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🌴 Good morning, Insiders!
Congratulations to all the readers who correctly guessed that last week’s photo was taken the ruin site of Muyil. Lots of you spotted it correctly, but the first person to get it right was Linda G. reading from Paamul. Well done!
Another reader sent me this fantastic illustration offering a glimpse of what Muyil may have looked like in its golden age! Thank you to Steve Radzi for letting me share this with you all.
You can find more of Steve’s work on MayaVision.com and SketchMasters.com. HIs work is also featured each month in the online editions of IMS Newsletter (Institute of Maya Studies) as well as The Aztlander so I’m pretty psyched to have him share this with us.
In today’s email you will find:
Puerto Aventuras passes sargassum barrier plan
Playa’s pulmon verde controversy heats up
News for expats with foreign-plated cars
Tulum opens sustainable cenote route
Plus the Live Music Line Up for this week and our updated Events Calendar. All this and more brought to you with support from 1440, The Flyover and JRNYS.
If you are a local business owner would like to promote your goods or services to Riviera Maya Insider readers, reply to this email and let’s see how we can work together.
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— Michele Kinnon
WHERE AM I?
📸 This week’s fantastic photo was submitted by my friend Mark E. Do you know where it was taken? Reply back with your best guess. Be the first reader to guess correctly and look for your name in next week’s newsletter! If you are reading online, pop me a quick email!
IN THE NEWS
🌿 Pulmón Verde: What’s Really Going On?
The 40-hectare mangrove area known as Pulmón Verde—often described as Playa del Carmen’s last major “green lung”—is once again in the spotlight. Federal authorities are still determining whether the land is public or private, while discussions about declaring it a Natural Protected Area continue. Now, a separate business dispute has added another layer of complexity, raising fresh questions about land use, permits, and environmental risk. Read more
💍 314 Couples Say “I Do” at Playa’s Mass Wedding
Love was in the air at Parque Fundadores this Valentine’s Day as 314 couples were married in a single civil ceremony overlooking the Caribbean. The annual mass wedding, organized by DIF Playa del Carmen, continues to grow in popularity, offering couples a simple, low-cost way to formalize their unions and secure important legal protections. From young newlyweds to a couple in their 70s, this year’s event reflected both romance and practicality. Read more
🎬 Salma Hayek and Angelina Jolie Spotted Filming in Tulum
Hollywood quietly rolled into Tulum this week. Salma Hayek and Angelina Jolie were seen filming at Cenote Casa Tortuga and nearby jungle locations as part of a still-unannounced production. Access to parts of the cenote was temporarily limited during shooting, but operators say tourism continued with minimal disruption. Security was tight, details remain confidential, and no official project information has been released. Read more and please excuse the obviously AI generated images.
🚆 Court Orders Suspension on Controversial Maya Train Section
A federal court has granted a definitive suspension tied to construction on Section 5 of the Maya Train — the stretch between Cancún and Tulum — and ordered federal environmental authorities to step in with inspection and protection measures. Environmental groups call it an important step toward protecting our natural resources. What exactly did the court order — and what does it mean for Tulum and the Riviera Maya? Read more
🌊 Why Is This Year’s Sargassum Different?
If it feels like the sargassum headlines are louder this year, there’s a reason. Scientists are now tracking what may be the largest bloom ever recorded in the Atlantic with more than 38 million metric tons forming the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt. That doesn’t mean all of it is headed for the Riviera Maya, but it does suggest another heavy season for the Mexican Caribbean. What’s driving the surge? Warmer waters, shifting currents, and nutrient runoff are all part of the equation. Read more
🏗️ 18 Real Estate Projects in Tulum Closed Down
Tulum authorities have shut down 18 real estate developments in the past six months for failing to comply with regulations, part of a broader state oversight strategy that has flagged 116 properties across Quintana Roo. Officials say some projects were marketed without proper municipal, state, or federal permits — including lots sold on communal or environmentally protected land. While regularization is possible in some cases, others may face permanent closure. Read more
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TRAVEL TALK
🌿 A Smarter Way to Experience Tulum’s Cenotes
If you love swimming in cenotes but also worry about what overuse is doing to our aquifer, this new initiative out of Tulum is worth a look.
The state has officially launched the Ruta de los Cenotes Sostenibles, a certified route connecting 12 carefully selected cenotes with structured access, trained local guides, and built-in conservation measures. The goal? Protect the fragile underground water system while still allowing visitors to experience these incredible natural spaces.
What’s different? Marked jungle trails replace informal paths. Reusable water filtration systems reduce contamination risk. Clear signage highlights the biodiversity of the region. Guides are trained not just to lead tours, but to explain how cenotes connect to the broader aquifer that supplies freshwater across the Riviera Maya.
Visitors can swim and snorkel, but with environmental briefings and defined observation areas. Guides emphasize how to move through the water without disturbing sediment or fragile rock formations, and some tours even incorporate short trail clean-ups to reinforce a true “leave only footprints” approach. The program has received certification from the Asociación Mexicana de Turismo Sostenible and aligns with the state’s broader push toward more responsible tourism.
Officials project this structured approach could increase low-season occupancy by up to 15 percent, helping distribute tourism more evenly throughout the year. I’m feeling that’s a bit optimistic but this initiative is certainly a smart response to the sargassum issue which doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon.
For travelers who care about more than just a beautiful place to swim, this route offers a more intentional way to explore. It’s designed for people who want to experience the jungle while helping protect the aquifer that sustains the Riviera Maya.
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EXPAT LIVING
🌊 Puerto Aventuras Votes Yes to Sargassum Barrier Plan
The vote is in and Puerto Aventuras has officially approved plans to install a sargassum abatement plan that was proposed in December of 2025.
Just shy of 50% of the eligible “keys” registered to vote in this special assembly, a remarkable turnout spurred on by community-driven campaigns in social media and in local whatsapp chats. Of those registered, a resounding 70% voted in favor of moving forward with the proposed sargassum defelction barrriers.
After months of meetings, engineering reviews, community workshops and plenty of spirited debate, Puerto Aventuras property owners have chosen to take action rather than wait for another heavy season to test our patience (and our shorelines). The approved plan centers on the Okeanis deflection barrier system, with local implementation by Inmar Caribe, and installation is now expected to move ahead in early 2026.
There’s cautious optimism. A clear majority wants to try something proactive to protect our beaches, marine life, tourism economy, and property values. But the conversation is far from over. Residents raised important questions.
Who will be responsible for collecting and removing the sargassum that makes it past the barriers? Will Colonos support the residents’ right to free beach access? And perhaps most critically, who will ensure full transparency and accountability for the special assessment funds being collected?
The vote signals momentum. And the turnout proves a significant uptick in public interest and community involvement. Now the real work begins — not just installing barriers, but rebuilding trust through oversight, communication, and shared responsibility.
🚘 Foreign-Plated Cars in Qroo: What’s Changing in 2026
For years, many permanent residents quietly drove U.S. or Canadian-plated vehicles here in Quintana Roo without much issue. It wasn’t strictly legal but enforcement was light and most people never had a problem.
That seems to be shifting. Like many other areas of daily life in Mexico—banking, tax compliance, cell phone registration among other things—changes are coming.
Quintana Roo and the rest of the Yucatan Peninsula ARE still part of the Free Zone. This is NOT about expired TIPs (Temporary Import Permits). What’s changing is how federal authorities are applying existing customs law when immigration status comes into play.
If you hold Permanent Residency or plan to become one soon and you are driving a vehicle with foreign plates, there is (and always has been) a legal conflict and enforcement appears to be increasing in 2026.
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DO GOOD RIVIERA MAYA
🌶️ Rotary Hosts 10th Annual Riviera Maya Chili Cook-Off
Who has the best chili on the Riviera Maya? Let’s find out.
The Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside is celebrating a milestone year with the 10th Annual Riviera Maya Chili Cook-Off, happening Saturday, February 21st from 3 PM – 5:30 PM at Restaurant Latitude 20° +/- in Puerto Aventuras.
For 400 pesos, you’ll taste every chili in the competition, enjoy 2x1 drink specials, and cast your vote for “Best Chili on the Riviera Maya.” You will also want to get in on the 50/50 raffle where last year’s winner went home with over 10,000 pesos!
This is a private event with limited seating and just a few spots are left! You can purchase tickets in person at Latitude 20°. If you’re coming from outside PA, contact me personally at [email protected] for reservations and QR codes for access.
Proceeds support Seaside Rotary’s local community programs including Feeding the Future and Kicks4Kids and other initiatives that provide critical support to families across the Riviera Maya.
Come hungry. Leave happy. Make a difference. DO GOOD Riviera Maya!
¿QUE PASA?
Here are just handful of upcoming events that you will not want to miss and might need to plan and purchase tickets for in advance. This is just just a small selection, curated from our main list, which you can access by clicking HERE or on the link below.
February 18 | Stand-Up Comedy Night in English (Playa del Carmen)
An evening of stand-up comedy in English at Los Chilacos de Playa, hosted by Charlie Albarran. Whether you want to test new material or just enjoy a night of laughs, this one’s for you. 8 PM - 10 PM. Reservations required +52 984 191 4688.
February 19 | KKIS Fundraising Gala (Playa del Carmen)
Help Keep Kids in School by attending the 15th annual KKIS Fundraising Gala, hosted this year at the Platinum Yucatan Princess Hotel. More info here
February 21 | Riviera Maya Chili Cook-Off (Puerto Aventuras)
Who’s got the best chili on the Riviera Maya? Let’s find out! Restaurant Latitude 20° will host the 10th annual Riviera Maya Chili Cook-Off benefitting the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside. More info here
February 21 | Reggae Month Cancún 2026 (Cancún)
The first edition of Reggae Month Cancún brings together music, urban culture, and community at Parque de las Palapas, featuring the official launch of Kaán Dub Sound System. This is a free event and starts at 6 PM. More info here
February 21 & 22 | Festival Gastronómico del Caribe Mexicano (Cozumel)
Attention foodies! You won’t want to miss the 5th edition of the Mexican Caribbean Gastronomic Festival. If you love discovering regional flavors, artisan products, and fresh takes on Caribbean and Maya cuisine, this is the place to be. More info here
February 22 | Puerto Morelos Ceviche Festival (Puerto Morelos)
An annual favorite celebrating fresh, locally made ceviche right by the sea. Sample classic and creative ceviche styles from local vendors set up along the town square and the Ventana al Mar. More info here
February 22 | Ari Hoenig Jazz Trio (Playa del Carmen)
World-class jazz comes to Playa del Carmen as the Ari Hoenig Trio presents “Jazz Meets Soul in the Land of the Maya” at the Teatro de la Ciudad Playa del Carmen. Expect an intimate, powerful performance blending modern jazz and soul. Show starts at 7:30 PM. More info here
February 24 | Akumal Trivia Challenge (Akumal)
Put your knowledge to the test while supporting a great local cause. Join the Akumal Trivia Challenge at Lol-Ha Restaurant, with all proceeds benefiting Hekab Be Activity & Learning Center. Free pizza, cash bar, and prizes for the top teams. More info here
February 24 – Shakira: Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour (Mérida)
Shakira brings her powerhouse world tour to Estadio Carlos Iturralde with a stadium-sized show packed with iconic hits, new music, and bold, unapologetic energy. One of the must-see concerts of 2026. Tickets available here
To access the full list of Riviera Maya events and happenings and the Live Music Lineup for this week, click on the links below!
Am I missing something? Do you have information about a great upcoming event that you would like to see shared on Riviera Maya Insider? Just reply to this email and let me know.
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