Hello Samsara Owner,
This is Janaina Simon, International Real Estate Advisor, back with your December 2022 update on the construction of the Samsara community, including your new condo.
There have been some important developments in Samsara and around Tulum since my last update, and I’m excited to share the news with you.
First, check this out. During RETA’s recent Gathering in Playa del Carmen in early November, your future neighbors in attendance were able to tour the site of Samsara, including the newly completed model condo. More on this in just a bit…
Price Uplifts Expected For Samsara Condos
I must congratulate you again on buying in Samsara. You’re in and now the door has closed on this RETA-only opportunity.
That’s right, Samsara is sold out. Although there are a few closings pending, there’s absolutely no availability… Good thing you got in when you did! And at the price that you did as a member of RETA.
Samsara Condos See An Uplift Of $100,000
In July 2022, the developer opened up the remaining condos in Samsara through a local broker to retail buyers. Two-bedroom mezzanine condos with views over the national park listed at retail for $332,800. RETA members paid $232,400. That’s an uplift of $100,400.
When you look at condos of a similar size and the same type nearby, it’s even more clear you got in at a great price with your condo. You would pay $296,562 in nearby IIK. In the Icht community, two-bedroom condos are going for $341,292.
And in the Amira District the price is $359,213 for a two-bedroom—and that’s pre-construction pricing. These are nice communities.
But none (even at these higher prices) has the unique attributes we will have in Samsara: amazing rooftop amenity with infinity edge pool with unobstructed views over the jungle, secluded location next to the national park but convenient to the beach and town, VIP beach club membership with shuttle to bring you to and from, and more.
The First Prototype Model Is Finished
The first “prototype” condo has also been completed. This model shows you the premium finishes that will be used throughout Samsara for the floors, walls, kitchen, bathrooms, and more. It is also used in quality control and as a reference for “best practices” for our engineers, managers, and crews as they build, outfit, and install finishes in the rest of the condos in the community.
Latest Samsara Construction Update From Grupo R4
We have done significant work in the construction of the condo buildings, including putting up structural supports and erecting walls, as well as installing electrical and water infrastructure and systems. We have also made advances with the ground-floor community pools and common areas.
Samsara’s first model condo is complete. RETA members visited Samsara with a guided tour on a stunningly beautiful Friday afternoon during the RETA Gathering 2022, which was held Nov. 4 and 5 at the Grand Hyatt in Playa del Carmen. They got an up close and personal view of this “finished product” and the construction work in process.
It was great to see many Samsara owners during this event. And I know the Smart Money Homes team feels the same way.
You are welcome to visit and check out the site of Samsara and the model condo if you’re in Tulum.
Be sure to contact your dedicated advisor first to schedule a time and make arrangements with the developer.
More Than 25 Million Tourists Expected In To Arrive In Cancun
The Riviera Maya, including Tulum, has always been one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations. Based on numbers so far this year, tourism officials are expecting more than 25 million visitors to arrive in the Cancún international airport this year. That means the region might exceed pre-Covid levels.
It’s been a busy year. There were more visitors over this past summer than in summer 2019. Last September was the busiest ever. And based on bookings already made, the upcoming high season, which runs from about December to April, is expected to set another record.
Several airlines have announced new seasonal flights.
I’ve seen this all myself. I’ve lived in the Riviera Maya for 14 years, and I can tell you that 2022 has been noticeably busier, even in what is supposed to be low season.
About 60% of tourists are from the U.S.—it’s an easy trip with short, direct flights from dozens of cities. A new study found that 25% of Americans who do travel abroad choose Mexico.
And Tulum was named by Airbnb as the #3 trending travel destination in the world for 2022. It all adds up to more and more potential renters for your condo, which will stand out with its luxury amenities, ideal location close to Tulum town and the beach, and VIP access to Ikal beach club.
Tulum Is Going Upscale
Tulum town is going more upscale and getting busier every year.
On my most recent trip, I felt like Tulum Town, which used to be more downhome and rustic, was getting more high-end eateries, rooftop lounges, hip cafes, and even one of those food truck parks that are so en vogue right now. Definitely maturing.
Overall, Tulum is buzzing and busy, with more visitors than ever. That’s good for you—that’s more potential renters for your condo.
The great thing about Samsara is that you are close to the beach and town—and all the fun stuff to do—but you’re set apart from it all in a private community with amenities like rooftop pool overlooking the jungle…kind of like a tranquil retreat. And because there is a national park in front that goes all the way to the coast, it should stay that way.
Samsara will be a great place for you to spend time and very attractive to renters too.
Mayan Ruins And Lost Cities In Tulum
If you’ve been to Tulum, you’ve no doubt spent time at the beautiful white-sand beaches. You’ve probably been to one of the freshwater rock pools (called cenotes) in the jungle and visited the famous Tulum Mayan ruins, which are just north along the coast from the Ikal beach club where you will have VIP membership, by the way.
All very worthwhile…but just the start of what Tulum has to offer.
If you head inland for about 45 minutes, you’ll come across the Coba archaeological site. It’s a partially restored ancient Maya city emerging from the jungle, including pyramids, temples, and other structures.
When visiting Coba, be sure to get a guide to explain the history of the city. Many of the guides are local Maya and would be happy to also teach you some words in their language.
The Temazcal Healing Ceremony
Speaking of the Maya, Tulum is also the perfect place to join a traditional temazcal healing ceremony—kind of like a sweat lodge. It’s an ancient practice, led by a shaman, that has been adopted by many of the spas and luxury hotels in the area. You enter a dome-shaped hut and water is poured on hot rocks in the center, which produces steam. People say they come out relaxed and revitalized.
When Samsara is completed, you’ll be able to ask the concierge to make arrangements for you for these and other activities.
But if you visit beforehand, you can take your rental car to Coba or join a tour from one of the many providers in town. And if you search “temazcal Tulum,” you’ll find several spas and hotels offering the experience.
The wellness center at Ikal beach club also offers these ceremonies regularly. And, of course, they also have yoga, massage, and other wellness treatments.