Roberto L’hopital | English - A politically incorrect blog, and some useful tips for the bon-vivánt

I am especially fan of octopuss, and I´ve had it in many places.  Leaving aside the ones prepared in Spain, the next best octopuss I´ve tasted is the one grilled at Puerto Madero, the fancy argentine restaurant in Cancún.  It is served hot, grilled with olive oil, garlic and paprika.

Also, very surprisingly, I found excellent octopuss in San Miguel de Allende (far away from any sea!), at the restaurant “La Azotea”  This restaurant is excellent, tapas are the best in San Miguel. At this lively place, with a great terrace, the octopuss is prepared the galician way (mild temperature, after being boiled, and irrigated with olive oil and paprika after serving).

I had been at the Riviera Maya (Quintana Roó state, México) many times.  I had stayed and bathed in great beaches in Tulúm, Akumal and Playa del Carmen.  But this new year´s eve (from Dec/25/2008 to Jan/05/2009) I discovered Solimán Bay, probably the best beach south of Cancún.

Solimán Bay is just 20km south of the Akumal entrance, 40km south of Playa del Carmen or 12km north of Tulúm.  What makes Solimán different than other beaches nearby, is the fact that the amazing coral reef is some 500 yards off the beach.  This natural barrier creates a perfect pool, with shallow and cristal waters between the reef and the white sand beach.  Ideal for kayaking and bathing, and a great place for kids (very safe).   While on Akumal (another piece of paradise) the water was rather turbulent because of a cold north front, on Solimán it remained totally quiet.  We could hardly snorkel on Akumal, while on Solimán it was perfect.

Underwater life on the reef is amazing, just comparable to what you see on Cozumel (the island in front of Playa del Carmen).  Take it into account next time you visit Riviera Maya.

Roberto L´hopital