🌴 When Tulum Turns Up in Unexpected (and Uncomfortable) Places

🌴 Good morning, Insiders!

Congratulations to all the readers who correctly guessed that last week’s photo was taken at Kaan Luum lagoon, just south of Tulum. It looks a bit like Bacalar but so much easier to get to. The first person to get it right was Dawn H. reading from Akumal. Well done!

In today’s email you will find:

Plus the Live Music Line Up for this week and our updated Events Calendar. All this and more brought to you with support from InFlow, Josephine’s and our Featured Sponsor Timeless Beauty.

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.

For the very best newsletter experience, choose the option above to Read Online.

— Michele Kinnon

Valentine’s Day isn’t only about romance. It’s about confidence, comfort, and feeling good in your own skin.

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As always, every treatment is personalized to your anatomy, goals, and comfort level—because at Timeless Beauty, it’s never about trends. It’s about long-term skin health and natural results that feel like you.

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📸 Do you know? Reply back with your best guess. The first reader to guess correctly will get a shout-out in next week’s newsletter! If you are reading online, pop me a quick email!

🕵️‍♂️ Tulum Named in Newly Released Epstein Files
Newly released U.S. DOJ documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein have raised questions after Tulum appears in emails and allegations now part of the public record. The references place the town as a potential location discussed for future social events and real estate investment, including unredacted mentions of a developer connected to the area. While the documents do not accuse Tulum government officials, residents, or local institutions of any crime, they offer insight into how the destination was viewed and discussed internationally during a period of rapid growth and global attention. Read more

🐠 Temporary Reef Closures in Cozumel: What Divers Need to Know
If you’re heading to Cozumel for diving or snorkeling this winter, a quick heads-up. Three reefs popular with divers are temporarily closed during February and March as part of routine conservation efforts inside the Cozumel Reefs National Park. These closures are not new, not permanent, and not a sign of crisis. They’re designed to give stressed corals a break and a chance to fend off bleaching and disease. Read more

🛑 Update on Colegio Puerto Aventuras Vandalism
Following the acts of vandalism at Colegio Puerto Aventuras—when five teenagers entered the school and ransacked the grounds and library—there is an update. The boys involved came forward and took responsibility. None are students at the school. Four of the teens had been invited in from outside the community. With support from police, PA security, and the families involved, a resolution was reached including financial restitution for the damages, and the boys completing community service at the school and library. The family responsible for allowing the minors into the community unsupervised have had their PA Passport suspended.

⛪ A Tradition at the Heart of Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen’s beloved Virgin of Carmen festival may soon receive official recognition as intangible cultural heritage of Quintana Roo. Lawmakers are reviewing a proposal that would formally protect and promote the annual July celebration rooted in the town’s fishing village origins and devotion to the Virgin as protector of the sea. If approved, the designation would require state and municipal support to preserve the tradition while ensuring it evolves as a living, community-led celebration. Read more

🐾 Animal Rights Network Expands Into Quintana Roo
The Confederation for Animal Rights of Mexico has officially launched a new chapter in Quintana Roo, aiming to bring greater coordination to animal protection efforts in one of Mexico’s most biodiverse states. CODAM says its focus will include wildlife exploitation linked to tourism and gaps in law enforcement. With the Riviera Maya facing growing pressure from development and tourism, the group is calling on local activists, veterinarians, rescuers, and concerned citizens to join a statewide network focused on collaboration, training, and advocacy. Read more

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Don’t overlook this one. Keep an open mind—it might be exactly what you've been looking for to make your retirement dreams a reality.

Good news! After being closed for almost two years for restoration, infrastructure improvements and conservation work as part of a federal archaeological enhancement program, the Muyil Archaeological Zone reopens today! If you love history and nature, this site should be on your short-list this season. Just a few minutes south of Tulum and an easy drive from anywhere on the Riviera Maya, Muyil sits inside the lush Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, where jungle, lagoons, and ancient Maya stonework create a peaceful contrast to the beach crowds.

Unlike the larger and busier ruins at Tulum or Chichén Itzá, Muyil offers a quieter visit with a more intimate feel. You can fully explore the ceremonial plazas, platforms, sacbés (ancient stone roads), and residential structures in roughly 30–45 minutes.

What’s New and What to Expect
The recent restoration added a proper service area with a ticket booth, parking and restrooms, plus clear and informative signs to help navigate the site. Two architectural complexes that were fully studied in late 2024 are now open, so a visit is worthwhile and interesting for repeat-visitors and first-timers alike.

Tips for Your Visit
Bring water (in a reusable bottle), sunscreen and insect repellent. The site is shaded but still warm, and food isn’t sold inside. For a fuller day, many visitors combine Muyil with a boat excursion through the lagoon channels of Sian Ka’an and guided tours of the surrounding biosphere, which highlight indigenous wildlife and stunning natural beauty.

Muyil makes a perfect half-day adventure that pairs culture with the greenery of one of Mexico’s most special protected areas. The the site is manageable on your own but you could also explore the site as part of an organized tour. One of my favorite excursions is this intimate birdwatching tour through the ruins of Muyil and into the biosphere. Whether you’re here for the history or the scenery, it’s an easy, rewarding outing from anywhere in the Riviera Maya.

After years of hopping up to Playa del Carmen or Cancún for basics like a cinema, big-box shopping, or a decent gym, Tulum is getting its own mixed-use commercial center and its first-ever movie theater.

Centro Tulum is slated to open in early 2026 and will bundle retail, dining, offices, and entertainment into one development. Brands being floated include Cinépolis, Chedraui, Starbucks, Smart Fit, and several national retailers. For residents, especially families and long-term expats, this will be undeniably convenient. No more half-day errands just to see a movie or stock up properly. That said… it does raise a fair question.

Is this what people come to Tulum for?

Tulum built its reputation on barefoot beaches, jungle vibes, cenotes, and a slower, more intentional pace. Developments like Centro Tulum feel less “bohemian eco-destination” and more “mini–Playa del Carmen.” Some will welcome that evolution. Others may worry it chips away at the very character that made Tulum special in the first place.

I’ll argue that train left the station a long time ago.

Economically, the project brings jobs, services, and investment — all positives. Practically, it makes daily life easier. Culturally, though, it signals a shift. Whether this is smart growth or just inevitable growth depends on what you think Tulum should become.

Sometimes, I see things reported in the news that really remind me that I am definitely not in Kansas anymore—or New York, in my case. One of those moments popped up in my feed a few days ago with a report of a Huay Pek sighting in the town of Espita, Yucatán. Like the alux and the chupacabra, the Huay Pek isn’t something you’ll find in a guidebook, but it’s very real in the spiritual world of the Maya.

The Huay Pek comes from a long Maya tradition of waayob—sorcerers believed to have the ability to transform into animals. In this case, a dog. The most well-known version of the legend dates back to the late 1600s in Ticul, where a respected healer named Juan Moo was said to practice white magic to protect his community. According to oral history, to protect himself from persecution by the Roman Catholic church, he could transform into a large black dog with glowing eyes to carry out his spiritual work under the cloak of darkness.

“Huay” refers to a spirit or transformation, and “pek” means dog. Together, it translates roughly to “dog sorcerer.” Unlike some darker shape-shifting legends, the Huay Pek isn’t necessarily evil. In many stories, it’s a protective entity—though still unsettling enough to keep people indoors after dark.

Today, sightings are still reported in small towns across southern Yucatán. Whether you see it as folklore, spiritual belief, or cultural fable, it’s a reminder that life here comes layered with history, myth, and meaning woven right into the everyday.

If you’re looking to do Valentine’s Day a little differently this year, Josephine’s Jungle Dining Experience is planning a candlelit evening that feels quietly special. Tucked into the jungle just minutes from Puerto Aventuras, it’s the kind of place where dinner unfolds slowly, with good conversation, soft lighting, and thoughtful plates.

This special Valentine’s Day Dinner is made for lovers offering a leisurely three-course dinner with options such as Thai robalo, Filet mignon, lobster, and indulgent surf-and-turf combinations. Prices vary by entrée, generally falling between 600 and 1400 pesos.

Dessert is included, seating is limited, and reservations are required. It’s intimate, relaxed, and designed for couples who’d rather savor the evening than rush through it.

📍 Josephine’s is located just 15 minutes south of Puerto Aventuras
📲 Reservations via WhatsApp: +52 984 233 3733

For food lovers in the Riviera Maya, February is a celebration of flavor, culture, and community. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, regional specialties, or Caribbean fusion, these festivals offer three delicious reasons to mark your calendar.

On Sunday, February 16, the 5th annual Cozumel Ceviche Festival brings the island’s coastal charm to life with ceviche prepared in every style imaginable—classic lime-marinated fish, shrimp, octopus, and creative modern twists. Held in Parque Benito Juarez, this lively evening event pairs ceviche with local salsas, cold drinks, and live music, making it a perfect blend of seaside dining and social fun.

The 5th edition of the Festival Gastronomico del Caribe is hosted by Cozumel this year in on February 21 & 22 in Parque Benito Juarez. Known as one of the Yucatan peninsula‘s premier culinary gatherings, this two-day festival highlights the Mexican Caribbean’s rich food heritage with tastings from top chefs, artisan food markets, and cooking demonstrations all exploring this year’s feature ingredient, coconut! Expect fresh seafood, Caribbean flavors, tropical cocktails, and farm-to-table dishes sourced from local producers—a true showcase of the region’s diverse palate.

Back on the mainland on Saturday, February 22, the 14th annual Puerto Morelos Ceviche Festival celebrates the town’s deep fishing traditions with ceviche prepared by local restaurants and vendors right by the beach. Running from late-morning into the afternoon in the ventana del mar portside, the festival offers generous samplings of ceviche, tostadas, and refreshing beverages alongside a festive atmosphere that feels both intimate and joyful.

Whether you’re a ceviche connoisseur or a foodie eager to explore Caribbean flavors, these three festivals offer memorable bites and vibrant local culture all within one flavorful week.

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 12 | Valentines Concert ft. Paul Rumbolt (Tulum)
An intimate sunset concert at Hotel VR Club featuring singer-songwriter Paul Rumbolt with all proceeds supporting Rotary Tulum’s Indigenous Education Initiative. Optional three-course dinner available for an additional 800 MXN. More info here

February 12 | ‘Flavors of Love’ with Chef Umberto (Puerto Morelos)
A Valentine-themed dinner focused on dishes meant for sharing, connection, and indulgence—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone who loves a romantic table. Hosted by KI Restaurant. 700 MXN per person. Reservations required +1 831 419 5379

February 14 | Carnaval Golf Cart Parade & Family Fiesta (Puerto Aventuras)
A colorful Carnaval-themed golf cart parade through Puerto Aventuras. The parade departs from the PA Skatepark at 5 PM and finishes at Colegio Puerto Aventuras, where live music, games, and festivities await. Come in costume and celebrate with the community.

February 14–15 | Rumba Regata (Puerto Aventuras)
A high-energy canoeing regatta with Caribbean flair featuring Dragon Boat, OC6, OC1, Kayak, SUP, and Canoa Maya races, plus sprint and long-distance courses. Hosted by the Puerto Aventuras Dragon Boat Club. Limited spots. Register here

February 14 | Candlelight Concert - Ed Sheeren vs Coldplay (Cancun)
Celebrate Valentine’s Day surrounded by candlelight, enjoying the hits of Ed Sheeran and Coldplay with the Riviera Maya String Quartet. More info here

February 15 | Valentine’s Day Pet Parade (Playa del Carmen)
The Admiral Sports Bar will host the Valentine’s Day Pet Parade & Costume Contest benefitting the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside and Playa Animal Rescue. More info here

February 15 | Feria Trendy - Valentine Edition (Puerto Aventuras)
All your favorite Trendy vendors will be back in Puerto Aventuras for the Valentine’s Day edition of this popular market. The even will take place in the common area near the bandstand from 5 PM until 10 PM. More info 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!

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