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The day Frida Kahlo went to the Mayan Riviera

2nd October 2017 by happyaddress

The art that exists in the Mayan Riviera beats in its roots. It would be impossible to sit and watch a sunset on its beautiful beaches without feeling moved.

That emotion is how art is born.

The Mayan Riviera is also home to great pieces of art and is a place countless contemporary artists have decided to express through their work. But the Mayan Riviera has stayed true to its origins despite the surrounding cosmopolitan environment, so it’s not surprising to find Frida Kahlo’s presence in this Mexican Caribbean paradise.

What?

Yes. Frida Kahlo in Playa del Carmen.

And when we think of Mexican art that has transcended borders, we immediately associate it with the eccentric, surrealist painter. With her characteristic style, confident stroke, enigmatic beauty and paintings with stories that represent an explosion of imagination inked with pain, Frida has arrived in the Mayan Riviera…

As a museum!

The Frida Kahlo Riviera Maya museum opened in late August 2017 during the 110th anniversary of the artist’s birth. It reveals the life and background of the Mexican painter’s works in an interactive way. Using digital tools and animation, visitors are able to learn about several events that marked Frida’s life and work.

Are you a fan of Frida? We love her, and if you don’t want to miss the chance to visit this museum, you can stay at Happy Address: the best way to enjoy a vacation full of art, beauty and fun in the Mayan Riviera.

Ten rules for your vacation

4th September 2017 by happyaddress

Vacations have rules, but we don’t mean the boring old rules you might find at a school or an all-inclusive resort’s pool area.

The truth is rules are somewhat necessary, more so for ensuring harmony rather than as an excuse to punish those who break them.

At Happy Address we came up with ten rules for your vacation, precisely because we want you to have fun. Care to read?

1. Getting bored is absolutely forbidden.

2. If most people in your party want to do something and you don’t, don’t do it.

3. If your team is playing, it’s okay to interrupt your vacation to watch.

4. Have (at least) three delicious meals a day.

5. The beach is your second home.

6. Don’t disturb the neighbors (but politely ask them to join the party).

7. Last to make it to the pool gets the ice for drinks.

8. Wear sunscreen.

9. Pick up after yourself at the beach.

10. Recommend Happy Address to friends and family looking for a unique vacation experience in Playa del Carmen.

Exotic animals you could see during your vacation

4th September 2017 by happyaddress

If we recognize the real estate developers in Playa del Carmen and the Mayan Riviera for anything, it should be for the great respect they have for the environment.

Although this topic always proves controversial, many of the entrepreneurs and investors understand the importance of caring for the environment.It couldn’t be otherwise: Playa del Carmen’s exuberant beauty not only delights visitors and humans, it’s a tribute to nature.

Whether you come for a peaceful family vacation or for something much more adventurous with friends, Playa del Carmen will welcome you with open arms and surely have some lovely surprises to make your experience in paradise even better.

Check out what animals you could see during your travels through the beautiful natural surroundings of the Mayan Riviera:

Opossum

Locals call them “foxes” because that’s what they’ve been taught. But this beautiful animal has a charming face that seems to smile while turning its head to look at us. In addition, it’s the only marsupial in Latin America. In many parts of the city it’s regarded as a pest, but in the Mayan Riviera we take care of it and protect it.

Ocelot

Its beauty, coat, grace, ferocity. The ocelot is a majestic and charming feline that lives deep in the jungle. You’ll definitely hear its growl as you bask in the sun on a deserted beach, but don’t worry, there’s nothing to fear.

Sea turtle

A distinguished visitor to our shores, the sea turtle travels thousands of miles over its lifetime and comes to spawn to the shores of Quintana Roo. They are a protected species, and you can find different sanctuaries all along the Mayan Riviera.

Boa

The boa constrictor is a beautiful snake that is neither venomous nor aggressive. If you come across one, don’t be afraid, let it continue on its way.

These are just some of the species you can find here. Don’t forget they are wild animals, so you shouldn’t disturb them or alter their habitat. This way we can continue to enjoy the charm of the Mayan Riviera and unforgettable vacations for a long time.

Would you like to know how to enjoy Playa del Carmen in a way you never imagined?

An all-inclusive experience in Playa del Carmen… and more

31st August 2017 by happyaddress

When people think about a Mayan Riviera vacation, they usually think of three things: beachy paradise, night clubs and lush nature.

And they’re exactly right.

But the Mayan Riviera offers much more, regardless of whether you’re traveling with family or friends.

Many all-inclusive resorts offer a relatively attractive variety of activities. For an additional fee, some offer water sports at the beach, or entertainment options and shows within the facilities and by the pools, as well as entertainment at some of their restaurants.

So, what’s the catch?

Where does that leave you?

If you’re visiting a unique location, why follow the rules like everyone else? All-inclusive resorts are only a small part of a wide array of options in the Mayan Riviera.

When choosing to stay at an all-inclusive resort, you miss out on the fun of a waterpark that may be a drive away, or the chance to walk along Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue; if you’re here for a bachelor or bachelorette party, you might be tempted to stay at the hotel’s little club and miss out on Mexico’s best clubs.

Choose an accommodation option that includes it all, but also considers the heart of your vacation: you.

Through Happy Address, an innovative vacation rental system, you’ll be able to experience Playa del Carmen as you could never have imagined, but that’s not all: we can help you plan a dream vacation for yourself and your family. And the best part? We’re not brokers looking for a commission; we’re your friends, and we just want you to have an unforgettable vacation.

Is it possible to stick to a diet while on vacation?

18th August 2017 by happyaddress

You may have seen a saying going around online: “Vacation calories don’t count.” Don’t we all wish that were at least 50% true?

The thing is, it’s not.

Traveling doesn’t mean you have to put your healthy eating habits on hold, does it?

It’s true that at many hotels and all-inclusive resorts, temptation is far too great. While healthy options are offered, let’s be honest: very few people are able to choose a salad over pizza, burgers, ice cream, margaritas, pancakes, steak, etc.

There are ways to stay in shape, or at least do better when it comes to food.

Would you like to know how to watch what you eat while on vacation?

Don’t forget breakfast is the most important meal of the day

Yes, we know sometimes the best part of being on vacation is waking up at lunchtime, but a substantial breakfast that includes cereals, protein and milk is a source of energy that will help you enjoy each day.

Active recreation

Reading a book by the pool is wonderful, but so is swimming a little, or if you packed your sneakers, why not go for a jog?

Healthy snacks

Snacks are readily available wherever you go. You may be tempted to go for chips, cookies, etc., but you’ll also be able to find nuts, energy bars and fruit.

Don’t deprive yourself, but eat in moderation

Moderation is key when it comes to food. We know it’s possible to resist temptation, but it’s easier to give in just a little, and you’ll be happier instead of frustrated.

These are just a few tips to eat healthy while on vacation, but you could also choose accommodations that cater to your diet, like Happy Address: an innovative way to travel. Trust them with your stay and let your vacations be unforgettable.

Do you love adrenaline? Why not try an extreme experience during your Mayan Riviera vacation?

17th August 2017 by happyaddress

Not everyone is made for adrenaline. Speed, height and thrills don’t often go hand in hand with those looking for peace and quiet while reading a book. But if you’re reading this article, it probably means you’re into excitement, thrill-seeking and extreme experiences. Here are some activities you can’t miss during your stay in the Mayan Riviera.

Parasailing

A cross between skiing and flying—that’s the best way to describe this way of marveling at the beaches from above. This activity is exciting from beginning to end; what could be better than the wind in your hair while you’re floating in the sky? And what better way than to do it than with family or friends?

Exploring the Mayan jungle

The Mayan jungle is as beautiful as it mysterious, and many visitors risk getting lost in the lush vegetation. But don’t worry: there are expert hiking guides (who happen to be friends with aluxes—mischievous Mayan beings who live in the jungle) to take you along the best routes.

Bungee jumping

25 meters between you and the ocean; you’re hanging by a thread, and going faster and faster by the second. Do you dare?

Bungee jumping is one of the most extreme activities there are; only those looking for a real adrenaline rush dare do it.

Of course, these aren’t the only activities out there, but some of the most significant ones. Don’t worry about the accommodation: with Happy Address you can be sure you’ll have a great place with first-rate services waiting for you when you get back.

How to take a vacation and take care of the environment at the same time

7th August 2017 by happyaddress

The environment belongs to everyone, although it seems that some people don’t yet understand this.

But it’s always important to know we need to take care of all the spots we visit on our family vacations, whether they are on the beach, in the city, in colonial cities, in small villages or ecotourism destinations.

We need everyone’s commitment so our tourism gems remain beautiful for generations to come.

If, for example, you love to enjoy your vacation on one of the beautiful beaches that exist in the Mexican Caribbean and Riviera Maya, you’ll have noticed that hotel staff, officials and inhabitants work tirelessly to protect the environment; however, much remains to be done. How can you help the environment? Here are some tips:

Don’t use a car

On your vacation you should be relaxed and unhurried; take advantage and use public transportation, rent a bike, or if the destination allows, use your feet. This way your carbon footprint will be much smaller.

A sustainable meal is possible

We don’t want you to deprive yourself of regional delicacies, but you can be aware of how to eat them. You may get clandestine offers to consume protected species, and you should definitely refuse them.

Reuse and recycle

Reuse in different ways: a refillable water bottle, returnable containers for water or soft drinks, cloth bags instead of plastic. In hotels it’s often a problem, but there are other kinds of lodging in which you can use non-disposable dishes.

Be like you were never there

It’s vitally important to collect cans, plastic rings, bags, cutlery, napkins and all other trash you’ve generated during your stay.

These are just a few small steps that will help make your stay perfect and keep your destination pristine for a long time.

Virgin beaches: hidden sanctuaries for the few who know where to look

27th July 2017 by happyaddress

If you Google “Mexican beaches”, “Mexican Caribbean”, “best beaches in Mexico” or “Mayan Riviera”, you’ll find pictures of turquoise-sea paradises, beautiful in every way. If you scroll down a little, you’ll see pictures of celebrations, music festivals with the Caribbean as backdrop, and so much more.

But real insiders like us, truly in love with Playa del Carmen, its Caribbean and its people, will tell you that there’s so much more to it than any tour guide can describe.

That’s right.

What you see in pictures is about 20% of what there is in the Mayan Riviera. That’s why we’ve decided to give you a brief glimpse of some of the beaches most tourists never see—beaches that stand out not only because of their unique beauty, but also because of their peace and quiet.

Akumal

One of sea turtles’ favorite spots, and as such, perfect for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts. Only 23 miles from Playa del Carmen, this marvelous beach is gorgeous from top to bottom.

Chemuyil

This beautiful beach is a bay surrounded by jungle. Ideal for family visits, since it offers plenty of activities, food, fishing and so much more. Only 13 miles south of Tulum, Chemuyil awaits with open arms.

Sian Ka’an

Of course we have to mention one of the state of Quintana Roo’s most famous places. A breathtaking beach everyone should visit: Sian Ka’an is Mayan for “the place where the sky is born,” and that’s no exaggeration: it’s impossible not to lose yourself in this dreamy atmosphere where the blue hues of the water and the sky merge in Earth’s natural infinity pool.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit these beaches with your friends and family. What better way to do it than staying with the best vacation rental option, so you can be completely in charge of your itinerary?

Please, don’t stay at a chain hotel

25th July 2017 by happyaddress

We know you’re looking to provide the best for your family. Having the endorsement of a well-known hotel chain seems to guarantee certain aspects of your stay, but we seriously believe the rules have changed: that the best way to truly enjoy and experience a vacation is now different, and that you deserve an experience so new, you’ll never find it in a catalogue.

Don’t stay at a hotel if you’re restless or think of rules as more like suggestions; or you’ll have to stick to a schedule for everything from the moment your reservation is made.

Don’t stay at a hotel if you love nature as it is: unpredictable, beautiful, spontaneous, unique. Hotels will do everything to make your stay “pleasant,” but will never take you to a landscape where you might see a dolphin jump out of the water at sunset; you’ll never randomly come across a crab walking back to its hole.

Don’t stay at a hotel if you enjoy authenticity; if you love walking by yourself, getting lost, discovering new locations and being enchanted by them, and taking in the colorful culture of the destination you’re visiting.

Don’t stay at a hotel if you want to give your family a unique, unforgettable vacation. Because they might differ in some aspects, but in the end they’re all the same.

Don’t stay at a hotel if you’re all about freedom.

If you really want to find a new way to pamper your family, to open their eyes to a new world view, to teach them about life and about their destination, you should find a new way to travel, to stay, and to be yourself.

Traveling to Mexico’s Mayan Riviera with kids: what are your options?

13th July 2017 by happyaddress

If you’ve decided to take your family on vacation to Mexico’s Mayan Riviera, we want to start by letting you know you’ve guaranteed them one of the happiest trips of their lives. We’d like to share some family activities you can plan while on your dream Mayan Riviera vacation.

First on the list is Xcaret park, a lovely eco-entertainment option where you’ll be able to swim, play in the sand, see turtles, birds and butterflies and so much more. Another option is the Crococun Zoo, a beautiful interactive space where you’ll see and play with native species. It’s fun and charming.

Swimming with dolphins is an attraction for all ages. There are several options to have your children experience meeting these underwater mammals. Dolphins are docile and lovely.

Don’t forget to take a stroll down the heart of Playa del Carmen: Fifth Avenue. With every type of restaurant you can imagine, you’ll surely find an appetizing option for even the pickiest eaters.

What about relaxing? One of the most interesting options for families traveling with children in search of a perfect Playa del Carmen vacation is a short-term rental: the mix of security, peace and quiet, away from the hotel bustle that can stress the youngest members of the family. Plus, through the Happy Address service you’ll have a private chef, concierge, nanny and so much more available to make sure your family is safe and having a great time.