⚕️ Health Insurance in Mexico, Tidal Energy Plans & Carnaval Lineups 🎭

☀️ It’s Tuesday February 17 and I hope you all had a joyful Valentine’s Day, surrounded by people who love and appreciate you. The first Valentine’s Day festival in Puerto Aventuras was lovely and very well attended. Thank you to the organizors who put on such a fun party for the community. 💟 

👏 I would like to thank Lori Gold, Teresa Cleaver, Brian Rocha, Stacy Zeigler, Donna Silogy and Robert Bosse for their generous donations to Seaside Rotary’s "Tiny Hearts, Big Needs" GoFundMe campaign. If YOU would like to help, check out the DO GOOD RIVIERA MAYA segment at the end of this email to learn more.

📣 Yours truly was interviewed on the Expats Like Us podcast yesterday where we discussed my experience moving to and living on the Riviera Maya, volunteering and community service. The episode should go live sometime this week so be sure to look for it here in the newsletter next Tuesday!

This newsletter may be clipped for length in your email. For the best reading experience, scroll up and select the option to READ ONLINE. It’s a better reading experience. Trust me. 😄 

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

📸 Our fantastic Photo of the Week is posted courtesy of Marc Andrew from Fun in the Sun Weddings. You can find Marc @funinthesunweddings.

📸 If you would like to see your photo featured here, follow and tag @rivieramayainsidermx on Instagram.

RIVIERA MAYA REAL ESTATE

🏝️ Find Your Perfect Riviera Maya Escape in Akumal

I love my little marina-front condo in Puerto Aventuras but you could really tempt me with this one….

If you’re looking for a place in the Riviera Maya that feels like a true escape, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath home in Tao Ocean Homes is worth a look. It’s in a quiet spot just south of Akumal Bay, just across the street from Jade Bay’s soft white sand and turquoise water. The house itself is beautifully updated, with high ceilings, a bright open kitchen, and a spacious back patio. The rooftop terrace is a highlight—perfect for catching sunsets or stargazing. The townhouse is already fitted with solar panels, so it’s energy-efficient.

One of the best perks? You get beach access through Jungle Fish Beach Club, where you’ll have a private spot by the pool and discounts at their beachfront bar and restaurant. It’s just a short walk up the beach to Akumal, where you’ll find two great dive centers, a small grocery store, and some great restaurants with live music.

I toured through these townhomes when they were being built in 2015. I loved them then and I love them now. Whether you’re thinking about a retirement home or a vacation rental investment, this place checks all the boxes—beautiful location, solid amenities, a relaxed, beachy vibe all at what I think is a very attractive price. Contact Marieke to book a showing. I don’t this one is going to hang around long.

RIVIERA MAYA ROUNDUP

You don’t have to know everything….but you should know something.
Here’s what caught my eye in the news this week.

🚧 Governor Mara Lezama allocates 75 million pesos to rehabilitate more than 630 kilometers of Quintana Roo's roadways. This initiative addresses public demands for improved infrastructure, focusing on critical sections like Highway 307, a vital route for residents and tourists. Read more.

🧵 In an effort to protect Mayan embroidery from plagiarism, the Yucatán state government has recognized 200 artisans from 12 municipalities as Cultural Guardians of this important heritage. Governor Huacho Díaz Mena emphasized the importance of fair compensation and the promotion of these intricate works of art. Learn more.

🌊 The Cozumel channel will be home to a pioneering tidal energy initiative, harnessing ocean currents between the island and mainland Mexico to generate sustainable electricity. Plans for the project were revealed at the recent Caribbean Electric and Solar Expo. Learn more.

🇲🇽 Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum recently visited Tulum to attend the 110th anniversary celebration of the Mexican Air Force at the new Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport. In her emotional address, Sheinbaum lauded the unwavering support of the Armed Forces in advancing Mexico's Fourth Transformation. [VIDEO]

🏝️  Four popular resort destinations in Quintana Roo have secured spots in Mexico's Top 10 for hotel occupancy rates in 2024 according to the Ministry of Tourism (Sectur). Did your favorite make the list? Find out here.

🎉  Solidaridad Mayor Estefanía Mercado has confirmed the lineup of events for Carnival 2025 in Playa del Carmen which includes traditional parades and free concerts from international artists like Jesse & Joy, Rawayana, and Nicki Nicole. Get the full schedule here.

🐾  Playa del Carmen Mayor Estefanía Mercado has initiated a thorough renovation of the city's Animal Control Center to provide abandoned pets with a safe and nurturing environment. The project includes new veterinary clinics, expanded confinement areas, and educational spaces to promote responsible pet ownership. Read more.

NOTES ON NAPKINS

🦪 An Evening of Bubbles & Oysters in Puerto Aventuras

Our friends at Bubbles & Oysters are hosting another delicious event, this time at La Caleta-Resto Bar in Puerto Aventuras! February 22nd starting at 6PM you will be treated to an exclusive tasting menu that will amaze your taste buds. Each course will be paired with a glass of sparkling wine, carefully selected to create the perfect fusion of flavors and elevate the experience, making it a true show for your palate.

Course 1
🦪  Kumamoto oyster with natural lemon (fresh)
🦪 Kumamoto oyster with wakame and masago, Japanese style (fresh)
Course 2
🦪 Bahía Falsa oyster “Cucumber Gin & Tonic Oyster Cocktail” (fresh)
🦪 Kumiai oyster with cocktail sauce, spicy Mexican style (fresh)
Course 3
🦪 Kumiai oyster gratin with Mayan chaya butter (hot)
🦪 Bahía Falsa oyster in classic Rockefeller sauce (hot)
Course 4
🦪 Chocolate Clam with cucumber, tomato, red onion, and cilantro (ceviche style)

But this event isn’t just about exquisite food. It will also be an interactive and educational experience where you’ll learn about the incredible benefits of oysters—not only for your health but also for the environment. You’ll discover how oysters play a crucial role in keeping our oceans clean and healthy.

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with flavor, bubbles, and learning! Reserve your spot now. 📞 +52 984 108 0552. Cost: 1,500 MXN per person.

Ditch the Dinner Drama

Enjoy the perfect Ponzu Salmon with a side of… let’s watch another episode. Or Filet Mignon with a side of… just booked a weekend getaway. Or delicious pineapple salsa tacos with a side of… solved the wordle in 3!!

With Tovala, you can enjoy chef-crafted meals on your terms and more time to do the things you love. Ditch the dinner drama and treat yourself:

• No more “I-overcooked-the-chicken-again” angst

• No more “Let-me-just-check-on-dinner” distractions

• No more “Hours-of-prep-before-I-get-to-eat” agony

• Just home-cooked meals, ready in 20 minutes

Try Tovala risk-free for 100 days and turn your mealtime into me time. Get the Tovala Smart Oven now for just $69 (originally $299) today.

Learn more

This is a paid ad in partnership with TOVALA. To see your business featured here, reply to this email for details.

EXPAT LIVING

🩺 Navigating Health Insurance for Your Life in Mexico

Embarking on a new life in Mexico is an exciting adventure, but ensuring you have the right health insurance is crucial for peace of mind. Navigating the Mexican healthcare system as an expat can be complex, making it essential to find insurance coverage that suits your unique needs.

Let’s look at soome of the key considerations for selecting expat health insurance in Mexico:

• Assess Your Healthcare Needs: Evaluate your age and health status and anticipate medical requirements to determine the level of coverage necessary.

• Understand Policy Options: Familiarize yourself with various insurance plans, including local Mexican policies and international coverage, to find the best fit.

• Consider Network Restrictions: Some policies limit healthcare providers; ensure your preferred doctors and hospitals are included.

• Evaluate Costs: Premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses vary. Compare these factors to align with your budget.

• Check for Exclusions: Be aware of any medical conditions or treatments not covered by prospective policies.

• Seek Professional Advice: Consult several insurance agents or experts familiar with expat needs in Mexico for personalized guidance.

By addressing these aspects, you can confidently choose a health insurance plan that safeguards your well-being while you enjoy your new life south of the border.

Read this comprehensive guide on how to find the right expat health insurance in Mexico for YOU!

¿QUE PASA?

February 18 | Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament Fundraiser for Hekab Be Library at Turtle Bay Cafe in Akumal. 12:30PM check in. More info here.

February 19 | 14th Annual KKiS Project Fundraising Gala at The Grand Hyatt in Playa del Carmen. Dinner and live auction 6PM - 10PM. Tickets.

February 20 - 24 | Laugh Out Loud Comedy Experience at the Cancun Convention Center. Info and Tickets.

February 21 | Garage Comedy II featuring Cedric Newman at Buzo’s in Playa del Carmen. Doors open at 6:30PM. Tickets 200 MXN. Info.

February 22 | Bubbles & Oysters Night at La Caleta Resto-Bar in Puerto Aventuras starting at 6PM. For Info and Tickets Whatsapp +52 984 108 0552.

February 22 | English Comedy with Cedric Newman. Show at 7PM at the Xbalamque Theatre in downtown Cancun. Tickets.

February 22 & 23 | 3rd Annual Tulum Tattoo Fest 9AM - 9PM at Vesica Tulum. Entry 200 MXN. Info.

February 26 - March 4 | Carnaval 2025 in Playa del Carmen. Various times and locations including Puerto Aventuras on March 4.

February 28 | Jesse & Joy in concert at the Plaza 28 de Julio in Playa del Carmen starting at 10PM. Free Admission.

February 28 | Gloria Trevi “Mi Soundtrack Tour” at the Plaza de Toros in Cancun. Doors open at 7PM. Concert starts at 9PM. Tickets.

February 28 - March 2 | WTA 500 Merida Open Tennis Tournament at Yucatan Country Club in Merida. Info and Tickets.

March 1 | 9th Annual Riviera Maya Chili Cook-Off in Puerto Aventuras supporting the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside. Tickets and Info.

March 1 | The Jam Band Woodstock Revival Tour at the Teatro de la Ciudad in Playa del Carmen at 8PM. Info and Tickets.

March 2 | 2025 Cancun International Women’s Half Marathon at the Tajamar Malecon in Cancun. Registration.

March 3 | 11th Annual Paint & Run Cozumel. Registration in advance at DIF Cozumel. 350 MXN per participant.

March 4 | Akumal Trivia Challenge Fundraiser for Hekab Be Library at Lol Ha Restaurant in Akumal. Registration at 1:30PM. More info here.

March 22 & 23 | Festival of Beer & Wine hosted by The Lions Club in Merida YUC. 10AM - 8PM. Free admission.

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 or sending it to [email protected].

DO GOOD RIVIERA MAYA

 🍼 Tiny Hearts, Big Needs: Saving Newborns in Playa del Carmen

Did you know … the Playa del Carmen General Hospital has no neonatal heart monitors? That means doctors and nurses must work without the critical tools needed to track a baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels, often forced to make life-or-death decisions without real-time data.

The consequences? Delays in diagnosis, missed warning signs, and tragic losses that could have been prevented.

In response to this need, the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside is raising $12,000 USD to provide:

(2) Rad-97 Pulse Co-Oximeters – Detects oxygen deprivation early, preventing brain damage and respiratory failure.
(4) Benefusion EVP Infusion Pumps – Ensures newborns receive precise doses of lifesaving medications and fluids.

Right now, doctors rely on visual assessments, leading to dangerous delays. With these devices, newborns will get the immediate and precise care they need—saving hundreds of lives every year.

These newborns can’t ask for help—but we can. Join Seaside Rotary in giving these babies a fighting chance.

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