Winter 2010-2011
IN & ABOUT PUERTO MORELOS – WINTER 2010/2011
Located at the entrance of the Riviera Maya, you will discover Puerto Morelos as one of the last authentic and unspoiled Mexican villages that maintain its charm and real “Pueblito” feel by embracing the natural beauty that is abundant in this area. A peaceful village on the Mayan Riviera, it offers you a glimpse of the real Yucatan. Closer to the Cancun airport than Cancun is, Puerto Morelos makes an excellent base for those seeking someplace quieter than the glitzy nearby hot spots like Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Select your next Get-Away Vacation here, where you will find a little taste of paradise while experiencing an exotic vacation for you, your loved ones or your family.
We are pleased to have you interested in finding out about our destination. Over the last 10 years we have posted our monthly information and by now, you must have heard about Cancun’s Best Kept Secret and most likely have already vacationed here in Puerto Morelos!
When you arrive, we recommend that you get a copy of the Free Tourist Guide Map available to all visitors and can be found at any of the local businesses that advertise in the latest Edition. Ask for it and take one home as a souvenir! It’s FREE!
As a popular Fishing Village, the annual attraction is the Fishing Tournaments that are held during the month of May, finishing with the “Dia de la Marina” on June 1st. It is very famous and attracts fishermen from everywhere. Located at only 800 meters from the shore is the National Maritime Park that, back in the 1990’s the Federal Government proclaimed as part of the Grand Mayan Reef, the world’s second largest barrier reef. It has helped maintain an eco-friendly charm and a laid back friendly attitude that only a real Mexican community can offer.
The village is edged by mangrove swamps to the west with attractive local fauna. Enjoy and explore its wide and white sandy beaches and the Caribbean Sea.
The government’s eco-reserve designations protects the reef, the mangroves and the village itself from development. Thrilling jungle and diving adventures are offered locally. You can go swimming comfortably and the area is ideal for diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, sky surfing and other water activities such as Fishing.
The “Ruta de los Cenotes” has now become part of the diverse attractions that makes the area one of the best tourist destination in the world. The entrance is located along the highway going towards Playa del Carmen, just across from the only Botanical Garden in the region. “La Ruta de los Cenotes” goes in the direction of Central Vallarta and Leona Vicario that is at approximately 41 km (25-30 minutes drive). You will find thrilling jungle and diving adventures that are offered locally.
Along the road, discover the Cenotes (sinkholes) that are a natural marvel and worthwhile to visit or, take an organized tour.
For smaller scale Adventures, rent a bike, an ATV or a car. You can visit “Crococun” the National Zoo located at the entrance of the highway on your way towards the airport or Cancun, as well as the Regional Botanical Garden across the highway from the entrance of the “Ruta de los Cenotes”, on your way towards Playa del Carmen.
Thinking of traveling or booking a reservation to visit the island of CUBA, Havana?
For information and a quick glance at the possibilities, check the web site at: www.puertomorelos.com.mx/ Go to the Index and click on the link TRAVEL DESTINATIONS for Cuba. Prices are subject to change without previous notice. They have many years of experience and knowledge about promoting CUBA as well as many other Tours such as Tulum, Coba, Ek Balam, Chichen Itza located in the Yucatan Peninsula. He can make arrangements for Adventure Tours such as Snorkeling, Diving, Cenotes, ATV jungle tours and zip-lines along the Ruta de los Cenotes. Tours are available in English, French, Italian and Spanish.
Here is the latest information about what is happening in Puerto Morelos in the index of the Puerto Morelos Vacation Guide, such as:
The “Spanish Immersion Classes that started during this past summer are given to interested foreigners that come to vacation for at least 3-4 weeks. Registration is open to one and all interested by calling: 871-0162
The Little Mexican Cooking School started to give weekly classes again and will do so until the end of April 2011. It’s a great way to spend a day, starting with breakfast, an introduction to Mexican ingredients and cuisine followed by a demonstration of 5-7 dishes. You can learn hands-on from their Chef and then eat the results! The cooking school is owned by Patti Murphy and Catriona Brown.
The Jungle Market is also a weekly popular event. Sandra and the Mayan ladies spend time working on a new dance show. Check out their unique souvenirs and gifts at the market. You can get out to the jungle by car, taxi or the collectivo. It’s located on “Calle Dos” in the Zona Urbana, which is behind the Colonia Zetina Gazca. A Taxi to the jungle from the town square costs $50 pesos and from nearby hotels, $150 pesos each way. Tell the driver you want to go to the: Jungle Spa-Sandra, in the Zona Urbana.
The Annual Music Festival in the Town Square has always been a regular winter event and well attended by many tourists. It is held every second Friday from mid-January to the end of March from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Come along and enjoy yourselves! This festival benefits musicians and performers of Puerto Morelos and it is in benefit of the Casa de la Cultura de Puerto Morelos A.C. and projects for the community during the rest of the year. Donations are always welcome…
It is an event so, if you are a musician, come and join us as a volunteer with your favorite instrument and talent.
Contact: Natalia – Casa de la Cultura. Cel.: (998) 155-7215
DENTAL CARE Near the town square, behind the church, there is a Dental Office where Dr. Carlos Escalante and a team of Professional Orthodontist can take care of your DENTAL needs while you are in Puerto Morelos. Visit the web site (copy and paste on your browser) http://puertomorelosmexico.com/dentist/specialists.html Drop by for a Consultation or Call: 206-9157 (for an appointment). Monday-Saturday 9:00 am–2:00 pm and 4:00-8:00 pm.
Need MEDICAL ATTENTION? Contact the “Centro de Salud” located near the town square, on Calle Isla Mujeres between Raphael Melgar and Javier Rojo Gomez.
* Dr. Ernesto Ramirez Esparza makes house calls and speaks English. Cel.Phone (998) 214-2081
The local CATHOLIC CHURCH holds Mass services on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. If you wish to attend, listen to the church bells or check the bulletin board located at the church’s front door.
MARKET DAY Every Wednesday morning, the Fruit and Vegetables Market is set up starting at 7:30 a.m. next to the church by the Town Square. Don’t miss it!
The HANDICRAFT MARKET “Mayan Village”, where you can see local artists working in their shops and you can bring back home, something from Mexico. It is located in the direction of the Port on Ave Javier Rojo Gomez, before the B&B Hostal Secreto managed by Doña Laura.
WEATHER This will be the least of your worries. Days tend to be hot and sunny and if we get rain, it will likely come down quickly and then move on. The evening in December to February and also sometimes in March, can be coolish at times so you should bring along a jacket or sweater. See our weather temperature link on the home page of our web site at: www.puertomorelos.com.mx
MONEY EXCHANGE Just a reminder to visitors that you can no longer cash traveler’s cheques in Puerto Morelos. The easiest way to get pesos is at the HSBC ATM machine located at the supermarket, Casa Martin, in the square. There are also two ATM machines in town that are not affiliated with banks. One is at the mall across the square from the bookstore and another is at OXXO. Since these are not affiliated with a bank, the fees are much higher.
If you wish to cash a traveler’s cheque, you can do it at the airport or in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. You must bring your passport to be able to do so.
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
HOTELS IN PUERTO MORELOS, RESORTS and VACATION RENTALS
You do not have to look for a Rental facility through strangers. Visit our web pages where you will find detailed descriptions, photos and rates. ALWAYS LOOK HERE BEFORE YOU BOOK! Our commitment is that if you find the best prices for the same product and we will match it!. . . We also have Long Term Rentals available.
Find more information on our web site at: www.puertomorelos.com.mx (Puerto Morelos Vacation Guide).
MARAND TRAVEL Services “Your Virtual Travel Agency”.
BASIC HOTELS with popular Bed & Breakfast properties are available for travelers that are looking for the typical settings such as:
AMAR INN on the beach http://innlog.com/lodging/MEX/16823.html
OR HOSTAL SECRETO located on Ave Javier Rojo Gomez, south of the Town Square after the local Handicraft Market.
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
REAL ESTATE
The prices of properties is presently very competitive due to the economy problems that is at the International level.
For Consultation and Sale information at CONTACT US on our website.
HOUSE for SALE by Owners in the Residential Area of Puerto Morelos, at a walking distance from the town square. For photos & description, copy and paste on your browser: http://www.innlog.com/lodging/MEX/180773.html
OR the Colonial House located next door at No. 46 Ave Niños Heroes, with 2-bedrooms and 1½ bathrooms, is also FOR SALE. The asking price has been REDUCED to a negotiable price of $375,000.00 usd. For more information, contact:
marand@puertomorelos.com.mx or marand56@prodigy.net.mx
(Turn-Key Investments)
Centrally located in DOWNTOWN CANCUN, an affordable CONDO for SALE 3-bedroom penthouse fully furnished at a negotiable price of $110,000.00 Usd or Can dollars. For description and photos, go to this link: http://www.innlog.com/lodging/MEX/12534.html
-. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -. -.
RESTAURANTS
New restaurants opened up around Town while others close or change ownership. You will find an astonishing number of restaurants from the Traditional Mexican to the International Cuisine. Obviously, seafood is a specialty as it is caught daily by our town’s many fishermen.
AROUND THE TOWN SQUARE
Café d’ AMANCIA Coffee, pastry & sandwiches. Open early until late. Closed in mid-afternoon. Closed Tuesdays.
L’ OASIS Excellent wide variety of International cuisine. Open from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. for Dinner. Closed Monday.
DOÑA TRINY’S Restaurant is famous for its Traditional Mexican Cuisine and her exceptional Catering Service for private parties or events. Call in to reserve your special order at Tel: 206-9268 or 871-0162. Opens Daily from 7:30 am till 11:00 p.m.
DAVID LAU Restaurant-Bar Specializes in oriental cuisine and pizzas. Opens for lunch and dinner. Closed Mondays.
HOLA ASIA Asian food, Chinese, Thai and Sushi. Opens for lunch (1pm) and dinner Closed Tuesday.
LOS GAUCHOS Across from the church. Varied menu, pizza, pasta, empanadas style from Argentina . Closed Monday and Tuesday.
EL PIRATA Wide varied menu and snacks. Closed on Mondays.
TAQCHO Above Cesar’s Plaza. Tacos and more.
La Terraza Next to the El Pirata. Serve salads and vegetarian food
La CASA DEL PESCADOR Above the Fish Market where you will find Seafood.
EL FARO Restaurant & Lounge. Located above the grocery store “Casa Martin”. They serve International and Seafood. Closed on Mondays. Open from Noon till 11:00 p.m.
NEAR THE TOWN SQUARE
EL TIO Across from the lighthouse, just around the north corner of the square. Mexican, inexpensive food, snacks. Open daily until 11:00 p.m.
PELICANOS On the beach, just around the south corner of the square. Mexican, Seafood and full bar. Open all day. No closing day.
Las PALMERAS serves Seafood. Open daily from 12 noon till 10:00 p.m.
La PANZA ES PRIMERO” on the beach, is located next to the Hotel CARMEN HACIENDA. Their specialty is Seafood & TexMex cuisine.
El COYOTE Restaurant-Bar inside Hotel Carmen Hacienda serves International Cuisine. Open from 7:00 am to 11:00 p.m.
POSADA AMOR Just south of the square on Rojo Gomez. Varied menu. Open daily.
El CHIMICHURRI Across from the Hotel Posada Amor. Varied menu, pizza, pasta, empanadas, Argentinian style.
NORTH OF THE TOWN SQUARE along Avenida Niños Heroes. About 1 block north, off the square.
JOHN GRAY’s Kitchen Located across the street from Hotel Inglaterra. International Cuisine. Open for dinner only, from 4:00 to 11:00 p.m. Closed on Monday.
JODY’s EATERY Restaurant and Bar Beer Garden at the Hotel Mexicoplus. Opens for breakfast and lunch.
NORTH OF THE TOWN SQUARE ng>, along the main road (Rojo Gomez)
The OJO de AGUA Restaurant-Bar is located on the beach, 3 blocks north of the Town Square. Serves Snacks, Seafood and menu A La Carte. Open daily from 7:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m.
HABANEROS Restaurant-Bar Burgers and beach bar food. Open daily until midnight.
La PICOLINA The Tacos Spot “Taqueria” next to the Elementary school along Ave Javier Rojo Gomez. The place where you will be able to eat real Mexican Tacos, Empanadas, Salbutes, Flautas and more. They open from 8:00 am till 11:00 pm.
PIZZA N’ LOVE Take away and delivery from 6 to 11 pm. Tel: 871-0777
La Choza del Chaman Breakfast and Lunch. Open daily
The PESCAYITOS has moved south of the square beside the restaurant “El Chimichurri”. The new space is a little bigger and of course nicely decorated.
An open air place called La Cantine BISTRO, will feature live music. A great spot to spend an evening!
The Restaurant-Bar SPAGHETTINO is now located south of the square across from the Mayan Handicraft Center. It seats the same number of people it did before.
/. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /. /.
NIGHTLIFE here consists largely of eating out at one of the local restaurants while listening to live entertainment (jazz musicians, bands, etc.) or sitting at cafés taking in the Happy Hours at one of the few local bars. We are a very casual town so shirts and shoes in restaurants are expected of course and proper attire is expected if you are entering the church but you won’t need a jacket and tie around here; however, running around town in your swim trunks will not make you popular…
ACTIVITIES
You can book your excursions, tours or travel arrangements through MARAND TRAVEL “Your Virtual Travel Agency”. Andrés Uscanga at: Tel: 871-0162 or his Cel. Phone: 044 (998) 845-4376.
He will make the necessary arrangements you require. You can drop by at No. 46 Niños Heroes, across the street from the Military land.
B O N – S E J O U R ! – – – – H A V E – A – N I C E – S T A Y !