Below you will find some travel tips, links to useful web sites and answers to our visitors most frequently asked questions.  They should help you prepare for a trip to Mexico and the Maya Riviera in general and Brisa Caribe in particular.  If you have a question that is not answered here or elsewhere in our web site, please feel free to contact us.  We will do our best to provide you with an answer.


1) Why rent a villa or condo?
1A) What is the level of service you provide?
2) Is Mexico safe?
3) What is the weather like and when is the best time to visit the Riviera Maya?
4) What can you tell me about fishing?
5) We have never snorkeled or scuba dived before but would like to try it. What do we need to do?
6) What should I do about spending money? 
7) Can I use my credit cards in Mexico?
8) Do I need a car and if so where can I get one?
8A) When I rent a car what should I expect and watch out for?
9) Is it safe to drive in Mexico?
10) If I don’t rent a car, how do I get to the property and how can we get around?
11) Will I get sick from the water or food?
12) I don’t speak any Spanish. Will I have a problem?
13) What travel documents do I need in order to travel to Mexico?
14) What should I expect at the Cancun airport?
15) What about tipping?
16) Where can I purchase groceries, beer, wine and liquor? 
16A) Can I have the villa or condo stocked with groceries and beverages for my arrival?
16B) What liquors and wines are available and can I bring in duty free liquor?
16C) Can we mail or courier a package to the villa or condo so that it is there when we arrive?
17) What if we don’t want to do our own cooking?        
18) Can you tell me about the restaurants and bars in the area?
19)  Are there babysitters or children's activities available?
20) With the owners, administrators or other staff living on some of the properties, will it be private?
21) While we are there, we want to go fishing, visit Mayan Ruins, swim with the dolphins and play golf. Do we need to make reservations before arriving?
22) Can you tell me where I can find out more information about the swim with the dolphin program?
23) Are there laundry services available at the villas and condos?
24) Do I need an adapter for a curling iron or shaver?
25) Are there mosquitoes or bugs to worry about?
26) What should I bring with me?
27) Is there a doctor and hospital near by?
28) Should I purchase trip insurance?
29) Will my cellular phone work in Mexico?   
30) Where can I golf?
31) What is the ferry to Cozumel schedule
32) Where can I find more information on activities and services available?

1) Why rent a villa or condo?
Discerning vacationers around the world have long discovered that renting a private villa or condo offers them a level of luxury, convenience and privacy hard to find in a hotel.  What you might be surprised to learn, is that when renting a villa or condo as a family or group, the cost is frequently similar or even less than hotel rooms.  In addition to the value, you will certainly appreciate the little extra things you get when renting a private villa or condo.  Such as being able to stock the refrigerator with your favorite beverages and snacks.  Or having your own private pool in the case of a villa rental.  You will also enjoy the extra space, personal touches and additional amenities only available in a private villa or condo. 
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1A) What is the level of service you provide?
All of our  properties re offered on a 'Self Catering' basis with housekeeping service provided Monday through Saturday and a meal service either available for an extra charge or included in the rate (check the individual property for details).  There are a couple of exceptions, which offer a full-time staff providing a high level of service (these are the most expensive properties and will note the services included under the amenities).   In addition to the housekeeping service, each villa owner has employed someone to handle gardening and pool cleaning.  Each property is also overseen by a management company or individual who is  responsible for the overall maintenance of the property and is also responsible for dealing with guest problems should they arise.  So, while there is staff at each property to handle these chores, this staff is not available to 'serve' guests or provide 'concierge' services as you may have experienced if you have rented a villa in the Caribbean or west coast of Mexico.  Apart from a couple of exceptions, our properties are 'Self Catering' vacation rentals that provide you with a beautiful home to be your own for a week amidst wonderful surroundings to discover and create cherished memories with family and friends.
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2) Is Mexico safe?
Yes.  I have traveled extensively across this diverse and interesting country and overall consider it safe provided you do not leave your common sense at home and take normal precautions.  This includes locking doors and windows, put things away and lock them up when you are not using them, keep valuables out of site and don’t make yourself a target by bringing unnecessary attention to yourself. (I heard of someone who made a big scene in a parking lot rummaging through their suitcases in the back of their rental car before going into a mall.  To their surprise someone had seen them, then broke into the car and stole their luggage while they were shopping.  I also know of someone who left their digital camera on the table of a busy restaurant.  They realized the next day what they had done, returned to the restaurant and were greeted by a happy bartender who had found it and locked it up in the office.)  Be watchful of exchange rates, check your bill, count your change, watch out for smooth talking over friendly people and when you are going out don’t carry more money or credit cards than you need.  When purchasing gas for your rental car, get out, check that the meter has been brought back to zero and make a point of holding your payment until the attendant has counted the correct change.   Be especially cautious of offers for free or highly discounted items and services.  This is almost certainly going to lead to a high pressure sales pitch for a time share or fractured ownership in a condo or resort development.  Don't let the sunshine, margaritas, and beautiful scenery rob you of your good sense.  Before getting into any real estate or business deal, ask for recommendations and speak to people who have already purchased.   They are going to give you a much more honest assessment of what it is really like to invest here.   If you use your common sense and take the same precautions you would at home, then you will be like the 99% of visitors to the area that never have a problem. 
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  3) What is the weather like and when is the best time to visit the Riviera Maya?

Most visitors agree the best time is during the winter months when there is less chance of tropical rains and good reason to escape the weather at home.  However, you certainly will not be alone should you choose to come during the spring or summer when many families visit the area.  You take more chance on the weather when you come in the fall, due to the risk of hurricane and higher rainfall averages.  However, having said that, I have friends come to visit every October.  They always leave with a tan, and start planning their return as soon as they get home.  They like the fact that it is not so crowded and more peaceful.   Here are the yearly temperature and precipitation averages to help you decide.  PLEASE NOTE: The average rainfall statistics can be a little misleading in the fact that sometimes nearly the entire months’ average can fall in a matter of hours. 

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   4) What can you tell me about fishing?
Sport fishing is available year round.  There are a number of sport fishing boats available at the Puerto Aventuras marina for 1/2 or full day charter.  You will also find smaller fishing boats for hire in Akumal and Playa del Carmen.  The best sport fishing is considered between February and July when the Marlin and Sailfish are running.   With some of the best fishing just outside of the Puerto Aventuras marina, you don’t need to go far to find the action.

World class fly fishing for bone fish, permit and even tarpon is available south of Tulum at Boca Paila and Punta Allen.  The road down there is not for the faint of heart but reports are that the fishing is worth it.  For more info follow this link Boca Paila Lodge or Bonefish Bum Lodge or Pesca Maya in Punta Allen)

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  5) We have never snorkeled or scuba dived before but would like to try it. What do we need to do?
With both snorkeling and scuba diving, if you think you are going to enjoy it and will do it more than just on this vacation, I recommend that you purchase a mask, fins and a snorkel.  If you just want to try it, there is equipment available to rent at most dive shops and at Villa Brisa Caribe for guests staying there.  It is important to find a mask and fins which fit you properly.  A good scuba diving shop either at home or here will have a decent selection and the proper training to help fit you correctly.  If you want to try scuba diving without taking a full certification course, you can take a PADI “Discover Scuba Diving” experience.  The experience involves about an hour of theory followed by a similar amount of pool training.  This prepares you to  make ocean dives to a limited depth, provided you are accompanied by an Instructor or Dive Master.  There are many good dive shops in the area so you should have no problem finding one that makes you comfortable. Click here for more information on diving.
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6) What should I do about spending money? 
You will no doubt want to have some spending money while here in order to go to a restaurant, take in a tour, shop for that special gift and tipping.  Mexican pesos are the currency of the land and accepted everywhere.  US dollars are fairly well accepted at most businesses.  In fact there are some businesses that quote their prices in US dollars, while in others you may lose on the exchange rate when paying for purchases with them.  Canadian dollars, Euros and British Pounds are accepted at the money exchange booths and banks, but not at many businesses.  Travelers checks are rarely accepted by businesses but will be taken at banks and most money exchange booths, but not all of them.  Some places will also insist on a passport to exchange them.   There are ATM machines in Puerto Aventuras, Akumal, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cancun where you can use your bank debit card to receive pesos.  The ATM’s are handy because you don’t have to bring as much cash and they usually have the best exchange rates. However, it is not so uncommon in some of the smaller centers for the machines to run out of money and be down for a day or two.  Most ATM's have daily withdrawal limits equivalent to US $200 - $500.  Please be aware that some of the ATM's in Mexico will not accept a PIN with more than 4 digits, so you may need to change yours before coming down.  I do not know of anywhere that you can use a Bank Debit Card.  The exchange booths at the airport usually offer very competitive rates.  My advise is to bring as much US cash as you feel comfortable carrying, then offset this with either your ATM card and/or travelers checks.  I carry both pesos and US dollars, then pay with which ever offers the best rate.  See 'Travel Tip #7 for information on credit cards.
Click here for current exchange rates.
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  7) Can I use my credit cards in Mexico?
Yes and No.   Do not count on credit cards being readily accepted and don’t be surprised if they are accepted, if you are charged as much as a 5% surcharge for the privilege.  The larger businesses that cater to tourists are more likely to have the facility to accept your card than the smaller ones.  A strong underground economy and the not so distant memories of runaway inflation have kept Mexico from the credit craze.  It is still very much a cash society where hardly anyone would give you a second glance if you went into purchase a car with a briefcase full of pesos.
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  8)  Do I need a car and if so where can I get one?
If you are staying at a villa or condo outside of Puerto Aventuras or Playa del Carmen then you will be somewhat isolated without a vehicle.  I therefore recommend that you have at least one vehicle so you have reliable transportation in the case of an emergency.  If you are staying in Puerto Aventuras, you should base your decision on what you want to do while you are here and how much freedom you want.  If you are too nervous to drive or don’t plan on heading too far a field then you can get by without one.  We can arrange for an airport transfer service to meet you & your group at the airport and have you driven right to the villa or condo.  Within Puerto Aventuras most services and activities are only a 5-15 minute walk away.  From Puerto there are taxis, rental cars and tour operators available when you want to leave.  However, if you think you will want to explore the area, (which you really should) then a car gives you a great deal of freedom from the restraints of tour operators and taxis.  (Click here for rental car Search)    OR here s another rental car company located just outside of the airport so no airport tax on rates. (Click here for EasyWayRentaCar)
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  8A) When I rent a car what should I watch out for?
 Choose a reputable company with good representation in the area so that if you have a problem, they will have people and cars to assist you. (Executive, Hertz, Avis are 3)  Be sure to take a minute to inspect the vehicle with the agent to ensure that any physical and cosmetic damage to the car is marked on the form since they will likely check it closely when you return and may charge you if it is not indicated on the contract.  Make sure you know where the spare tire, tire iron and hazard markers are located and that the agent has given you the telephone number of an English speaking person to contact 24/7 in case of a problem.  We STRONGLY suggest that you purchase the full coverage insurance even if your credit card company will cover you.  If you are not going to purchase insurance because your credit card company automatically offers this, be certain before leaving home that this coverage is valid in Mexico and EQUALLY IMPORTANT is that you have a local contact number for your insurance company representative, who you will need to call and come to the scene should you have an accident.  If you are in an accident which is deemed to be your fault, you will be held in custody until the matter has been cleared, so be certain that you have contact information for the insurance agent so they can send a representative to assist you.  Along the Maya Riviera we have a roving mechanical service called the Green Angels.  These well equipped trucks and friendly mechanics are available to assist tourists with car problems. You may see them up and down the highways or can reach them by telephone at (01) 998 884-1107 It might also be helpful if you print a copy of our maps to help you get here from the airport.  If you are renting a car please see travel tip #9 with some important driving safety tips.
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  9) Is it safe to drive in Mexico?
It is so long as you are aware that Mexico does not require a written or driven drivers test to become licensed so you MUST adopt a defensive driving attitude, always pay close attention to what is going on in front, beside and behind you.  You should also recognize some differences in the local driving rules and habits.   You should be EXTREMELY AWARE when turning left off a highway that the rules are different here than in most other places. Unless there is a designated turning lane, you MUST move over to the right shoulder, wait for the traffic to clear in both directions and then make your left turn.  DO NOT MAKE A LEFT TURN FROM THE THROUGH TRAFFIC LANE.  Another peculiar difference is that a left turn signal might mean  A) the car in front of you is signaling that he is about to pull out to pass.  B) the car in front of you is advising you that it is clear for you to pass them. C) the car in front of you is turning left.  I still haven’t figured out how to tell the difference so be very careful and always check your mirrors before you make a left turn yourself.  The driver behind may think you are telling him to pass.  When backing out of a parking stall, you DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT OF WAY so be very careful that there is not only no vehicle behind you but that there are no vehicles coming.  If there are they will most likely not stop even though you are in reverse and pulling out in front of them.  You will be at fault if you colide.  This is the reason that there are parking attendants to help you.  Please give them a peso or two for their assistance. The roads in this area are fairly well marked and in relatively good condition.  However, not all the vehicles on the road are.  As a result you may find the latest model Mercedes speeding past you with seemingly no concern for the speed limit or a 63 Beetle converted into an overloaded pickup truck poking along so slow you will think it is parked.  You might be tempted to use the shoulder for an extra lane as many locals do.  Don’t, there are often pedestrians, bicycles and busses traveling slowly or stopped right around that blind corner.  You might also be tempted to speed.  Don't, not only is it dangerous but illegal and monitored by radar. Please remember that it is illegal to drink and drive or to drive under the influence of alcohol.
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  10) If I don’t rent a car, how do I get to the property and how can we get around?

C) TRANSPORTATION; Airport Transfers Public Bus
The bus service is safe and cheap (aprox. US $9. per person) but only takes you as far as Playa del Carmen, where you will need to then take a taxi to Puerto Aventuras (aprox. US $15.)   Ask at the transfer desks for more information on where to catch the bus and schedule.

GETTING AROUND
There are taxis, rental cars, and tour operators operating out of Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Akumal center and Tulum to provide transportation to the area attractions.  These are not so easily accessed from the villas located outside of Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen and most locations in the Akumal area. There is a local bus/van service called 'colectivos' that run up and down the highway between Cancun - Playa del Carmen - Tulum.  These vans stop anywhere along the highway that someone might flag them down and will carry pretty much anything you can fit inside and/or tie on to the roof.  There are also very good, non stop, bus connections between Cancun - Playa del Carmen - Tulum.  The bus/van is a little inconvenient because you need to get up to the highway from the villas, but it is very cheap and fun to ride with the locals.  
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  11) Will I get sick from the water or food?
You shouldn’t if you don’t drink the tap water and use common sense about where you eat.  Some people find the change in eating and drinking habits and/or the spicy food may give them a little “Montezuma’s Revenge.”  Cancun and the Riviera Maya contribute over 25% of the tourist dollars coming into Mexico.  Most food service businesses understand basic hygiene and the importance of healthy tourists.  A good rule of thumb when you are preparing fruits and vegetables at the villa or condo is, “if you don’t peal it or boil it, rinse it in Microdyn or Fit.”  These antibacterial drops are used to rinse your fresh fruit and vegetables.  They are supplied at villa Brisa Caribe and used by better restaurants.  (you should not count on it being available at other properties) You can purchase this at any grocery store.  Bottled water is also provided for drinking at all of the villas & condos and used extensively by restaurants.  Everyone uses purified water for ice so you needn’t worry about this.  Bathing in the tap water is fine.  Here is a link to the Center for Disease Control who has lots of additional information which you might be interested in http://www.cdc.gov/travel/camerica.htm
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12) I don’t speak any Spanish. Will I have a problem?
No, English is spoken quite extensively throughout the area by businesses dealing with tourists.  However, you may become frustrated and upset if you expect everyone to speak fluent English or to understand you.  Remember, we are the guests and Spanish is the native language.  We recommend that you pick up a small Spanish phrase book before leaving home.  A very good one is “BERLITZ Latin-American Spanish PHRASE BOOK & DICTIONARY.”  It is small making it easy to carry and logically laid out making it easy to use.  You will have some fun learning a few words and win the respect of the locals no matter how limited your vocabulary or poor your pronunciation.  Here is the Spanish Travel Helper web site which is a great place to start having fun with Spanish: http://www.studyspanish.com/travel/index.htm 
Or another good site http://www.davidreilly.com/spanish/
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13) What travel documents do I need in order to travel to Mexico?
You are required to have a passport to enter Mexico, Canada and the USA regardless of your nationality.   If you are a single parent, parent traveling alone with children, or parents with children bearing a different last name.  You will require a signed, notarized letter from the other parent consenting to the child leaving your home country and possibly additional documentation.  Check with your travel agent, airline or US & Mexican Embassies for current document requirements long before flight time.

Mexican Embassy in USA http://www.embassyofmexico.org
Mexican Embassy in Canada http://www.embamexcan.com/english/indexenglish.html
Mexican Embassy in the UK http://www.mexicanconsulate.org.uk/

With all of the additional security at the airports these days, you may want to check out what the Transportation Security Administration is advising to make your trip easier.

TSA home page  http://www.tsa.dot.gov/public/theme_home1.jsp
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14) What should I expect at the Cancun airport?
Remember that you are flying to a foreign country and a very popular tourist destination so there could be lines and delays.  Normally it will take aprox. an hour to clear immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs.  If you are picking up a rental car, expect another 30 to 60 minutes to handle this task.  (You are requested to be at the Cancun airport 2 hours before your return departure)

 There are three terminals at the Cancun airport.  For this reason it is important to provide airline name, flight numbers, and where the flight is coming from if you are meeting someone at the airport. Pay  attention to which terminal you arrived at to avoid confusion when you leave.  Before leaving the plane you should of filled out immigration and custom forms.  Unless your flight stopped in Mexico before arriving in Cancun, your first delay will be with immigration where you will present the immigration form and your passport.  The immigration officer will grant you a number of days in Mexico, which he will mark on your immigration form and return the bottom portion to you.  DON’T LOOSE THIS, you require it when leaving.  Next you will retrieve your luggage before clearing customs.  At customs you will find a crosswalk type button to push. If you push green, you will be allowed to continue on.  If you push red, then your bags will be inspected.  Once past customs you will exit the doors and are officially in Mexico.  Bienvenidos/Welcome.  Before getting outside, there are a number of booths for transfer and rental car agencies where you can organize a transfer or rental car if you have not done so already.  If you have a rental car arranged or transfer set up then continue outside a representative should be standing out there waiting for you with a sign.  If you are at the new terminal '3' and meeting someone, then once you step outside on your left you will find a sitting are with tables and chairs.  Right here is also a restaurant. There is only one road out of the airport so follow the signs.  Directions to your villa or condo were contained in the 'Pre Arrival Package you received.  You may also want to print the corresponding “MAPS” fro our web site.

Here is a link to the official Cancun International Airport web site.
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15) What about tipping?
Like elsewhere, most people in the service industry here depend heavily on tips for their livelihood.  10-20% of a restaurant or bar bill depending on the class of establishment and level of service.  (There is sometimes a service charge included in the bill so check)  $5-20 per person to dive masters/boat captains/cavern guides for diving.  $1-20 per person to tour guides, depending on time spent and level of service.  $15-25 per person for fishing charters.  $5-20 for a massage.  $1-5 for baggage porters, depending on number of bags and time spent.  A little loose change for the grocery boy, taxi driver, guy watching your car in the parking lot, and the attendant filling your gas tank.  If you are staying at a villa, then a minimum of $100 for each of the service staff would be appropriate.   At a condo or hotel $5-10 each time the cleaning service comes would be appropriate.   If you have a cook come in to prepare a meal(s), then 10-20% of the service charge would be appropriate.  
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16) Where can I purchase groceries, beer, wine and liquor?
 Please remember that you are visiting a foreign country and culture where the local tastes and spending habits are very different than your own.  This is reflected in the grocery stores where you will still find everything you need, but the selection and number of processed products will be less.  The price of groceries is similar to the USA and Canada except for locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables which in general cost much less.

Beer, wine and liquor is sold at all major grocery stores and most convenience stores.  Please note that most of the grocery stores will not sell any type of alcohol on Sunday afternoons. 

In Playa del Carmen there is a Sam's Club & City Club which are large volume stores that require you to have a membership.  Playa del Carmen also has a WalMart and three fairly good Mexican department grocery stores called Soriana, Chedraui and MEGA. 

To get to Soriana & City Club: Stay in right hand service lane as you enter Playa del Carmen from Cancun.  They are located at the far south end of the city.

To get to Sam's Club & Chedraui:  From highway 307 when coming from the airport, go right through Playa del Carmen watching on the left for McDonalds restaurant, the Chedraui supermarket, Sam's Club and the 2 entrances into PlayaCar.  Once you past these landmarks go a short ways and you will find a U turn lane to bring you back on the proper side of the highway. 

WalMart is located in Playa del Carmen on Avenida 30 between Calles 8 and 10. 

MEGA is also on Avenida 30 on the corner of Constituentes.  We consider this the best of the grocery-department stores.

The best fruits and vegetables are available at DAC.  It is located on Avenida 30 just north of Constituentes.

In Puerto Aventuras there are three convenience stores that have a selection of snacks, beverages and the basics.  They are within walking distance of all the Puerto Aventuras properties. 

Akumal has 2 convenience stores.   Both are located just before the arched entrance into Akumal.  Super Chomak has many imported goods from the USA.  The prices also reflect the difficulty in finding many of these things.

There is a San Francisco supermarket in Tulum right on the highway at the Coba traffic light.  You can find most things you require for a week stay here.  Across the street is Tulum Deli and Liquors which has American Grade A beef and numerous American products you won't find elsewhere.
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 16A) Can I have the villa or condo stocked with groceries and beverages for my arrival?
NO, but you can have them delivered after you arrive.  Here are three web sites we have found that offer a grocery delivery service.  You should make your own decision on whether to use them or not.  VERY IMPORTANT  Groceries cannot be dropped off at a property before you have checked in.  You MUST be there to accept delivery.  Paradise Providers or Riviera Maya Groceries or Cancun Valet  and for wines and liquors Akumal Wines
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 16B)  What liquors and wines are available and can I bring in duty free liquor?
Good wine, Bourbon, Scotch, Canadian blended Whiskey, name brand Vodka or Gin, and liqueurs are expensive here and sometimes difficult to find.  (we have a fairly good selection at villa Brisa Caribe but they are not cheap).  Rum, Kahlua, national brand vodka & gin and of course beer is easy to find and reasonably priced.  Each adult is allowed to bring into the country up to 3 litres (quarts) of alcohol. 
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 16C) Can we mail or courier a package to the villa or condo so that it is there when we arrive?
NO please don't.  I recommend that if you cannot carry it then leave it at home.  Mail service is slow when it works (I have received Christmas cards in July and August).  Couriers quite often say they cannot find the villas or condos so then you must drive into Cancun to pick up your package.  PLUS... depending on what you are sending there may be import duties and paperwork requiring a customs brokers assistance.
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17) What if we don’t want to do our own cooking?
A cook is included in the rate at some of the villas.  (If included it will be listed under the amenities)  At most of the other properties the owner has organized a cook or chef is available for an additional charge to come in to prepare a single meal or cook for the full week.  (details vary by property)

Puerto Aventuras has 12 restaurants, (see our restaurant guide) a pub, and 2 bars which serve a fairly wide variety of meals and are within a 15 minute walk of the villas and condos. There are no restaurants within walking distance of most of our villas in other areas but there are numerous within a 5 to 15 minute drive.   (see our restaurant guide) for complete details. 
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18) Can you give me some information on the restaurants & bars in the area?
Yes, we have put together an extensive list of restaurants, bars, and night clubs for Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Akumal, Tulum and a few in between.  (see our restaurant guide) for more information.
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19)  Are there babysitters or children's activities available?
There is a fabulous supervised "Kids Club" in Akumal - it's located on the beach on Akumal Bay near the Lol-Ha restaurant and Palapa Bar. It consists of acting, supervised play, sand castle building, kite flying, scavenger hunts, videos, painting, crafts, mini-Olympics and visits to the pizza parlor. Lots of fun for the kids and a chance for Mom and Dad to do their own thing. The "Kids Club" hours are 9AM to 2PM and 6 PM to 9PM. The rates are $6 per hour and $35 per day.  The"Kid's Club" also has several babysitters for hire.  The number for Lol Ha is (984) 875-9012.  They can put you in touch with Fatima at the kids club.

At some of the villas the maids will sometimes agree to watch the kids for extra money. Just ask them, but we do ask that you respect their decision if they say no.
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20) With the owners, administrators or other staff living on some of the properties, will it be private?
Your privacy, being comfortable and enjoying yourself are of utmost importance to the owners and their staff.  They are there to ensure that the villa, pool, and gardens are kept clean and that things work properly.  They will try to work around your schedule and respect your privacy while doing their work.   You will have exclusive use of the villa, pool and terraces.  In most cases where the staff is living on the property, they have a casita or little house which is usually near the street entrance to the property.  When using the villa your activities will most likely be focused around the ocean side of the property.  Most guests find having these people near by enhances the service and experience.

21) While we are there, we want to go fishing, visit Mayan Ruins, swim with the dolphins and play golf. Do we need to make reservations before arriving?
No, most activities are not so busy that you cannot make arrangements once you arrive.  The dolphin swim is very popular, so you should book this shortly after arriving.  If you are going to rent a car to explore and visit the sites on your own, many activities do not require a reservation.  If you prefer to join a tour, there are tour operators located in Puerto Aventuras, Akumal, Tulum and Playa del Carmen.  For more information on area attractions, visit our Area Attractions section where you can find lots of info on Puerto Aventuras, the surrounding area, Mayan Ruins, Diving, and a restaurant guide.  We suggest that you print this material and use it as a reference while here.
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22) Can you tell me where I can find out more information about the swim with the dolphin program?
Here is a web site where you can get all the information.  http://www.dolphindiscovery.com 
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23) Are there laundry services available at the villas and condos?
Many of the condos have washer & dryers which the guests may use.  (please see the amenities under each property)  We are sorry but the laundry facilities at all of the villas are restricted to staff use only.  The owner will provide you with clean bath, hand, face towels and linens.  These will be changed mid week or more frequently at some properties.  They also provide a large beach towel for each guest.  There is a laundry service in Puerto Aventuras, which offers same day service for your personal things.  An iron is available in most of the villas.  At a few of the villas the maid will do your personal laundry for a fee.
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24) Do I need an adapter for a curling iron or shaver?
The villas are wired the same as the USA and Canada, with 110 volt, 60 Hz.,  American standard receptacles.
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25) Are there mosquitoes or bugs to worry about?
You are in the tropics and so there can be bugs.  Here at Brisa Caribe we spray regularly as does the maintenance staff within Puerto Aventuras to try and keep this to a minimum, plus usually the light ocean breeze helps keep the mosquitoes away.  You might need some mosquito repellent in the evening when you head out or if you are visiting the ruins.
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26) What should I bring with me?
Half of what you think you need.  The weather is most often warm even if it rains, the dress is casual even at the best restaurants.  We rarely put on long sleeve garments, full length trousers or closed shoes.  You might want one light pair of pants and a light sweater or sweat shirt just in case.  Likely you will purchase a nice sun dress, a few t-shirts and some souvenirs while you are here so leave room in your suitcase.  Don’t forget the sunscreen.  We ask you to bring a bio-degradable type to help preserve the coral, aquatic life and to keep the swimming pool clean and clear.  You should have a hat to protect your head, sunglasses, a good book, your camera and some insect repellant.  (Don’t fly with aerosol cans)  All of these items are available locally if you forget them or don’t want to carry them with you.  You should bring your prescription medicines and perhaps something for an upset stomach, diarrhea and sea sickness just as a precaution.  If you are going to visit the ruins, comfortable walking shoes are important (preferably open style) and a day-pack is nice to have along to carry water and a snack.  Water shoes are handy as some of the beaches have coral outcrops.  A small flashlight can be very handy for evening strolls.  As a matter of habit, when we travel we carry a small first aid kit with basic items such as Aspirin/Tylenol, Insect Repellent, Antacid, Imodium AD, Polysporin, Motion sickness pills, Allergy medicine, Hydrogen peroxide or other wound cleanser, Band-Aids, Gauze, Tweezers, Safety pins, Sunscreen, Sunburn cream, Bactine or similar, and a list showing your blood type, special medical conditions and emergency contact phone numbers.  It is a good idea to have a list of all your credit/debit cards, emergency health care card, and the contact numbers listed, should you loose one.  Include a copy of passports and other important documents.  You can leave this information with someone at home that you know you will be able to reach in case of an emergency, or carry a copy with you in a safe and different place than your cards. 
If you would like to help the locals through our charity, please bring some school supplies, children's books or old clothes.  See Friends of Puerto Aventuras.
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27) Is there a doctor and hospital near by?
There is normally a doctor on call in Puerto Aventuras and Akumal.  There are good hospitals in Playa del Carmen and Cancun.  There is a pharmacy in Puerto Aventuras, Tulum and Playa del Carmen.  Contact information for all of these services is provided at Brisa Caribe and at most villas.  You should ask the villa administrator about this material when they do their orientation and consider what you would do in the case of an emergency so that you are prepared.
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28) Should I purchase trip insurance?
I recommend that you seriously consider it.  What would happen if I had to cancel my trip?  Does my existing medical insurance cover me in Mexico, including an emergency evacuation?  What if my luggage was lost or delayed?  Am I covered if my airline goes bankrupt before our trip?  Depending on the insurance company you choose and what policy you sign up for, these unforeseen things can all be covered.  With some policies, the coverage includes rental cars, with the premiums being not much more than you will pay the rental car company for local coverage.  Please note though, that in most cases, this insurance must be purchased in less than 14 days from making your reservation and/or flight arrangements.   Here is the link to a web site where you can compare prices, policies and purchase insurance on line.  click here for trip insurance
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29) Will my cellphone work in Mexico?
Mobile cellphone coverage is pretty good in the entire Riviera Maya.  Some US and Canadian cellphone providers have agreements with the two Mexican mobile phone companies to provide service to their customers.  HOWEVER, in most cases you must contact your provider at home before leaving to have this feature activated on your cellphone.  You should also know that this service is expensive. Check with your provider on rates and be aware that additional local charges may be added on.
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30)  Where can I golf?
The Riviera Maya is quickly becoming a golf destination with 12 courses between Cancun and Puerto Aventuras.  See our Golf page for full details.   
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31) What is the ferry to Cozumel schedule?
There are two companies running passenger ferries between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen.  There is also a vehicle ferry running between Puerto Morales and Cozumel.  The main passenger ferry is located at the end of Juarez St and then one block south (to your right when looking at the water) beside Sr. Frogs. The other ferry is currently running from this same location on a similar schedule, however this ferry will be moving to the new ferry dock at the end of Constituentes St. near the Porto Real hotel. The round trip price is aprox. $16. usd.  The ferry schedule is: 

Cozumel - Playa                  Playa - Cozumel
05:00 AM                               06:00 AM
07:00 AM                               08:00 AM
08:00 AM                               09:00 AM
09:00 AM                               10:00 AM
10:00 AM                               11:00 AM
12:00 PM                               01:00 PM
02:00 PM                               03:00 PM
04:00 PM                               05:00 PM
05:00 PM                               06:00 PM
06:00 PM                               07:00 PM
08:00 PM                               09:00 PM
10:00 PM                                          11:00 PM
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32) Where can I find more information on activities and services available?
We have a large Area Attractions section on our web site that will give you extensive information on Puerto Aventuras.  You can find info here for the area Heading North from Puerto Aventuras which includes Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Puerto Morales, & Xcaret.  Heading South from Puerto Aventuras you will find information on Akumal, XpuHa, Jade Bay, South Akumal, Solimon Bay, XelHa, Tulum and the many cenotes located on this coast.  We have also provided a great deal of information on Mayan Ruins including Chi Chinitza, Tulum, and Coba.  Interested in Diving? We have lots of info on this too.  Do you want to know about Restaurants, bars, and night clubs in and around Puerto Aventuras?  Are you headed to Cozumel or want to make a driving day trip?  Here is some information including the Cozumel to Playa del Carmen ferry schedule. 
 We suggest that you print this material to use as a reference when you are here.   
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