Monday, June 21, 2010

Deterioration of Material Goods and Rejuvenation of the Soul

Now that we have been living in Playa for 2 years we are starting to experience a new unexpected phenomenon. Some of our personal items and those of our clients are starting to deteriorate due to the salt, humidity and sun. We live so close to the beach in year round sunshine, so I guess it has to be expected.

The other day my housekeeper showed me my very nice North Face backpack which I kept hidden in a back corner of my closet. It was dotted with green mildew and the zippers were stuck and coated with green film. We noticed the zippers on our camera case experienced the same fate.

Televisions here, especially those close to the beach last for about 3 years before they need to be taken in for repair. The irregular voltage combined with the salt and humidity rapidly deteriorates electronic devices. Last month we brought in for a repair a client's 3 year old television which had stopped working. After a thorough inspection it was determined that the inside was covered with salt. For less than $100 USD we had it fixed, and now it works like new. Over the past 6 months we've had at least 5 similar TV experiences.

In the properties we manage we have begun taking inside the BBQs, bikes, wooden chairs and anything else that might deteriorate in the sun and salt, especially in properties which are next to the beach. Two bikes kept outside at one of our client's beach side condos were covered in rust after a year. A new BBQ at the same property showed signs of rust after only 1 week outside.

Even the water is harmful. One of our inside plants which we hydrate with tap water has a white crust on the top of the dirt where the water has evaporated and left calcium deposits behind. Many tourists are afraid to drink the water due to supposed bacteria. In my opinion there is little or no bacteria in the water. The dangerous part is the calcium deposits. That's why no one drinks or serves it. Even the very poor drink bottled water.

With at least 300 days of sunshine a year, wood fades very quickly. Anything from stained wooden railings to wooden patio furniture needs to be repainted after a year. If I were a developer I would refrain from using wood in any construction, especially because of termites.

Despite the inconveniences of living so close to the beach in year round sunshine, we love being in Playa del Carmen. Our Sunday trips to the beach help us to get rejuvenated and to wash away any of the stresses of the previous week. The sun, salt and humidity can cause a lot of damage to property and possessions but they can also help to revive the soul.

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Playa del Carmen Condo Rentals
Playa del Carmen Villa Rentals
Playa del Carmen Vacation Rentals
Playa del Carmen Property Management

2 comments:

KfromMichigan said...

I'd take bad TV's, ruined backpacks and rust .... compared to snow! Looking at the white sand and beautiful blue water everyday is my dream.

Matt Weatherbee said...

So would I!!