PlayaLife Blog
Ever since I moved to Cancun, my Mexican friends have been telling me that the island of Cozumel has the best Carnaval festivities in the region. Last weekend, I finally got the chance to see what all the hype was about.
I didn't get to the island until right before the parade was about to begin, b…
Cancun and Playa del Carmen are the popular vacation destinations of Mexico. These destinations are globally renowned for their exquisite setting ad luxurious accommodations. Each destination has its own charm as Cancun has much better party and nightlife scene whereas Playa is more about the cosmop…
Today, Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day, held on February 5) is celebrated across Mexico mainly as a day off from school and work, when the entire family can enjoy a relaxing day at home or sometimes even a 3-day weekend. In addition to being a Mexican holiday, the Día de la Constitución…
Akumal is a small Caribbean town located approximately 50 miles south of the Cancun International Airport. This destination, a hidden Mexican jewel offers both tranquility and adventure. The region has been witnessing a tourist boom lately. As a result of this Akumal is now growing into a sophistica…
My Mexican mother-in-law grew up in a small coastal village on the Yucatan Peninsula, a tropical region known for its Mayan heritage and incredible legends. One of the most fascinating Mayan legends that my mother-in-law ever told me was about the Xtabay woman and the ceiba tree.
While different st…
Guests staying at the luxurious Fairmont Mayakoba resort in the Riviera Maya during the month of December 2012 can spread holiday cheer far beyond the grounds of the hotel this winter season.
Wondering what to do with all the extra room in your suitcase? Bring along some clothing or toys from home …
What lies beyond the Riviera Maya? What adventures wait in the jungles south of known travel destinations like Playa del Carmen and Tulum? What sights can be seen by daring travelers in search of much more than the average beach vacation?
The Ojos Mayas organization took our small group to discover…
Modern day Mayans still hold on strongly to their ancient traditions, especially in the villages of the Yucatan Peninsula and the extensive "Zona Maya" that lies just south of the Riviera Maya. The Xunaan Kab is one such tradition, a fascinating stingless bee that has been domesticated by the Mayans…
With Christmas fast approaching, many people living in the Riviera Maya will be stringing lights around their palm trees and playing in the sand instead of the snow. Even though Christmas trees and wreaths can be found at every supermarket, the best way to celebrate Christmas in Mexico is by giving …
There I was, walking downtown on a sunny afternoon, when something caught my attention at the Plaza 28 de Julio, also known as the Zocalo and the Palacio Gobernal. Seems PDC has started its Christmas Festivities!
From life size nativity scene to Christmas trees and decorations, we have it all! …
As of November 9, 2012, several new immigration laws in Mexico have gone into effect. One of the most important changes relates to minors entering and leaving Mexico.
Mexican and foreign minors (under 18 years of age) traveling to and from Mexico must present written permission from both parents …
Recent reports have discovered that 1.6 million American households have already decided that they want to repatriate to another country with another 1.8 million seriously considering it in the near future. With more and more people contemplating this route as a viable option for their family's futu…
The Mayan people of Cancun and the Riviera Maya often speak of the infamous Chechen tree, but they never dare to touch it. Beautiful to look at, Chechen has a contrast of dark, ruffled leaves and bright white bark with black sap running out of its trunk. However, this tree is most well known for its…
Once you move to the Riviera Maya, it won't be long before you begin to hear tales of intriguing Mayan myths from the depths of the Yucatan Peninsula. This colorful region is filled with culture and tradition with stories going back many centuries to explain some of the strange happenings in the tro…
Situated just 20 minutes down the highway from Playa del Carmen, the town of Akumal sits on two breathtaking bays, each with its own unique characteristics. Akumal Bay has crystal clear, shallow waters and a white sand floor, creating a picturesque setting for relaxing in the water or a bit of snork…
My family recently flew in from the States to spend time together in Playa del Carmen. Dinner with my family and my Yucatecan in-laws is always a fun yet challenging experience, trying to enjoy a meal while translating between both sets of parents to keep the conversation flowing. Our large bicultur…
The Mexican state of Michoacán is located in the central region of Mexico, southwest of Mexico City. The Day of the Dead is an important religious and cultural celebration, it said to be one of the most important representations of the living heritage of Mexico and the world, and one of the oldest …
Explore a Mexico attraction away from the beaches, hotels and tourists of the Riviera Maya's coast. Adventurous locals know all about La Ruta de los Cenotes (The Cenotes Route), an idyllic place to spend an unforgettable weekend surrounded by nature.
This extensive road begins just off the main h…
Picture yourself sprawled out in the shade of an umbrella or on a colorful sarong spread out over the sand, earphones playing your favorite songs while you look out over bright turquoise green waters. The cool Caribbean waters call out to you with the sound of soft waves, the perfect way to cool off…
Known for its lush jungle setting, endless cultural activities, Yucatan wildlife and breathtaking Caribbean backdrop, Xcaret is a theme park unlike any other. Every fall, Xcaret celebrates Mexico's Day of the Dead holiday with the Festival of Life and Death. This four-night event features visually s…
