🎭️ Motmots, Gentle Giants and the Return of OperaMaya

☀️ It’s Tuesday June 17 and this week is off to a great start! Thank you to everyone who turned up for some fun in the sun on the Catamaya Locals’ Sunset Cruise yesterday afternoon. It was a nice way to help Fabio and his crew celebrate 20 years of Catamaya Sailing in Puerto Aventuras! If you are on Facebook, you can see my photos here.

in today’s newsletter you will find:

• The Maya Legend of the Motmot

• A sweet sailboat for sale in Puerto Aventuras

• Local restaurants on the World’s 50 Best list

• Mad Masala Munchies!

• A NEW listing on the Puerto Aventuras main marina

— Michele Kinnon

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PHOTO OF THE WEEK

📸 The Photo of the Week, was taken by yours truly on a rare day off in Puerto Morelos. I found this Motmot, beautifully painted on a palm tree at The Diving Lodge. You can learn more about these colorful birds and the fascinating Legend of the Motmot here.

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

RIVIERA MAYA ROUNDUP

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.

⚓ After years of legal battles, Cozumel’s controversial fourth cruise ship pier has been approved—sparking celebration from business groups and outrage from environmentalists and Cozumel residents. The billion-peso project promises modern infrastructure but threatens nearby coral reefs and tourism livelihoods. Read more.

🚢 Royal Caribbean has made history with its $821M investment in Mahahual, acquiring the port and launching plans for a massive cruise destination and waterpark. While officials hail it as an economic win, critics warn of environmental and social costs. Here’s what’s at stake as Mahahual transforms.

🏖️ Public outrage is growing in Playa del Carmen as beach clubs block access to Mamita’s. With sunbeds on federal land and a new development offering “exclusive beach access,” locals say the last public shoreline is disappearing. Read more.

🌿 Decomposing sargassum isn’t just a nuisance—it’s releasing toxic gas. UNAM researchers found hydrogen sulfide levels in Playa del Carmen up to 18 times above safe limits, posing serious risks to cleanup workers. A new sensor project aims to track exposure and protect lives. Full details here.

🌊 In a groundbreaking 14-day expedition, over 60 scientists aboard a research vessel are charting over 3,500 km of the Caribbean to study and repurpose sargassum before it hits Mexico’s shores. The mission aims to turn a coastal crisis into a sustainable marine resource. Learn more.

🪂 The Papantla Flyers in Playa del Carmen are asking again to relocate their ceremonial pole in Parque Fundadores for safety reasons, as sargassum-driven tourism slumps threaten their centuries-old tradition. Learn more about their request and the deep cultural roots of this breathtaking ritual.

ICYMI

In case you missed it, these are the most popular news stories from last week.

✈️ Cancún International Airport is undergoing major upgrades ahead of the 2026 World Cup. With 40% of tournament travelers expected to arrive here, the revamp is seen as a pivotal step for tourism efficiency. Read more.

🛫 The new International Airport in Tulum is faltering. Authorities are forced to consider the reason behind the decreasing arrival numbers and airlines discontinuing routes. Read more.

EXPAT LIVING

⛵️ Sailboat For Sale in Puerto Aventuras

⛵ For anyone looking to spend their weekends on the water or dreaming of life aboard, this 1988 Hunter 30-2 might be the perfect boat for you. This boat has been painstakingly updated throughout—engine, deck, rigging, and even a raised boom for better visibility.

It’s been cruising between Holbox and Progreso with ease and is perfect for solo adventurers, weekend sailors or couples ready to explore the Mexican Caribbean and beyond. The boat sleeps 5 and would be perfect for a young family looking for a seafaring adventure.

With a reliable Yanmar engine, clean systems, and practical upgrades, this boat is ready to sail away with her next owner. The vessel is currently docked in Puerto Aventuras and is documented under a Mexican marina permit which can be easily be transferred.

The owner is asking $19,900 USD.

📩 Click for more photos, full specs and to arrange a viewing and test sail. Serious inquiries only, please.

This is a paid ad. Our advertisers help keep content free for readers and not stuck behind a paywall. If you would like to advertise in the Riviera Maya Insider click HERE for our rate sheet.

TRAVEL TALK

🐋 Swimming with Giants: Whale Shark Season Begins

There are only a handful of places in the world where you can swim alongside whale sharks. Lucky for us, Isla Mujeres is one of them and it’s pretty easy to get to. From now through mid-September, the waters just off this tiny island north of Cancún will host the largest fish in the ocean, drawn here by warm currents and clouds of nutrient-rich plankton.

Swimming with whale sharks is more than a bucket-list activity. It’s a rare opportunity to be in the water with a 30-foot-long creature that seems both prehistoric and otherworldly. And the season has just begun!

Strict government regulations ensure the tours are sustainable and safe—for the whale sharks and for you. Only licensed operators with permits can approach these gentle giants, and boat numbers are limited each day. So if you’re planning to be anywhere near the Riviera Maya this summer, book early—this is one experience that fills up fast.

Tours depart daily from Cancún and Isla Mujeres, and many operators offer roundtrip transportation from Playa del Carmen and Tulum. For a more relaxed experience, do what we do: head up the day before, spend the night, and be ready to go first thing in the morning.

Swimming with whale sharks is humbling, surreal, and deeply moving. It’s the kind of adventure that changes the way you see the ocean—and maybe even your place in it.

NOTES ON NAPKINS

🍜 Savory Summer Specials at Más Masala

After enjoying a delious dinner with friends at Más Masala, Priya let it slip that she had something new in the works to lift us up out of our low season doldrums!

Introducing Mad Masala Munchies— Priya’s latest ingenius Indi-Mex fusion dishes promising to tempt your palatte. We are already dreaming about the Butter Chicken Wings and the Samosa Burger! The Gobi 65 is sure to be a hit with vegetarian diners. If the Chicken Tikka Taco on the regular menu is any indicator, these new dishes are going to be a big hit.

The Mad Masala Munchies menu is available starting today. Pop down to say hello to Priya and give one or more of these a try! If you haven’t visited Más Masala yet, you can find it on Av. Consituyentes almost at the corner of Av. 15. For information and orders para llevar, Whatsapp 984 151 2619.

🗿 It’s a Tropical Lost Tiki Take Over at Wine O’Clock!

Calling all foodies and cocktail lovers! On Thursday June 19, The Lost Tiki is taking over Wine O’Clock and co-hosting a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure—a 3-course fusion dinner crafted by none other than Chef Rene Gamboa and Juan Riviera. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a tropical takeover of flavors, creativity, and good vibes.

Wash it all down with The Lost Tiki’s exclusive tropical cocktails—three specially crafted sips for the night—or explore Wine O’Clock’s full bar and wine list.

The 3-course meal has a fixed price of 700 MXN per person. Drinks are additional. Reservations are strongly recommended via messanger on The Lost Tiki Facebook page.

🏆️ Mexico’s Culinary Influence Expands wih Listings from 50 Best

Mexico continues to climb the global culinary ranks, with three standout restaurants featured in the 2025 World’s 50 Best Restaurants 51–100 list. Among the 12 first-time entries from North America, Tulum, Mérida, and Mexico City are helping redefine regional dining with bold, ingredient-driven cooking and thoughtful innovation.

Tulum’s Arca lands at No. 67, earning international recognition for its jungle setting, wood-palapa structure, and open-fire cooking. Led by chef José Luis Hinostroza, the restaurant focuses on micro-seasonal menus and vibrant cocktails, all served in an immersive natural environment.

In Mérida, Huniik makes its debut at No. 89. Chef Roberto Solís offers a refined 12-course tasting menu to just 16 guests at a time, blending modern techniques with the deep roots of nueva cocina yucateca.

Mexico City’s César joins the list at No. 98, further cementing the capital’s role as a hub for world-class dining.

These additions reflect Mexico’s growing influence in both Latin American and global gastronomy. The 2024 Latin America list featured ten Mexican restaurants—including Pujol, Quintonil, and Rosetta—highlighting the country’s range from fine dining to regional expressions.

With Arca, Huniik, and César now in the global spotlight, it’s clear that Mexico’s culinary identity is evolving. What was once centered on tradition and the capital is now defined by innovative, destination-based experiences rooted in sustainability, storytelling, and a deep respect for local ingredients.

The full 2025 World’s 50 Best awards will be announced in Turin, Italy on June 19 and streamed live on the World’s 50 Best YouTube channel at 8:00 PM local time.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. I'll always let you know when something is a paid ad.

RIVIERA MAYA REAL ESTATE

 🛥️ NEW LISTING! Marina-View Condo in Puerto Aventuras

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect marina-front condo in PA, this new turnkey listing is a serious standout. This 1-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo sits right on the main marina and is just a short stroll from the beach, restaurants, and shops. No need for a car or golf cart. This sweet condo is close to it all!

Inside, you’ll find vaulted ceilings, a full kitchen, washer/dryer, and a spacious master suite with en suite bath. The furnished terrace—with access from both the bedroom and living room—is breezy, shaded, and the ideal spot for your morning coffee or sunset drinks. Bonus: hurricane shutters, AC, and pets are allowed.

It’s fully furnished, perfectly maintained and move-in ready. The owners are asking $250K USD. Whether you’re looking for a cozy vacation getaway or an investment property with potential to earn, this one checks all the boxes.

Click here for more info and to book a showing.

This is a paid ad. Our advertisers help keep content free for readers and not stuck behind a paywall. If you would like to advertise in the Riviera Maya Insider click HERE for our rate sheet.

¿QUE PASA?

Check out the events and happenings we found for the next month or so on the Riviera Maya and beyond.

June 18 | “Saladdin” a parody of Aladdin in Spanish at the Teatro de Cancun. Curtain times 7 PM & 9:30 PM. Tickets.

Jun 18 - 28 | Opera Maya 2025 “Brighter Days” International Music Festival - various locations in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres and Puerto Morelos. Info.

🎶 OperaMaya Returns with “Brighter Days” Concert Series

From June 18 to 28, OperaMaya returns to the Riviera Maya with “Brighter Days,” a 14-concert series spanning Cancún, Isla Mujeres, Puerto Morelos, and Playa del Carmen. Now in its 15th year, the festival brings world-class opera and classical music to both city stages and rural communities across the region.

OperaMaya was founded to make opera accessible beyond traditional venues—bringing it to plazas, churches, and local schools. Each performance blends emerging talent with international guest conductors, choirs, and musicians, featuring music in multiple languages, including Maya, Spanish, and English. This year’s programming highlights themes of cultural connection and resilience, echoing the “Brighter Days” title.

Expect a mix of Mexican classics, operatic favorites, and collaborative pieces from composers and performers representing diverse global traditions. Whether you're a seasoned opera lover or new to the genre, OperaMaya promises an unforgettable experience set against the natural beauty of the Caribbean coast.

For a full schedule and details on venues and ticketing, visit operamaya.com.

June 19 | The Lost Tiki Takeover at Wine O’Clock in Playa del Carmen. Full info above in the Notes on Napkins section.

June 19 - 29 | Festival PAAX-GNP 2025 at Hotel Xcaret Arte in Playa del Carmen. Program, tickets and packages.

June 20 | Love Flameco World Tour 2025 at the Teatro de Cancun. Curtain time 7 PM. Tickets.

June 21 | La Casteñeda in concert at Sushi 3:16 in Playa del Carmen. Doors open at 8PM. Tickets. 

June 27 | Playa Art & Fashion Fest - A fashion show and parade on 5th Ave. between Calles 34 and 38 in Playa del Carmen. Starts at 6PM.

June 28 | Playa Pride Diversity March 2025 leaving from the Poliforum on Av Juarez and Av. 115 at 4PM

July 11 & 12 | “Diosa del Mar“ International Women’s Fishing Tournament in Puerto Morelos. Info and registration.

July 11 - 13 | 2025 Cozumel Vivo Fest - various locations including Hotel B, Chankanaab Park and Punta Sur. Info. Tickets.

July 18 - 20 | “De la Calle a la Cancha” State Street Soccer Championship - Parque 28 de julio in Playa del Carmen. For more info, Whatsapp 984 211 2558 | Saju Mendoza.

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

🥣 Help Us Feed 90 Children in Playa del Carmen

Since 2017, the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside’s Feeding the Future program has been providing 90 children with healthy meals, three times a week, in the remote community of Torres de la Paz. Most families here live in extreme poverty, in one-room homes or makeshift shelters. Public services are scarce. Hunger is common.

In a small community school, Seaside Rotary has installed solar power, a clean water system, biodigester, and a modest kitchen where volunteers prepare meals for the students. For just $1,200 USD per month, Feeding the Future feeds all 90 children—but that cost is increasingly hard to meet. The video above was made during COVID but the need is teh same our funds are dwindling.

Here’s how you can help:

• Sponsor a full month for $1,200 USD—perfect for Rotary Clubs, businesses, church groups, or generous donors.

• Donate any amount—every peso counts.

• Share the link and spread the word.

💛 Click here to donate securely
📩 Or email [email protected] for other ways to help.

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