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Wedding Videos: Capture Those Treasured Memories

Weddings constitute a huge expense, one of the biggest in our lives, in fact, and as such it is perfectly reasonable to look into cutting costs where one can. So, it makes sense that you might be on the fence about paying for photography AND videography for your wedding day! Nonetheless, there are plenty of reasons that you might regret forgoing a wedding video for your wedding at Sian Ka’an Village; first and foremost you will deny yourself the pleasure of experiencing the whole day once more. Have a look at our top reasons as to why you should consider a videographer for your wedding at Sian Ka’an Village.

Capture the Details

You will spend month meticulously planning each and every detail of your wedding day, but the sad (and happy) truth is that the day itself will fly by so quickly that you may never get to see all those details come together properly! Hiring a videographer will let you go back in years to come to see your hard work pay off, and better yet let you see all those little moments that might have passed you by! Your friends and family will love being able to relive these moments with you too, but above and beyond this you might capture people in the video that were not in any of the pictures, or who had to leave early for any reason. The ability to look back and hear old voices, see expressions, and watch their mannerisms is something that you will be thankful for in the future.

Relive Your Ceremony

A video will allow you to see things you may not have been present for, such as what was going on as the excitement was building before the ceremony got started or seeing the bridesmaids and groomsmen walk down the aisle. Likewise, viewing the expressions on your faces and hearing the intonation of your voices as you exchange vows, which can be one of the most moving portions of your wedding, is something that you simply cannot achieve with photography.

Revisit Your Cherished Memories

As we noted before, the real blessing is in being able to relive this day for years to come, and when you’re spending so much time and money on one day it makes sense to relive it whenever you want! This is something that becomes more and more important as years go by; this can be a reminder of your love and commitment even when things get rough, and you can show it to your children, too, in the future, as well as any loved ones who couldn’t attend your wedding. These days, however there is another great facet; you can live stream your wedding ceremony to those who can’t make it if you find a company who offers this!

Why Choose Ecologically Friendly Vacations

When you are looking into travel options for your next vacation, remember that every choice you make has an impact on the environment. That is why it is so important to consider visiting areas that offer hotel options and local tourist activities that are eco-friendly. Responsible ecotourism is on the rise as more travelers are becoming aware of the negative influence heavy tourist traffic can have on an area. With more availability now than ever before for ecologically friendly vacations, it is easy to design a customized vacation centering on eco-friendly hotels and tourism.

Why Choose Ecologically Friendly Vacations

The intention of ecotourism reaches far beyond just protecting the delicate habitats that have become overrun with tourists. It encourages travelers to visit areas that conserve the environment, support the local people and economy, and educate tourists about what is special and unique about a particular region. Ecologically friendly vacations not only bring greater economic stability to an area, they bring about a host of social benefits as well to regions rich in fascinating culture and history. When responsible tourism takes place, it allows native peoples to preserve the traditions and customs that have been essential to their culture’s way of life for countless generations.

What Visitors Experience

When you travel to a region known for its ecotourism, you can be sure that the tours you take part in will focus on bringing greater awareness to nature and the environment. Through interpretation, you will also gain perspective on the local culture and society, and your unique personal experience is of utmost importance. You will be introduced to the local way of life and the conservation efforts in place within a given community. When taking ecologically friendly vacations, it is likely you will also learn about local political views as well as social and spiritual beliefs. Above all else, you should witness a local desire for responsible tourism that works in harmony with the magnificent beauty nature offers all of us.

Transforming Communities

When breathtaking regions around the globe are promoted as world-class destinations, the potential for responsible ecotourism is even greater. Areas that can offer authentic experiences with minimal impact on the environment while benefiting the local population are now more in demand than ever before. Not surprisingly, travelers from all over the world are clamoring for a taste of the local flavor, no matter which corner of the globe they may be traveling to.

Offering long-term conservation solutions, ecologically friendly vacations supplies regions with wonderful economic incentives to ensure the local people conserve and protect their splendid cultural heritage and biodiversity, especially where nature and the planet’s well-being are concerned. Ecotourism helps increase employment opportunities, which in turn gives local communities found throughout the world the empowerment to rise up and prevail against poverty. This also allows communities to build sustainable development designed for minimal environmental impact, which will have a long term positive effect on locals and the region.

Staying Active on Vacation at Sian Ka’an Village

Although one of the main reasons that people choose to escape to the Sian Ka’an Village is to relax and totally switch off from the world, staying active and keeping fit while you are in paradise can also be an important part of your vacation at Sian Ka’an Village. Take a look at the ways you can keep your blood pumping at the Sian Ka’an Village.

Running on the Beach

Due to the secluded nature of the beach at the Sian Ka’an Village, running along the water’s edge at sunrise or sunset is a magical experience. If you don’t like to run on sand, you can also choose to run along the dirt roads that wind around the stunning mangroves and flank the sea.

Kayaking

Guests at Sian Ka’an Village may borrow the property’s kayaks and life jackets to head out to sea. Here you can enjoy a safe adventure as the coral reefs protect the beach from swells and larger waves. If you would prefer a guided tour, our team can also take you out on the kayaks.

Paddle boarding

Paddle boarding is a great way to keep in shape, building core muscle strength as well as toning your limbs and improving balance. You can borrow the paddle boards at the Sian Ka’an Village and use them at your leisure. You can also borrow life jackets, if required.

Bike Rides

You can borrow the property’s mountains bikes to explore the dirt roads that lead along the side of the beach through the mangroves. Not only can you keep fit but you will also enjoy the stunning natural surroundings as you spot local flora and fauna.

Yoga

The Sian Ka’an Village is open to host yoga retreats and welcomes instructors who would like to bring a group of students to enjoy the tranquility of the property. Guest who follow their own routine will also find some great spots to carry out their own personal practice.

Sian Ka’an Cenote Weddings Photos

So, you’re planning your dream destination wedding in sunny Mexico, and you’re wondering where the best place to be is? We’d like to suggest the Yucatan Peninsula, and more specifically the Sian Ka’an Biosphere…. Here’s why:

Great weather
Lovely people
The most unique and stunning landscape in the region.

In recent years cenote photography for weddings has become the big thing, and the result is unforgettable moments of stunning beauty which are captured for future pleasure. If you want your wedding album to be entirely unique then the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is definitely for you.

What are Cenotes?

Cenotes are stunning natural phenomena which are unique to this part of the world; the word cenote comes from the Maya and means “sacred well”. The Maya seemed to believe that these subterranean water systems were gateways to the Gods, and that they could be used to communicate with them. Today we know that they were created by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock, and that the water is so perfectly crystal clear because it had been filtered by the earth. The sense of magic that surrounds them has not faded with this knowledge, however. Often these cenotes have tropical trees and hanging vines in them; they make for dramatic photos.

Trash the Dress Wedding Photography

Photo credit: Jhankarlo Photography

Though the scene is fairly new, cenote photography already has its own wedding traditions. One which is particularly interesting has been dubbed “trashing the dress”. The concept is that you and your loved one enter the water in your full wedding regalia for some pictures. While it might seem silly to risk ruining your dress for a few photos this is a really spectacular concept. You see that water is so clear that a good camera can pick up every tiny detail, and the anti-gravity effect makes it look ethereal and quite hauntingly beautiful. So if you think about it, you’re really trading your dress for a once in a lifetime experience that will leave you with stunningly beautiful reminders for your wedding album… to us that’s a trade worth considering.

Steamy Couples Shots

Photo credit: Jhankarlo Photography

There are those couples, of course, who already know exactly what photos they want for their wedding album and will tell their photographer what to do, but if you’re unsure and have an open mind why not ask them for some ideas. It’s quite popular to have some steamy/romantic photos in there now. In some the bride wears sexy lingerie, or the couple even do a tasteful nude shot.

Use this as an excuse to showcase your love and passion for each other so that you can have a plethora of memories to enjoy in years to come.

Sian Ka’an Diving and Fishing Packages

While traveling to one amazing vacation destination in Mexico is good, experiencing two is even better! Instead of visiting just Cancun or the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, treat yourself to an unforgettable trip that includes a stay in both dreamy oceanfront landscapes. With the vacation packages offered at Sian Ka’an Village, including a Paradise Diving Adventure and a Luxury Fly Fishing Escape, you can stay in the lap of luxury in both majestic locations.

Luxury Getaway Packages – Villa del Palmar Cancun and Sian Ka’an Village

These unbelievable luxury getaway packages include a stay at two of the Yucatan peninsula’s most notable vacation properties: Villa del Palmar Cancun Luxury Beach Resort & Spa and the Sian Ka’an Village. No matter which package you decide on, your adventurous retreat will begin at Villa del Palmar Cancun where opulence meets comfort. Afterward, you will reach the Sian Ka’an Biosphere by car to experience your stay at a breathtaking luxury beachfront villa that feels as though it is tucked away from the world.

Villa del Palmar Cancun

Situated on prime beachfront real estate that looks upon the turquoise-hued Caribbean Sea, Villa del Palmar Cancun is the ideal getaway for travelers seeking lavish accommodations. Features of this award-winning resort, including magnificent views, a world-class spa, gourmet cuisine, infinity pools and Jacuzzis, were designed with ultimate comfort in mind, and limited edition Luxury Residences with a private butler are right next door.

Sian Ka’an Village

The breathtaking property at Sian Ka’an Village is the ultimate hideaway, where guests can enjoy the splendors of nature in total privacy. With exclusive services and opulent surroundings, this spectacular villa will not disappoint with 7 double bedrooms, a striking terrace, a Grand Salon with dining area, bar and lounge, plus beach palapas and non-motorized water toys that will take your indoor/outdoor retreat to the next level.

Luxury Getaway Packages

These two Luxury Getaway Packages treat guests to accommodations at both Villa del Palmar Cancun and Sian Ka’an Village: Paradise Diving Adventure and Luxury Fly Fishing Escape. These packages both include a stay at each marvelous property complete with all-inclusive benefits and return road transportation from Cancun to Sian Ka’an.

Paradise Diving Adventure

Diving connoisseurs can experience the trip of a lifetime with this all-inclusive Luxury Getaway Package, which combines a stay in a Three Bedroom Master Residence at Villa del Palmar Cancun with accommodation for six people at the delightful Sian Ka’an Village. This package also includes diving, of course, with tours for up to three guests, and everyone can enjoy other water sports and explore Sian Ka’an Village with kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.

Luxury Fly Fishing Escape

Fishing fanatics will be thrilled with this all-inclusive Luxury Getaway Package, which begins with a stay in a Three Bedroom Master Residence at Villa del Palmar Cancun and continues at Sian Ka’an Village for at least two days of fly fishing or light tackle fishing. If you’d like more time, there is an option to extend your stay for as long as 4 days at Sian Ka’an, which will allow you to become familiar with one of the world’s most incredible UNESCO protect biospheres while you fish!

These wonderful Luxury Getaway Packages offer anyone interested in diving or fishing on their vacation the perfect way to experience their favorite hobby in high style along the Yucatan peninsula.

Sian Ka’an Ecotourism

Ecotourism has really boosted the economy in Mexico at large and in Quintana Roo and the Yucatan Peninsula in particular. Of course this area was host to some of the premier destinations in Latin America before the influx of eco-tourists; over the last 40 years, the annual figure for visitors has steadily climbed until, in recent years, it shows 8 million tourists and 3 million cruise ship passengers passing through yearly. Alongside the great economic benefits that ecotourism has brought, however, there have been social benefits too! Potential for sustainable development in the region is high, so the only way is up!

Sian Ka’an Ecotourism

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere has achieved the coveted status of a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as being a protected nature reserve. The rich history and culture that has been preserved within the biosphere, such as the fishing traditions of Punta Herrero, and the unique ecosystems at play here have much to do with this. What draws in many ecotourists, however, are the virgin coastline and teeming waters.

There has been a push, from more than one sector, to make the Sian Ka’an Biosphere a world-class, world famous destination for ecotourism, though there has been, thus far, a scarcity of public policies to consolidate these efforts. Nonetheless certain international organizations and associations like the United Nations (UN) and Inter-American Development Bank have joined forces with the Amigos de Sian Ka’an Actions for Nature association in order to promote responsible Sian Ka’an ecotourism.

Responsible Ecotourism Industry

Studies have evaluated the appropriateness of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere for a responsible ecotourism industry and have found that there are more than 17 companies in the area dedicated to just that. These companies have already started to make links with tourism fairs and tour operators who specialize in responsible tourism. This is great news for the area as it has been identified as a place where authentic low impact, high social benefit ecotourism can be found.

The Future of Sian Ka’an Ecotourism

The consolidation of responsible tourism programs in the Sian Ka’an reached an important juncture in 2014 when a series of programs were put in place to secure the region’s place as a leader for sustainable tourism. These programs were designed to benefit the local communities and Mexico at large in both the long and short term. 2016 and 2017 look set to be important years in the development of the region’s eco-tourism programs and, indeed, in the development of the tourist sector at large.

Gay Weddings in Mexico

Since 2015 Mexico has become one of those kinder and more progressive places in the world where your sexual identity is of no consequence in the eyes of the law when it comes to the validity of your marriage. In 2015, Mexico’s Supreme Court ruled that it was discriminatory for any law to prohibit the marriage of gay and lesbian couples. Since then all 31 states of Mexico have fully legalized same sex marriage, and the wedding industry has flourished for gay weddings in Mexico.

Gay Weddings in Mexico

Since the Supreme Court ruling, Mexico recognizes all same sex marriages performed on Mexican soil and abroad to a federal level. This truly is a time of change and growing equality in this predominantly Roman Catholic country. It also means that it is now easy to organize a gay wedding in Mexico, whether you are looking for a legal marriage ceremony or a symbolic wedding ceremony.

Where are people opting for gay weddings in Mexico?

Same sex couples are free to get married wherever they may wish in Mexico now, but there are some favourites, obviously, and most are near the beach. The Yucatan Peninsula including the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Riviera Maya and Cancun provides a great choice for gay weddings. There’s a venue for every preference and budget, too; whether you want to have an intimate, barefoot beach wedding, or a huge stylish affair it’s all possible here in Mexico.

Making History

Mexico City was the first part of the country to make headlines by pre-empting the Supreme Court ruling by legalizing all same sex unions in 2010. This was a very positive move which followed in the footsteps of other liberal and progressive countries in the world. If you wish to avoid the legalities, however, and simply have a symbolic ceremony this too is on the cards. There are plenty of locations for a special ritualistic union.

The Sian Ka’an Village cannot wait to welcome you and your loved one to its shores for your very own special day. Whether you want to plan it yourself or sit back and let others do so for you, there is a service to suit all needs. Choose Sian Ka’an for your gay wedding celebration!

Sun, Beach and Delicious Dishes at Sian Ka’an

Sian Ka’an Village is the perfect location for luxury eco-friendly getaways on the Mexican Caribbean. Sun, beach and delicious dishes are guaranteed in this heavenly retreat far from the madding crowds.

Sun

Sun, sun and more sun is the name of the game on Mexico’s Caribbean coastline. You can be sure to get your fill of vacation sunshine when relaxing at the Sian Ka’an Village. With an average of close to 300 sunny days per year and temperatures that average around 80 degrees fahrenheit, sun filled vacations are pretty much a guarantee no matter which month of the year your visit.

Beach

Not many places can boast a private beach where your only neighbours are the coral reefs, the marine life and an American expat who visits his beachfront home in paradise just a couple of times a year, which is located some 5 or so minutes along the beach from Sian Ka’an Village. That’s right! The Sian Ka’an Village is the only property for miles around and you can be sure of an exclusive stay where the hustle of daily life will have no effect on your relaxation.

From the Sian Ka’an Village’s beach you can also kayak or paddleboard out to the coral reef that can be seen on the horizon, which is also within reach for strong swimmers. Why not join one of the team from the Sian Ka’an Village to watch him as he goes spearfishing for dinner?

Delicious dishes

At Sian Ka’an Village, it probably goes without saying that fish and shellfish is the main specialty, although all dietary preferences can be met at the hands of our traditional cook who will prepare all of your meals. For those who love fish, you can be sure to enjoy the catch of the day, fresh within hours of catching.

All meals, snacks and drinks are included in the price of your stay at Sian Ka’an Village, so all you need to do is sit back and let the team spoil you.

Vegetation and Flora in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere

The mystical, magical setting of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, which is located along Mexico’s Caribbean coast in the Yucatan peninsula, is brimming with lush vegetation and seemingly endless species of plants and flowers, and reports a staggering recorded total of 859 floral species. The Sian Ka’an biosphere is largely untouched by human activity, allowing the serene plant life to provide shelter and food for the many resident animals in this intricate ecosystem.

Here are some of the highlights of the vegetation and flora in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere:

Sub perennifolia tropical forest

The reserve is filled with abundant tropical forests. Some of the most prominent species of trees include Brosimum Alicastrum, Manilkara Sapota, Talisia Oliviformis, Nectandra Coriacea, Drypetes and Thrinax Radiata.

Deciduous tropical forest

Covering an area of roughly 12,000 hectares, the deciduous forest in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is brimming with Coccothrinax Readii, Pseudophoenix Sargentii, Bursera Simaruba, Caesalpinia Gaumeri and Metopium Brownei. There are at least 230 species of trees and shrubs here, and amazingly, just 14% are endemic to the Yucatan peninsula and only 10% to the Caribbean islands, meaning the majority aren’t native to the area.

Low flood-prone jungle

Situated on limestone depressions or marl, these areas create a mosaic of small areas interspersed with the larger evergreen forest. Orchids and bromeliads (part of the Epiphyte family) are plentiful, as well as Erythroxylum, Randia Aculeata, Byrsonima Crassifolia, Malpighia Lundellii, Cameraria Latifolia, Eugenia Buxifolia and Coccoloba Floribunda, as well as Dalbergia Glabra, Spinosa Bucida, Haematoxylum Campechianum and Bucida Buceras.

Wetlands

Large portions of the Sian Ka’an are covered in wetlands, where Typha Domingensis, Sawgrass, Phragmites Australis and Echinodorus Andrieux are dominant.

Mangroves

These dense thickets include trees and shrubs such as Rhizophora Mangle, Avicennia Germinans, Laguncularia, Conocarpus Erectus, Cladium Jamaicense and Eleocharis Cellulosa.

Tasistal

These swampy areas have palms that reach heights between 4 and 6 meters. While there are some small scattered patches, these regions typically form a strip along the coastline with plants such as Acoelorrhaphe Wrightii and Cladium Jamaicense.

Dunes

Differing from the rest of the country, the landscape here is similar to that of the West Indian islands. The vegetation here includes plants like Sesuvium, Ambrosia-Hymenocallis and Coccoloba-Thrinax.

Petenes

Not strictly classified as a type of vegetation or flora, these unusual formations are sometimes so large that a cenote waterhole can be found within them. Two types are present; one is found on calcareous rock located within mangroves; the other is found on flood loam or peat and is found in mangrove-forest areas.

Encounter these wonderful vegetation and flora species when you visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere for yourself!

Sian Ka’an Protecting Biodiversity

As the human race continues to grow, the sacred biodiversity around the world becomes more and more affected. The natural habitats of plants and animals are being encroached on as more previously untouched areas become developed. Regions like the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, which is located along the Caribbean coast of Mexico in the Yucatan peninsula, need to be protected because they are home to an enormous number of plant and animal species in a fragile ecosystem that is, sadly, quite easy to disrupt.

Why Protecting Biodiversity is so important

Everything from environmental pollution, to new building developments and changes in land use, to wastewater, to the massive amounts of plastic trash found in the world’s oceans is having a negative impact on the biodiversity that makes our planet so unique and delightful.

There has been much research on the topic and studies continually point to the fact that the actions of humans and the way they modify a given habitat strongly impacts their local biological communities. When there is a loss of biodiversity, it can have a negative effect on ecosystem function and the sustainability of human societies. This trend, unfortunately, has spread throughout most of the world, and the biodiversity that continues to dwindle is reaching dangerously low levels due to the loss of natural habitats.

High levels of Biodiversity Loss

freedive along the brain coral

High levels of biodiversity loss are so substantial; in fact, that it appears as though some ecosystems will soon begin to fail at supporting human societies. It comes as no surprise that areas with high levels of biodiversity that experience fewer changes in land use retain higher biodiversity levels and have a much better chance at being preserved through conservation efforts than regions struggling with the dramatically negative impact new development can have.

It is crucial that more attention and awareness be placed on this urgent issue, and that begins with education and conservation policy, both nationally and internationally. These delicate ecosystems such as Sian Ka’an need to be preserved and the habitats restored, not only for the plants and animals that are threatened, but also for the wellbeing of mankind.

What is your role in protecting biodiversity?

So, what can you do on a personal level to help combat the threat of biodiversity loss? Being eco friendly in your everyday life really can help, so walk the walk and encourage friends and family members to do the same. Avoid disposable plastics as much as possible by carrying reusable tote bags when you shop, and choose refillable water bottles over single-use plastic bottles. If you don’t already recycle, seek out facilities in your area and recycle as many items as you can. Speaking of recycled materials, if you happen to be building anything, from a desk to a new home, choose sustainable, reused and recycled materials as much as possible.

Another way to contribute to protecting biodiversity is to support businesses that make ethical decisions and do what they can to protect the environment, from restaurants, to airlines, to hotels, to retailers. Donate anything you don’t want but that is still usable rather than just throwing it out. Also, donate what money you can to nonprofits and charities that are involved in conservation efforts in these delicate habitats, so that our planet can continue to host the fascinating biodiversity it has always supported.