cancun 2 - Happy Address Vacation Rentals

Enjoy and Learn Underwater Photography

3rd August 2018 by happyaddress

You will never forget your visit to the Mayan Riviera and the experiences you will have here. If you love photography, there’s a big chance you shoot marvelous pictures here. That’s why we want to share with you 5 important tips to create memorable images of the main touristic attractions and of the treasures hidden under the surface of the sea!

1. Feel like fish in the water

It’s very important that you feel comfortable because it will greatly determine how good your pictures will look like. Whether you practice scuba diving or snorkeling, we encourage you to take control of your flow and avoid risky circumstances while taking pictures.

2. Know your subject

What would you like to photograph? Fish, reefs, sea turtles? Learning about your subject allows you to take advantage of the chances you get, because you will be able to anticipate their moves, behavior and whether they are dangerous or not.

3. Choose the best equipment according to your needs

There are two options: compact cameras or DSLR. Whether you are a professional or an amateur photographer, it’s very likely that you already know the advantages of the latter (better quality, more control, creative possibilities). A compact camera, however, is easier to operate and, because of its size, you can
handle it more efficiently.

4. Use light to your advantage

Natural daylight will be enough when you take pictures near the surface. However, the deeper you go, the more you’ll need to rely on an artificial light source. For DSLR cameras, there’s a huge variety of flash lights that will work well if you know how to use them properly. Some compact cameras, on the other hand, come with a built-in flash that makes things easier, although you will not be able to change the lighting.

5. Create a composition

Good photographs are well-composed. Use basic composition techniques like the rule of thirds, symmetry and asymmetry, frame within the frame, fill the frame, etc. If you choose to work with a DSLR camera, explore the possibilities of different lenses.

Remember that mastery requires a lot of practice.

In Happy Address, we are waiting for you to be part of your stories.

Realms of Bliss, Realms of Light

9th July 2018 by happyaddress

Tulum was named Zama by the ancient Mayan people due to its Eastern location. Zama means “dawn”. Although the name has changed, every day miraculous sunrises still paint with gracious red and gold the sky and the ocean. However, sunrises are only a part –although a big one– of Tulum’s treasures, since we have the Mayan ruins, the jungle, the cenotes. All here is amazing and beautiful, but the beaches are one of a kind. They are among the 10 most beautiful in the world.

Whoa… wait… what?

Yes, that is correct. And today we want to give you two names: Playa del Secreto and Playa Paraíso.

Playa Paraíso

Only half a mile away from the Mayan ruins of Tulum, Playa Paraíso (Paradise Beach in English) is great for snorkeling or scuba diving because of its many reefs and the colorful sealife that gathers around them. Turquoise waters and white fine sands are also present. Playa Paraíso is a public beach, so if you’re fond of quiet and silent environments, you should come up early to enjoy, in solitude, the first hours of the morning.

Playa del Secreto

Three miles away from Playa Paraíso, surrounded by the mangroves and the jungle, Playa del Secreto is a well-known secret among the local people of Tulum. You can come all the way kayaking or canoeing from Playa Paraíso through the mangroves, so you can watch all the different kinds of birds and iguanas that live here. Once you reach the beach, be careful with sea turtles’ nests and say hello to the tiny crabs digging little holes in the sand. This peaceful and colorful landscape will lift up your soul.

People who visit the Mayan Riviera regard it as a life-changing experience. Whether you’re looking for fun and adventure or peace and magic, you will find it here. Come to the Mexican Caribbean! Happy Address is waiting for you.

Kayaking in the Mayan Riviera is all you need for this Summer

5th July 2018 by happyaddress

The Mayan Riviera is an ideal destination for all kinds of people. Whether you are a big fan of nightclubs and bars or an early bird who enjoys walking on the beach to watch the sun rise from the starry night ocean, this magical place is just for you. Singles, couples and families can also design a very special plan to delight in the Mayan Riviera.

Now, if you are a free spirit who enjoys Nature and don’t like big touristy parks, kayaking might be your thing! Not only the Caribbean coast is very beautiful because of its glittering colors, but it also has flora and fauna worth looking at and kayaking is the best way to reach mangroves and lagoons or maneuver your way into open water. Some hidden treasures and landscapes near Tulum and Playa del Carmen worth the paddle! You can ask for tours around Soliman Bay and Sian’Kaan biosphere, both places are a must.

This journey for kayak lovers will mesmerize you, just remember to wear a long-sleeve shirt, hat, sunglasses and not to forget to put on some sunscreen! The Sun can be a little harsh but you don’t need to worry about it if you take precautions to protect your skin.

In Happy Address we want you to embark on a different kind of adventure and are waiting for you to make you feel at home but on vacation whenever you are not outdoors having fun. We offer you fully furnished luxury apartments and the lowest price guarantee. What are you waiting for? The Caribbean is calling!

Three cenotes near Tulum you will absolutely love

4th July 2018 by happyaddress

The Yucatan Peninsula is the only place on Earth where you can find cenotes. If you don’t know what they are, let us tell you: remember dinosaurs? No, they didn’t make the cenotes, but the meteorite that crashed on Earth and killed them all did. Then came the rain and filled these natural sinkholes with water, while the remaining minerals, filtered year after year during centuries, formed stalactites and stalagmites.

There are more than 15,000 cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula and you can find some of them in the wondrous Mayan Riviera next to the most beautiful beaches of the Mexican Caribbean. It’s very easy to get to any of them from any of Happy Address’ locations, you can rent a car and go at your own pace.

Let us tell you about our three favorites. They are near Tulum, so you can book a reservation with us and make a plan to enjoy all of them in your next visit.

Sac Actún

This cenote has stalactite and stalagmite formations, blue and green water and a depth of 332 feet. It also comprises a series of underwater caves that form the longest system in the world and connect it to Cenote Dos Ojos, another natural beauty. Sac Actún is great for snorkeling or scuba diving.

Dos Ojos

You will fall in love with this place. The stalactite and stalagmite formations resemble the rooms of a bright castle. Although its depth is about 400 feet, there are appropriate areas for children. Surrounded by the Mayan jungle, this place is truly a great opportunity to become one with Nature in peace.

Gran Cenote

This is the most famous cenote near Tulum. It’s a special one because, unlike the others, it resembles a big swimming pool surrounded by the Mayan jungle. Its clear water glides beneath the sunbeams and you can watch tiny fish and turtles swimming by your side. It’s also great for snorkeling.

It’s Turtle Season in the Mayan Riviera and you can’t miss it!

3rd July 2018 by happyaddress

Did you know there are seven species of sea turtles in the world? Did you know you can find six of them only in the Mayan Riviera? These beautiful animals are a local treasure and whether you practice snorkel or scuba diving in the turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean, you can spot the three main species: the Green Turtle, the Loggerhead and the Hawksbill.

In nesting season, from May to September, turtles bury their eggs in the beach, in the same spot they were born, and get back to the sea. Three months later, little turtles hatch from eggs to find their way to the ocean. The path is difficult and dangerous since there are many predators on the way, humans included. But if everything goes fine, they later become adults and come back to lay their own eggs.

From July to November, you can watch new-born turtles starting their life journey. There are organizations that protect baby turtles in Tulum, Akumal, Xcacel and Xcaret. In hatching season, volunteers gather during sunset to help baby turtles reach the ocean.

You can’t miss this beautiful experience! We invite you to visit the Mayan Riviera this hatching season. Remember you can book a reservation with Happy Address in Playa or Tulum! If you come, we encourage you to have fun while helping preserve this wonderful species.

Be careful:

Please don’t throw away plastic waste on the beach as it resembles jellyfish and turtles often eat it, being this their main cause of death. Our awareness and responsibility can help saving their lives.

The Playa del Carmen Aquarium, an attraction for all ocean lovers

28th June 2018 by happyaddress

When you think of the Mexican Caribbean, you immediately think of the ocean, the species, its exuberant vegetation that can only be found in such an environment, the colors, the fine white sand, the breeze, the the boats and the activities that each of the ports offer.

But there’s also another option that ocean lovers should experience: the Playa del Carmen Aquarium.

This unique spot, located in the heart of the city, is the place to visit for all lovers of the sea: from children to adults who haven’t had the opportunity to experience up close some of these species and even to experienced divers who wish to expand their horizons and take in some cultural heritage and the magnificent underwater life that exists in the Mexican Caribbean.

With more than 200 species in 45 themed exhibitions, visitors can view local flora and fauna, including seahorses, starfish, jellyfish, sharks, corals, amphibians, reptiles and more.

More than just a space for entertainment, the Playa del Carmen Aquarium seeks to promote conservation and environmental awareness among all those who participate in, enjoy and benefit from the space; this is the only way to develop an awareness of sustainability and a desire to continuously improve.

If you want to stay near the Playa del Carmen Aquarium, we definitely have options that you’ll love.

The Mayan Portal: What does this wonderful work of art mean?

21st June 2018 by happyaddress

It was December 21, 2012: the date on which, according to the Mayan prophecy, a new “katun” would begin, or, as many thought, the world would end.

People were gathered on the white sand of the Mexican Caribbean, perhaps expecting destruction and annihilation. Luckily, that didn’t happen. What they did see was a statue, designed by Arturo Tavarez, that would become the icon of a new era in the life, tourism and history of Playa del Carmen.

It was the beginning of a period that will last another 5,120 years.

With it, Playa del Carmen declared itself ready for a new time, where the charm and mystery of the Mayan jungle and tradition with a modern touch came together in the “Mayan Portal” (the name of the statue), as a message of solidarity and growth between the original peoples and the rest of the world.

Two figures stand evoking the ball game, a ritual that became characteristic of the first inhabitants of this wonderful place.

Standing almost 30 feet tall, a man and a woman hold hands to create a new cycle of light that represents hope.

A spiral of wind and of water show that Playa del Carmen always brings out the best in everyone.

The “Mayan Portal” is not a place where the world ends; on the contrary, it’s an open door for visitors and the people whose hard work has built this tourist destination that has become a symbol of prosperity in the Mayan Peninsula. It’s a way to invite locals and visitors to become part of a history that isn’t over yet.

Would you like to see the “Mayan Portal” for yourself? If you’ve already visited, what did you think?

What are the best breakfasts to try while vacationing in Mexico?

14th June 2018 by happyaddress

The Mayan Riviera is renowned for the versatility of its cuisine. Foodies will feel pampered by the amazing haute cuisine on offer, especially the many “mestizo” dishes, as well as those that make the most of their marine ingredients. Within just a few steps, those who prefer street food will come across taco stands and “fondas” (informal eateries) where they’ll be able to taste authentic local offerings.

Keep walking and you’ll come across steakhouses, fusion food and avant-garde cuisine restaurants that will take your palate places you’d never dreamed of. However, we can’t talk about food in the Mayan Riviera and not discuss the most important meal of the day: breakfast.

With so many activities available, including adventure tourism options, experiences, places to swim, archaeological sites to visits, sports to practice (shopping included), etc., you’ll need a healthy breakfast, rich in protein, vitamins and carbohydrates to keep you going all day long. In Playa del Carmen, taste and nutrition can easily go together. Our years of experience allow us to list some of the breakfast options that have enchanted those who visit the Mayan Riviera. If you haven’t tried them all, we truly recommend them.

Chilaquiles

This is a miracle dish for those looking to heal after a long night: chips, salsa (as spicy as you like), onions, cream, cheese and your choice of either chicken, eggs or beef, among other options. Chilaquiles are a delicious, revitalizing meal that will bring the color back to your cheeks, and if there’s still a party in your heart, it’ll be exactly what you need to keep the fun going.

Cochinita/lechón

People in the Yucatan Peninsula know how to feed the hunger that comes from days of fun, physical activity and discovering landscapes that you’d only dreamt of before. Cochinita pibil and lechón al horno, two traditional pork-based dishes, are some of their most iconic breakfast options, and they’re known for their deliciousness and nutritional value, which combines animal protein, carbs and fiber. Habanero peppers, renowned for their healing properties, are optional.

Eggs Motul-style

The best-kept secret of breakfasts in Yucatan. Imagine a freshly made tostada; add beans, a fried egg, a delicious sauce, peas, ham, cheese and a touch of habanero. As delicious and simple as it sounds, the combination has been perfected throughout years, and it’s become a favorite option for breakfast in the region.

Whatever you want

At Happy Address we don’t impose, we recommend. These are just a few of the many options you can enjoy while vacationing in the Mayan Riviera. The decision is yours, we just help make it happen.

Are you familiar with all the services we offer?

Get your body ready for summer!

7th June 2018 by happyaddress

Summer is just around the corner for the inhabitants of the Northern Hemisphere. Those south of the equator will have to wait a little longer, unless they take this wonderful excuse to visit the paradise shores we have this side of the world: We’ll welcome you with open arms.

Whether you’re in Patagonia, Alaska or northern Mexico, summer is usually synonymous with fun, beach, good weather, friends, dancing and clubs.

Because of this, many people who worry about their looks work out year-round to have a “bikini” or “beach body” when the time comes. However, for many others this is a source of problems: miracle diets, overcompensating, overtraining, despair and frustration—since everybody knows you can’t make your belly go away overnight.

At Happy Address we want you to have the vacation of your dreams, so we’re going to tell you how to get your body ready for summer.

The first thing you should do is think about your vacation: Where are you spending it? What are you planning to do? Who are you going with? Are you thinking about hooking up? Do you plan to sunbathe or would you rather stay indoors? Are you playing golf or skiing?

Then you should stand in front of the mirror and visualize the activities you want to do and the clothes you’re planning to wear: Have you seen a skinny-legged diver? A swimmer with a belly? A Kardashian without a tan?

The third thing you should do is forget every insecurity you have about your body. Your body is perfect for summer, winter, fall and spring, whether at the beach or watching the northern lights (though if you do, make sure to stay warm). At Happy Address we want you to enjoy your vacation without any limitations whatsoever; we’re here so no chain hotels can stop you from having the summer of your dreams.

Find out more about our wide range of options for vacation rentals, where you’ll be able to enjoy whatever you want to do.

Five perfect songs for your Mayan Riviera vacations?

24th May 2018 by happyaddress

Playa del Carmen is a unique place with a special personality that offers one-of-a-kind experiences for all visitors. Because music is always with you and fills the best moments of your life with emotions, we thought it would be interesting to build a playlist with five songs you shouldn’t leave out when you visit this tropical paradise.

What was our selection criteria?

We only considered the atmospheres you’ll encounter, the landscapes you’ll enjoy and the experiences you’ll live—that was the criteria.

Are you ready?

Cozumel- Cerati and Melero

Gustavo Cerati has always been a versatile singer-songwriter. In this song it feels like both his music and lyrics invite you to become a swallow flying over this marvelous island, floating on the sea breeze.

Wouldn’t It Be Nice – The Beach Boys

There’s a reason why the Beach Boys are called that: their music is so light, fun and easy to listen to, you’ll want it to be the soundtrack to having fun in the sand with your friends.

It’s Oh So Quiet – Björk

There will come a time when sunset will fall as softly as a feather, while the birds fly back to their nests and tourists take a nap. Everything will be peaceful and quiet, and then will wake up all over again.

Mi gente – J Balvin

J Balvin is a singer-songwriter who writes lyrics everyone can relate to. “Mi Gente,” besides being catchy, is an anthem for the cosmopolitan, for people from all over the world coming together in a brotherhood—but not a corny brotherhood, one that goes beyond the heart.

En el mar – Tin Tan

This is a classic Mexican beach song that plainly states that life is better and love is stronger by the sea. You can’t argue with that!

Bonus track: Cuando calienta el sol – Luis Miguel

If by any chance Mexican singer Luis Miguel had stopped being on everyone’s mind, Netflix fixed that by making a mini-series about his life. “Cuando calienta el sol” is a light, fun, romantic song that will immediately transport you to a world of teenage love by the sea, enjoying a refreshing drink.

What songs would you add to our Mayan Riviera vacation playlist?