Akumal, Cozumel News Notes

For a night you won't forget, visit this amazing underground restaurant/bar

Word on the street was spreading about a hot new spot located deep underground in Playa del Carmen. We heard about 1001 Aluxes (pronounced "a-loosh-es" and we were intrigued. Were were told that the underground cave, complete with a restaurant and bar, had taken years in planning. Though we've visited caves and cenotes in the area, we couldn't quite picture it, so we put it at the top of our list to explore.

We have to tell you that, if you are an environmentalist, ecologist or belong to the "living in harmony with nature," crowd, you'll need to check your feelings at the door. While Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico is open to the public, it enforces strict rules: Don't touch the formations. Stay on the trails. No gum or food in the cave. No running. No shouting. You won't find many of those restrictions at 1001 Aluxes.

In fact, Carlsbad Cavern officials would be appalled if they visited 1001 Aluxes. Especially if they dropped in on Thursday or Saturday evenings when things get rocking as drinks flow freely and live bands perform music from around the world. One wonders how this commotion will affect the delicate formations, creatures of the cave and the natural beauty. Can you imagine if they start bringing in busloads of spring breakers and letting them loose in this setting? Not a pretty picture.

Push those thoughts out of your mind if you visit. When you enter, be aware that this is a natural wonder. Stalactites and stalagmites have taken years to form in this underground limestone cave complex. Take precautions to preserve the beauty and resist the urge to touch. Appreciate the intricate passageways and respect the delicate surroundings.

1001 Aluxes is easy to find . . . if you know where to go. It is located just a couple of blocks west of Highway 307 on Juarez in Playa del Carmen (sign indicates Ejido). Go approximately 3 blocks on Juarez. Watch for the blue Nestle building on the right; 1001 Aluxes is across the street. Unless they've changed things in the last month or so, don't expect it to be well marked with signs. In fact, you won't see much of anything but a wooden gate.

Pass through to a small garden area and watch for the opening in the ground where you'll be swallowed up by 1001 Aluxes or "1001 Dwarves." An Alux, by the way, is a mystical, magical Mayan creature. That's all we know, but if anyone can enlighten us about the story of 1001 Aluxes, we'd be glad to share with others. In the meantime, we assume that the Mayans believed that these caves were enchanted and inhabited by small creatures who held special powers. While you probably won't spy any Aluxes, unless you hit the tequila really hard, you may feel as if you have stumbled into Walt Disney territory minus the animated figures.

At the mouth of the cave, a stone stairway descends into the chambers below. Carved out of limestone by the slow drip of acidic water, this natural wonder as been "under construction" for thousands and perhaps millions of years. These days modern "cavemen" can sit at the underground bar and slosh down cold Coronas and icy margaritas. Far beneath the surface, these chambers remain relatively cool throughout the year. Fans have been strategically placed to keep the moist air circulating. Come to think of it, maybe the ceiling fans serve two purposes: 1) Air movement keeps the chambers cool 2) Whirling fan blades discourage bats from gathering on the ceiling.

While the cave system extends for miles, visitors are kept within certain boundaries by ropes and signs. There's still plenty of space to explore. Experienced and first-time spelunkers will discover nooks and crannies, cascading waterfalls, ponds, naturally formed "pillars" and winding paths. The underground restaurant has several chambers with seating at tables with chairs upholstered in leopard print fabric. Colored lights tucked into crevices on the wall create an exotic, romantic atmosphere for a memorable dining experience. Though we didn't get the chance to eat there, we understand the food is quite good and reasonably priced. The main bar and several "satellite" bars dispense your favorite potions. Out- of-the-way seating areas, like the one pictured at left, are scattered throughout the vast cave system. Grab a margarita and find a quiet little corner to chat with friends. On Thursday and Saturday, listen to live music when bands from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Bolivia or Mexico, take to the stage from 10 until 2. The beat is exciting and sets the mood for a thrilling night below ground.

1001 Aluxes is definitely an interesting backdrop for an evening meal or night of dancing. Open from 7 p.m.-2 a.m., Tuesday through Saturday, a table is waiting for you. Enjoy an evening of cave dwelling and bring home some fancy stories about your exciting vacation in Mexico.