🌮 The Best Tacos in Playa: Did Your Favorite Make This List?

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🪅 Good morining! It’s Tuesday May 6. Did you all celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style? If, like me, you are here on the Riviera Maya, you probably didn’t see too many fesivities. Like St. Patrick’s Day, I think this holiday was way more fun before I moved to Mexico. There are a few things the U.S. definitely gets right—appropriating obscure holidays and turning them into an excuse to party is right up there!

In this week’s newsletter you will find:

• What’s holding you back from retiring in Mexico [Poll Results]

• PA Beach Club reveals new membership model

• New U.S. Consulate finally opens its doors in Merida

• Where to find the best tacos in Playa del Carmen

• New restaurants opening in Puerto Aventuras and Playa

• Seaside Rotarians Spreading Joy for Día del Niño

— 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. It’s a better reading experience. Trust me. 😄 

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

📸 This stunning Keel-billed Toucan is the stately subject of our Photo of the Week and was captured in Muyil by Armando Ramos Flores who you can find on Instagram @mandinramos.

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

RIVIERA MAYA ROUNDUP

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.

🏖️ In response to public pressure, the Puerto Aventuras Hotel & Beach Club has rolled out a structured membership program with monthly, six-month, and annual options now available to the public. Big questions about beach access and public use still linger. Colonos is stepping in to help, and signs point to progress. Read the full article see the new membership plans.

🏛️ After years of planning and a $211M investment, the new U.S. Consulate in Mérida is ready to open its doors. The striking new facility blends cutting-edge design with deep Yucatecan roots—and promises faster visa processing, stronger regional ties, and a major boost to cultural exchange. Read more.

🚂 Mexico’s federal government plans to invest 7.7 billion pesos in a new Maya Train freight terminal near the Cancún Airport. The project includes infrastructure for cargo, customs, and security, but requires clearing over 259 hectares of forest. Environmental review is ongoing. Read more about the proposed project.

🌮 Valladolid, Yucatán, has been named Mexico’s top culinary destination at the 2025 Tianguis Turístico, beating out 78 other towns in the Pueblos Mágicos contest. The award highlights the city’s rich gastronomy and dedication to preserving traditional regional dishes like cochinita pibil and poc chuc among others.

🇺🇸 According to a new report by AMPI, Americans now account for a whopping 60% of all real estate purchases in Cozumel. The trend indicates a growing demand for seasonal and permanent homes on the island. Sustainable development efforts aim to balance growth with environmental concerns and infrastructure challenges remain a key focus.

🍸️ Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City has been named the Best Bar in North America for the second year in a row at the North America’s 50 Best Bars awards sponsored by Perrier. Known for its art deco charm and inventive cocktails, it leads a strong showing by Mexican bars on the prestigious list. Read more.

ICYMI

These are the most popular news stories from last week.

🐬 Animal rights activists in Quintana Roo are calling for a ban on dolphinariums, citing concerns over animal welfare. Proposed legal reforms aim to end the exploitation of marine mammals in tourism shows. Conservation groups argue current laws fail to protect these animals adequately.

🦇 Headed to a cenote or cave this season? A Yucatán doctor is raising alarms about a spike in histoplasmosis—a dangerous fungal infection linked to bat and bird droppings. Before you dive in, find out how to protect yourself while still enjoying these incredible natural wonders.

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EXPAT LIVING

🗳️ What’s Holding You Back from Retiring to Mexico?

Last week, I asked you all to consider retiring to Mexico—thoughtfully, realistically and honestly—consider what that would look like and whether you might be up for all the challenges that would bring.

According to the poll results, a significant majority of you feel that the residency requirements and the process of getting residency is your biggest concern when considering retirement in Mexico. Heathcare and insurance coverage were not to far behind on your list of obstacles standing between you and the Margaritaville lifestyle.

Based on the results of this poll, I’m going to work with my most trusted local Immigration Specialist to put together an up to date article on the immigration process—at least as it is published right now—for people seeking temporary or permanant residency in Mexico. Stay tuned….

NOTES ON NAPKINS

🍾 Oh La la by George in Playa del Carmen is now open for lunch! The cozy spot with world class cuisine where we have all enjoyed special evenings for over two decades is now offering the same welcoming experience during the day. Noon to 4 PM enjoy lunch with a certain “je ne sais quoi”. Tapas and aperitifs will be offered from 4 to 5 PM followed by dinner from 5:30 until 10 PM. Bon Appetit!

🔥 A new restaurant, Brasa Nova, is opening in Puerto Aventuras! I can’t tell you too much yet but get excited for a bold new Brazilian steakhouse experience, serving over 20 sizzling cuts of meat straight from the espadas, plus a buffet bar stacked with flavorful options. The opening is planned for mid-May on the main marina!

🌮 Where Can You FInd the Best Tacos in Playa? Let’s Find Out!

🍽️ In this week’s Notes on Napkins, I’m excited to share a taco-packed adventure from my very good friend and fellow foodie, Andy Ruiz — someone who definitely knows her way around a tortilla. Andy spent last week revisiting her six favorite taco joints in Playa del Carmen, and trust me, this isn’t just a list — it’s a love letter to local flavor.

From smoky barbacoa de borrego and crispy carnitas to soul-warming mole and unforgettable cochinita pibil, her roundup is both delicious and deeply personal. Andy even found a taco shop with air conditioning (game changer!). Whether you're a longtime local or just in town for a few days, this is your go-to guide for where to eat tacos right now.

Hungry yet? Check out the full article — complete with photos, tips, and location details — at Taco Treasures of Playa del Carmen.

🔥 New Smokehouse & Beer Bar Fires Up in Playa

🔥 There’s a cool new spot opening up this week, and it sounds like a party you won’t want to miss. Parrilleros Playeros Smokehouse & Beer is officially firing up the grill for their grand opening on Thursday, May 8, and they’re kicking things off with a Friends & Family Night starting at 6 PM.

They’ve put together a solid lineup: a live May Muan (from Akbal Music), a special guest behind the bar — Hassan Chamlantty, and an open bar starting at 7 PM. Plus, they’ll be handing out bites from their smoky menu so you can get a taste of what they’ve been working on. From what I’ve seen, they’ve poured a lot of heart (and smoke) into the place — think great BBQ, cold drinks, good music, and chill beach-town vibes.

It’s all happening at the corner of Av. Solidaridad and Calle Misión del Carmen in Playa. You can follow them on Instagram at @smokehouse.pdc or text +52 984 188 0399 for more info. You’ll need an invite to get in, but they’re easy to grab — just swing by Parrilleros Playeros and pick one up. Fire’s up, beer’s cold — sounds like a good time to me.

¿QUE PASA?

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

May 1 - 19 | The Barley Circus in the Centro Maya parking lot in Playa del Carmen. Shows at 6PM and 8.30PM daily. Tickets.

May 9-11 | Cancun Open Beach Tennis tournament at Playa Langosta in Cancun. Matches start at 8AM. Registration.

May 11 | 13th Annual Family Race in Puerto Aventuras. 400m, 1K, 5K & 10K races. Register here before April 30.

🏃‍♂️ Ready, Set, Go! Puerto Aventuras Family Race Returns

🥇 Lace up your running shoes and get ready for a day of fun, fitness, and community spirit at the 13th Annual Puerto Aventuras Family Race, happening Sunday, May 11 at 7:30 AM! This all-ages event features 400m, 1km, 5km, and 10km race options, so there’s a category for everyone—whether you’re a little runner, casual jogger, or seasoned athlete.

Registration includes a dry-fit shirt, race bib, and medal. Runners in the 5K and 10K will also get a timed chip.

🎟 Tickets: Adults – 450 MXN, Children – 380 MXN - Available at protudec.com, Elite Ciclery, and Colegio Puerto Aventuras.

May 16 & 17 | 17th annual Travesia Sagrada Maya Canoeros will be making the crossing from Xcaret to Chankanaab Park on May 16, returning May 17. Info.

May 16 - 18 | 54th annual Rodeo de Lanchas Mexicanas Fishing Tournament on Cozumel. Info. To register 987 112 4335 / 999 360 7724.

May 17 | Mexican Caribbean Music Fest featuring Sting in at Zamna in Tulum. Admission is FREE but passes must be reserved in advance. Tickets.

🎶 Sting Headlines Mexican Caribbean Music Fest in Tulum

🎸 Get ready for an unforgettable night as the inaugural Mexican Caribbean Music Fest (MCMF) lights up Tulum on Saturday, May 17, 2025. Set amidst the lush jungle ambiance of Zamna Tulum, this free-access event promises a legendary evening of music and culture.

Headlining the festival is the iconic Sting, bringing his acclaimed Sting 3.0 Tour to the Mexican Caribbean. Accompanied by virtuoso guitarist Dominic Miller and dynamic drummer Chris Maas (known for his work with Mumford & Sons and Maggie Rogers), Sting will deliver a performance blending his timeless hits with rare gems from his extensive discography.​

While admission is FREE, but attendees must reserve their tickets in advance and they are limited to four per person. Secure your spot now from FullPass.

May 22 | Instituto Tepeyac presents “Carmen, Porque Todos Somos” at the Teatro de la Ciudad in Playa del Carmen. Show time 6PM. Tickets 200 MXN at the door.

May 22 - 25 | Riviera Maya Open LPGA Tournament at Mayakoba. Info and Tickets.

May 23 & 24 | “This is Me” presented by Colegio Puerto Aventuras at the Teatro de la Ciudad in Playa del Carmen. Showtime 7PM. Tickets 300 MXN at the door.

May 23 - 25 | 20th Annual Isla Mujeres International Fishing Tournament. Info

May 30 & 31 | “La Fabrica de Chocolate” presented by Comunidad Educativa El Papalote at the Teatro de La Ciudad in PDC. Showtime 6PM. Tickets at the door.

May 30 - June 1 | Roll Over Cancun Roller Dancing event at the Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancún. Info & Tickets.

June 7 | “Les Miserables” (Student Edition) presented by Academia Play at the Teatro de la Ciudad in Playa del Carmen. Show times 4PM and 8PM. Tickets at the door.

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

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

🪅 Seaside Rotarians Celebrate Día del Niño with Smiles, Sneakers, and Surprises 🎉 

Last week, to celebrate Día del Niño (Children’s Day), Seaside Rotarians took joy on the road—and to the bedside. One group traveled to El Cuyo in the state of Yucatán with 100 pairs of sneakers, soccer balls, toothbrushes, and arts and crafts supplies. Meanwhile, back in Playa del Carmen, another group brought coloring books, crayons, and a surprise visit from Anna from Frozen to the children’s ward at the General Hospital.

From laughter under the sun to quiet moments of magic and connection, both visits were a powerful reminder of what it means to live the Rotary motto, Service Above Self.

Thank you to all the INSIDERS who donated materials or raised funds or helped us to get supplies from the U.S. down to Mexico. Without your help, we would never be able to accomplish what we do to help the children and families in the region.

Read the full article on our website to see the smiles and how your generosity made an impact. Feel free to contact me to find out how you can be part of our next outreach.

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