🌴 Your Insider Update from the Riviera Maya - July 7

🌴 Good morning, Insiders!

By now, we’ve all had a day or two to recover from Sunday’s heartbreak. Mexico’s World Cup run came to an end against England, and while it wasn’t the result we hoped for, El Tri gave fans plenty to cheer about along the way.

Here in the Riviera Maya, the green jerseys were out, the bars were full with crowds spilling out onto the streets and for a few weeks, it felt like everyone was watching together. The dream may be over, but the pride is still there.

In today’s email you will find:

All this, plus the Riviera Maya Events Calendar are brought to you with support from our Featured Sponsor Launa Brockman with Paradise Professional Services.

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

— Michele Kinnon

Let's be honest. Some things in Mexico require a little patience. Immigration, banking, vehicle registration...they're all part of the adventure but they can all test your resolve.

Fortunately, buying home or auto insurance doesn’t have to! Today, you can compare policies, request quotes, and purchase many types of coverage online in just a few minutes, without stacks of paperwork or multiple office visits.

Whether you're buying your first Mexican policy, replacing an existing one, or simply comparing prices before you renew, it's worth taking a look. You may find better coverage, a lower premium, or both.

And if you're not sure which policy is right for you, Launa Brockman with Paradise Professional Services is just a quick phone call or email away. She'll help you understand your options and choose coverage that fits your needs—not just your budget.

👉 Visit Launa's interactive website to compare home and auto insurance options and request your quote today.

Sometimes the easiest thing you'll do in Mexico is protect the things that matter most.

For investors with $1M+ in retirement accounts, the tax code allows specific strategies that can reduce your tax exposure once RMDs begin—but only if used before then. 

The window is open for anyone within ten years of 73. A fiduciary advisor can review which may apply, at no cost.

Get Matched Today

📸 Congratulations to everyone who guessed that last week’s photo was taken at Xelha Park. Our friend Tim DL. recognized the giant spiral water slide immediately. Well done!

Where am I today? This one might be a little tougher… 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!

⚽ Mexico’s World Cup Run Ends
Mexico’s World Cup dream came to an end after an exhilarating match and a dramatic 3-2 loss to England, but not before fans across Quintana Roo turned out in full force. From Cancún and Playa del Carmen to Chetumal, Cozumel, Tulum, Holbox, and Bacalar, public plazas, fan zones, bars, and restaurants were packed with supporters. The loss was a hard one, but the pride in El Tri is still there. Read more

☕ Tim Hortons Aims for Cancún
A familiar Canadian favorite appears to be on its way to Cancún. Tim Hortons is already hiring locally, signaling that the popular coffee chain is preparing to open its first location in the city. The brand, best known for coffee, donuts, Timbits, and breakfast sandwiches, has already been expanding in neighboring Yucatán with locations in Mérida. For Canadian expats, snowbirds, and visitors, this one may feel like a little taste of home. Learn more

🚨 Finally, a Crackdown on Police Extortion?
For years, stories of tourists being shaken down by police have circulated in Cancún and across the Riviera Maya. This time, prosecutors say three members of Cancún’s tourist police were arrested after allegedly forcing two foreign visitors to withdraw $1,400 from an ATM. The case is disturbing, but the response is worth noting. State officials say the officers now face criminal charges and possible prison time. It may be one case, but it sends a message tourists and residents have been waiting to hear. Learn more

🏠 A Difficult Story About a Longstanding Playa Company
NAS Playa, one of Playa del Carmen most established and reputable property management firms, is at the center of a growing controversy surrounding an alleged $4.5 million dollar investment scam and misappropriation of funds. A recent U.S. court judgment against co-founder Matt Weatherbee, along with growing public allegations involving investors, former employees, company ownership, and unpaid funds, raises questions that cannot be ignored. Read more

🌊 Puerto Aventuras Sargassum Barrier Stuck in Customs
Puerto Aventuras’ long-awaited sargassum barrier has been completed, but its arrival in Mexico has been delayed by customs procedures involving some of its metallic components. The residents association approved the project at a cost of more than 6 million pesos to help protect local beaches, canals, and marina areas and ultimately save tourism in our coastal village. While our community waits, cleanup efforts continue with support from SEMAR, local workers, residents, and the maritime community. Read more

🦈 Bull Shark Festival Returns to Playa del Carmen
The Bull Shark Festival is expected to return to Playa del Carmen later this month for its second edition, with activities designed to promote conservation, education, and responsible tourism. Organized in coordination with Ba’alche Proyecto Azul and the municipal government, the festival will focus on one of Playa’s most important marine species. The festival is not just for divers, though. It is meant to help residents, visitors, and children better understand and protect these powerful animals. The exact dates of the festival will be announced shortly. Learn more

Kalshi is giving away a different signed jersey every day through July 7. Modrić, Falcao, Varane, Ferdinand, Villa, and others. Every daily entry stacks toward the grand prize: Messi's game-worn jersey. Check in daily in the Kalshi app and share to earn a bonus entry.

Enter Free Today

_{Free to enter. App required. No purchase necessary. 18+, U.S. only (excl. NY & FL).}

When people think about luxury homes near Playa del Carmen, Playacar is usually the first place that comes to mind. But if you're looking for something more private, more distinctive, and surrounded by nature, Villa Avalon Ceiba deserves your attention.

Tucked inside the exclusive gated community of Residencial Morgana, just five minutes from downtown Playa and Xcaret, this remarkable estate sits on a 1,600 m² jungle lot surrounded by nine hectares of protected tropical forest. It offers the best of both worlds: complete tranquility without sacrificing convenience.

Designed to blur the line between indoors and out, the home features soaring ceilings, walls of glass, and open living spaces that look out over a 12-meter swimming pool and lush jungle. The layout includes five bedrooms, five and a half bathrooms, an inspiring office/library and a glorious rooftop terrace. Two detached palapas that serve as guest suites could also be converted into studios or wellness spaces.

Solar panels, fiber optic internet, hurricane shutters, and sustainable design make this an exceptional home for full-time living, remote work, or an eco-luxury retreat.

This is not your typical Playa property. It's a home for someone who wants modern architecture, total privacy, and a connection to nature without giving up the convenience of being just minutes from the beach, shopping, restaurants, and everything Playa has to offer.

👉 Take a closer look at this one. Properties like this are incredibly rare.

There’s a new reason to book a little self-care close to home. Magic Hands, already well established with several locations in Playa del Carmen, has expanded with a new salon in Puerto Aventuras.

The new location offers a wide range of massage and spa services for residents, visitors, and anyone in need of a reset. Options include relaxing massage, deep tissue, Swedish massage, reflexology, sports massage, therapeutic massage, hot stones, lymphatic drainage, exfoliation massage, and facials. Whether you are recovering from travel, easing sore muscles after golf or the gym, or simply looking for a quiet hour to unwind, this new PA location makes it easy to work a little wellness into your week.

Magic Hands also offers in-home massage service, bringing the massage table, relaxing music, aromatherapy, and everything needed to create a spa-style experience in your home or vacation rental. It’s a convenient option for vacationers, couples, small groups, or locals who would rather relax without leaving home.

Magic Hands is open daily and appointments can be made by Whatsapp +52 984 279 2163. Pop them a quick message for their complete menu of services and prices.

📍 Magic Hands is located in the Grand Marina Plaza in Puerto Aventuras.

If you live in Playa del Carmen, this one may be worth a look.

The municipal government has launched Pase Playense, a free discount card for local residents that offers savings, promotions, and special benefits at participating businesses around town.

The program includes 183 registered establishments, with discounts available at places like hospitals, health and beauty businesses, service providers, and some of our favorite eateries like Ah Cacao, Chez Celine, Wine O’Clock, India Jones and Ictio Fish House among many others.

The idea behind the program is pretty simple: give residents a reason to spend locally and help keep more money circulating in Playa del Carmen. For locals, that could mean real savings on things they already need. For local businesses, it could mean more repeat customers walking through the door. It’s a win win.

Registration is free and open now through July 24, 2026. Officials say the program is expected to benefit more than 100,000 cardholders.

To sign up, visit www.paseplayense.enplaya.mx and follow the instructions. I’ve just done mine and am waiting for some sort of confirmation. Have you registered for Pase Playense? If so, what do you think so far? Have you tried it out?

If you are in Playa del Carmen this week, keep an eye out for one of the city’s most meaningful annual traditions: the celebrations honoring the Virgen del Carmen, the city’s patron saint.

The Virgin del Carmen is especially important in coastal communities, where she is traditionally honored as a protector of fishermen, sailors, and those who make their living from the sea. In Playa del Carmen, the celebration is also tied to the city’s identity and history, back when this was still a small fishing village long before it became one of the Caribbean’s busiest destinations.

The main feast day is July 16, but celebrations usually begin earlier with processions and religious services, cultural activities, music, and family-friendly events around the city center and the fairgrounds. Visitors may see the image of the Virgin carried through the streets, including along Fifth Avenue, often accompanied by families, parishioners, and local groups. Some years also include maritime elements, reflecting the tradition’s deep connection to the sea.

For visitors, this is a chance to see a more traditional side of Playa del Carmen beyond the beach clubs and busy tourist strips. Expect street closures, crowds, music, and a festive but respectful atmosphere, especially as July 16 approaches.

👉 Find the listing of processions and religious services here
👉 Find the concerts and cultural line up of activities here

Playa del Carmen municipal leaders have announced a new food and culture festival this summer, and it is happening right in the heart of town.

Sabor a Playa 2026 will run from July 9 to 19 on the property on Constituyentes between 5th and 10th, across from Quinta Alegría mall. The event is free, family-friendly, and designed to bring more life to downtown during the summer season.

So far, festival organizers have 12 local restaurants on board, serving Mexican and international cuisine, along with local producers, artisans, live music, children’s areas and pet-friendly spaces. More than 25 groups and 100 local artists are expected to take part over the 11-day event, with performances across a variety of musical styles.

Municipal tourism officials say the idea is to celebrate Playa del Carmen through its food, culture and local talent while also supporting restaurants, small businesses, entrepreneurs and service providers.

For visitors, it is an easy way to sample local flavors without having to choose just one restaurant. For residents, it is another reason to head downtown, enjoy live music, bring the family and support the people who help give Playa its personality.

The festival is being organized by the Secretary of Tourism in coordination with private-sector sponsors and local businesses. More programming details are expected as the opening date approaches. Follow us on Instagram for updates.

Big changes are coming for one of Playa del Carmen’s favorite curry spots.

Priya, the owner of Más Masala, has announced that the restaurant has outgrown its current home on Constituyentes and Avenida 15 and will soon reopen in a larger space at CTM and 10th Avenue.

The new concept will be called Fuego Rasa by Más Masala, an Indo-Mex Grill & Bar with bold flavors, fire, smoke, handcrafted cocktails, a live grill, and a whole new atmosphere.

The food people already love from Más Masala is staying, but the new space will allow the team to take things further with a fuller dining and bar experience. Think Indo-Mex fusion, grilled flavors, cocktails, and a little more room to settle in and enjoy it all.

Más Masala will take a short break while the move is completed and the new space is finished. An opening date has not been announced yet, but Priya says it is coming soon.

For fans of Más Masala, this is not goodbye. It is a bigger, bolder next chapter.

📍 Fuego Rasa by Más Masala will be located on CTM & Av. 10 in Playa del Carmen

Twitty is a petite little bundle of joy, he is super affectionate and loves attention from anyone. He is 10 months old and weighs 12 kg. Twitty is up to date on vaccinations, parasite free, neutered and has received all his monthly preventatives. He loves to go on walks and is equally happy to cuddle at home.

Twitty has been in foster, so he understands how to live nicely in a home and how to be part of a family. If you are interested in learning more about Twitty, email [email protected].

Below are a few standout events coming up soon that are worth planning for. Some may even require tickets in advance. This is just a small selection curated from the full calendar. Browse the complete list by clicking HERE. Don’t forget, you can add your own events for free.

📆 Did you know you can also submit your own event to appear on the calendar? Give it a try! The more people who use it, the better it gets.

To access the full list of Riviera Maya events and happenings for this week and beyond, click on the link below!

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Thanks for reading Riviera Maya Insider! Let’s chat again next Tuesday!

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