🇲🇽 Happy Independence Day, Riviera Maya! 🇲🇽

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🇲🇽 Good morning, Insiders—and Happy Independence Day to everyone celebrating here in Mexico! Last night, communities across the country gathered to mark the historic start of the independence movement in 1810, which ultimately led to freedom from Spanish rule in 1821.

In Playa del Carmen, Municipal President Estefanía Mercado made history herself, delivering El Grito de Dolores from a massive stage at the Mario Villanueva sports arena—leaving the traditional setting of the Palacio Municipal behind to accommodate the more than 50,000 residents who came out to celebrate and join in the collective cry: ¡Viva México!

Click on the image below for just a little taste of the excitement!

Also in the news

• A founding governor dies

• The Riviera Maya welcomes top equestrian talent

• A new Rotary Club shines in Playa del Carmen

• What you need to know about the intercensal survey

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

📸 Our beautiful Photo of the Week is courtesy of Cindy-Lynn Franco in Lake Chapala. This was taken on the malecon in Ajijic and goes to show you that sometimes you get the shot your never knew you needed!

📸 If you would like to see your photo featured here, follow and tag @rivieramayainsidermx on Instagram or send it to [email protected].

IN THE NEWS

News from the Riviera Maya and beyond. You don’t have to know everything—but you should know something. Here are a few stories that caught my eye in the news this week.

Jesús Martínez Ross, Quintana Roo’s First Governor, Has Died
Don Jesús Martínez Ross, who led Quintana Roo’s historic transition from federal territory to statehood, passed away Sunday in Chetumal at the age of 91. Appointed the first constitutional governor in 1975, Martínez Ross laid the groundwork for the state’s political and social institutions. Governor Mara Lezama called him “a man close to his people” and praised his role in shaping the identity of modern-day Quintana Roo. His legacy as a founding figure of the state will not be forgotten.

Will Tulum’s Beaches Stay Public?
In a bold move to protect public beach access, Governor Mara Lezama and Grupo Mundo Maya met this week in Tulum to push back against creeping privatization. With sacred sites, fragile ecosystems, and ancestral coastlines at stake, the message was clear: Tulum’s beaches belong to everyone. From military leaders to artisans, the forum brought diverse voices to the table in a rare act of co-creation. Whether this effort sparks lasting change or fades into red tape, one thing is certain—the fight for Tulum’s shores is far from over.

Akumal Hosts First International Forum on Anti-Sargassum Barriers
Top scientists, engineers, and suppliers from around the world gathered in Akumal for the First International Forum on Anti-Sargassum Barriers, organized by Ecoprotección Akumal and Océanos International. With Quintana Roo facing the heaviest sargassum impact in the Caribbean, the forum focused on technical strategies to better divert and manage the seaweed—not just contain it. Experts emphasized that barriers must be adapted to each coastline and that collaboration is key to long-term success.

New Rotary Club Launches in Playa del Carmen with Powerful Mission
The Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen International marked its official debut last week with the swearing-in of its first president, Carolina Hernández. The ceremony held at Aloft Hotel in Playa del Carmen was attended by fellow Rotarians, local government leaders, and prominent community organizations and introduced the club’s cornerstone project: providing facial prosthetics—including eyes, ears, and noses—for individuals living with visible deformities.

Riviera Maya Hosts CSI3* Showjumping Tournament
History was made in at Hipica Salazar in Puerto Aventuras as the first CSI3* showjumping tournament ever held in the Riviera Maya brought top riders from across Mexico and the world. The prestigious event drew major attention from the equestrian community with Juan Manuel Cossio, president of the Mexican Equestrian Federation, on hand to support this landmark moment for the region. Ignacio Maurine claimed the 1.50 m Grand Prix win, with Nicolás Pizarro taking second place.

ICYMI

In case you missed it, these were the most popular news stories featured in last week’s newsletter.

Crocodile Attacks Tourist in Cancún Hotel Zone
A tourist from Texas was bitten by a crocodile after attempting to snap a photo near the lagoon by the Hyatt in Cancún’s Hotel Zone. These reptiles aren’t uncommon in local lagoons and mangroves and sightings are increasing every year as their natural habitat shrinks due to development.

Tulum’s Tourism Slump
Long gone are the days when “Tulum sells itself.” Hoteliers are reporting their worst summer since the pandemic. With fewer tourists, police extortion, and beach access now tangled in writstmand and red tape, it’s no wonder occupancy has plummeted. Business owners are urging authorities to step up before the soul of Tulum is lost for good.

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RIVIERA MAYA REAL ESTATE

⛳️ Enjoy Golf Course Living at An Unbeatable Price

Did you think it was impossible to find a three bedroom home in Puerto Aventuras for under 400K? Well, until today you would have been correct!

Just listed, this charming 3-bedroom 3-bath, solar-powered villa is situated in a group of detached townhomes that look out onto the golf course. This 2-story home has a spacious full-equipped kitchen with breakfast bar, a full dining area and a sunken living room. Sliding pocket doors open up fully leading out to a shaded patio and the pristinely manicured garden areas. The townhomes share an expansive green space with a large pool, perfect for swimming laps or just lounging in the sun. There is also an entertainment palapa for entertaining guests.

On the second floor you will find the spacious master suite with a private terrace overlooking the pool. The master bath is equipped with a luxurious jacuzzi-style tub. There is also a second bedroom currently equipped with 2 queen-sized beds and its own full bathroom with shower. The third bedroom (currently used as an office) can be found on the ground floor, perfect for accomodating guests, live-in staff or an inlaw situation.

Other features include hurricane shutters, 2 covered spaces for off-street parking and an exterior golf cart charging station. This villa is being offered turn key and ready to move in. Just bring your swim suit and flip flops and get ready to take advantage of everything Puerto Aventuras has to offer. The sellers are asking $389K USD. Whatsapp 984 151 9763 to arrange a showing.

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Keep This Stock Ticker on Your Watchlist

They’re a private company, but Pacaso just reserved the Nasdaq ticker “$PCSO.”

No surprise the same firms that backed Uber, eBay, and Venmo already invested in Pacaso. What is unique is Pacaso is giving the same opportunity to everyday investors. And 10,000+ people have already joined them.

Created a former Zillow exec who sold his first venture for $120M, Pacaso brings co-ownership to the $1.3T vacation home industry.

They’ve generated $1B+ worth of luxury home transactions across 2,000+ owners. That’s good for more than $110M in gross profit since inception, including 41% YoY growth last year alone.

And you can join them today for just $2.90/share. But don’t wait too long. Invest in Pacaso before the opportunity ends September 18.

Invest While You Still Can

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TRAVEL TALK

💰 Visitax Overhaul on the Horizon

Quintana Roo’s mandatory (and controversial) Visitax tourist fee is set for big changes after hoteliers flagged dozens of fake websites scamming visitors. The Riviera Maya Hotel Association is now in talks with the governor to create a new, more secure collection system that protects tourists and ensures funds reach their intended destination.

Introduced in 2022, Visitax charges foreign visitors 283 pesos (about $15 USD) when entering and exiting the state of Quintana Roo via the international airports in Cancun, Cozumel, Tulum and Chetumal. But confusing payment procedures and fraudulent sites have caused frustration and revenue losses. Hoteliers say a revamped system is coming soon—one that’s safer, simpler, and more transparent.

⚠️ Pro Tip: The only official payment site run by the state tax authority (SATQ) at visitax.gob.mx. If you see multiple options online, don’t be fooled—many are fake.

EXPAT LIVING

Sharing local insights, practical tips, and community stories to help you feel at home in Mexico, no matter how long you’ve been here.

⛑️ La Joya Hospital Grand Opening in Puerto Aventuras

Great news for residents inside the Puerto Aventuras gated community! La Joya Hospital is opening a satelite location attached to the PA Hotel & Beach Club. The ribbon cutting and inauguaration party is scheduled for Friday, September 19th and you are invited! The event will begin with a reception at 6 PM followed by the opening ceremony, ribbon cutting and a tour of the facilities. Later there will be a cocktail party and a raffle. Come and check out this news modern clinic and see what services they will be offering our community. See you there!

INEGI Intercensal Survey 2025: What to Expect

Over the past week, you may have found an informational flier slipped into your mailbox or under your welcome mat. This is a notice that the government will be conducting door-to-door surveys over the next two months. Every 10 years, Mexico carries out a full national census (the last was in 2020, the next will be in 2030). Mid-decade, INEGI (Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía) conducts an intercensal survey to update key information.

This year’s survey will take place in October and November 2025. INEGI interviewers will visit selected households across Mexico to update socio-demographic data. The goal is to know how many people live in the country, their living conditions, and household characteristics. The information helps governments and institutions design and evaluate public policies, social programs, and infrastructure planning at the federal, state, and municipal levels.

Who is required to take the survey?
What will be asked?
What is the data used for?
Find out more here.

NOTES ON NAPKINS

Fun for foodies of all kinds! Here are some of the delicious gastronomic offerings that caught our eye and tempted our palate this week!

Openings and Closings

A reminder to all curry fans (like me). India Jones will be closed for a well-deserved break September 15 through 21. If you would like to make a reservation when they return, you can do so online via whatsapp +52 984 131 3146 or email [email protected].

The slump in the Riviera Maya tourist economy, skyrocketing prices and unclear access rules into the community have all contributed to the unfortunate closures of several restaurants in Puerto Aventuras. This year Tuk Tuk, Refresh, Del Prado, Pelican Point, Brasa Nova and El Pacrancio have all been shuttered. Casa Sofia has ceased operations with no reopening date announced. Papacitos will be closed as well for renovations which will leave the marina feeling quite empty. We hope that new additions such as Maxi Market which took the place of the tired Del Prado store will be able to flourish and survive this difficult time for local businesses.

Puerto Aventuras is not alone in the struggle. Restaurant owners, tour operators and hoteliers from all up and down the Riviera Maya are all reporting very low numbers even for this historically slow time of year, not-so-affectionately known as Septi-hambre.

DO GOOD RIVIERA MAYA

🇲🇽 Good Food For a Good Cause

Puerto Aventuras is coming together to support the long-overdue renovation of its Cultural Center. What was once the heart of community life in PA—hosting many fabulous events and activities—has fallen into disrepare over the past years and is desperately in need of renovations to bring it back to life.

On September 20 at 6 PM, Colegio Puerto Aventuras and the Asociación de Colonos will host a lively Chile en Nogada Festival featuring folk dance, Mexican music, marimba, fair games, a mechanical bull, and of course—the star of the show—Chiles en Nogada! Admission is 150 pesos for adults and 50 pesos for children, with all proceeds dedicated to upgrading the Cultural Center facilities. It’s a chance to enjoy an evening of tradition and flavor while giving back to a space that benefits everyone in the community.

Can’t make it to the event? You can still contribute to the fundraiser for the Cultural Center HERE.

♠️ Playing It Foward for Hekab Be

Poker enthusiasts, mark your calendar for Thursday, September 17! There’s a special Texas Hold ’Em poker tournament happening to raise funds for Hekab Be Activity & Learning Center and you’re invited to join in the fun.

Hekab Be Activity Center is a highly valued community run organization serving the families of Akumal since… . It offers a free after-school and summer school program for local children, with classes and activities in English, art, science, Maya language and culture, gardening, homework help, and more.

The event will be hosted by Turtle Bay Cafe in Akumal. Check-in starts at 12:30 PM, and the tournament kicks off at 1 PM sharp. Spaces are limited to just 10 players and you must register in advance.

This tournament is an easy and fun way to contribute financial support that keeps Hekab Be’s programs running, helps maintain their facility, and ensures children in Akumal have access to enriching, educational, and creative opportunities.

¿QUE PASA?

Your go-to roundup of local events, festivals, and happenings—so you’ll always know what’s going on and where to be in the Riviera Maya.

Texas Hold ´Em Fundraiser for Hekab Be
September 17 | Turtle Bay Cafe | Akumal | 12:30 PM | Register in advance via whatsapp +1 678 471 9572

Unique Classic Car Rally
September 18 | Explanade Municipal | Tulum | Time TBA

Chile en Nogada Festival & Fundraiser
September 20 | Colegio Puerto Aventuras | 6 PM | 150 MXN Adults, 50 MXN Children

Ironman 70.3
September 21 | Cozumel | Info & Registration

2nd Annual Xcaret Folk Art Fair
September 25 - 28 | Xcaret Park | Playa del Carmen

Texas Hold ´Em Fundraiser for Hekab Be
September 25 | Latitude 20° | Puerto Aventuras | 12:30 PM | Register in advance via whatsapp +1 678 471 9572

Marc Anthony LIVE in Concert
September 25 | Estadio Kukulcan | Merida, YUC | 8 PM

Copa de Verano Polo Tournament
September 27 | El Rey Polo Club | Puerto Morelos | Starting at 2 PM

AsTri Cozumel 2025 Triathlon
September 27 | Cozumel | Info & Registration

Playa del Carmen Jazz Festival 2025
October 3 - 5 | Teatro de la Ciudad, Xaman Ha | Playa del Carmen

The Jam Band in Concert Led Zeppelin Tribute
October 11 | Teatro de la Ciudad ‘Xaman Ha’ | Playa del Carmen | Show times at 3 PM and 8 PM.

Caifanes in Concert
October 18 | Plaza de Toros | Cancun | 9 PM

Cozumel’s 17th Annual Island Bird Festival
October 24 - 26 | Cozumel

4th Annual Festival Parrillero del Caribe
October 25 & 26 | Town Center, Portside | Puerto Morelos | Time TBA

Do you have information about an upcoming event that you would like to see shared on Riviera Maya Insider? Let us know by replying to this email.

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