The Riviera Maya is one of the famous spots in Mexico. Picture perfect white sandy beaches and turquoise water make the Riviera Maya a popular destination for lakhs of tourists every year. There are a vast range of fun activities and places to watch in this gorgeous white sand beach paradise.

If you love to spend, some quality time in soft sand beaches means the Riviera Maya is the perfect place for you. This beautiful place is a Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s northeastern peninsula. Riviera Maya is also known for its luxurious Mayan Riviera properties in its favorite town places such as Playa Del Carmen, Tulum and through its long white sand beaches.

If you are striving to make your trip, as an unforgettable trip with your family, then don’t worry I’ve got you covered. In this post, I have included ten best things you must do when you stay in the Riviera Maya with your family.

So, let us get into the top 7 best things list,

7 Best things to do in Riviera Maya with your family:

1. Relax and Spend Some Quality time on White Sand Beaches:

The first and best to experience in this Riviera Maya is its white sand beaches. So, sit back and Relax in the beautiful beaches. Although this place has some incredible places to watch and excellent fun activities to do, it is also a fabulous place to sit back and relax on the beach.

Most of the travelers always love to do sunbathing in this place. As this is one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, people love to spend some quality time in Riviera Maya beaches. If you feel like you need a drink while you sit back and relax then your favorite beverages and cocktails are always at your services in Riviera Maya.

So, to enjoy your vacation hop on a beachside hammock and spend time while sipping the cocktail. This is the best place for families; they will always love this experience when you make them feel that they truly deserved this vacation just by arranging hammocks and cocktails on the beach. Kids will still enjoy playing in the clearest waters and pristine powdery beaches.

1. Enjoy Parties through the night in Playa Del Carmen:

It’s always best to start your trip with a fabulous night party in Playa Del Carmen. This place is popularly known for its nightlife; the vibrant and fun-filled parties are ubiquitous in this region. You can even enjoy the nightlife in the neighboring town Cancun as well.

Usually, the nightlife in the Playa Del Carmen starts at the beach and on Fifth Avenue. You can find the other smaller parties quickly on the surroundings of the Del Carmen beach. In these parties, you can enjoy some excellent cuisine & Cocktails on the night hotspot. Along with these hotspots, you can also find some dancing night parties and clubs through the town coastline.

The biggest night attractions that I have experienced in the night hotspots is the flamboyant coco bongo. Here the entertainments are at peaks when compared to the other musical event and parties. Watch out for these parties and then try different things to do from your next day of the trip. Usually, the nightlife of the Playa Del Carmen will start quite late so better take a light nap and head over to the party place around 11 and 11:30 Pm.

1. Experience the Chichen Itza:

If you like to visit the monuments in the Riviera Maya, then have a glance at the Chichen Itza. It is often hailed as one of the seven wonders of the new world, and they always believe that it is the second most popular attraction in Mexico.

This extraordinary cultural monument is located between the Valladolid and Merida. It is similar to the pyramids in shape, and it is one of the best stone monument you’ll see in Mexico. Here you can see the astronomy and the beginning of the 365 days calendar. Along with that, the serpent-shaped shadow is always visible at the temple of Kukulkan during the spring season.

Families love to visit this place to know about the Mayans astronomy and another factor. If you are ready to attend Chichen Itza means, make sure you pack comfortable shoes, as there will be plenty of water in the site.

1. Scuba Dive & Snorkeling in Cozumel:

Get ready to meet the spectacular sea life on the world’s second largest reef system in Riviera Maya. The coastal free of great Maya extends over 600 miles from the top of the peninsula and down to the Honduran. This is the best part for snorkeling in the whole of America.

Americans love to visit this place for scuba diving and snorkeling. The crystal clear water and warm ocean will make them feel awesome along with that, they like to see wide varieties of coral, tropical and other sea creatures while they snorkel or go scuba diving.

This best place to scuba dive in Riviera Maya is at the beach of Akumal; here you can find send the time by floating on the warm water and by having a glance at the tropical fishes and sea creatures very closely.

If you already have the open water qualification or certificate of scuba diving, then you can explore more by going deep into the ocean. You can even meet the whales and other larger sea creatures while you do deep scuba diving. If you are lucky, means you can also have a glance at the shark and other rare Caribbean sea creatures.

1. Swim in a Cenote:

Cenotes are generally the large natural sinkholes. Usually, the cenotes are very rare, but luckily, Riviera Maya has Cenotes. These are iconic features of the peninsula’s geography as well. Previously in Mayan times, they often used these cenotes for fresh water supplies and for other religious ceremonies (As shown in Thor & Mona movies). Nowadays, the tourist to snorkel, swim and relax in a unique space uses these cenotes.

In Riviera Maya, most of the cenotes are filled with the fresh water, and it is filtered slowly through the ground, so the water in cenotes is always fresh, pure and clean. As the water visibility is high in these cenotes, it is becoming the ideal place for scuba divers and snorkelers. If you are visiting Riviera, Maya means you shouldn’t miss this excellent experience. Kids and families always love to enjoy these fun activities in the water.

1. Tulum:

Tulum is another picture perfect place in the Riviera Maya. This place is having its own Mayan history and the waters in the Tulum are fresh and clean. This small site can be quickly explored within an hour or two. It is one of the only Mayan ruins, which is located right at the oceanfront. This place offers some spectacular view of the ocean, and it is the best place to swim.

If you are striving to visit Riviera Maya with your family means, “Never miss this spot” because this is one of the lovely and romantic spots.

1. Enjoy the nature at Sian Ka’an Biosphere:

If you like to watch the beautiful destinations in Riviera Maya means you shouldn’t miss the Sian ka’an biosphere. It is the must-see place you and you should add this place to your list.

This place is having an incredible sight of numerous animals. You can mainly watch sea creatures such as sea turtles, mantas, dolphins, manatees, and the countless other sea species.

The best part of this place is you can see the all the sea creatures without diving deep into the ocean. Kids usually love this spot, so if you have kids, then you shouldn’t miss this place at all.

Conclusion:

These are the best things you have to do in Riviera Maya when you are travelling with your kids and family. Families often love to visit these places in Riviera Maya because it gives you an incredible experience.

Did you know that environmental toxins can cause cancer? These toxins are both natural and manmade that are equally capable of disrupting your health and sensitive biological functions.

In this article, we will discuss the potentially dangerous effects of these environmental pollutants, and how to minimize its exposure so that you and your family can remain healthy.

But before we do that, let us discuss what environment and man made toxins really are. The naturally occurring toxins include – lead, mercury, cadmium, radon, and benzene. There are also manmade chemicals such as BPA, pesticides, and phthalates.

When our bodies are exposed to these pollutants, it can lead to grave health risks. Some of its ill-effects include the following:

• Cancer caused due to exposure to radon, benzene, and formaldehyde
• BPA, pesticides, and phthalates act as endocrine disruptors
• Exposure to lead, mercury and cadmium can lead to organ failure

We all know the lead that is found in old paints as well as pipes installed in old structures is toxic. Mercury and cadmium are also well known toxins that cause damaging effects to our bodies.

While these environmental toxins are recognized, there also others out there that are readily available in the environment and remain unregulated. We will discuss these popular toxins that you are exposed to on a daily basis and how you can reduce your exposure to them.

BPA

This endocrine disruptor is a compound that is commonly found in food packaging materials made of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. They are even used in baby bottles, water supply lines, water bottles etc. When exposed to BPA, you are vulnerable to the risk of obesity, infertility, anxiety, hormonal imbalance, breast cancer, low testosterone, and prostate cancer.

BPA exposure happens when the chemical is released from the plastic/resin product into food and drinks when the containers are washed or heated.

Did you know that the highest consumers of BPA are infants and kids? According to a survey, 93% children above 6 years had significant levels of BPA in their urine! While this is certainly worrisome, the good news is that BPA can exit from the body quickly if you make some simple lifestyle changes.

To reduce BPA exposure, you can:

• Limit the use of plastic containers that have #3 and #7 mentioned on the bottom
• Avoid using plastic food containers to heat your food in microwave
• Don’t wash plastic containers in dishwasher
• Replace canned foods with freshly cooked meals
• Choose glass and porcelain containers over plastic cups
• Use BPA free baby bottles

Pesticides

These chemicals are used in agriculture to kill or repel certain types of pests. However, these synthetic toxins seep into the soil and then into our foods. Since most food manufacturers use pesticides, people are exposed to small doses of these chemicals in their lives through their diet. According to research, the farmers that use pesticides in their agricultural practices have experienced increased instances of headaches, insomnia, neurological disorders, dizziness, and fatigue due to high exposure. In fact, there are also studies claiming that regular exposure to pesticides can increase your chances of Parkinson’s disease by 70%! Well, if toxins cause illness, is a question you had on mind, we hope you got the answer.

To reduce the pesticides exposure, you can:

• Wash all your fruits and vegetables vigorously before consumption
• Consume organic produce over conventionally produced vegetables and fruits
• Grow your own veggies

Formaldehyde

This colorless chemical is used in building materials and manufacture of household items. It is also found naturally in the environment produced by organisms as part of their metabolic process. There are many government agencies that recognize formaldehyde as a carcinogen.

At your home, this toxic substance can be found in pressed-wood products such as plywood, and other products like glues, adhesive, cigarette smoke, certain types of fabric etc. Additionally, it is also used as a disinfectant, fungicide, and a preservative in medical laboratories. According to research, staff exposed to formaldehyde is susceptible to cancer and leukemia.

You can reduce or prevent its exposure by:

• Using exterior-grade products in your home
• Maintain ventilation and controlled indoor temperature
• Keep humidity levels in check
• Use natural plants inside home to clean indoor air

While there are many more toxins out there that are exposing you to a health risk every day, these are some common ones that can be easily controlled by making conscious decisions. You can prevent a lot of toxin exposure by simply living a natural lifestyle and preventing the use of synthetic chemicals.

When it comes to holiday packing, gone are the days when you would throw caution to the wind, pack a few clothes and toiletries in the bag and be gone. All of that changes with kids in tow as the concept of creating lists has never sounded so appealing! (Oh how life has changed). Along with that, common sense and creativity become key to both stress free packing and giving yourself the freedom to let your mind drift to all the holiday fun in front of you!

Here are my top tips to help you concentrate on the fun rather than on the fuss!

MAKE A LIST AND STICK TO IT

Simply spend half an hour writing down all the things you need to remember to bring. Put together a clothing, equipment, toiliteries, first aid, toys, documents and ‘additional’ list. Taking this time means a lot less stress. I really recommend an app called ‘Paperless Lite’ which allows you to create your lists and tick them off as they are packed!

CONSIDER THE HOLIDAY

Consider the ‘actual’ holiday you want to achieve for you and your family. We can be bad at packing for every eventuality but be honest with yourself. Do you want to relax by the pool and just have time with your kids? What’s the point in bringing hiking boots and high heels in that case. Anything that you don’t really believe you will use, should not be packed.

HOME COMFORTS

Young children love their toys and home routines, so they can be comforted while travelling (making your life easier) by having some favourite items from home at the ready. Let them help you choose two or three things they want to bring.

‌TOP TOY TIPS

Aside from a stash of the usual crayons, paper, books and super heroes, when packing toys, consider the noise factor and the pain quotient. Don’t bring anything that will give you (or anyone else nearby) a migraine. It can be nice to stash away a few unopened birthday presents to bring out when they least expect it. A great distraction and what child doesn’t like to open a present?

CLOTHING RULES

Holidays are all about keeping things simple. It is where the idea of the capsule comes into it’s own. Items should be chosen based on the fact they can be worn in at least two ways. For kids, it can be useful to create outfits, which you pack together. Use ‘packing cubes’ so you can pack each childs outfits together. Do pack lots of denim, darker colour and long sleeved PJ’s (for those air conditioned evenings). Avoid too many light colours and delicate fabrics.

PACKING TRICKS

I am a big beleiver in rolling clothes in the suitcase. You fit heaps more. Start by packing your shoes at the bottom and surround them with things like kids macs, underwear and other such items that creasing is not an issue for. This is also a great way to use this otherwise lost space. If you are packing anything remotely tailored, turn it inside out, tuck the sleeves in, roll and it will arrive in the best shape possible.

PLAN THE EMERGENCY BAG

Having a small backpack with all the essentials right there for the airport is a godsend. Snacks and games for the kids, all documents, itineraries, passports and tickets, any medication, plasters, painskillers, international adapter, water and an extra pair of clothes for kiddies accidents.

GET THE KIDS INVOLVED

It can be both fun and worthwhile to get your kids involved in the packing process. It builds their excitement for the trip and also helps to teach them the responsibility they share with Mum and Dad to mind their toys and bits and pieces. Ask them what they think they might need and let them pick out the toys, books and activities they want to enjoy while on the road. Perhaps about a week before you leave get them to help you pack either their own carry on bag or help to pack yours.

Explore the Laya Healthcare site for more information on family travel insurance or to get a health insurance quote online today.

It is officially fall, and it’s that time of the year when there’s the air is fresh and those chilly breezes, brush beneath your clothing, the leaves start to change colour and families start coming together to celebrate the upcoming holidays.

The suggestions below by Acorn Stairlifts, are safe full activities that can involve all the family, including grandparents.

1. Make Decorations: You can find a wide variety of DIY decoration ideas on Google and Pinterest. Some fall decor examples are: a fall leaf garland, ribboned pumpkins, and centerpieces. It’s also a good way to incorporate those coloring pages you made!
2. Make Festive homemade goodies: Baking isa common activity to do with grandparents or family members. You can find fall-friendly easy goodies to make online.
3. Prepare for Halloween trick-or-treaters: Halloween is approaching, so if you plan on handing out candy, have an older adult help you. They can prepare different goody bags to pass out or help decorate the house to welcome the trick-or-treaters.
4. Enjoy the natural Air: As the weather starts to cool down during the fall season, take this opportunity to embrace it, and enjoy the great outdoors. If mobility is an issue, try cracking open a window or relaxing on a porch or in your backyard.
5. Fall-themed coloring pages: You can never be too old for coloring, as it’s an activity anyone can enjoy no matter their age. You can enjoy it alone or together and specialists also say that coloring is a good stress relieving activity.
6. Work on a fall-themed puzzle (or any puzzle for that matter): Solving puzzles is a great way to bond with the family. Cozy up on the table with a warm cup of your favorite drink and celebrate the season. These puzzles don’t have to be fall themed but doing a fall puzzle can get put you a more festive mood.

Technology has a huge impact on our everyday lives, and for some of us, we can’t live without it. We can connect quickly with family and friends across the world, spend money in our bank accounts with the tap of a card and even track our fitness levels through a wearable device. But how is technology benefitting our aging population? And what prototypes are in development?

Mobility Assistance
Physical inactivity costs the NHS on an estimated £10bn per year, with £2.5bn of this spend on care as a result of poor housing. In fact, although many older people may want to move into a ground floor flat for example, the facilities simply aren’t there. There’s said to be a bungalow shortage occurring in the UK too — emphasising the need for in-house help for those with mobility limitations.

Between the ages of 65 to 85, the percentage of people who have difficulty with a least one activity involved in their daily lives increases from 16% to 50% at age 85. Yet, home aids and adaptations can increase people’s ability to perform everyday activities by 49% and reduce depressive symptoms by 53%.

Dr Helen Meese, who is a member of the Institution of Mechnical Engineers, said: About seven million UK homes are headed by someone aged over 65 years, who will undoubtedly need some form of assistive technology to help with everyday living, within the coming decade.”

“Homes built with older people in mind, as well as retrofit technology for our existing housing stock, could not only allow people to live in their homes for longer, but also massively reduce costs for the NHS and social care system.”

Although not a recent technological advancement, the stairlift is often a life-saving device for many. Over 50% of customers bought a stairlift from Acorn Stairlifts in order to help them ease the pain that they experience due to arthritis. This innovation allows elderly people to stay in their home for longer and enjoy their independence whilst they can.

There are many smart home devices that have been developed to help people with mobility difficulties around their home. Users can control important variables in the home such as heating and lighting without having to move. There are many variants of these devices, some which can be controlled by voice and others which can be controlled via a specially designed remote or app. There are also robot vacuums available which navigate themselves around the home and hoover up any dirt — a job that a frailer person may struggle to do.

There are new designs that are currently in their later stages of development. One of these is a piece of technology that guides people to the toilet when it predicts that they need to go. This can prevent unwanted accidents and embarrassment for an individual whilst making them feel less reliant on carers and family members.

Similarly, developers in Japan have been focused on designing devices that can help older residents get out of bed, into a wheelchair, or to the toilet. Again, this has been prototyped to ease the strain of limited carers and an aging population.

Combating loneliness
Loneliness and social isolation are two growing issues in the UK. Shockingly, one study discovered that around 200,000 older people in Britain had not had a conversation with a friend or relative in more than a month. Those who feel socially isolated and lonely are more likely to use public services too, due to a lack of support networks and an increased likelihood to develop health conditions such as depression, dementia and heart disease.

We are fortunate, that there are some innovators that are trying to tackle the problem through technology research and development. Currently, interventions such as video calls, computer training and access to the internet have been shown to have a positive impact on social isolation — but what else is available?

The Japanese have invented Paro, which is a robotic seal pup. This device has been employed in nursing homes since 2003 and encourages the residents to interact and talk with the robot. It has found to be very therapeutic and can be used as a catalyst for those who suffer from depression — encouraging a return to a healthier state.

A prototype called Family in Touch (FIT) was developed by a research student who discovered that elderly people touch photos of their loved ones to relive memories that they have involving that loved one in the picture. This discovery led to the creation of a picture frame that is surrounded in LED lights. When the user touches the frame, family members are informed, and they can send a video message back to the user. Older people reported that the enjoyed the invention and how easy it was to use but they said that they’d like to send a message or video back if possible.

InTouch Living, was developed in Australia, which allows carers to deliver care remotely through digital technology. The elderly person is provided with a tablet from which they can connect with others. Carers can set up virtual meetings to talk about isolation feelings and general wellbeing and can also hold a group call with older people of similar interests. If the user become confident in using the device, they can initiate their own calls. Research discovered that InTouch Living allows care to be delivered at 60% of the cost of face-to-face support services.

Improving health and wellbeing

When individuals age, it’s known that they are more prone to health complications and memory loss. There are some devices that have been invented to help with these issues.

There are now interactive pill boxes on the market that remind individuals to take medication at the right times. One of these is MedMinder, a collection of automatic medication dispensers. First, the relevant dispenser flashes to remind individuals to take their tablets. If the medication still isn’t taken, the dispenser makes a noise and after this it makes a phone call to the user. If the tablet still isn’t taken, the device cleverly notifies a caregiver or member of family.

Hearing loss is a common age-related problem. As a matter of fact, according to the National Institute of Aging, one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss, and nearly half of those older than 75 has difficulty hearing.

Luckily, hearing aid technology has come along way in recent years with affordable, quality hearing aids being more widely available and better than ever.

With mobility issues, older people are more prone to falls and loss of balance. A fall can really affect an elderly person and can lead to hospital treatment. There are now fall sensors in care homes and specially-adapted homes which can alert a warden if someone is out of bed who is at high risk of falling and inform them of a fall.

individual more confidence when walking outside of the home. Similarly, alarms can be fitted so that a carer or relative is informed of a relative leaving the home — this can be tailored to certain time frames to avoid night-time wandering.

As we can see, there is a range of technology out there that is aiming to help our older generation. And, with many ground-breaking innovations still in the development phases, who knows what the future holds for elderly care.