Street Art in Playa del Carmen: An Emerging Art Scene

Posted on July 25, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Every visitor that comes to Playa del Carmen will comment non-stop on the beauty of the beaches, the friendliness of the locals and the vibrant nightlife. However, a quick stroll away from the tourist area reveals a colorful and artistic beach town. Concrete turns to art in front of our eyes day after day, leaving messages of peace, love and discomfort. The city’s street art scene is fantastic. Artists flock from around the world, leaving their mark on the concrete walls. That way they make sure a piece of them stays with Playa del Carmen. The town is painted throughout all its corners in beautiful colors. All you need is to step away from your comfort zone to discover the story of the city through its murals.

Street art is not graffiti

When you start strolling towards the center of the city, or if you drive by the Federal Highway’s high bridge, you will start noticing the street art. This is art that locals paint and stencil on the walls. It’s not just a scribble; it’s not graffiti. These paintings take hours upon hours to create. They all tell a story, as well. There are benches along the walkways where locals and tourists enjoy spending some time relaxing and taking in the vibrant surroundings that artists have created. The more local beaches also feature beautiful paintings on the backboards. Playa del Carmen truly is an explosion of color.

Street art in Mexico should come at no surprise. The Mexican traditions are always very colorful and expressive. From language to customs, the country is generally a festive and outspoken place. Whether you are wondering around the tourist areas of Playa del Carmen or you veer off the beaten path, you will be able to find a bright corner to surprise you.

art and culture gaining momentum

Imagine being emerged in such a scenic culture which slowly gains momentum as more than just beaches and spring breakers. Imagine being surrounded by picturesque art and beautiful people and having the ability to walk outside your house and find yourself submerged in a street art gallery. One will never know the culture just from a photo. You must experience it on your own. What are you waiting for? The beach is beckoning you and our specialists at Top Mexico Real Estate are here to find your perfect retirement property surrounded by the amazing street art scene in Playa del Carmen.

Inclusive Cancun: New Beaches Suited for Everyone

Posted on July 23, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Quintana Roo’s beauty lies in its crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches. Unfortunately, for anyone who has any mobility restriction, enjoying the beach may seem more stressful than relaxing. For years, getting handicap access to beaches has been the state’s request, and while some beaches have started adapting, Cancun has finally come through. Although authorities began efforts in November of 2017, they are finally promoting the handicap access.

Handicap access finally installed in cancun beaches

Eduardo Martinez Salgado, director of the Rehabilitation and Inclusion Center of Cancun, announced that four beaches in Cancun are now accessible to people with disabilities or mobility restriction. But, what exactly does handicap access in a beach mean?

The beaches are accessible by ramps now. They also feature attention centers for any inquiries or to offer help to anyone who may need it. Moreover, authorities adapted the lounge chairs, bathrooms and showers. They are now suitable for anyone who may not be able to move freely without a wheelchair. The best part, however, is that they offer amphibious wheelchairs for everyone to enjoy actually being in the water. The city elected these four particular beaches due to its low tide and calm waves. This allows for the amphibious wheelchairs to enter the water smoothly, granting handicap access into the ocean.

quintana roo leading changes in infrastructure

Given the increasing amount of tourism to the area, having beaches with handicap access is perhaps one of the smartest authorizations the Quintana Roo government has issued. Playa del Carmen was the first city in the region to have a beach to accommodate people with disabilities. In Akumal, locals made efforts to introduce handicap-friendly snorkeling water bikes. They aimed to help those with disabilities see the wonders of the underwater world, although they were later removed. Today, Cancun has four inclusive beaches, including Playa Delfines, Chaacmool, Las Perlas and Playa Langosta.

This is great news for Quintana Roo’s tourism, as it goes hand in hand with other great things they’re doing. Just recently, Senator Jose Luis Pech Varguez announced the approval of a Cancun – Palenque fast train that will connect the whole south eastern peninsula of Mexico. The Riviera Maya has also recently been chosen as the pet-friendly destination for 2018 with many hotels, restaurants, bars and even beaches adapting to receive tourists with their furry friends. Lastly, private investment is overlooking the installation of electric car stations along the highway that goes from Cancun to Tulum in an effort to promote the use of eco-friendly alternatives to transport.

How to Survive the Riviera Maya’s Summer Heat Wave

Posted on July 20, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Meteorologists warned locals and tourists in the state of Quintana Roo of an upcoming heat wave in the next few days that will be breaking records. The Solidaridad Civil Protection warned of roaring temperatures that will reach 38°C (100°F) but have a thermal sensation of 47°C (116°F). According to the director of meteorology in Solidaridad, “the heat wave is due to the inclination of the earth that causes solar radiation to arrive perpendicularly and is a period of time, which is fixed from July 15 to August 24, but in itself, does not have an exact date for it to start or end.” Moreover, humidity will also be at its highest, and the rainfall at its lowest. With news of the rising heat, many people may wonder how to prepare accordingly to avoid heat stroke, sun burn or anything more serious.

Drink Plenty of Water

Obvious, we know, but many people like to hydrate with beer. And while it’s definitely a nice and refreshing drink, water helps you replenish all you sweat from the heat. If you’re leaving your house make sure you bring bottled water with you everywhere, and replenish when you’re at a restaurant, bar or beach club. Caffeine and alcohol, while enjoyable, can contribute to dehydration. So, try to steer clear from them.

Eat Right

While we’re on the subject of staying hydrated, there are foods that will help you replenish and re-energize your body. While others contribute to the loss of water. With the heat, you need to eat moisturizing foods such as cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelon, and others. Of course, you can’t deny yourself other delicacies, just make sure you’re consuming these, as well. Also try eating in smaller portions throughout the day. Large meals can raise your metabolism, which in turn increases your body heat. The less you eat during one sitting, the less heat you’ll create.

One Word: Air Conditioning

Another obvious one, perhaps, but try to avoid walking out on Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen at midday, for example. Try to stay in closed places where you can cool off and if you really want to take a stroll make it short, through the shade and stop at stores, bars or restaurants to cool off from time to time. And while your electricity bill might go up slightly over the summer months, it’s best to stay cool at home, as well.

Dress Smart

You might want to stay away from darker colors while you’re putting up with this summer heat! Black fabric transmits heat to the skin, rising your temperature. Light colored clothing with lighter fabrics will be your best friend during this heat wave. The best color to wear is white, of course, as it rejects heat and helps you keep cool.

Take Advantage of Paradise

Hey, you’re in the Riviera Maya! Go cool off in the gorgeous turquoise waters and enjoy the beauty of the area. Be careful, however, and make sure you wear plenty of sunscreen to avoid sun burns and skin cancer. Make sure it’s biodegradable and apply it 30 minutes before you plan on swimming. Rash guards and hats are also your best friends when taking a dip in the ocean.

Avoid the Outdoors During Peak Hours

Doctors highly recommend avoiding being under the sun between 12 and 4pm as these are know as the peak sun hours. Especially when the sun is scorching hot and there are heat waves it is more important to avoid being out at this time. If you can’t avoid being under the sun then, make sure you’re wearing plenty of sun screen and alternating between sun and shade to avoid skin problems.

Keep Your Pets Safe

Avoid tragedies by keeping your pets constantly hydrated and only taking them out for walks really early in the morning or after dark. The heat of the streets and sidewalks can hurt their paws and exercising them during peak heat times can give them heat stroke as well. Give them enough cool water or cold treats (like frozen peanut butter and banana).

You Can Beat the Heat Wave

By following the previous advice and keeping yourself cool at all times, you’ll be able to take this heat wave like a breeze. Most importantly, however, you need to know the signs and ask for help when you start feeling dehydrated. Headaches, muscle pain, cramps, exhaustion and thirst are just some signs of heat stroke. Ask for medical assistance and head over to a cool and shaded place as soon as possible. Make sure you are given cold water both on your body and to drink. If there are any other major signs, call 911.

A Quick Guide to a Mexican Golfing Retirement

Posted on July 18, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

A Quick Guide to a Mexican Golfing Retirement is a contribution by Chrissy Jones.

With some of the best all-inclusive golf resorts in the world, it’s natural to assume that Mexico takes its golfing seriously. With 11 of these courses based in Cancun alone, it’s a haven for the golfing enthusiasts. The real estate market also loves golf courses. Because of this, they add a significant amount of value to the properties in the area. For retirees, good properties and plenty of golfing is the perfect combination. Mexico offers some of the best retirement spots, now with the added advantage of including a swing at golf.

Golfing Paradise at Baja and Las Palomas

Mexico is not necessarily known for its golfing. But an increased focus in the sport has resulted in two of the top ten golf courses in Latin America to be in Mexico. Jack Nicklaus designed the first, Cabo del Sol in Baja. At 36 holes, this is not a course to be trifled with. The second is designed by Forrest Richardson and is based in Las Palomas. This course features 18 holes, which is perfect for a quick round on a Sunday. Both Baja and las Palomas offer retirees the ideal mix of real estate to keep their purses and comfort levels satisfied.

No Need to be a Pro

Retirees who wish to take up golf as a hobby after retirement don’t need to worry about learning the perfect swing or putt. Plenty of beginners are retirees. In fact, many of the gated estates and resorts offer beginner golfing to their residents. This is a trump card on the real estate front. You can find many of these residences in the Riviera Maya, such as this one in Bahia Principe. Retirees don’t have to worry about starting out their golfing hobby in retirement, as many of them do. This is because many retirees never had the opportunity to take up a hobby before due to lack of time. Residents can request golfing lessons at the local golf courses. Participants can decide when they’re ready to go out on their own.

Luxury is Part of the Package

From the Tom Fazio signature golf course in Chileno Bay to the Jim McLean Golf School at Banyan Tree Mayakoba, luxury and golf go hand in hand. Sprawling residential resorts that offer more than just great views are the ideal location. Here, retirees can rest their wandering feet on Mexican soil. These destinations offer other spoils such as spa access and exclusive outdoor activities, as well. For retirees, this all comes at affordable prices and the temperate weather is a bonus.

From the sprawling beaches that provide the perfect backdrop to a great day’s golfing, to world-class accommodation, retiring in Mexico is one for the young at heart. With fresh greens and crisp lawns, there has never been a better time to take up golf.

The Best Festivals in the Riviera Maya

Posted on July 16, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Whether you’re a full-time resident of Mexico or a snowbird that flocks to escape the freezing winters of the north, it’s good to know what’s going on around for you to enjoy. The Riviera Maya and the whole Yucatan Peninsula are increasingly booming when it comes to art and culture. Because of this, many festivals and events have started to take place annually. So, get out your calendar and start marking the dates to attend these amazing festivals year-round.

Spring and Autumn Equinox Festival

Each year, attendees can observe an extraordinary manifestation at Chichen Itza in the Yucatan Peninsula. This happens during the first few days of spring, as well as fall, when the descending sun casts a shadow of a giant serpent alongside the corner of the renowned Kulkulkan Temple. The shadow gives the impression of a snake gliding down the staircase. It then fuses with a large stone serpent head at the base of the pyramid.

This commemoration rejoices the progressive zodiacal prodigy of the Mayan culture with a variety of concerts, sounds and bright light displays on the consecrated archeological site.

The Riviera Maya Film Festival

The international film industry puts on a festival to celebrate cinema through contemporary films every year. Producers screen Mexican and foreign movies throughoug different spots in the Riviera Maya, from Cancun to Tulum, during six days. It’s a great event for film lovers and a great way to get to see your favorite actors, directors and industry big names in person.

In Playa del Carmen, award-winning films are featured in remarkable outdoor locations such as the beach, as well as inside reinstated theaters. In Cancun they have a drive-in cinema, as well, which is one of the most popular events they host. The festival has attracted over 80,000 visitors over the past five years and has featured close to 1000 free screenings.

Festival of Life and Death at Xcaret

The Festival of Life and Death takes place over four days starting on October 31^st at the Xcaret eco-park. Inside the festival grounds you can enjoy delicious foods such as tamales, cochinita pibil and other traditional Mexican tasty treats. You will also be blown away by the many decorations and lights within the park.

This is a truly Mexican experience you won’t want to miss if you’re visiting at the time. The festival features musical performances, theater, comedy, equestrian shows and a lot of culture. It is suitable for families with children of all ages. With plenty of flowers, candles, and beautifully-decorated altars, you won’t even know you’re in Mexico’s most touristic destination.

Riviera Maya Jazz Festival

Perhaps the best thing about the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival besides the stellar line-ups, is that it’s completely free. The even takes places on the beaches of Playa del Carmen and it is one of the longest-running festivals to take place here. Thanks to its world-class entertainment and gorgeous setting, it is a favorite amongst locals and foreigners alike.

Even if you’re not a jazz fan, it is great to appreciate the music as they bring plenty of big-name artists. The setting is quite enjoyable, too. Many people bring food and drinks and make their own beach picnic while listening to the music. It runs through the night.

International Festival of Caribbean Culture

The International Festival of Caribbean Culture is a six-day festival in the Riviera Maya with events held mainly in Cancun during the month of November. This festival is popular amongst people who enjoy salsa music and poetry. There is always plenty of dancing, amazing Caribbean artists and a lot of fun to go around.

Make sure you plan your visits to Mexico or your general calendar around these amazing festivals so you can enjoy the most cultural activities around. The Riviera Maya is growing ever-so-rapidly and more and more of these festivals are now taking place here. Mark your calendars and enjoy!

Retiring to Mexico: The Best Choice for You

Posted on July 9, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

When you’re thinking of your retirement, there are many things to consider. Amongst those, is the ease with which you will be able to move around. This means actually living in a city that is relaxing, close to everything, and where transportation is at hand. A place that requires you to drive everywhere most likely means traffic, and nobody wants to deal with such things during their retirement. It’s your turn to sit back, relax and enjoy. That is why retiring to Mexico has so many benefits. In fact, it is one of the top destinations in the country for Americans and Canadians to spend their golden years.

There are many benefits to retiring in places such as Playa del Carmen. Not only do the big expat communities help each other out constantly, but the quality of life is impressive. Walking everywhere is easy, everything is nearby, there are plenty of things to do, and there is also a great infrastructure.

Medical Assistance

One of the perks of retiring to the Riviera Maya is its top-notch medical industry. Many English-speaking professionals work here and cater to the well-being of American and Canadian expats. Retiring to Mexico means having the best possible medical care at hand with many private clinics and dentist’s offices available.

Money Goes A Long Way

The Mexican peso is constantly fluctuating and the dollar gains more and more strength against it. While that may be bad news for our Mexican friends, it is a great opportunity for Americans and Canadians. Dollars will go a long way here not only because of its value but because living in Mexico is very cheap in comparison to other countries. Not only when it comes to real estate but also with simple things such as a meal out in a restaurant, or grocery shopping and even transportation.

Retiring to Mexico Increases Quality of Life

The Riviera Maya is a friendly and welcoming place. It is home to a close-knit community that will help you find anything or recommend places to visit. Many people will also willingly volunteer to help you in translating documents, instructions, or anything else you may need. But because Mexicans are so friendly and open to foreigners, the quality of life is much better, too. Friends are found around every corner. Great food is served in every restaurant. Beers and cocktails flow by the beach nonstop. Activities to do include swimming, snorkeling, diving, yoga, fishing, and many others that keep everyone young at heart.

Moving Around in Mexico

If for some reason you decide to use a vehicle, there are many trusted rental cars that offer incredibly low prices in comparison the USA. Renting a car to pick friends up at the airport, or to get around is an easy and affordable process. However, the transit system (bus and colectivos) are very reliable, timely and good. There are a few terminals scattered around the Riviera Maya that will take you anywhere and bring you back.

Year-Round Warm Weather

The weather in the Riviera Maya is very consistent with the sun always shining and warm temperatures throughout the year. The average temperature is 28°C, while it can fluctuate anywhere between 22°C and 36°C. The weather makes it a great place to retire due to the amount of activities one can enjoy under the sun.

All in all, there is no reason to avoid retiring to Mexico. It is affordable, fun, friendly, beautiful, and offers a great deal of Americanized standards that you are used to. Shopping is easy and cheap and moving around either driving or in public transportation is no hard feat. Mexico is definitely the number one choice for you to retire.

Organic Markets in Playa del Carmen

Posted on July 3, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

Eating healthy and buying organic foods has become trendy in today’s society. It has become important for people to eat right, making sure they do not consume pesticides or harmful toxins. Luckily, Playa del Carmen is a great city to live in if you want to focus your habits on being healthy and leading a cleaner lifestyle. In this vibrant town you will find many restaurants offering organic options, a signature many people live by. Most places in North America offer cheap food options, but in turn, these are unhealthy. When you live in a place where healthy options are more affordable, it makes it easier to transition into this lifestyle. Here are some of the best organic markets in Playa del Carmen where you can find fresh food for good prices.

The Best Organic Markets in Playa del Carmen

DAC Market

DAC is located on 30^th Avenue, just north of Constituyentes Avenue. It is open Monday through Saturday from 7 am to 8 pm, and Sundays from 7 am to 2 pm. The market offers a wide arrange of fresh fruits and vegetables and an abundance of other delicious items such as fresh meat and seafood. This is a rather traditional market where you can find a variety of items that are also available in supermarkets.

El Pueblito Mayakoba Farmer’s Market

You will find El Pueblito Mayakoba within the eco-friendly, luxury resort of Mayakoba. However, anyone can visit the market. It is open every Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm, which makes for a great afternoon spent browsing through the many items on display. Find fresh and organic produce, home baked goods, art, and much more available here.

El Arbol Playacar Market

The market El Arbol within the gated-community of Playacar is a tranquil place that offers more than just food. You can enjoy the beautiful environment, peaceful music, and a variety of organic products all in the same place. The market is open every Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm right on Tulum Avenue in Playacar’s Phase II. Throughout the week, you can find delicious bread and vegan food at the local, as well. This is one of the most complete organic markets out there.

El Jardin de Todas Market

Located on 80^th Avenue and 3^rd Street South, this quaint little market is open every Friday from 9 am to 12 pm. If you’re an eco-lover, you’re in for a treat. Here you can find many tasty organic products and handmade goods to help support the local communities. Make sure you get there early as it works on a first-come, first-serve basis. This is a great place to socialize and buy from local vendors. Everything is always fresh and their products will have you coming back every Friday for more.

If you’re ready to adopt that healthy lifestyle you’ve always been after, make sure to check out these amazing organic markets in Playa del Carmen. The truth is, the general environment in this beautiful coastal town is the perfect place to go fully organic. And if you want to go the extra step, you can also point your efforts towards recycling and leaving a clean life.

A Day Trip to Las Coloradas, the Pink Lagoon

Posted on June 29, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

The Pink Lagoon at Las Coloradas in the Yucatan Peninsula might feel like a fairy tale; but in fact, this is just a beautiful natural phenomenon. This magical place is located about three hours from Playa del Carmen by car, which is perfect for a weekend getaway to Merida or Valladolid. The place is an ideal birdwatching destination, being home to 350 different species of birds. It was designated as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 2004. The sights here are unreal.

Visiting Las Coloradas

Due to Las Coloradas being such a small fishing town, there are no hotels or restaurants in sight, so make sure you drive up from Merida or Valladolid to see the place. Likewise, bring enough to drink and eat during the day as you will probably spend about 3 hours there. The best time to see the bright pink color pop is at noon, so make sure you plan accordingly. As the sun beings to set, the colors are lost. The reason the lagoon is pink (and why the flamingos turn pink from feeding from it) is due to the many microorganisms that live there. This includes red shrimp and plankton.

On your way to Las Coloradas, you might want to make a quick stop at the salt production plant. It will also feel like a page out of a fairy tale with its mountains of salt laying around. Once you reach the pink lagoon you will be able to see that the water has a high concentration of salt. That is what makes it so easy to float in. However, locals and guards will not let you actually swim in the lagoon, so make sure you don’t try to go in to avoid getting into trouble.

spotting the flamingos

It is rather easy to find the flamingos, which is the bird most people want to see. They will flock away when too many people are around, so creep up carefully. Funnily enough, these tall birds tend to stray away from the pink waters when not feeding. So you will have better luck finding them in the other ponds. However, there are thousands of them and you will surely spot them in one place or another. Many locals will try offering you tours to see them. If you want to spare some pesos you can go with them and help out the local community. Otherwise, you’ll find the flamingos on your own.

The lagoons are an amazing day trip to take whether you’re living in Mexico or just visiting. Don’t expect too much to do there other than visiting the lagoon. Enjoy your weekend getaway to this amazing natural wonder.

5 Reasons to Retire to Mexico

Posted on June 20, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

5 Reasons to Retire to Mexico is a contribution by Crystal Tost from Re/Max.

When trying to decide on the right country for retirement, you will find that there are many options available. Many countries can dispute the pros of retiring there. However, there are several reasons why many Canadians and Americans choose to retire to Mexico. In fact, here are five great reasons to call Mexico home after retiring.

Proximity

For those who currently reside in Canada and the United States, Mexico is a great retirement destination due to proximity. As part of North America, Mexico can easily be reached by car from any country. Moreover, flight routes are available between major destinations between the United States and Canada and Mexico, such as Cancun. Not only does this help to make the move easier, but it also makes it easier to travel back and forth to your home country to visit relatives and friends.

Cost of Living

Everything from real estate to groceries is cheaper in Mexico when compared to Canada and the United States. This means you can afford to purchase more luxurious accommodations while also enjoying the lifestyle you seek. Or, if you simply want to maintain your current lifestyle while making your dollars stretch further, living in Mexico can help make it happen. In addition, due to the country’s strong tourist economy, you can easily rent out your retirement property if you decide to head back to your home country for an extended stay.

Language and Culture

While Spanish and several native languages are the official languages of Mexico, many residents speak English, too. This is particularly true in the service industry and in those areas that are popular amongst tourist and expats such as Playa del Carmen. This can make the process of moving to the country, purchasing real estate and navigating through the country once becoming a resident a whole lot easier.

Of course, if you want to enjoy a wonderful cultural experience, you can also very easily choose a location that will allow you to submerge yourself entirely in the Mexican culture. The government system is similar to that in the United States and Canada, too. Couple that with the diversification of products and goods, the cultural experience is not too vastly different from what you are used to.

Healthcare

While the quality of healthcare provided will vary from one location to the next, healthcare standards are generally very high in Mexico. This is particularly true in the bigger towns and cities that are popular retirement locations. Here you can typically find doctors, dentists, hospitals and specialty medical providers. Not only do they offer high-quality services, they also do so at a fraction of the price you would pay back home. If that’s not enough to convince you, many of them also offer their services in English.

Lifestyle

With its wide range of topography and climates, you can very easily live whatever type of lifestyle you desire. Mexico is conductive to enjoying an active, outdoor lifestyle. But you can also enjoy living life at a leisurely pace. After all, the country has a laid-back vibe and warm and welcoming citizens. For those who want to retire in the Riviera Maya, they’re in for an amazing laidback lifestyle. Hit the beach every day and take a stroll amongst the lively coastal towns it offers.

Retire to Mexico Today

These are just five reasons to consider Mexico your retirement home. Spend those golden years in this wonderfully cultural country. Places such as the Riviera Maya are great expat retirement hubs. These are just a few of the many reasons almost 2 million Americans call Mexico home. If you want to spend your golden years sipping margaritas by the beach in a year-long warm climate, you should definitely retire to Mexico.

5 Apps for Expats in the Riviera Maya

Posted on June 13, 2018 by Thomas Lloyd

In today’s technological world, living with apps is essential. Whether you’re at home, traveling or an expat abroad, there are some apps that are great for your day by day life. Especially for expats, some apps are great to get around a new city, overcome the language barrier or deciding where to go and what to do. Apps help us decide if we want to dine at a certain restaurant or not, or if we want to purchase a product or another. Here are some amazing apps that will help you and other expats feel more at ease in your new home.

DUOLINGO

This is the gift that keeps giving. This app is a great platform to practice and learn any language you want. If you’re living in Mexico and struggling to communicate on a daily basis, this app can teach you the basics of the Spanish language. Moreover, the app is completely free and you can choose as many languages to learn as you want. It teaches you vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling, and hearing. Its sections and quizzes at the end of each lesson help you stay on track

TripAdvisor

You’ve probably heard of TripAdvisor, and it is exactly as its name states. The app lets you read other customer reviews on certain places and companies. Before you head out to try a new restaurant in Playa del Carmen, you can check it out on the app and see what other people are saying about it. It’s also a great way to find out what the tourists like and where the locals are actually going. Customers share photos of the place or the menu. You won’t be surprised when arriving at a place or restaurant you want to visit. It’s a great app for expats before they get a good handle on all the places in their new home.

TripIt

You’ve moved to a new country and are eager to explore every given corner. TripIt is the one place to see and stock all your travel planes. The app is easy to use and rather intelligent. It lets you create a leading itinerary and gives you the opportunity to forward your documents to any travel companions. You can also create a user profile that can be shared with whomever you want. It allows you to sync your calendar, as well, to keep track of upcoming trips and dates. If you’ve got a departure flight, you can check it straight in the app. Any stress of traveling is gone with TripIt. It is efficient and smart.

Skyscanner

There was no way to avoid an actual flight purchasing app. Any expat knows that constantly looking for flights to go back home is essential. With Skyscanner you can search for the cheapest and most convenient flights available to your destination. For expats who want to travel back home but don’t have a set date, the app allows you to choose the destination and see the cheapest times of the year to fly. Expats can also set alarms for dates and places they are interested in traveling to. It’s an essential tool when planning a trip.

Navigation Apps

Google Maps provides maps all around the world and offers the option to get directions from any point of the city. It allows you to choose your transportation means, as well. You can see the times and routes it takes from one point to another by walking, riding bike, taking the bus or driving. The great thing about Google Maps is that it’s constantly updating its maps to add and remove roads as cities change. You can use it even when you are not connected to the Internet. However, for that to work you need to have your route planned out first.

Maps.me is another wonderful app because you can use the maps offline, working on the Open Street Map Data. You can also bookmark and share location using this app. It is compatible with all devices, making it easy to find and share certain location points with any friends or family in the area.

It’s rather easy to move to another country with today’s internet reach. Everyone has a smartphone today and access to wireless connection. Like these, there are many other apps that can be helpful in new places and when first trying to become familiar with your new city. We suggest you download as many as you can while you get a hang of moving around on your own.