🌞 Rooftops, Robberies & Restaurant Takeovers! 🏴‍☠️

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📚️ It’s Tuesday June 10 here on the Riviera Maya and before we jump into the local news and events, I have a nice update for you from my friend Janet Lowe with Leyendo.

Remember the books we collected and purchased at the end of last year? Well, Leyendo secured a spot for a new library in the primary school in Nuevo Noh Bec and those books were delivered this week!

Nuevo Noh Bec is one of Playa del Carmen’s seriously marginalized communities and this addition of a library with BOOKS for the children can make a massive impact. So Thank you, Gracias and Yum Bo’otik to all the generous Insiders who donated books or funds to make this happen! If you are on Facebook, you can learn more about Leyendo HERE.

In today’s newsletter you will find:

• My list of 10 great rooftop pools in Playa

• A Lost Tiki restaurant takover

• Improvements at the Cancun International Airport

• Mayan Train service updates

• An stylish new listing in Akumal

— 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, captured off the coast of Cozumel, is an incredible underwater shot of a juvenile Tripod Fish. These can only be found deep below the surface during Blackwater dives.

Thank you to diver, singer, lionfish hunter, part-time mermaid and my friend, Natalie Novak Perez with Dive with Natalie & Ivan—that’s her pretty face behind the mask—and pro photographer Robert Stansfield. You can find more remarkable photos from Robert on his Instagram page @bobtec. You should take a look—he has some incredible shots of creatures most of us will never see.

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

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.

🚂 Tren Maya’s new intermodal transport system connects rail stations to Tulum, Bacalar, and beyond with budget-friendly buses and vans—starting at just 25 pesos. Discover how this initiative boosts sustainable tourism and simplifies travel across the Yucatán.

✈️ 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.

🌊 Eighteen countries have committed to stronger action against illegal fishing during the Port State Measures Agreement meeting in Cancún. This milestone could reshape sustainable fishing in the Americas. Learn more.

🛑 Quintana Roo’s sargassum cleanup efforts are faltering as dedicated vessels and containment barriers sit unused and in disrepair. Local business owners warn of mounting economic losses and urge authorities to reactivate equipment immediately.

🍽️ The prestigious Michelin Guide has unveiled its latest selection of recommended restaurants, with several acclaimed establishments in Tulum earning a spot on the list. Discover these distinguished dining destinations here.

🛫 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.

🚶‍♂️ Rather than deal with the taxi mafia at the Cancun International Airport, tourists are choosing to walk off the property rather than submit to the hassles of getting a reasonable ride from the terminals to their accommodations. Learn more.

🐝 With bee colonies across Mexico collapsing, local Yucatan bee keepers demand justice and change after 300 hives were decimated overnight by pesticides from a nearby citrus plantation. Read more.

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ICYMI

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

🚨 A popular bar in Playa del Carmen was the scene of a violent armed attack, leaving multiple people injured. Authorities suspect the incident is linked to extortion attempts, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the area. Investigations are underway to identify the perpetrators and motives behind the assault.

🏖️ A proposed luxury development at Playa Mamitas has sparked controversy in Playa del Carmen. While Mayor Estefanía Mercado denies environmental damage and plans to privatize the beach, new documents and aerial footage contradict her statements.

EXPAT LIVING

👜 An Unfortunate Low Season Reminder

A dear friend of mine was robbed last weekend in the parking lot of Chedraui in Puerto Aventuras. It was a clever, coordinated effort—and they got away with her phone, wallet, all of her cards, and her sense of security.

🦹‍♀️ This is your reminder to stay alert. We all know this stuff, but a little refresher never hurts.

• Never leave your purse on the back of a chair or on the floor in a restaurant—especially at the Starbucks in Centro Maya. Ask me how I know. 😡

• Don’t leave your things unattended on the beach—not even under your lounger.

• Always lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.

• If you’re coming from the airport with luggage, leave someone to watch the car.

• Be aware of who’s around you, especially in parking lots, stores, and movie theaters.

• Don’t get distracted by “helpful strangers”—that’s a classic tactic.

• Be extra careful at ATMs. Take a friend and don’t let anyone hover nearby.

• Use a crossbody bag—this is mine—and always keep a hand on your stuff.

• Guys: wallets in the front pocket. Trust me.

There are more helpful tips in this article “Is Puerto Aventuras Safe?”. The recommendations apply anywhere, not just in Puerto Aventuras.

Yes, this kind of thing happens year-round, but I worry that this low season—which is projected to be very low—is going to be especially hard on local workers. Even those with steady jobs are already feeling the pinch from fewer tourists and tighter wallets.

So please, be a little more aware. Be kind. And stay safe out there. ❤️ Love you all.

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TRAVEL TALK

😎 Find the Best Rooftop Pool Day Clubs in Playa del Carmen!

In last week’s newsletter, I offered readers a list of things to do to beat the summer heat and avoid the sargassum. One of my suggestions was to get a day pass at a rooftop pool club in Playa del Carmen. A bunch of you replied back, asking me where to go—so here you have it—my list of 10 rooftop pools offering day passes in Playa arranged in no particular order. The names are all linked to the hotel property website or socials so you can get more info.

Deck 5 Day Club at The Carmen Hotel 
📍 Address: Calle 8 & the Beach, Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: Adults only. Vibrant and energetic with the only beachfront rooftop pool in Playa del Carmen. Expect live DJs, cocktails, and unbeatable views of the Caribbean.

 The Fives Rooftop at The Fives Downtown Hotel & Residences
📍 Address: Calle 2 Norte & Avenue 10, Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: Sophisticated and chic with Mediterranean-inspired decor. Features a luxurious infinity pool overlooking the ocean — ideal for sunset cocktails.

Alessia Dayclub at Hyatt Centric Hotel (Formerly The Thompson) 
📍 Address: Calle 12 between 5th & 10th Avenue, Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: Exclusive and upscale, with a wrap-around pool, VIP cabanas, and panoramic views of the city and ocean. Live DJs bring the energy up on weekends. 

Be Roof at Be Playa Hotel 
📍 Address: Av. 10 Nte y Calle 26 Nte. (Calle 26 Nte), Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: Bohemian and artistic. A local favorite with a cozy pool and charming decor. Perfect for relaxed evenings and breathtaking sunset views. 

The Roof 28 at The Reef 28 
📍 Address: Calle 28 & 1st Avenue, Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: Adults only. Trendy and modern, with an infinity pool, vibrant music, and sweeping views of the Caribbean. Perfect for lounging by day and partying by night.

The Roof Club  at The Palm at Playa Hotel
📍 Address: Calle 8 between 5th & 10th Avenue, Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: Spacious and modern, with a pool, jacuzzi, and chill-out zones. Popular for sunset gatherings and weekend DJ sessions.

M Roof at Marquee Playa Hotel  
📍 Address: Calle 10 Norte & 10th Avenue, Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: Elegant and minimalist with a rooftop pool and bar. Perfect for sunset cocktails and panoramic city views. 

Caché Club at Caché Boutique Hotel
📍 Address: Calle 10 & 15th Avenue, Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: Casually elegant with a pool, bar and restaurant. Expect live music, DJs and even karaoke in the evenings.

Barbelo Roof Club at Serenity Boutique Hotel 
📍 Address: Calle 40 & 10th Avenue, Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: A hidden gem with a laid-back vibe, cozy pool, and breathtaking views of the Caribbean. Ideal for those seeking a quieter rooftop experience with good food.

Mvngata Beachclub and Rooftop Pool at Mvngata Beach Hotel
📍 Address: Xcalacoco Beach, Playa del Carmen
✨ Vibe: Casually elegant with an infinity pool, high end bar and restaurant. Enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the jungle. Amazing at sunset.

As you would guess, hours of operation and rates will vary by season and even the day of the week. Be sure to book in advance through a reliable reservation platform. I’ve seen a lot of them running special promotions right now so be sure to inquire and let them know if you have your residency or a local ID. You never know unless you ask!

Some day clubs will charge a fee that goes toward consumption. Others will not. I know at least one on the list that charges no cover at all. Be sure to know before you go. You will want to get there early to take full advantage of the day pass and secure the best loungers!

If there is a rooftop pool day club that I should know about, just hit reply and tell me all about it!

NOTES ON NAPKINS

🌴 TIKI TAKEOVER: A Fusion Feast with Chef Rene Gamboa & Juan Riviera

Calling all foodies and cocktail lovers! 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.

Start with a bold appetizer: Blue corn sope topped with beans, roasted plantain, and melt-in-your-mouth confit pork belly drizzled with soy sauce and kimchi—a perfect tease of what’s to come. For the main course, choose between two showstoppers: Black recado ramen with turkey, meatball, and scallion or white miso-glazed grouper resting on bok choy with roasted sweet potato. And because no tiki night is complete without something sweet, the dessert is a house special surprise (trust us, you’ll want to save room).

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.

This is breaking foodie news and Juan has not yet set the cost for this one-of-a-kind dining experience. Look for my update in Thursday’s newsletter!

RIVIERA MAYA REAL ESTATE

🌴 Jungle Meets Luxury: Move-In Ready Condo with Resort Perks

Imagine waking up to jungle views from your private screened terrace, sipping coffee as exotic birds sing in the canopy around you….

This stunning 2-bed, 2-bath condo in Grand Sirenis, Akumal is your slice of paradise—modern, bright, and perfectly designed for relaxation or rental income. With a fully equipped kitchen, a lock-off bedroom for extra flexibility, and two breezy terraces, it’s ideal for hosting friends or unwinding after a beach day.

But here’s the best part: You’re not just buying a home—you’re buying a resort lifestyle. Think cenotes hidden in the jungle, a sparkling community pool, and exclusive access to a pristine private beach. Prefer a massage or a cocktail by the sea? You’ll get VIP discounts with your membership at TAO Wellness Center and the famous Jungle Fish Beach Club is just minutes away.

This gorgeous condo has been professional designed and decorated. There is nothing you have to do but pack a suitcase and move in! Whether you’re looking for a vacation escape, a forever home, or a smart investment, this condo checks every box. Ready to fall in love? Check out the full listing here—and book your showing before someone else beats you to it! 🏝️

¿QUE PASA?

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

June 12 | Name That Tune - Playa del Carmen vs Puerto Morelos. A special edition on the rooftop of La Sirena in Puerto Morelos. Game starts at 7 PM. Free admission.

June 13 & 14 | ”The Divine Comedy, the Musical” presented at the Teatro de la Ciudad as part of the VII Italian Cultural Festival in Playa del Carmen. Showtime 7PM. Tickets.

June 13 & 14 | 14th Annual International Fishing Tournament at the Hacienda del Mar Marina in Punta Sam, Cancun. More info here.

June 13 - 15 | 2025 Paradise Battle International Break Dancing Competition at the Poliforum in Playa del Carmen. More info here.

June 14 | “Mr Riviera Maya “ Bodybuilding Competion - Auditorium of the Lázaro Cárdenas del Rio Taxi Sindicato in Playa del Carmen. Starts at 4PM. Free Admission.

June 14 | Festival de Vino y Tapas at Off the Vine Playacar starting at 7PM. 900 MXN per person. Reserve in advance.

June 14 | Cielito Lindo Grand Reopening Party in Puerto Morelos. BBQ buffet, drink specials, live bands and a new pool! Reservations Recommended.

June 14 | "Desde Cero" Modern dance choreographed and performed by Alejandra Barrón at the 8 de Octubre Theatre in Cancun. Curtain time 7PM. Tickets at the door.

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

June 19 | The Lost Tiki Takeover at Wine O’Clock in Playa del Carmen. More info to come in Thursday’s newsletter.

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

🎼 Festival PAAX GNP 2025: A Symphony of Music, Dance, and Culture

Experience the harmonious blend of classical music, contemporary dance, and cultural celebration at the Festival PAAX GNP 2025. Set in the luxurious Hotel Xcaret Arte in Playa del Carmen, this festival runs from June 19 to June 29, 2025, offering an immersive artistic journey in the heart of the Riviera Maya.​

Under the artistic direction of renowned conductor Alondra de la Parra, the festival features performances by the Orquesta Imposible, a collective of world-class musicians. Highlights include symphonic concerts, chamber music, and the innovative "Darkside" series, blending genres and pushing musical boundaries. Dance enthusiasts will appreciate gala performances choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon, showcasing both classical and contemporary pieces.​

The festival also emphasizes social impact through its Armonía Social program, providing music education to youth in the Yucatán Peninsula. The culmination of this initiative is a matinee concert featuring the Armonía Social Youth Orchestra alongside professional musicians.​

For a detailed program and ticket information, visit the official website: festivalpaaxgnp.com.

June 20 | Love Flameco World Tour 2025 at the Teatro de Cancun. Curtain times 7 PM & 9:30 PM. Tickets.

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

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

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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