🖤 Playa Says Goodbye to a Legend and a Landmark

☀️ It’s Tuesday June 24. I’m not gonna lie—today’s newsletter was a little rough to put together—but it’s not all bad news. Let’s start with something great!

As you know, over the past month, we have been looking for support for Seaside Rotary’s program Feeding the Future. Lori Gold—owner of Mexperts and an avid RMI newsletter reader—stepped up to answer the call.

On behalf of the agents in her membership program, Lori has offered to sponsor the feeding program for two months! As if that is not fantastic enough, she has also pledged to support Rotary’s next clean water project in the village of Torres de la Paz. To Lori and all the Mexperts—Thank you, Gracias and Yum Bo’otik for your kindness and generosity!

In today’s newsletter you will find:

• A Playa legend remembered

• Señor Frog’s planned for demolition

• Help needed for Hekab Be in Akumal

• Popular seafood restaurant in Playa shuttered

• The triumphant return of OperaMaya

— Michele Kinnon

*This newsletter may be (will be) clipped for length by your email provider. For the best reading experience, scroll up and select the option to READ ONLINE. The typeface is larger and easier to read. The images are crisper. It’s a better reading experience. Trust me. 😄 

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Our Photo of the Week, was taken just off the beach of Paamul and published with permission from Paamul Hotel. You can find them on Instagram at @paamulhotel.

📸 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.

🛥️ A fuel slick in the Puerto Aventuras marina has triggered inspections by environmental officials, but locals say the problem runs deeper. From wetland destruction to illegal beach walls, this latest incident is fueling renewed calls for accountability and a full review of unchecked development. Read more.

🕒 Yucatán may soon move its clocks forward by an hour to match Quintana Roo—this time, not for tourism, but to boost solar energy efficiency amid a growing power crisis. With demand outpacing supply and stalled infrastructure projects, the time zone shift could offer short-term relief. Learn more.

🌿 A community tree-planting effort is planned for this Saturday, June 28 from 8 AM –10 AM outside Planetario Sayab in Playa del Carmen. As part of the Environmental Festival, this reforestation activity will help fight climate change and takes advantage of the rainy season for healthy growth. Workshops, talks, and family activities follow.

📚 The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has opened submissions for a new academic journal focused on archaeological, historical, and cultural research in the Mexican Caribbean and southern border regions. Scholars and regional experts are invited to contribute original studies. Read more.

🐸 After more than 25 years of wild nights, neon lights, and tequila-fueled fun, Señor Frog’s in Playa del Carmen is being demolished due to safety concerns. The once-iconic hotspot by the pier has stood empty since 2024. Read more.

🛃 A major customs overhaul is coming to Mexico. President Sheinbaum has announced a new law set for September, aimed at tackling corruption, streamlining border operations, and boosting transparency. Learn more.

📚 Valladolid’s culinary legacy just went global. Valladolid, Capital Gastronómica de Yucatán has been named one of the world’s top six food tourism books at the prestigious Gourmand Awards—spotlighting this Pueblo Mágico as a rising star in international gastronomy. Read more.

ICYMI

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

🏖️ 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.

🛫 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.

Daily News for Curious Minds

Be the smartest person in the room by reading 1440! Dive into 1440, where 4 million Americans find their daily, fact-based news fix. We navigate through 100+ sources to deliver a comprehensive roundup from every corner of the internet – politics, global events, business, and culture, all in a quick, 5-minute newsletter. It's completely free and devoid of bias or political influence, ensuring you get the facts straight. Subscribe to 1440 today.

Sign up now!

EXPAT LIVING

Brian Borjesson: A Legacy of Service and Heart

If you've ever seen a firefighter in Quintana Roo decked out in full gear, using modern equipment, or confidently leading a rescue—chances are Brian Borjesson had something to do with it.

Brian and his wife Edie arrived in Playa del Carmen in 1995. Back then, the town didn’t have a fire department. After witnessing a devastating RV fire that took hours to get a response from Cancún, Brian sprang into action. What followed was a decades-long mission to build a modern firefighting force from the ground up—training men, sourcing equipment, raising funds, and above all, believing in the power of community.

Under Brian’s leadership, the Bomberos of Riviera Maya transformed. He brought in dozens of fire vehicles, hundreds of air packs, and thousands of pieces of gear. He trained firefighters from zero experience to international certification—many of whom are now instructors themselves. He rose in rank from Trainer to Jefe and finally Chief—but, his proudest accomplishment? Seeing young firefighters that he had trained becoming certified instructors—ensuring that the future of the force is self-sustaining, Mexican-led, and strong.

Brian and Edie worked side by side to host fundraisers, auctions, and raffles—never taking a peso for themselves. The annual Three-Legged Race became one of Playa’s most anticipated events and raised thousands of dollars for the bomberos. They pushed hard to get lifesaving tools like the Jaws of Life into fire stations across the state—especially in cities along Highway 307, where road deaths are heartbreakingly frequent.

Brian always said he’d take heart over pay any day. And it was heart that defined his work, his mission, and the way he inspired everyone around him. He leaves behind a safer Riviera Maya, a generation of well-trained firefighters, and a community that will never forget him.

Rest in peace, Brian and send our love to Edie and Captain Dave and all the Playa legends gone too soon.

Playa Art & Fashion Fest (PAFF) 2025

From June 27 to 30, Playa del Carmen will take center stage in Mexico’s fashion world with the debut of the Playa Art & Fashion Fest (PAFF) 2025. This four-day, city-sponsored event promises an upscale yet inclusive celebration of art, design, culture, and social purpose—all free and open to the public.

Backed by Mayor Estefanía Mercado’s administration, PAFF 2025 is more than just a style showcase. It’s designed to elevate Playa del Carmen’s profile as a luxury destination while spotlighting an urgent cause: supporting survivors of gender-based violence. The festival invites locals and visitors alike to engage with creativity that has both visual flair and meaningful impact.

Expect a dazzling mix of fashion, music, and visual art. Over 30 international models and beauty queens will take part, styled by Tony Berber—known for his “México en la piel” project that promotes national tourism through fashion. The city’s vibrant streets will host pop-up fashion installations, live music, and interactive art displays, creating a cultural atmosphere where design and social activism intersect.

The festival’s most anticipated moment arrives on June 27 with the Grand Runway Show along Playa’s iconic 5th Avenue. Hosted by Miss World Vanessa Ponce de León, the catwalk will feature collections from eight top Mexican brands, including luxury names like Pineda Covalín and the bold, colorful styles of Agatha Ruiz de la Prada.

With its mix of glamour and grassroots purpose, PAFF 2025 is shaping up to be one of the Riviera Maya’s most dynamic cultural events—an invitation to celebrate fashion, community, and the power of public art to drive change.

NOTES ON NAPKINS

Playa Says Adios to A Beachfront Landmark

It’s the end of an era on Playa’s beachfront. After more than 25 years perched by the fiscal pier, Señor Frog’s—equal parts restaurant, party zone, and rite of passage for tourists—will be demolished due to structural deterioration and risk of collapse. The closure, announced last October, followed inspections that revealed serious safety concerns, including tilting beams and cracks in the foundation.

A beloved staple of the spring break scene, Playa’s Señor Frog’s is a part of Grupo Anderson’s, the restaurant empire whose assets include Carlos ’n Charlie’s, BAK, Ilios, Nicoletta and many more. The Señor Frogs brand started in Mazatlán back in 1971 and spread across Mexico and the Caribbean, becoming famous for its goofy décor, conga lines, and no-holds-barred attitude. It wasn’t just a place to grab tacos and drinks—at one time it was the place to be and a must-do for tourists.

While not every review was glowing, fans remember it fondly for its chaos, charm, and full-throttle fun. Many—especially “locals”—looked down on Señor Frogs for its unapologetic unauthenticity. But this local remembers some fun times there with my children and their friends after riding tournaments. The staff always made sure the kids were having fun and pumped them full of vigin strawberry daquiries.

For now, it’s goodbye to Señor Frog’s—where tequila flowed, shirts got swapped, and vacation stories began. With demolition imminent and no official word on what will replace it, we are left wondering what’s next for that prime oceanfront spot. Whatever takes its place has big flip-flops to fill.

Popular Playa Seafood Restaurant Closes

Sad news in in foodie circles—Man-Kii, the popular seafood restaurant on Avenida Juarez in Playa, has announced its closure. A statement went out on their social media channels. The following is a translation of their post.

The decision follows a violent attack on June 11 that left two women injured. This isn’t the first time the restaurant has been targeted—its façade was shot up last October. Amid rising crime and extortion threats, Man-Kii becomes the latest casualty in a troubling trend impacting Playa’s restaurant scene.

This isn’t the kind of story I generally include in the newsletter but this was a restaurant we often recommended to friends and I didn’t feel it should go unnoted.

Other closures to mention include Le P’tit Shoux also in Playa and Refresh in Puerto Aventuras.

A Culinary Journey from Puerto Morelos to Oaxaca

Calling all lovers of Oaxacan flavors and culinary traditions—El Inicio in Puerto Morelos is hosting a special dinner you won’t want to miss. On Saturday, June 28 at 7 PM, Chefs Ari Morales and David Sánchez are taking over the kitchen for Sabores de Oaxaca, a five-course tasting menu with expertly paired wines.

This one-night-only experience is a celebration of Oaxacan cuisine—rich in culture, spice, and soul—with each dish crafted to highlight the region’s depth of flavor and culinary heritage.

Seats are limited to just 24 guests (adults only) and reservations require a 50% deposit. At $1,000 pesos per person, this intimate evening promises to be a standout for food lovers looking for something truly special.

📍 El Inicio, Armadillo 80, Villas La Playa, Puerto Morelos
📆 Saturday, June 28 | 7 PM
🎫 1000 MXN per person
📲 Reserve via WhatsApp: 998 430 6212

RIVIERA MAYA REAL ESTATE

Move in Ready Villa with Private Pool & Solar

If you're looking for a move-in ready home with personality, privacy, and proven ROI this charming 4-bedroom, 3-bath villa in Puerto Aventuras deserves your attention. Set on a generous 480 m² lot, this two-level home blends Mexican flair with modern comfort, all within the secure gated resort community.

The ground floor has everything for easy living: a spacious living and dining area, a fully equipped kitchen with pantry, a large laundry room, and a guest bedroom. Additional living space has been created with a furnished lanai opening up to the tropical yard and private pool. Upstairs, you’ll find two bedrooms with a Jack-and-Jill bath, plus the spacious primary suite with walk-in closet and en suite bathroom.

The home is fully equipped with central AC, ceiling fans, hurricane shutters and 28 solar panels. There is off-street parking for two vehicles. It’s being sold fully furnished and has an excellent vacation rental history.

The sellers are asking $750,000 USD. This gorgeous villa belongs to a lovely family who are friends of mine—and avid RMI newsletter readers. I have been inside many times and I can tell you—someone will be very lucky to snap up this move-in-ready home that has been so thoughfully designed and immaculately maintained. Whatsapp 984 151 9763 for more info and to arrange a private 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.

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

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 Wellness Festival in 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].

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

DO GOOD RIVIERA MAYA

Your Help is Needed at Hekab Be in Akumal!

Hekab Be Biblioteca has been serving the familes of the Akumal pueblo since 1998, providing after-school and summer school programming for the children of Akumal. They are completely donor-supported and managed by a 501(c)(3 )non-profit organization in the United States.

In mid-May, the Principal and staff of Hekab Be resigned. Following these departures, the Board of Directors immediately began a comprehensive review of the property, inventory, and records. What they discovered was deeply concerning—neglected facilities, poor record-keeping, and severe disorganization.

Over the past five weeks, they have removed four 3-ton truckloads of debris from the property and uncovered extensive hoarding and damage to supplies. Shockingly, many essential items were missing or damaged, including bicycles, rollerskates, binoculars, water vests, water shoes, laptops and arts & crafts supplies.

Right now, the board members are furiously working to hire a new Principal and teaching staff with a goal of opening on July 21st—in time for summer school. They also need to replace all of the missing and damaged items to ensure that the children have a positive experience during summer school with clean, welcoming facilities, filled with the items that they are familiar with to lhelp them earn and explore.

WHAT CAN WE DO?

My friend Kelly has asked me if we can help them secure bicycles. Their goal is 20 bicycles—a combination of boys and girls for a variety of ages from 4 to 14. The bicycles do not need to be brand new. Used bikes in good condition are just fine. If you have a bike to donate or would like to purchase a bike for Hekab Be, I would he happy to pcik it up and deliver it to Akumal. Just reply back to this email and I will make it happen.

Hekab Be will be appreciative of any type of support that you can provide during this unfortunate time. If you can help with this recovery effort, please contact Kelly Maher via WhatsApp at +1 678 471 9572. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

JOIN THE INSIDERS!

Did you find us on Facebook? Did a friend forward this newsletter to you? Subscribe to get the best of the Riviera Maya delivered to your inbox every week for FREE!

FTC Partner Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you click on them and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our work and keeps this valuable content free for readers. We only recommend products and we use and love. We will always tell you if you are entering a sponsored or partner section. Thank you for your support!