sunday BBQ!

The adorable Miss Sarah Kenyon will be channeling her creative talents into a Sunday Kids Art Club. Sarah is proving all materials and will be on hand every Sunday from 2pm - 4pm to guide your budding Morisot's and Monet's toward their artistic dreams. The cost is just 50 pesos per child!

The club is open to Playa kids and visitors alike and should make for a great opportunity to meet new friends! So come on down to Zenzi Beach Club and sink your toes into the sand while your kids enrich their minds and have some fun.

Zenzi Beach Club is located on Calle 10 on the beach.

Performers Announced for the 10th Annual Riviera Maya Jazz Festival

435836 — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 11:14:00 GMT

RIVIERA MAYA, Mexico - The 10th annual Riviera Maya Jazz Music Festival will feature a one-of-a-kind lineup of some of today's greatest jazz performers. Nestled between the white sand beaches and verdant jungles along the Eastern Caribbean coast of Mexico's Quintana Roo, Riviera Maya will vibrate to the rhythm of Jazz for 3 days on November 22nd 2012 through November 24th.

The festival, hosted in Playa Mamitas and considered to be among the top 10 jazz music festivals in the world will allow music lovers to enjoy stellar performances by world-renowned artists. Over the past 10 years the festival has hosted big names such as George Duke, Four Play, Sergio Mendes, Herbie Hancock, Ivan Lins, Armando Manzanero, Sacbe, Stanley Clarke and Yellowjackets.

"The tenth annual Riviera Maya Jazz Festival will showcase jazz at its finest," said Dario Flota Ocampo, general director of the Riviera Maya Destination Marketing Office. "Every year we continue to improve the festival and we are pleased to provide travelers the opportunity to enjoy the performance of world-class jazz artists at one of the world's top travel destinations."

The lineup is as follows:

Thursday, November 22nd

Joe d'Etienne and his Big Band: The trumpet player, composer, arranger and pianist will kick off the festival.

Pete Escovedo: The legendary percussionist will marvel festival-goers with a mix of Latin rhythms and jazz.

Victor Wooten: The day will end with a performance by the 5-time Grammy award winning musician and talented bass player.

Friday, November 23rd

Nortec: This band will get the crowds dancing with its mix of traditional Mexican, electronica and dance music.

Poncho Sanchez: One of the most influential conga players and percussionists in Afro-Cuban jazz.

Level 42

Saturday, November 24th

Aguamala: This group born in Playa del Carmen will charm the crowds with a fine mix of influences, made of a base of jazz with touches of funk and rock, giving it a particular, delightful sound.

Wayne Shorter: The 6-time Grammy award winner and one of the most significant and prolific saxophonists and composers in jazz and modern music.

John Scofield: Tee masterful jazz improviser whose music falls somewhere between post-bop, funk edged jazz, and R & B will close the festival.

The 10th annual Riviera Maya Jazz Festival will be a celebration of music, history and culture in a beautiful venue that will provide sea, sand and sunsets, adding to the magic and beauty of the event.

For more information on the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival visit www.RivieraMayaJazzFestival.com

Twitter: @RivieraMaya - Facebook: www.facebook.com/RivieraMaya

Diamonds International® Title Sponsor for Taste of Playa 2012

435836 — 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

Summer Camps and Activities for Kids on the Riviera Maya 2012

435836 — Mon, 11 Jun 2012 11:00:00 GMT

Well, it looks like the rain clouds have finally drifted away from the Riviera Maya and left us with hot sunny summer-in-Playa weather. The kids are getting anxious, knowing that exams are over and the last days of school are fast approaching. Many of you will spend the summer traveling, perhaps back to your home countries to visit with family and friends in more temperate climates. The rest of us will be stuck here in the heat looking for ways to keep the kids entertained and out from underfoot for the next two months!

By popular demand we have once again put together a listing of summers camps and programs for children on the Riviera Maya. I have not yet heard back from all of the organizations who I have reached out. I will update the list as new offerings come in and re-post it on the BuyPlaya Facebook page. There are some nice options again this year for children of all ages, both day programs and sleep over camps. These are the programs and summer camps that we have found so far for kids living in Playa del Carmen and all across the Mayan Riviera. Whether your children are interested in sports, nature, the arts or even a traditional sleep-over camp experience, there are a variety of options to choose from.

Parque La Ceiba Curso de Verano (Day Camp)

Dates:      July 19, 2012 - August 17, 2012
Time:        9 am - 2 pm
Location: Parque la Ceiba - Calle 1a sur and Diagonal 60, Col. Ejido
Cost:        6 weeks $3600 mn/week 5 weeks $3250 mn/week 4 weeks $3000 mn/week
                3 weeks $2400 mn/week 2 weeks $1800 mn/week 1 week $1000 mn
                1 day $250 mn

Children ages 5 - 12 are invited to spend the summer break in the jungle at Parque la Ceiba in Playa del Carmen. This summer the camp will invite your child to "Discover Your Own Element". The goal of this program is to encourage the development of a child's sensory curiosity, imagination and creativity through artistic, cultural and recreational activities related to environmental awareness. To help our children learn about our natural environment, this course will address four major themes: EARTH, WATER, AIR and FIRE. Children will progress through the 6 week course participating in story-telling, art activities, environmental education activities, games of skill and training and tours related to all kinds of interesting environmental themes. There will also be a weekly visit of an animal of the jungle. Prices include all materials. Instruction will primarily be given in Spanish providing a wonderful opportunity for children new to Mexico to immerse themselves in the language in a casual and fun environment without the pressures of school. This is the 4th year that Parque la Ceiba has offered a summer camp for local children and it is very popular. For more information and to reserve a spot for your child, contact Lei de Landero at parquelaceiba@florafaunaycultura.org.

Sailing/Windsurfing (Day Camp)

Sailing:   July - August 2012
                Monday & Friday 3:00pm - 5:30pm
Location: The Marina in Puerto Aventuras
Costs:      $150 mn per class
                $900 mn per month (2 classes per week)
                $1500 mn for 2 months (2 classes per week)

Windsurfing: July - August 2012
                      Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10:00am - 12:00pm
Location:       The Marina in Puerto Aventuras
Costs:          $250 mn per class
                      $1500 mn per month (3 classes per week)

This is brand new summer offering and one our family is very excited about. Since its inception about a year and a half ago, the sailing club in Puerto Aventuras has attracted a great following. Captains in the making train on easily maneuverable Optimist sailboats, perfect for young ones. This summer the Club Deportivo de Velas in Puerto Aventuras will offer both sailing instruction for children 7 -14 and windsurfing instruction for teens and adults 14 and over. Space is limited so don't wait until the last minute to register. For more information and to sign up contact Director Daniele Gracis 984-127-1392 or via email atencion@colonos.org.

El Eden Jardin de Arte Summer Program

Dates:      July 9, 2012 - Aug. 3, 2012 Ages 7-12
Time:        9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: El Eden Jardin - Edificio Catarinas, Ave. Constituyentes and Calle 95
Cost:        $2000 mn per child if paid before June 23
                 $2300 mn per child if paid after June 23

Summer has arrived at El Eden Jardin de Arte and soon will be packed with children looking for summer fun! The Jardin de Arte summer program will have a variety of activities and games where kids will not only have fun but also learn about water conservation, recycling, art, science and cinema. A snack is included in the price. Discounts for local children with official school credentials. For more information call 984-110-5051 or email jardin_eden_gallery@yahoo.com. You can also get updates on the Eden Jardin Facebook page.

Azul Maya Summer Camp (Sleep-away Camp)

Dates:     July 8, 2012 - July 14 2012
                July 15, 2012 - July 21, 2012
Time:       Sleep-over camp
Location: Camp Azul Maya, Laguna Bacalar
Cost:       $7900 mn per camper/per week-long session

Camp Azul Maya is located just about 2 hours from Playa del Carmen on Laguna Bacalar. Children and teens, ages 9 - 16, will spend 1 week sleeping in eco-cabins on the shores of Bacalar, the lake of seven colors, surrounded by nature. Summer Camp Azul Maya combines various elements that make this an unforgettable life experience where your children will learn, live together with nature and have a great time! Activities include swimming in cenotes, kayaking, zip-lines, hiking, climbing/rappelling, visits to archeological sites, campfires and all the fun you would expect from a great summer camp experience. Onsite counselors are trained in biology, nutrition, conservation, ecology and the unique history and culture of the region. Medical/first aid care will be available 24/7. Sessions are limited to 30 campers to provide a personalized camp experience. Cost includes lodging, meals and all onsite activities. For more information and to reserve a place for your child, visit the Azul Maya Camp website , Facebook page or contact camp organizers at kayakcenter@raidmexico.com or lcanseco@raidmexico.com.

Agua Azul Camp (Sleep-away Camp)

Dates:     July 16, 2012 - July 21 2012 - $3300 mn per camper
               July 23, 2012 - July 29, 2012 - $3800 mn per camper
               July 30, 2012 - Aug. 4, 2012 - $3300 mn per camper
               Aug. 6, 2012 - Aug.12, 2012 - $3800 mn per camper
Time:       Sleep-over camp
Location: Camp Agua Azul, 1 hour west of Cancun, in Nuevo Valladolid

Want your kids to experience the traditional "sleep-over" camp like you did as a child? Check out Camp Agua Azul! This summer camp is located just about 1.5 hours from Playa del Carmen near Nuevo Valladolid. Children ages 6 - 15 will spend 1 or 2 weeks sleeping in tents, surrounded by lush jungle and mystical cenotes. Campers will learn about the environment they live in and enjoy all sorts of games and activities including swimming in cenotes, kayak races, water zip-lines, campfires, foam wars, obstacle courses, competitions and all the fun you would expect from a true summer camp. Adult counselors and lifeguards with paramedic training will be onsite at all times. Cost includes transportation to and from Cancun, lodging, meals, accident insurance and all onsite activities. For more information visit the Agua Azul website and check out these camp videos on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnsyxsJCD1Q and http://youtu.be/c8Rz384u1yQ. To reserve, contact camp organizer Marilu Rivera at 998-120-4825 or via email campaguaazul@gmail.com.

Cole - Summer of 2011 Cole - Summer of 2012

Horseback Riding Camp (Day Camp)

Dates:      July 2, 2012 - August 17, 2012 Monday - Friday
Time:        9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Hipico Playa del Carmen, located behind Rancho Guadalupana, just south of Xcaret on 307 south.
Cost:        $3000 mn per student per month (4 weeks)
                 $1000 mn per student per week (5 day session)

Boys and girls, ages 6 and older, will spend their mornings at the Hipico Playa del Carmen learning all about horses; how to feed and care for the animals and their tack. Riding instruction daily for beginning and intermediate riders. Children who enroll for a month long session will be able to "Adopt a Horse" for the month! This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce your children to horses, animal care, stable maintenance and riding in a safe and fun environment under the supervision of experienced equestrian Paco Magallon. After riding class, campers can cool off in the cenote onsite! No previous experience required. Bi-lingual instruction. For more information, visit the Hipico Playa del Carmen Facebook Page or email hipicoplayadelcarmen@gmail.com.

Summer Cooking Classes for Children (Day Camp)

Dates:     June 11, 2012 - August 12, 2012 Saturdays
Time:       12:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Location: Resplandor Gaia, Col. Ejido Ave. 110 and 30 norte
Cost:       $1000 mn per child per module (4 classes)
                $ 300 mn per child for a single class

Cooking is a tool of life, one that makes us truly independent. It is a skill that can be used at home, to share with friends, as a gift we can give to others as well as to ourselves. This summer let your children learn about food from a whole new and fun perspective. Every Saturday beginning in June, classes are available for kids ages 6-13 in small groups of just 10 students. The classes are held in a safe and sanitary environment with theory and skills offered in an age appropriate manner. The classes are meant to be practical, dynamic, theoretical and most importantly, FUN! Children will have the opportunity to find their own path to being creative and confident in the kitchen at the same time acquiring an appreciation for foods and flavors that are not only delicious but also healthy and nutritious! The children will create a dish of their very own in every class! Discounts may apply for multiple inscriptions. For more information call 984-133-0368 or email maurnisha@hotmail.com. You can also get updates on the event page on facebook.

Explayarte Summer Music/Dance/Theatre Classes (Day Camp)

Explayarte has always been the place to go for music instruction in Playa del Carmen. They offer professional instruction for all levels in guitar, base guitar, violin, drums, keyboard as well as vocal instruction and chorus, theatre arts and dance. This year, Explayarte will be offering a variety of summer programs for children ages 6 and up. More experienced musicians can take intensive courses in Rock, Jazz and Latin music. Dance classes will be available for beginning, intermediate and advanced students. Class rooms and studio spaces are fully air-conditioned. There are a number of programs and activities offered at various days and times. I would recommend you contact Director Luis Ernesto Lopez at explayarte@hotmail.com or call 984-859-3203 (3201) to find the best programs for your children.

PLAY TENNIS Camp for Kids (Day Camp)

Dates:     July 2, 2012 - July 6, 2012
               July 9, 2012 - July, 13 2012
Time:       8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Location: RIU Lupita Hotel/Colegio Manuel Acosta, Playacar
Cost:       1 week: $1500 mn     Tennis only $1000 mn
               2 weeks: $2500 mn     Tennis only $1700 mn
               Significant discounts available for children already enrolled in the PLAY Tennis KIDS program.

PLAY TENNIS has organized a wonderful summer tennis camp for kids ages 5 - 13. Fun and learning guaranteed! Using the new "Play + Stay" method, kids of all skill levels will learn the proper technique and form for each of the strokes used in the fast paced game of tennis! Children will develop important motor skills with the racket in a manner suitable for children at all levels of play. Each day will be split between court time and swimming lessons in the pool at Manuel Acosta School. There will be all sorts of fun games, educational activities, raffles and prizes with a mini-Olympics at the end of the week!

8:00 am   Classes begin at the Hotel Riu Lupita in Playacar
10:30 am Students transported from Hotel Riu Lupita to Colegio Manuel Acosta
11:00 am   Swimming lessons in the pool at Colegio Manuel Acosta
12:00 pm   End of day. Children can be picked up at Manuel Acosta

This summer course is organized and operated by PLAY TENNIS ACADEMY. Intensive specialized clinics will also be available in the evenings for advanced teen and adult players. For more information and to sign up contact Alvaro Flores at tenisproalvaro@gmail.com or call 984-806-4666.

Papalote Summer Camp - Juniors (Day Camp)

Dates:     July 4, 2012 - July 31, 2012 Monday - Friday
Time:       9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Papalote School, Ave. 25 between Calles 30 and 32
Cost:       1 Day - $200 mn per child
    1 Week - $1200 mn
                Entire Course - $3000 mn

Children ages 1.5 - 7 years old will spend the day having fun with old friends and new! Using Waldorf based teaching methods, the children will have the chance to experiment with watercolors, learn a variety of handcrafts made from recycled materials, enjoy water games and face painting and much more! Instruction will be bi-lingual and provide a great opportunity for both native Spanish and English speakers to practice language skills in a casual, inclusive environment. For more information contact the school at elpapalote@prodigy.net.mx or call Miss Isela 984-128-6629 or 984 -104-0800. You can also connect with the school on Facebook.

Papalote Summer Camp - Youth/Teen (Day Camp)

Dates: July 9, 2012 - Aug. 9, 2012 Monday - Friday
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Papalote School, Ave. 25 between Calles 30 and 32
Cost: Entire Course (5 weeks) - $3800 mn

Papalote's Coach Omar Alfaro invites kids ages 8-16 to stay active this summer with a fun sports camp! Children will be able to keep their skills sharp and learn new techniques during this 5 week summer program. Cost includes lunch every day, field trips and visits to local cenotes. For more information contact the school at elpapalote@prodigy.net.mx or call Coach Omar 984-133-6046. You can also connect with the school on Facebook. Inscriptions begin June 22nd at the school administration desk.

Cultural Institute of Cancun (Day Camp)

Dates:     July 9, 2012 - Aug. 2, 2012 Monday - Friday
Time:       9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Location: Instituto de la Cultura y las Artes, Ave. Chichen Itza & Ave. Tulum SM23
Cost:       Entire Course - $1000 mn per child

Make your child's summer fun and educational! The Instituto de la Cultura y las Artes in Cancun invites children ages 4 - 10 years old to spend the day having fun, learning and developing new artistic talents making new friends! Children will have the chance to participate in a variety of artistic pursuits such as ballet, jazz, modern and traditional folk dancing, drawing, painting and much more! For more information call 998-898-4510. You can also connect with the Instituto de Cultura Cancun on Facebook .

Little Om Curso de Verano with Ana Bolio (Day Camp)

Dates:     July 16, 2012 - July. 20, 2012
               July 23, 2012 - July 27, 2012
               July 30, 2012 - Aug. 3, 2012
Time:       8:00 am - 1:00 pm (Lunch not included)
Location: #24 Calle Nube, SM4 M3 Cancun
Cost:       $1250 mn per child per week

Prepare your young children for the birth of a new era and a new consciousness. Children enrolled in the Little Om Curso de Verano in Cancun will practice yoga and Meditation, learn to grow and care for plants, create unique pieces of cosmic art, explore the perfect imperfection of Wabi Sabi and have some fun in the summer sun learning to SUP - stand-up paddle-board. This is truly a unique and spiritual summer camp experience! For more information call 998-885-2747.

Harmon Hall English Summer Course (Day Camp)

Dates:     July 9, 2012 - Aug.17, 2012 Monday - Friday
Time:      11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Harmon Hall, Calle 6 between Ave. 25 and 30
Cost:       6 weeks $4194 mn per student (plus cost of books)
               Call 01-800-HABLA YA for tuition information for 1, 3 & 4 week sessions

This will be of particular interest to National families who are looking for an intensive English summer program for their school age children. Harmon Hall, likely the best known English language school in Mexico, is offering a Summer Course for students ages 6 - 18. The classes will involve 2.5 hours of fun English instruction, a half hour break for lunch (supervised) and 2 hours of fun activities, also in English. Each week, the activities will focus on a different theme: Living Green, Healthy and Happy, Discovery, Diversity, The Power of Friendship and Where are We?. Parents can choose to enroll their children in blocks of 1, 3, 4 or 6 weeks. The students will cover nearly 2 full modules of the regular Harmon Hall language program during this 6 week camp. For more detailed course information including prices for individual week modules call 01-800-HABLA YA. A super-intensive course is also offered for teens and adults who want to study over the vacation period. Discounts may also be available through certain companies (all the employees of member hotels and companies of the Hotel Association of Riviera Maya, for example).

Mina Wigueras Summer Camp in Puerto Morelos (Day Camp)

Dates:     July 9, 2012 - August 3, 2012 Monday - Friday
Time:       9:00 am - 1:30 pm
Location: Mina Wigueras Yoga Studio, 779 Rojo Gomez, Puerto Morelos
Cost:       1 Day - $150 mn per child
    1 Week - $700 mn
                1 Month - $2500 mn

Children in Cancun, Puerto Morelos and the Riviera Maya are invited to spend their summer days creatively under the supervision of Mina Wigueras at her Yoga Studio on Rojo Gomez. Children will explore many different artistic outlets including plastic arts, music, yoga and physical expression. They will also take part in fun projects that teach about healthy eating, nutrition and ecology as well as many other recreational and cultural activities and field trips. For more information call 998-137-6770 or email minawigueras@hotmail.com. Discounts apply for regular studio students and for those who pay in advance.

Centro Cultural Playa del Carmen (Day Camp)

Dates:     July 17, 2012 - Aug. 10, 2012 Monday - Friday
Time:       8:30 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Centro Cultural, Ave. 115 y Cruz de los Servicios, Col. Ejido
Cost:       Entire Course - $400 mn per child

Make your child's summer fun and educational at this very affordable summer day camp! The Centro Cultural in Playa del Carmen invites children ages 4 - 10 years old to spend their days having fun and making new friends! The theme of this year's program in "Conociendo Nuestras Raices" or "Getting to Know Our Roots". Children will have the chance to participate in a variety of activities such as story telling, dancing, drawing, painting, gardening, theatre arts, sports and games, arts and crafts and much more! For more information call 984-873-2134. You can also connect with the Direccion de Cultura Solidaridad on Facebook .

Dance 4 Fun Summer Camp (Day Camp)
Dates:     July 9, 2012 - Aug. 8, 2012
Time:       9:00am - 1:00pm
Location: Lote 3, MZ 16, Bosque Real, Playa del Carmen
Cost:       $1400 mn per child

Boys and girls ages 7 - 12 years old in Playa del Carmen are invited to spend 4 weeks exploring artistic expression and theatre arts at Dance 4 Fun. Activities will include dance, acting, musical and comedic theatre, plastic arts, choreography, scenic arts, music appreciation and physical expression. They will also take part in fun projects that teach about healthy eating, nutrition and ecology as well as many other recreational and cultural activities and field trips. For more information call 984-109-1746 or email dance4f@ymail.com.

Manuel Acosta School (EMMA) Curso de Verano (Day Camp)

Dates:      July 9, 2012 - August 3, 2012
Time:        8:30 am - 2:00 pm
Location: Manuel Acosta School, Playacar
Cost:        Entire Course $2950 mn per child
                1 weeks $850 mn per child
                1 day $200 mn per child

Manuel Acosta School in Playacar will open its doors once again with a fun summer program for children ages 3 - 12. Daily activities will include swimming lessons and workshops in painting, recycling, origami, arts and crafts, learning to use iPads and watching movies. Discounts apply for multiple children enrolled together. Costs include all materials. Children can bring their own snacks or purchase food in the school cafeteria. For more information and to register call 984-873-0652 or email playacar2001@hotmail.com.

Explayarte Intensive Summer Dance Program (Day Camp)

Dates:     July 9, 2012 - Aug. 13, 2012 (5 weeks)
Time:       9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Explayarte Building, Arco Vial across from Centro Maya
Cost:       1 week:   $850 mn     2 weeks $1600 mn
                3 weeks: $2200 mn   4 weeks $2700 mn
                5 weeks: $3100 mn

Intermediate and advanced dance students, ages 13 and up, are invited to participate in an intensive summer dance program covering a variety of significant dance forms. Classes will be lead by experienced dance instructors Liliana Alarcon, Ana Cuevas, Thalia Brena, Luisiana Leguzamon and Liliana Guerra. Each week-long module will include instruction in Street Jazz, Ballet, Modern and Lyric Dance, Hip Hop and and physical expression. Class size will be limited to just 15 students. For more information and to register email explayarte@hotmail.com or call 984-849-3201 (3203).

Talulah Dance Academy Summer Program (Day Camp)

Dates:     July 2, 2012 - July 13, 2012
Time:       10:00am - 1:00pm $1200 (5 classes)
              10:00am - 2:00pm   $1500 (5 classes)
Location: Cancun Studio

Dates:      Aug. 20, 2012 - Aug 31, 2012
Time:       Afternoons, Please call for class times
Location: Playa del Carmen Studio
Cost:        Please call for costs

Dates:      Aug. 20, 2012 - Aug. 31, 2012
Time:     Afternoons, Please call for class times
Location: Cancun Studio
Cost:        Please call for costs

Talulah Dance Academy will be offering intensive classes in Modern Dance, Hip Hop, Jazz, Lyric Dance and Ballet at both the Cancun and Playa del Carmen studios. All classes will be taught by professional dancers and expert instructors. Classes are open to intermediate and advanced students, ages 10 and up. For more information, please call Cancún 998-884-1884 or Playa del Carmen 984-140-1566 or email talulah35@gmail.com.

If you know of any additional summer programs being offered in Playa del Carmen or anywhere in and around the Riviera Maya, please let us know so I can add them to the list! Send me an email at michelekinnon[at]gmail.com.

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

435836 — 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

5th Annual Whale Shark Festival Set for June 15-17, 2012 on Isla Mujeres

435836 — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 17:20:00 GMT

The 2012 Whale Shark Festival has been announced in the following Press Release!

Isla Mujeres, Mexico - Feb 02, 2012 -- Celebrating the beauty and culture of Isla Mujeres, Mexico, and championing the need to preserve a fragile marine ecosystem, eco-tourism travel agency Ceviche Tours and the Isla Mujeres Department of Tourism announce the Fifth Annual Whale Shark Festival, a community extravaganza that showcases the achievements, traditions and environmental splendor of Isla Mujeres.

The Festival will be held June 15-17, 2012 in Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico.

Last year thousands flocked to the family-friendly Whale Shark Festival, which offers guests an opportunity to participate in eco-tourism adventures such as swimming with whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean and an endangered species; swimming with sailfish; join in traditional dancing performed by local troupes; exploring ancient Mayan ruins and much more.

Proceeds from the Whale Shark Festival will be donated to Amigos de Isla Contoy, a 501c3 non-profit organization that is involved in the education of the local population on sustainable marine conservation and eco-tourism.

The Whale Shark Festival is an effort to raise awareness for the need to preserve the area's marine ecosystem. Isla Mujeres is part of the second largest barrier reef on the planet, and serves as the nursery of the Caribbean and the migratory path of whale sharks, sea turtles, water fowl and game fishes. "Sustainable eco-tourism engages guests in the effort to preserve the culture of Isla Mujeres, their way of life and the marine environment," said John Vater, who co-founded Ceviche Tours with his wife, Adriana, and longtime friend and Isla Mujeres native Luis "Cuco" Refugio and his family.

Swim with 200+ Whale Sharks Kicking off the Festival will be the whale shark bloom, when hundreds of these gentle giants come together to swim in a group near the coast of Isla Mujeres. As many as 1,400 whale sharks may make their way through the waters north of Isla Mujeres every summer according to Dr. Robert Hueter, Director of the Center for Shark Research, Mote Marine Laboratory and scheduled speaker at the 2012 Whale Shark Festival.

The Isla Mujeres Tourism Department Director, Eyder Jahil Hoth Perez, stated, "Through this event tourism awareness about the whale shark has increased over the last several years, especially regarding the need to protect all our species and natural resources. Eco-tourism-related activities have also been creating a new culture of respect and care for our natural resources in the new generations of islanders. In this, children have been playing a very important role toward changing behaviors that were unsustainable in the long term."

Guests of the Festival can participate in a wide array of activities:

Swimming with Whale Sharks -- Guests can swim with whale sharks and join a conservation effort spearheaded by ECOCEAN, a non-profit organization that maintains the global Whale Shark Photo-Identification Library, a visual database of the unique markings, or spots, that can identify individual whale sharks and track them. Guests can add their underwater photos of the whale sharks to ECOCEAN's global database.

Fun for Families -- The festival will feature many educational children's activities about environmental conservation.

Academic Seminars and Film Showcase -- Scientists from around the world will attend to present a series of Academic Seminars on marine biology, sustainable eco-tourism and Mayan architecture. Renowned marine biologist Rafael de la Parra, who discussed his groundbreaking research, "An Unprecedented Aggregation of Whale Sharks, Rhincodon typus, in Mexican Coastal Waters of the Caribbean Sea" at last year's Whale Shark Festival, will again be speaking and also organizing the 2012 panel of distinguished speakers.

Booking travel travel arrangements and bookings to swim with whale sharks can be made through the Ceviche Tours Website ( www.cevichetours.com ).

For a complete listing of Whale Shark Festival activities and for more information, visit www.whalesharkfest.com.

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

435836 — 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.

Travels in the Yucatan - Tizimin and the Feria de Caballos

435836 — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:59:00 GMT

In addition to visiting the Merida Zoo, we had a special day trip planned for the kids, a road trip to the village of Tizimin to see the Feria de Caballos (horse fair) during the Festival de los Reyes, one of the 5 largest annual festivals in Mexico. Birdie's trainer, Paco, had mentioned the fair to me a few weeks back, thinking it might be fun for all of us to see now that we were reentering the horse world. Tizimin is located north of Valladolid but even though we were traveling back west from Merida, the trip turns out to be about equidistant (time-wise) from Playa del Carmen. Taking the road that runs parallel and to the north of the Cancun-Merida cuota was fast and easy and only took us about 1.5 hours. Once in the town of Tizimin, finding the fairgrounds was not difficult. There was a LONG line of cars all headed (at a snail's pace) in the same direction and hundreds of buses bringing visitors from across the country. It is fair to say the town was filled to capacity!

Once we finally got in, we made a beeline for the covered arena where an equine exhibition was taking place. Ranchers had brought their finest breeding stock to show off and hopefully capture the interest of other top quality breeders and equine enthusiasts. Right away, we ran into a friend and fellow horse-nut from Playa and the only other gringo in attendance. She has kept horses in Cancun and along the Riviera Maya for some years and knows a lot of the breeders and trainers. One of the horses she had once considered acquiring, a feisty Friesian, was on display this day and we had the opportunity to meet him and his handler. There were so many beautiful creatures there.

Feisty Friesian

Look at the beautiful markings on this unusual wall-eyed Quarter Horse.

Pretty Palomino

Handsome Arabian Stallion

It was love at first site for me and this fine fellow. It's difficult to show the scale but let's just say this horse could easily manage Rob.

Prize winning bulls

Lisa found another friend!

"Life's a Beach" readers certainly know by now that I have a very adventurous palette. I am a true devotee of the nasty bits and all things offal! There is almost nothing I won't try, but here, I was faced with a real W.W.M.D. moment. There were things on la parilla that even I couldn't find appetizing and I am not referring to the whole head slow roasting over the hot coals. Rob snapped a few choice photos on his iPhone to send off to our friend Mike in Chicago, showing him all he was missing. Next year Mike....Kinnon-Lopiano culinary road trip to Tizimin! You in?

Ultimately, we ordered and shared a large mixed grill (over cooked and over priced) with frijoles charros and queso fundido and hurried back to the festival to check out the rides!

Yup. They're cute.

More standard carnival food.

Cute carousel.

This is Birdie's very favorite carnival ride, as you can probably tell by the look on her face. As if it isn't fast enough, the ride operators run from car to car and whip them around randomly. Huge fun!!

After the first ride, Cole has already had enough. Birdie is just getting warmed up. Where does my daughter head next? The horrible, plunge-to-your-death roller coaster. Super.

Stop.

Think.

Why am I the only one in line for this?

Even the ticket-taker looks skeptical!

Off to certain death.....

Can you hear me screaming?

Grateful to have escaped with our lives, we passed on "Angelo the two headed baby" and made a b-line for the always popular bumper cars. This was by far the best set up we have seen so far in our Mexico-Central America travels. The cars were in great shape with only a minimal amount of sparks raining down from above. There were lots of other drivers dashing and smashing about making big fun for everyone. Of course, the kids took several turns!

Another favorite, the Himalayan Plunge made even more exciting when the safety bar kept popping open!

Uuum. Barf. No thanks.

Going to have to pass on this one too.

Carnie folk, Mexican style.

Back in the arena, a riding demonstration was going on for a standing room only crowd. These were very good riders and very well trained horses. Birdie was amazed as the "cues" given very practically invisible. These "dancing horses" were a huge attraction for this crowd. I took a short video of some of the antics.

After the demonstrations, we made one last pass through the rides so the kids could try out this attraction. Brilliant actually, this was probably the most fun they had all day and the guys running the show seemed to be having just as good a time!

I am totally getting one of these!

One last look at the livestock on the way out.

This is NOT how you want your day to end.

By the time night fell, we were tired and passed on the rodeo and other night time activities as we had to drive all the way back to Merida. It was a great day and a great "authentic" experience, the kind that seems harder and harder to find at least on the Riviera Maya. The Feria de Caballos is already on our calendar for next year!

Go to: Day 5 - More Merida Real Estate Adventures