On Sunday we decided it was time for the inaugural boat launch; the boat ramp is only about 50 yards from our condo so quite convenient. We had to register at the marina office first, including registration documents, insurance etc. but had to leave the name of the boat blank as we have not got that far yet. "Every boat has to have a name" we were advised but had to settle for 'red bayliner' until we think of something more permanent. Any suggestions gratefully received.
We only ventured out for an hour or so - just around the marina which has a couple of different arms - to enable Malcolm to become comfortable with the way it handled as this was the first time that we have had it in the water. There are numerous reefs close to the shore along this coastline so we are hoping to go into Cancun tomorrow to buy a map showing their location.
Today (Tuesday) we completed some 'chores'. We headed into Playa del Carmen and to the immigration office to continue the process for our retirement visas (which we started in Calgary). Although we don't need permission to stay for 3 months as a regular tourist visa allows for a 6-month stay, we do need the retirement visa to keep the vehicle here indefinitely. Without it, we would have to return the vehicle back over the border within 6 months i.e. the vehicle can stay for as long as your retirement visa is valid. We have an appointment to go back next Monday to complete the third stage and the final stage will be receipt of the actual visa itself. We had to start today's process within 30 days of arriving and with the Christmas holiday coming up, there will no doubt be some processing delays (in addition to the usual manana type of delays).
I also paid our 2012 property taxes today - a grand total of 1,590MXN (~$127CAD) - less than what we pay for one month for our Calgary property. The amount includes a 15% discount that is given to anyone who pays before December 20 each year. Bonus!
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