Discover the unexpected sleeping habits of many locals in Playa del Carmen, where the traditional hammock is not just a leisure accessory but a cultural staple and a practical solution for a good night's sleep. Hammocks, deeply rooted in Mayan heritage, offer a comfortable, space-saving, and insect-deterring sleeping arrangement that aligns perfectly with the tropical Yucatecan climate.
The hammock, a symbol of relaxation for many vacationers, is actually a deeply ingrained element of Mayan culture, particularly in Mexico and Central America. The ancient Mayans were the original hammock users, finding them perfectly suited to the tropical climate of the Yucatan Peninsula. The design of hammocks allows for excellent ventilation and elevation above the ground, providing protection from insects and other ground-dwelling creatures. This was especially important in the past, where living conditions were more comparable to camping than modern housing.
When Spanish explorers arrived in Mexico, they encountered hammocks in widespread use. Today, hammocks remain a popular choice for sleeping among many locals, including those who work in the tourism industry, such as maids in Playa del Carmen. According to a study by the University of Michigan, hammocks can even provide orthopedic benefits, potentially reducing stress on the back and joints due to their ability to conform to the body's shape.
Hammocks are not only comfortable but also incredibly space-efficient. They can be easily unhooked and stored away, transforming a living space during the day into a bedroom at night. This adaptability is essential in smaller living quarters commonly found in more affordable housing options in Playa del Carmen. Prospective residents often look for hammock hooks as a standard feature in these homes.
Personal anecdotes reveal that hammocks are more than just a sleeping arrangement; they are a way of life. For instance, one maid in Playa del Carmen shares a hammock with her daughter, while another shares with her husband. These shared sleeping spaces hint at the communal nature of Mayan culture. However, when it comes to intimacy, some may opt for a more stable surface, despite the existence of literature on the 'hammock sutra'—the art of intimacy within a hammock.
For those interested in purchasing a hammock, it's advisable to avoid the tourist-inflated prices of 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen. Instead, visit local shops like the one on 30th Avenue and 50th Street, where a wide variety of hammocks are available at more reasonable prices. Shoppers can choose from single or double weaves, various sizes, and even hammock chairs. Custom orders are also an option for those seeking a specific color or design.
While some, like the author and their partner Allan, enjoy the occasional nap in a hammock, they prefer the comfort of a traditional bed—a preference that reflects their own cultural norms. This contrast highlights the diversity of sleeping practices around the world and the importance of cultural context in defining what is considered comfortable or 'normal.'
In conclusion, hammocks are a testament to the ingenuity of the Mayan people, providing a sleep solution that is still relevant and widely used today. Whether for a siesta or a full night's rest, hammocks in Playa del Carmen are a cultural touchstone that visitors and locals alike can appreciate.
For more information on the history and benefits of hammock sleeping, visit the Smithsonian's article on the subject, or explore the University of Michigan's study on the orthopedic advantages of hammocks.
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Finding Allan's Missing iphone
Last night Allan returned home in a panic after running errands and visiting clients in Mareazul, maintaining he had lost his iphone. On the way home he had briefly stopped by the beach at 110 Street, had used his phone momentarily, and then had exited the vehicle for less than a minute, and then turned the car around to head home. Within seconds he realized the phone was missing and immediately stopped, searched the car and the beach but came up with nothing. Needless to say Allan was a bit stressed out and angry with himself when he came home and asked for my help.
