The vineyard manager's primary concerns are pruning vines and ensuring that they are protected from cold temperatures. Nature helps with second objective.

Sap from vine drips towards roots and creates a natural layer of insulation. Dirt can also be mounded around roots for added protection.

Depending on severity of climate, vineyards are normally pruned sometime within three months after harvest. In very cold climates pruning is delayed to end of this time frame.

The longer pruning is put off, later budbreak will occur in Spring. In colder climates it is beneficial to postpone budbreak so vine is not adversely affected by a late cold streak.

There are three major pruning techniques: cordon-spur pruning, head-spur pruning and cane pruning.

Cane-pruning usually involves cutting off all but three or four canes. Canes are selected based on number of buds they produce.

Head-spur pruning is widely used in Rhone Valley in Southern France and is also popular in warmer wine producing areas in California. This method effectively keeps grapes near ground and allows them to continue to ripen at night due to heat retention of soil. It is generally not used in cooler climates because it can expose grapes to frost-bite.

Beaches and sport activities

This area has some of most beautiful beaches in world. Most of beaches have been manicured and have fine white sand. The water is a turquoise blue of Caribbean Sea.

Scuba diving and snorkelling

Just off coast is world's fifth-longest barrier reef. The reef, home to hundreds of species of marine life, is perfect for snorkelling. Scuba dive and snorkel in magnificent Caribbean waters. Scuba lessons for beginners and diving tours for pros are available. Most resorts offer scuba/snorkel tours and/or lessons. Most of ecological parks have great areas for snorkelling. For more information: www.sealifedivers.com

Cozumel

Only 45 mins from Playa del Carmen by ferry, this diver's haven is well worth trip across ocean. Considered among best snorkelling and diving spots in world, Cozumel offers magnificent coral reefs, underwater caves, and shipwrecks sites to explore. There are over 30 kilometres of coral reef, including world's second largest reef called Gama Reef.

Golf Courses

Playacar Golf Club - This is an 18 hole, par 72 championship golf course designed by Robert Von Hagge. This course is carved through lush Mayan jungle where it awaits any golfer to come and tame it. Driving range and putting green. Playacar, Playa del Carmen, Q. Roo. Tel.: +52(984)873-0624

Puerto Aventuras - Marina, Tennis / Golf Club. Features a par 36, 9 hole course designed by Thomas Leeman. Maximum length 3,236 yards. Also features a putting green. Rental clubs / carts are available. - Located on Cancun to Chetumal highway at km. 90 Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Q.ROO. Tel.: 52-(987) 3-5109. Puerto Aventuras also has swimming with dolphins, relax and watch dolphin show while having lunch. Puerto Aventuras also has a marina and restaurants. For more information: www.dolphindiscovery.com

Mayan Jungle

Take a trip out of time and trek through wild exotic jungles of Mexican Riviera, ATV Explorer Jungle Tours is original Playa del Carmen jungle tour. Ride an ATV through jungle paths, swim in a clear 60 foot deep cenote, explore caves, climb ancient Mayan ruins on this 2 hour tour. Right next to Playa del Carmen and Playacar, Mexico, just an hour south of Cancun. For more information: www.atvexplorer.com

Mayan Ruins

Tulum The smallest Mayan ruin site among three, Tulum only needs a ? day. These ruins overlook ocean and are right on a beautiful beach. This is a perfect spot for a picnic, a short swim and sun bathing. Take lots of pictures. Coba Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and prepare for an hour and a half drive into jungle before reaching these ruins. Well worth drive as there are beautiful temples and pyramids to see.