FAQs about Cielos Azules

Is there electricity? Yes. Our electrical system is wind & solar powered. Batteries are charged with power from solar panels and a wind turbine and then run through a 1500-watt inverter to generate 110-volt a/c. In addition, there is a 5000-watt gasoline powered generator as a backup source of electricity.

How about a refrigerator? We have recently installed an LP-gas powered refrigerator that works quite well.

Where should we shop for groceries? The best place to buy groceries on your drive down is either the Chedruai or the San Francisco Assis in Playa Del Carmen. While there are a few stores in Xcalak, the best local source for supplies is a fruit and vegetable truck that visits the area several times per week.

Is there running water? Yes. We have a rainwater collection system that stores water in a large in-ground cistern. We supplement the rainwater with a shallow well. We try to keep an adequate supply of bottled drinking water on hand. Five-gallon jugs are available in town.

Is there hot water? There is hot water in the two upstairs bathrooms but currently not in the downstairs.

Is there air conditioning? No. But fortunately, the ocean breezes usually keep the house very comfortable. There are ceiling and floor fans in the house.

How about maid service? Daily maid service is available for a small additional fee.

Can we arrange for a cook? Right now, we do not have the logistics worked out to be able to offer the services of a full time cook. On request the maid can prepare some simple local dishes.

Are bugs a problem? Normally, the constant ocean breeze keeps the mosquitoes from being a problem at the house. However, if you go into town at night, you should be sure to use a repellent.

Is there a telephone? No. Marine VHF radio is the most common form of local communication and there is one in the main house and another in caretakers house. If you need to send or receive a message, there is a telephone/fax service in town.

What are the sleeping arrangements? The house has four bedrooms and three baths. There is one king size bed, two full size beds, four twin beds, and a queen size futon sofa. There should be plenty of both linens and towels on hand.

Is there a TV or stereo? Yes to both. We have a small library of videotapes but if you want to bring a few down, the VCR takes standard VHS format tapes. The stereo plays both CD's and cassette tapes. Television reception is really not very good but a wide range of radio stations, including English stations from Belize can be pulled in.

Do I need to change money before I get to Xcalak? There are no banks or ATM machines in Xcalak. While some merchants will take dollars, you won't get a very good exchange rate.