Puerto Morelos Back to topAttractionsMust-see attractionsJardín Botánico Dr Alfredo Barrera Marín One of the largest botanical gardens in Mexico this 65-hectare reserve has about 2km of trails and sections dedicated to epiphytes (orchids and… Crococun Zoo this former crocodile farm now calls itself a conservationist zoo that protects some of the area's endangered… Pescadores Brewery About 5km south of Puerto Morelos you can wet your whistle at this roadside Mexican craft-beer brewery where they run daily tours at noon and 3pm… Get startedBuild a memorable collectionGet to the heart of Puerto Morelos with one of our in-depth Visit in ShopCancun Visit in ShopPocket Cancun & the Riviera Maya $13.99 Go to checkout (0 items)in partnership with getyourguide No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission ShareSaveCommentLifestyleTravelBETAThis is a BETA experience. opt-out hereScuba Diving In Puerto Morelos: Mexico’s Underwater GemByJudy Koutsky Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights 10:31am EDTShareSaveComment@font-face{font-family: "Schnyder"; 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Dives are short boat rides away, meaning more time in the water and less time traveling. The reef is ideal for spotting colorful fish, turtles, moray eels, nurse sharks, and even the occasional eagle ray gliding gracefully through the deep. One of the area’s signature dives is a 150-foot-long shipwreck, a favorite among local instructors. The structure is impressive—with a front cannon still intact—and covered in coral and sponge growth. Schools of fish swirl in and out of its nooks, while curious rays and groupers patrol the surroundings. “It’s not just a wreck, it’s alive,” says Prado. “You get the history, the structure, and the marine life all in one dive.” Among the local dive shops in Puerto Morelos, Dive with Ruben has quietly built a reputation for its personalized service, safety-first mentality, and warm, family-like atmosphere. “We treat every guest like part of the family,” says Cuytun. “We don’t rush people in and out. We get to know them, take care of them, and show them why we love this place.” The shop owns and operates its own boat, uses high-quality gear, and only employs experienced PADI-certified instructors. “You’ll always feel safe and looked after,” she adds. “Even on the surface, our captain is watching everything.” Prado agrees. “Other shops might go out even when conditions aren’t great just to make a sale,” he says. “But we’re honest. If it’s rough, we’ll tell you—and help you plan a better day. That’s the kind of place this is.” Puerto Morelos is also ideal for family vacations, especially for those introducing kids or teens to scuba for the first time. Dive trips can be customized for smaller groups, providing extra instructors and ensuring young divers feel safe and supported. “Parents love that they can trust us with their kids,” says Cuytun. “We make it fun, but we never compromise on safety.” The shorter boat rides are also a win for younger divers or those prone to seasickness, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable. For certified divers, the shop also offers dives in the cenotes—freshwater sinkholes considered sacred by the Mayans. Before entering, divers participate in a small ceremony to ask permission, honoring the cultural significance of these spaces. “It’s more than just a dive,” Cuytun says. “It’s a connection to nature and to history.” The shop also organizes day trips to Cozumel—a convenient option for those wanting to experience drift diving without the hassle of staying overnight. Whether you're exploring a sunken ship, weaving through coral canyons, or taking your very first breaths underwater, Puerto Morelos offers a nice mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and welcoming hospitality. 2024Durston SaylorSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links View all of the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards winners here up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse We understand that time is the greatest luxury which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world the property will undergo a conversion process before bringing The Luxury Collection brand to the Mexican Caribbean which is just 20 minutes away from Cancun International Airport yet a world apart from the popular and bustling tourist spots nearby The resort is anticipated to feature 100 oversized including an expansive 22,000-square-foot spa In line with the brand's commitment to showcase local gastronomy and provide unique the resort is anticipated to have three restaurants To provide an even more exclusive experience there will be a separate building within the property that will act as a "resort within the resort" with 10 suites with private plunge pools and beach access and two dedicated restaurants with a private chef Hotel website Brand OwnerMarriott International, Inc. part of the same Mesoamerican reef you’ll find in Cozumel and Roatán with a fraction of the crowds.  But if you’re here to see some incredible cenotes—namely, those at La Ruta de Los Cenotes, the Yucatán Peninsula’s 20-mile natural wonderland of underground caves and massive swimming holes—jumping off from this still-unspoiled fishing village is the way to go offering easy access to the beach and rates that won’t top $75 a night If you want the charm of Puerto Morelos but still prefer beach condo luxury at bedtime, the Grand Residences Riviera Cancún sits about a mile south of town and a beachfront cafe and gourmet restaurant—all the comforts of a Cancún tourist resort with a more refined crowd Rooms start at about $200 a night in the off season The 100-plus cenotes scattered throughout the area are all different outdoor pools; others are majestic blue underground caves with stalagmites that reach down into the water Hitting three to five cenotes is probably the sweet spot—enough to see the variety and even the tours offered from Puerto Morelos can leave the length of your visit at the mercy of the tour operator The best move is to hire a taxi driver for the day This typically won’t cost you more than about $80 gives you complete control over your schedule and gives you time to get buddy-buddy with the driver who might pass along some local recommendations here are five adventures that’ll give you a good idea of what the Ruta de Cenotes is all about and—we cannot stress this enough—one of Mexico’s most stunning cenotes all to yourself the entire place lights up so you can enjoy an evening swim There’s also a looming replica of a Mayan pyramid on the property which really kicks up the Instagrammability a notch This is a particularly good choice if you’re traveling with kids as it offers several kid-specific activities and even a special camping area for kids It’s got a whopping 12 cenotes to choose from—so many The main attraction is the massive closed cenote just past the main entrance where you can jump 15 feet down through tropical foliage into an underground river After swimming beneath a ceiling of stalactites you can relax on the cantina chairs topside with a cold beer and tacos take the ten-minute van ride out to Kin Ha’s open cenote which has multiple platforms from which you can jump into the welcoming emerald pool Just make sure you want to stay for a while: there’s a 40-minute minimum for anyone who heads out there Not a twofer, not a three-fer, but a four-fer! | Cenotes Zapote-EcoparkCenotes ZapoteCost: Starts at $40This eco-park has got not one but four different cenotes for you to check out: two outdoor Although admittedly this is one of the pricier options on the list you’ve got to pay to be adventurous): Along with taking a dip the old fashioned way and ziplines that’ll take you careening over the water and through the jungle The cenote is named for its seven distinct access points, which allow you to descend a ladder into the abyss—or jump right in. Inside, swim through crystal clear water, glide past rock formations, and bask in the light that pours in from above. which sits relatively close to the entrance is a swimming hole surrounded by limestone walls It’s got a zipline over the top if you want to careen into the water and is pretty popular with local families about a ten-minute walk through the jungle is fairly small and the water is especially cold—but the swim through to look up a well is worth the shivers You can also take ATV tours through the grounds or ascend the site’s watchtower for a fantastic view of the Yucatán and various other seating abound if you prefer kicking back and taking in the sun to diving right into the action Keep in mind that this cenote isn’t as developed as the others on this list meaning the facilities are somewhat limited Conquer your fear of heights at Verde Lucero. | Flickr/dolanhVerde LuceroCost: $10For a few hours of splashing into an open cenote—and a side of heckling from locals who are eager to watch tourists conquer their fear of heights—you’re not beating Verde Lucero This large pool with a zipline running across is surrounded by limestone cliffs with jumping off points ranging from 6 to 20 feet It’s an excellent way to add a little adrenaline to your day on the Ruta—just don’t take anything the photographer says too seriously At Cenote Lu’um, watch bats fly above as you float below. | Courtesy of XenotesCenote Lu’umCost: About $125 for adults depending on exchange ratesThough it’s by far the priciest package on our list visitors say this entirely cavernous cenote is one of the standouts in the area You enter this stunner by rappelling in from above (don’t worry—there’s an expert on-hand to make sure you make it down safely) you can kayak over its crystal-clear waters or just float on your back and watch bats flap around above Lu’um can only be visited via the Xenotes Oasis Maya tour offered by Xcaret, so be sure to book your visit in advance. The tour also includes a number of smaller cenotes located nearby. RelatedThe Best Mexico Vacation Spots You're Missing Out OnLeave the all-inclusive resorts behind.Popol Vuh Cost: $5Nothing quite tops Popul Vuh it’s not easy to get to: even once you’ve arrived at the end of the road you’ll need to walk another mile or so through thick jungle to get to the cenote’s mouth and it’s unusual to find more than a handful of people sharing the big I’m an Adventurous Vacationer Girlie through and through. I like to get the most bang for my buck by packing in as much activity as physically possible while on a trip A vacation just doesn’t feel quite right without at least one day that ends with my feet bleeding from accidentally walking nine miles after getting lost searching for some historical hole-in-the-wall in a city I know next to nothing about That’s why I *almost* felt guilty going the resort route when my mom and I were discussing plans for my 40th birthday trip What do you mean I can drink mimosas all day by the pool What do you mean I don’t have to take three planes two trains and four taxis (while lugging a 50lb bag) to reach my destination? Le Specs Sunglasses They have the perfect vacay vibe and also come in an ‘ecru’ color that I am equally loving Jumpsuit Lordy, lordy. Just as soon as I think I couldn’t possibly need another jumpsuit, Banana Republic comes out with this absolute stunner The bodice and waist detailing is just so minimalistic and cool STAUD Leather Moon Bag Supergoop! Glow Duo Supergoop! sunscreen is a must-have for me on vacation. Jon and I go through one of the huge 18oz Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreens every summer. And then I discovered their Glow Screen and Glow Stick SPF and I am a huge fan of the dewy look it gives my skin Cropped Tank Shorts I didn’t think it was possible to love my AGOLDE Parker shorts more until I realized there was a longer option I’ve been feeling much more comfortable in the longer pair But they are still my ultimate summer shorts and I’m not sure I can be convinced to find a different option because I love them so much Rancher Hat When it comes to stylish straw hats, Brixton is definitely one of the best. I love the grosgrain ribbon trim topper on this Jo Straw Rancher Hat and it also comes in a black trim option that is just as cute Kindle Paperwhite Bikini Top The older I get, the pickier I become about my swimsuits. For me, when it comes to bikini tops, it’s all about support and coverage (and style, of course). I love this Athleta bikini top because it meets both criteria and the style is a chic basic that comes in a bunch of different colors I am really loving square neck and scoop neck options this summer Bikini Bottoms For bikini bottoms, it comes down to two needs: high-waist and tummy control. And these Athleta High-Waist Bikini Bottoms check both of those boxes. I also love the waist seaming on Athleta’s Ultra High Waist Bottoms (and it has a pocket!) I am currently deciding between the two…which would you pick Slide Sandals As someone who is a big fan of Anine Bing’s Lizzie Slides – these OluKai Hila Slides are really appealing to me. Plus, they are water-resistant! I had a similar pair of Steve Madden sandals until my dog Gus got ahold of them so maybe it’s time to reinvest in these for Mexico You’ve probably seen a few others on team TME hyping up this brand – we’re fans Cotton Beach Sarong I LOVE a good sarong for vacation. They are so versatile as a coverup, a lightweight evening shawl, etc. There are so many affordable and super pretty print options on Amazon but this blue one is my pick for this trip Kopari Rose Gold Spf 45 I’m trying to get my glow on during this vacation and Kopari’s Rose Gold SPF 45 has been in my cart since it came out It’s packed with minerals and vitamins to make your skin look luscious (while protecting it at the same time!) and the reviews are outstanding Straw Tote This has been my dream beach bag for over two years, ya’ll! I am tough on my beach bags, though, so I’ve been hesitant to actually purchase it. But in my Dream Beach Scenario, this is the bag I see myself carrying Espadrille Sandal One shoe I always end up taking on summer vacation is some form of Espadrille wedge. These Franco Sarto Clemens sandals remind me of the Chloe Glyn wedges that I covet every summer Swimsuit Becca’s Prima Twist Swimsuit is really calling to me for a couple of important reasons I’ve looked at A LOT of cutout one-piece swimsuits and it’s really hard to find one that shows the right amount of skin There are so many cute cutout one-pieces that show a lot more skin (which is a totally hot!) but realistically I like to be active and go for walks at the beach and swims at the pool So this is swimsuit I could see myself being comfortable in It manages to be the perfect amount of coverage and style with the tiniest amount of sexiness thrown in Scoop Neck Dress This Quince midi dress immediately stopped me in my tracks not to mention the amazing $70 price point The lines of this silhouette are just *chef’s kiss* perfect And we haven’t even talked about the fabric: 100% European linen and double-lined I will definitely be wearing this dress all summer long Woven Sandal These Schutz sandals have been calling to me for weeks now I need an updated everyday sandal for this summer since my dog Gus has developed a taste for my sandals lately I love this pair’s elevated detailing: the woven leather and the unique gold hardware buckles xo, Jess ( My Instagram | More of My Posts ) We’re a shopping and lifestyle website with a playful We focus on authenticity and believe that we all feel our best when we’re our most genuine selves a supporter and a totally inclusive place for style – ALL are welcome here Latest UpdatesCountries Why Join?IL MagazineFree Daily E-LetterVideoOur ExpertsTestimonialsFAQsTopics Belinda Woodhouse is the author of the 21 Reasons to Visit.. and videography enables her to live her dream life on the gorgeous Caribbean Island of Cozumel in Mexico making the move to Mexico was the positive change needed for her overall health when she was diagnosed with Lupus Working long hours as a paralegal in the stressful world of corporate law Being diagnosed in her early 40s meant that big lifestyle changes were needed to successfully manage her Lupus and minimize painful flare-ups Puerto Morelos was the key to restoring her health and laidback lifestyle means that Kristen is now happy Learn more about Mexico and other countries in our daily postcard e-letter Simply enter your email address below and we’ll send you a free special report – Mexico: The Perfect Close-to-Home Retirement Haven “This laidback seaside town ticked all the boxes,” Kristen says “It’s big enough to have everything you need yet small enough to live life at a relaxed pace Everyone here is so supportive of each other we support each other and each other’s businesses.” it’s “colorful houses with beautiful murals Spanish architecture surrounded by nature with a lot of different birds Instead of waking up and leaving for work in the dark wearing layers and layers of clothing battling the cold now she sits by the pool with her morning coffee listening to the birds serenade another day and swimming in the ocean has taken the stress out of her days No more stuck in an office eating on the go or at her desk now it’s healthy long lunches and relaxed days A huge smile lit up her face as she said “I’m semi-retired and enjoy hanging out with guests who come to stay here at Casa Agave.” It’s a flexible life depending on guests' needs or renting bikes through to renovating the properties or just hanging out cleaning the pool.” She knew a less stressful working environment was needed after her leave of absence for health reasons back in Boston The thought of returning to long stressful days and never feeling like there were enough hours in the day to finish what needed to be done was not possible.“Work is very flexible and fun with ample time to do everything you want to do in a day being semi-retired in her 40s means her ‘work days’ are fun and meeting people from all over the world lifts her heart and keeps things interesting I was surprised by the answer when Kristen shared It was getting harder for me to work full-time with Lupus so I started looking for alternatives for my future I was joking with my Uncle that we should buy a property in Puerto Morelos Casa Agave came on the market and it felt like destiny “I showed him and as soon as he saw it he agreed He was close to retirement so we jumped on a plane from Boston and saw the property A smart move that enabled Kristen to make the much-needed life change for her health and to semi-retire in her 40s it meant Uncle Freddy had a beautiful beachside place to live when he retired less than two years later and getting renovations done was a lot easier than I expected,” Kristen explained In Puerto Morelos they have a very supportive expat community and no matter what you need just post the question on the Facebook page and someone is there to help This made it easy to renovate both Casa Agave and also a second property Kristen just bought with her brother and professional Kristen says “it was actually easier than back home in the U.S And the best thing is that my contractor went to school in the U.S so he speaks perfect English.” especially those coming from cold climates always use air conditioning and it is the most expensive of all the utilities But all of the other utilities are about a quarter of the price my Telmex phone and internet is 500 pesos a month ($25) and that’s for my house Oh here’s another great example she laughs “I was shocked at how low the property taxes are I saw the yearly bill and saw 2,000 and thought it was $2,000 that’s pesos.” Which is about $100 and that’s for the entire year!” “The low cost of living here means I can live comfortably on very little.” So renting out the casita and the top floor of the main house Casa Agave is all I need Uncle Freddy on the second floor and on the top floor I asked this because I was curious about all the additional costs of her ongoing healthcare expenses due to Lupus Paying pennies on the dollar compared to the U.S, especially with specialists’ appointments needed for Lupus, the healthcare in Mexico is a godsend for Kristen Back home she said it was getting overwhelming “What would cost $700 to $800 for specialist treatments plus a long wait time for appointments Her specialist in Cancun has a site where Kristen can log on and get a virtual appointment with her rheumatologist generally within hours I just choose the time I want in the schedule and we do a video call If she needs lab work done she sends forms I print them out and go get the lab work done.” Kirstin says the best thing about healthcare in Puerto Morelos is the freedom and being responsible for yourself without having to constantly go in for appointments that cost hundreds of dollars just to get a prescription refilled.” That means the money saved can be spent on other things like meeting friends for dinner I’ve been to Puerto Morelos several times and can tell you it’s a foodie’s paradise It’s got everything from fresh seafood served at dig-your-toes-in-the-sand style dining right on the beach “I tell my guests to walk into town and follow their nose That question was met with a big smile as she explained “Lunch at one of my favorite restaurants I can get a couple of tacos along with a large alcoholic beverage for under two hundred pesos ($10) something a bit more upmarket where I get an appetizer and four drinks for four hundred pesos ($20).” Visit first and stay a couple of weeks so you can walk the streets and really get a feel for the town Or rent a place for a month so you can take time to find where you want to live.” Even though Kristen moved for health reasons initially, living in the Caribbean sunshine compared to the biting Boston cold has definitely paid off in more ways than one Guide to Puerto Morelos: An Idyllic Seaside Village The Best Places to Live in Mexico as a U.S. Expat Maps of Mexico: Best Beachside and Mountain Towns Best in Travel is here! Discover 2025’s destinations 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beach connected to the mainland, Cancún has long dominated dreams of a Mexico vacation Images of powdery-sand beaches and turquoise waters stretching as far as the eye can see entice millions of travelers to this coastline year after year. Yet most of them – to their detriment – barely leave the resort. Thanks to dozens of destinations both in the Riviera Maya and elsewhere in the Yucatán Peninsula that are an easy drive away travelers will find ample rewards in leaving the strip and exploring this rich part of Mexico.  just around the corner from these well-trodden Caribbean jewels are places that will appeal more to your sense of discovery and adventure With the Tren Maya now in operation there has never been an easier way to travel through the region Here are some of the very best places to consider for expanding your horizon on your next Cancún vacation Bacalar has landed on travelers’ radars thanks to its magnificent Laguna de los Siete Colores (Lagoon of Seven Colors) crystal-clear water and ever-changing shades of blue While there have been recent reports of the lagoon no longer displaying all seven colors as it did in its days of complete anonymity Canal de los Piratas (Pirates’ Channel) is a historic waterway with shallow turquoise waters and a mix of freshwater and cenote water while Cenote Cocalitos is known for its visible stromatolites (strangely shaped microbial reefs) and shallow Planning tip: Most hotels and eco-lodges offer kayak rentals or include them in the stay. For the ultimate luxury jungle retreat, stay at Boca de Agua. Check out Hotel Maria Maria if you’re after a budget-friendly option with La Noria also offering the chance to dive Planning tip: Visiting the Wednesday-morning farmers market near the church in the main square is a great way to soak in the town’s laid-back rhythm and pick up local produce and freshly baked bread Akumal (which means “place of the turtles” in the Maya language) remains the best place near Cancún to swim with these captivating reptiles Even as overdevelopment in recent years has caused fewer turtles to call here the bay's clear waters offer a high degree of visibility to easily spot those that still do Swimming and snorkeling are the obvious activities here but the area’s cenotes – Aktún Chen and Santa Cruz – have caves and underwater rivers to explore Akumal is home to a small community of expats and artists beachfront villas and eco-friendly stays that keep its laid-back feel intact Planning tip: The turtles arrive in larger numbers in Akumal between May and November with July to September being the peak time when warmer waters usher in nesting season joining a guided tour will not only ensure responsible interaction but also the highest chance to see them Located on the north shore of Isla Mujeres, Playa Norte is considered one of the best beaches in the Yucatán Peninsula Its shallow waters are crystal clear with no sudden drop-offs white sand is free of seaweed most of the year.  Facing the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, Cozumel is one of the best spots in the country for snorkeling and diving Its location and ocean currents allow for visibility of 100ft (30½m) – sometimes more El Cielo is a secluded sandbar off the coast of Cozumel named “the Sky” for the hundreds of starfish scattered along the seabed The shallow depth makes it ideal for beginners; advanced snorkelers can explore nearby reefs where they’ll likely see scores of tropical fish While the town of San Miguel sees an influx of day-trippers with secluded stretches of sand and a strong diving community which can bring rough seas and lower visibility This UNESCO-protected natural wonder is one of Mexico’s most biodiverse regions the reserve can be explored by boat for a chance to spot manatees Visitors can sail through ancient Maya-built waterways in the wetlands pristine coral reefs and untouched beaches that teem with marine life Bear in mind that Punta Allen experiences almost-daily power outages – one of the reasons why most visitors stay in Tulum and visit the reserve on guided tours This sleepy fishing village west of Mérida is one of the best places in Mexico to see flamingos in the wild as thousands make their yearly migration from November to March You can spot them on a small guided boat tour as they feed twice a day – early in the morning and at sunset Watching them mid-air is quite a spectacle as they fly in a perfectly horizontal pink line a dash of color across the sky above the mangroves.  The beach in Celestún is a great place to relax away from the crowds – and you’re likely to have it all to yourself since most people come here on day trips from Mérida You’d do well to stay the night to soak up the tiny village vibe at a rooftop restaurant in the cute main square then wake up bright and early for the flamingo tour Planning tip: The flamingos are in residence here from November to March; outside of this period Part of Holbox’ charm is that the island remains car-free: only golf carts and bicycles are permitted to circulate its sandy streets. Big resorts have yet to arrive, meaning boutique hotels and eco-stays keep things low-key. Long stretches of fine white sand and clear waters are the main draws here with swaying hammocks over the water offering the ultimate in relaxation.  Planning tip: From June to September, plankton light up the water at night; guided kayak or boat tours take you to the best spots to see the bioluminescence with minimal light pollution These are also the best months to swim with whale sharks The stately city of Mérida has gained a following among savvy travelers as the undisputed food capital of the Yucatán Peninsula. Yucatecan cuisine is revered as some of Mexico’s best, perhaps rivaled only by that of Oaxaca Mérida’s regional dishes are packed with unique flavors you won’t find elsewhere in the world.    For a taste of all the best the city has to offer, book a table at Museo de Gastronomía Yucateca. Have your fill of cochinita pibil (slow-cooked pork marinated in achiote and citrus juice) and panuchos (crispy tortilla topped with shredded meat, avocado and pickled onions), then head to Kuuk for a modern take on Yucatecan cuisine – the braised rib is cooked in cochinita pibil juices and served in bean sauce Planning tip: The blistering, dusty heat in Mérida is a force to be reckoned with, particularly from April to September with locals sheltering at home and shops closing from 1–4pm Do as the locals do and seek out shade during these hours Best for history buffs and adventure seekers Cobá retains a mysterious lost-city-in-the-jungle feel making it a must for those who love history with a side of adventure There are several accommodation options to enhance the immersive jungle experience, from high-end Coqui Coqui Papholchac Coba Residence & Spa overlooking the Cobá lagoons to the more rustic Jungla y Estrellas KAAX EK eco-lodge. Planning tip: Avoid the wet season (June to October), as heavy rains can make the paths muddy and high humidity brings more mosquitoes. ShareSaveLifestyleTravelTired Of Cancun? Try Charming Puerto Morelos InsteadByFiona Tapp 08:12pm ESTShareSaveThis article is more than 5 years old.DANIEL SLIM/AFP via Getty Images If you think you already know what Cancun is all about and have decided it’s not for you Puerto Morelos is just as accessible but far more charming and exclusive than downtown Cancun There’s something really quite magical about traveling to a well-known area and still finding something special as a young and wild tourist in search of sun The resort and busy streets faded behind a vacation hangover of good memories and snapshots taken on an actual camera But now as a (sadly) older and (hopefully) wiser traveler I set forth to Cancun with a slight detour in mind I do like a nice swag bag and along with a warm welcome and a tour around the property guests are also treated to a gift in their room along with a bottle of oh so fashionable mezcal Affiliated with Leading Hotels of the World Grand Residences Riviera Cancun is a five-star resort where the bargain cocktails and manic pace of Cancun nightlife feels a million miles away popped on a facemask and took a soak in my outdoor bathtub I love walking along the beach and feeling the sand between my toes but at heart I am a pool girl The Grand Residences Riviera Cancun resort spoils people like me who like to lounge around poolside by providing a pool concierge who reserves the perfect sunbathing spot brings you drinks and supplies plenty of towels Swimming here feels so exhilarating and a wee bit scary They also have ziplines on the property and a traditional Mexican dining experience The quaint fishing village of Puerto Morelos is the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs and enjoy an authentic taste of the real Mexico Unbelievably it’s actually only 20 minutes away from Cancun airport but is far less visited compared to Cancun city Be sure to enjoy an evening at Punta Corcho which has an amazing list of fun cocktails and an interesting menu that showcases delicious local seafood Back at Grand Residences Riviera Cancun you can also enjoy a range of delicious dishes at the El Faro Grill or the Flor de Canela I really enjoyed a very creative dessert which was a moist sweetcorn cake cleverly made to look like a corn on the cob Served with tortilla ice cream and candied pumpkin The Grand Residences resort is the perfect place for parents to recharge and relax but if you want to bring the kids along too they will be more than entertained at the adult-supervised kids’ club which includes a full program of fun activities If you have ever thought that you’ve outgrown Cancun you just need to shift your focus to Puerto Morelos and find your new dream vacation spot In order to provide you with the best online experience this website uses cookies.By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more. Marriott International Inc. has announced that it will work with Playa Hotels & Resorts to expand The Luxury Collection brand in the Mexican Caribbean, with Paraiso de la Bonita, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Riviera Maya.  Set to open in late 2024, the resort will be situated on 14 acres of natural landscape between a mangrove reserve and the waters of the Mexican Caribbean.  The property is located in Puerto Morelos, a fishermen village, which is just 20 minutes away from Cancun International Airport.  The resort is anticipated to feature 100 oversized, stylish oceanfront suites, as well as an array of amenities, including an expansive 22,000 sq. foot spa.  In line with the brand’s commitment to showcase local gastronomy and provide unique, locally inspired dining experiences, the resort is anticipated to have three restaurants, including one with a 5,000-bottle cellar, as well as a sushi and ceviche bar.  To provide an even more exclusive experience, there will be a separate building within the property that will act as a “resort within the resort” with 10 suites with private plunge pools and beach access, an intimate exclusive pool, and two dedicated restaurants with a private chef. The company anticipates substantial conversion opportunities within the luxury segment for The Luxury Collection brand, adding to its diverse portfolio of conversion-friendly brands spanning various brand segments, including Autograph Collection Hotels, Tribute Portfolio, Delta Hotels, and Four Points by Sheraton.  The upcoming addition of Paraiso de la Bonita, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Riviera Maya strengthens Marriott International's portfolio of luxury and adults-only all-inclusive resorts, including Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Punta Cana and Almare, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort, Isla Mujeres.  Receive the best travel industry news every day MexicoChevron Quintana RooChevron Puerto MorelosChevron All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Jasmine Osby•Jul 18 Puerto Morelos has attracted tourists looking to escape Cancun Its white beach shores are perfect for snorkeling and sunset gazing the town is partnering with culinary professionals to use food as a tool to build its gastronomy tourism market the town’s Secretary of Tourism announced the “First Caribbean Grill Festival 2023.” It will be happening in Puerto Morelos on June 29 As another checkpoint in the town’s growing gastronomy tourism boom the festival will showcase 14 chefs from the north of Quintana Roo and the culinary delights native to the area “We are creating links with our productive sector to also connect our students from the tourism industry and to get them involved in the labor dynamics,” Municipal Secretary of Sustainable Tourism Miguel Cámara Ruiz told Riviera Maya News part of the resources obtained from the festival will be to support students from Cecyte Leona Vicario an institution that recently signed an agreement with Canirac Puerto Morelos.” Gastronomy tourism is “characterized by the visitor’s experience linked with food and related products,” according to the United Nations World Travel Organization The festival isn’t Puerto Morelos first dive into building a gastronomic tourism infrastructure many restaurants in the area have begun building their menu and tourist accommodations around gastronomy New travel routes specifically for the traveling foodie have emerged over the last year This includes restaurants where guests choose ingredients from a local garden for a farm to table dining experience The upcoming festival is a win for Puerto Morelos They intend to drive their gastronomic value amongst the surrounding popular travel destinations “We will be 14 chefs accompanied by 25 Cecyte practitioners whom we want to include in everything that involves putting together these events in addition to promoting the destination which has great regional and international cuisine,” Municipal Canirac President Armando Alvarado said.  The “First Caribbean Grill Festival 2023” will have a wide array of food options Guests can taste everything from chicken to ostrich paired with some of the town’s freshest vegetables from local producers Experts say gastronomy tourism can be beneficial to any destination According to the World Food Travel Association 80 percent of travelers research food and drink options when visiting new destinations 53 percent of people consider themselves “culinary travelers,” so food is a major driving force behind travel decisions Puerto Morelos interest in food could have a hefty return in the future Travelers can check out the festival at the Cenote Maravilla a free daily newsletter that features the best of travel and guides to the cities you love from a new point of view — yours you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy Queen Elizabeth Once Stepped In To Prevent Snoop Dogg From Being Banned From The UK United Airlines Flight Attendant's Armrest Announcement Sparks Social 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Celebrates Travel Advisors The Top 24 Most Powerful Travel Agencies of 2024 The Strategic Art of Pre-Planning Luxury Vacations: A Perspective for Travel Advisors A new leg of the Maya Train is officially up and running.Mexico’s President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama marked the opening of Section 5 of the Maya Train yesterday with an official inauguration, according to Riviera Maya News.During the ceremony which is designed to connect travelers to sites and attractions throughout Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula as a “detonator of the economy with a record of investments (Photo Credit: Rainer Lesniewski / iStock / Getty Images Plus) “I have said it before that the Maya Train is the train of social justice as it generates unprecedented development in tourism and investments,” Lezama said.The governor also said more than 50 billion pesos have already been spent on related infrastructure work throughout the region Some examples the governor mentioned included rehabilitating Colossi Boulevard the road distributor for the Cancun International Airport the Nichupte Lagoon vehicular bridge and more.“I am really excited to be here at the opening of section 5 of the Maya Train that now runs along the paths of transformation which marks a before and after in these first 50 years of history of the State of Quintana Roo,” the governor said according to Riviera Maya News.The new section of the train route amounts to about 45.6 kilometers and runs from Cancun International Airport to Puerto Morelos and then onward further to the popular tourist destination of Playa del Carmen The train runs on double electrified tracks.The new route will offer 10 daily departures designed to serve both locals and tourists The train offers a capacity of 2,210 passengers per day.The departure and return schedules include 9:00 a.m. from Cancun heading southward to Playa del Carmen Tickets for the train can be purchased online. For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter Collette - Expertly Crafted Tours for the Modern Traveler Cross Border Xpress Mexico: What Travel Advisors Need to Know Mia Taylor is an award-winning journalist who has two decades of experience Most recently she worked as a staff writer for America's largest digital publisher DotdashMeredith where she contributed stories on a daily basis to four of the company's most iconic brands - Parents,Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens Her work has also appeared in Travel + Leisure, The Boston Globe, The San Diego UnionTribune The String Cheese Incident have made waves with the grand unveiling of The Mexico Incident Set to stage from December 7-11 under the tropical sun of Puerto Morelos this new all-inclusive concert getaway will deliver the band and fans directly to the lap of luxury excursion opportunities and three full performances from the pioneering jamgrass sextet This experience is heightened further by a glistening bill of supporting acts the organization behind travel traditions such as Panic en la Playa The Mexico Incident offers fans extravagant suites unlimited access to gourmet dining and an array of off-campus adventures Beyond the accommodations and the headliner Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country and Dirtwire Electro-funk duo Chromeo will also come aboard for a DJ set while trumpeter Jennifer Hartswick and trombonist Natalie Cressman–both of Trey Anastasio’s band–are booked to support the event as Artists at Large SCI fans who have previously attended an International Incident will have access to a pre-sale for the latest event, beginning next Wednesday, April 24th. General on-sale will begin the following day, April 25, at 1:00 p.m. ET. For tickets and more information, visit stringcheesemexico.com/ Watch: Phish Become ‘Seinfeld’ Cast in New ‘Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney’ Sketch Billy Strings Performs for Kids at Michigan’s Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Widespread Panic & Aquarium Rescue Unit Revisit the Touring Festival Listen: Bruce Springsteen Previews Unreleased Film Soundtrack ‘Faithless,’ from ‘Tracks II: The Lost Albums’ Daze Between New Orleans Day Two: Odes to The Allman Brothers Band Listen: Van Morrison Shares “Cutting Corners,” Second Preview Single from ‘Remembering Now’ Listen: Warren Haynes Unveils Four ‘Million Voices Whisper’ Bonus Tracks Mexico: Here's What To ExpectRohan Marley an entrepreneur and one of the son's of the great Bob Marley opened RoMarley Beach House in July of 2020 Imani Bashir•Nov 27 Living in Mexico, I enjoy that there are many Black-owned businesses that offer a taste of home, culture, and a semblance of familiarity that is also such a vibe. When I heard that RoMarley Beach House was only 25 minutes away from where my family and I live in Cancun Nestled in the area of Puerto Morelos, Mexico, a town in between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen, RoMarley Beach House is housed by The Fives Hotels & Residences. Rohan Marley an entrepreneur and one of the son’s of the great Bob Marley you are greeted by a concierge who assists you with any bags and directs you into the picturesque lobby filled with waterfalls and neutral tones of art and décor The vibes are instantaneous and include reggae tunes with a special focus on Bob Marley classics and also offers live DJ’s and bands depending on the day or time of day There’s an outdoor pool area and bar to have a cocktail and enjoy the weather The food offers an amazing assortment of Caribbean dishes that follow Rastafari lifestyle (no pork) and includes famous options such as Jamaican beef patties and jerk chicken There are also hookahs available and with a beachfront view boasts the option to eat with your feet in the sand With such a short distance to Cancun International Airport I highly recommend visiting RoMarley Beach House but also booking your stay with The Fives as an enhancement to the experience It is a great place to meet many people and you may also end up running into Rohan Marley playing soccer on the beach and unique hotel groups across 80 countries – as the newest experience available within the Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X The Preferred Hotels & Resorts LVX Collection represents renowned properties that feature the finest accommodations coupled with attentive located in vibrant city centers or destination escapes provide guests with notable inspirations and memorable experiences through exceptional dining The Fives Oceanfront is also home to the world's first ever RoMarley Beach House son of the legendary musician Bob Marley.  It is an exclusive beach club offering a complete sensory experience of delicious food The Fives Oceanfront and RoMarley Beach House has become a Riviera Maya hotspot and coastal escape for high-profile athletes As a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, The Fives Oceanfront can now offer all of its guests eligibility to enroll in the I Prefer hotel rewards program which extends points redeemable for cash-value Reward Certificates and special benefits such as complimentary Internet to members upon every stay at more than 600 participating Preferred Hotels & Resorts locations worldwide boasts a trio collection of hotel and residence properties some of which feature the "All Senses Inclusive" program (derived from inspiring all the five senses) - providing accommodations food and beverages for one flat fee.  The Fives Oceanfront is the newest addition to the collection joining sister properties The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences and The Fives Downtown Hotel & Residences upscale comfort and personal touches are an important part of The Fives Oceanfront ethos and it is an honor to be recognized by Preferred Hotels & Resorts," says Sandor Winkler "We look forward to joining forces and continuing to serve our guests - with a commitment to providing peace of mind for an all-around enjoyable stay at our property.  Being part of this global network of distinct and distinguished hotels will help amplify our brand ContactTheresa Tran[email protected] Do not sell or share my personal information: is the municipality’s first to win a Blue Flag title awarded by the Danish Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) is awarded to beaches and marinas that meet the FEE’s standards for sustainability Puerto Morelos Mayor Laura Fernández Piña raised the blue flag over the beach and noted that the municipality had been working with the FEE for two years to get the title we reaffirm our calling to be a green municipality,” she said “We also reaffirm our commitment to progress to address the needs of the present without risking the ability of future generations to satisfy their own needs.” In order to obtain a Blue Flag designation a beach must demonstrate quality and excellence in environmental management and hold environmental education activities Fernández said the Blue Flag beaches are inspected every year by the FEE to make sure they still fulfill the requirements “This doesn’t just end here,” she said which is to revalidate the certification next year so we can remain a part of the exclusive group of Blue Flag beaches and marinas in Mexico and across the world.” The mayor also said that the Blue Flag over Ventana al Mar beach is just one of several sustainable development projects the municipality is working on “We’re focused on becoming a model for tourism that is totally environmentally friendly,” she said “We’ll make Puerto Morelos the best place to live with a modern vision in which development goes hand-in-hand with the preservation of our ecosystems.” Puerto Morelos is also seeking an international certification as a sustainable tourism destination from the company Biosphere México FEE Mexico executive director Joaquín Díaz Ríos recognized the efforts of Mayor Fernández and her cooperation with the state and federal governments to win the Blue Flag title for Ventana al Mar “Puerto Morelos is competing with other beaches not just around the country Source: Novedades Quintana Roo (sp) ADVERTISE WITH MND COMMUNITY GUIDELINES Subscription FAQ's Privacy Policy Mexico News Daily - Property of Tavana LLC Without The CrowdWhile you can definitely travel we've found the perfect alternative for those who are looking for a secluded Mexican beach escape DeAnna Taylor•Dec 11 It seems over the last 4-5 months travelers across the country have ended up in either Tulum or Cabo leaving others super hesitant to travel among the crowds we’ve found the perfect alternative for those who are looking for a secluded Mexican beach escape–while remaining diligent in practicing social distancing measures and hopefully getting a negative COVID test prior to departure is located about 20-25 minutes from Cancun International Airport It is still within the state of Quintana Roo For those who enjoy luxe accommodations, that are still easy on your budget, Grand Residences is a great option The 144-all-suite resort is perfect for couples Whether you’re staying for a few days this accommodation brings amazing beach views in addition to suites complete with a full kitchen and some of the largest balconies you will find the hotel is taking extra precaution with all cleaning and sanitizing measures All staff are required to adhere to daily temperature checks prior to checking in and all uniforms for staff are cleaned and housed on the property The wifi at the resort literally extends to the beach so you can take your computer onto the sand and spend your workday listening to the waves crash in case you want to cook or prepare your own meals There are two indoor restaurants that offer socially distanced seating and you can also order food from your pool or beach chair Although Puerto Morelos is somewhat secluded there is still plenty to do for those who don’t want to venture into Cancun or even to Tulum While both destinations are very accessible by car you can still have your dream getaway without leaving the area You will definitely want to check out Romarley Beach House the new beachfront restaurant and bar opened by Bob Marley’s son Rohan Marley The outdoor area is a great Instagram-worthy spot It is a mix of vegan and Jamaican-inspired dishes at a reasonable price If you want to take in a little of the town’s culture head to the Puerto Morelos Lighthouse area Just across the road is a cute little market area with lots of trinkets handmade my local Mexican-artisans There are also several bike tours offered in the area you can rent jet skis and stand-up paddle boards from a local company that is typically set up on the beach you are a only short ride away from Cancun or any of the area’s many cenotes Puerto Morelos is perfect for those looking to safely escape we suggest wearing your mask and adhering to social distance guidelines when you travel Related: Bob Marley’s Son, Rohan, Opened His Own Cafe In Puerto Morelos, Mexico: Here’s What To Expect Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo — Desperate to keep their public beaches clear of the smelly seaweed-like algae called sargassum city workers installed yellow marine barriers to pen it in Around 2,200 linear meters / 7,200 feet of yellow plastic barriers have separated drifting sargassum from nearly 2 kilometers / 1.25 miles of beaches “This will serve to contain and direct the sargassum to collection points that will be destined for that purpose,” she said Some hotels have also privately invested in sea barriers to keep the beachfront clean The project includes the acquisition of boats to collect the trapped sargassum in addition to two beach sweepers to gather the seaweed that escaped the barriers “The exponential arrival of sargassum has environmental effects and in the tourism industry so we will not lower our guard and will include new strategies that are effective always protecting natural resources,” the mayor of Puerto Morelos said The Mexican Caribbean is challenged with the largest-ever influx of sargassum The crisis is also afflicting numerous islands and some U.S the beach areas hardest hit will be Tulum and the Mahahual area Cozumel and Isla Mujeres were spared the worst of the problem Sargassum is not only unsightly and smelly A tourist nearly drowned in Playa del Carmen after being snagged by the algae Yucatán Magazine has the inside scoop on living here. Sign up to get our top headlines delivered to your inbox every week Yucatán Archbishop Monsignor Gustavo Rodríguez Vega is in stable condition after testing positive for COVID-19 The news was confirmed by Auxiliary Bishop Pedro Mena Díaz at a mass for the feast of San Ildefonso “We are going to ask for the health of our Archbishop Archaeologists working in the ancient Maya city of Palenque in Chiapas have uncovered several fascinating finds School teachers will begin receiving COVID-19 vaccines as early as April 20 the governor is scheduled to meet with state education secretary Delfina Gomez to work out vaccination protocols Vila Dosal told President Andrés Manuel López Obrador that once people 60 and over have been… Mexican archaeologists are joining colleagues from around the world to research the remains of a lost Mayan city beneath the waters of Guatemala’s Lake Altitlán Four months to the day after he was killed by a passing car little Iker Pérez López’s body has not been claimed the 7- or 8-year-old street performer was killed by a car on Avenida Libano in Col he earned his money begging for tips… Funds would be part of a larger aid package for southern Mexico Advertise With Us Government forces guard the entrance of hotel after an armed confrontation on Thursday near Puerto Morelos Two suspected drug dealers were killed after gunmen from competing gangs staged a dramatic shootout near upscale hotels that sent foreign tourists scrambling for cover MEXICO CITY — A commando of drug gang gunmen on Thursday stormed ashore at a beach on Mexico's resort-studded Caribbean coast in front of luxury hotels and executed two drug dealers from a rival gang The dramatic shooting attack sent tourists scrambling for cover at the resort of Puerto Morelos The two suspected drug dealers killed Thursday had apparently arrived at the beach in front of the Azul Beach Resort and the Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun earlier in the day "About 15 people arrived on the beach to assassinate two men who had showed up saying they were the new dealers in the area," the head prosecutor of Quintana Roo state Montes de Oca's office said earlier in a statement that "there was a clash between rival groups of drug dealers on a beach" near the hotels Several cartels are fighting for the area's lucrative retail drug trade including the Jalisco cartel and the a gang allied with the Gulf cartel Montes de Oca said one of the men targeted in the attack fled into one of the hotels before dying He also said one person suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the attack but authorities could not determine whether that person was a hotel employee or a guest because they were still undergoing medical treatment Carlos Joaquin said the commando wore ski masks and arrived by boat at the beach Montes de Oca said they fled in a boat after the attack Joaquin called the attack "a serious blow to the development and security of the state .. putting the image of the state at grave risk." The shootings were the latest chapter in drug gang violence that has sullied the reputation of Mexico's Caribbean coast as a once-tranquil oasis Guests at the Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun posted videos and photos of tourists hiding or nervously milling in the lobby and hallways of hotels during the incident Guests at the nearby Azul Beach Resort also posted videos of people taking shelter or gathering in the lobby An employee who answered the phone at the hotel said the shooting occurred on the beach near the facility wrote in his Twitter account that "Guests are telling me they were playing volleyball on the beach Everyone ran from beach and swimming pools Staff hustled us into hidden rooms behind the kitchens." Sington tweeted "I've never been so scared literally shaking," before adding "I'm fine now Rival cartels often kill another gang's street-level dealers in Mexico to eliminate competition and ensure their drugs are sold first It is not the first time that tourists have been caught in the crossfire of such battles The Puerto Morelos shooting comes two weeks after a California travel blogger and a German tourist were killed in a similar shootout in the beach town of Tulum and German citizen Jennifer Henzold were apparently hit by crossfire from the Oct Three other foreign tourists were wounded in the shooting at a street-side eatery that has some outdoor tables They included two German men and a Dutch woman The German Foreign Office issued a travel advisory about the violence advising its citizens "if you are currently in the Tulum or Playa del Carmen area do not leave your secured hotel facilities." The Tulum gunfight also apparently broke out between two groups that operate street-level drug sales in the area Montes de Oca said eight suspects in the Tulum attack had been detained in possession of firearms There have been signs that the situation in Quintana Roo state two men were shot to death on the beach in Tulum and a third was wounded police stage a massive raid in October on the beach town's restaurant-lined Quinta Avenida detaining 26 suspects — most apparently for drug sales — after a city policewoman was shot to death and locked in the trunk of a car last week Prosecutors said Friday they have arrested a suspect in that killing Crime "has gone up a little with extortion with drug sales to foreigners and Mexicans," the prosecutors office said about the raid The administration of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has pinned its hopes on the so-called Maya Riviera where it has announced plans to build an international airport and a stop for the Maya train which will run in a loop around the Yucatan peninsula Become an NPR sponsor A confrontation between presumed drug dealers left two people dead in Puerto Morelos while tourists and locals scrambled for cover The attackers arrived by boat on a beach in the Riviera Maya destination then proceeded to execute two presumed low-level drug dealers causing many in the area to seek safe haven in the nearby hotels including the Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancún and Azul Beach Resort a tourist received medical attention for a mild injury after being hit in the head with a firearm One witness to the chaos was NBC executive Mike Sington and we’re all taken to hiding places at Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun Resort They’re not telling us anything,” Sington said on Twitter posting video showing how he and others followed staff instructions to hide in the depths of the hotel Hotel employees hugging each other,” he wrote half an hour later also on Twitter: “Active shooter in our hotel Praying all guests and hotel staff get through this Men with machine guns came in from the beach.” Still hiding in a dark room deep in the hotel. Other guests told me they heard gunfire. Resort is secluded, was told gunman came up from the beach. Hotel employees hugging each other. pic.twitter.com/7Vv16Y7Zts — Mike Sington (@MikeSington) November 4, 2021 Hyatt staff told hotel guests that someone had been apprehended but advised them to shelter in their rooms with the doors barricaded But state officials have not announced any arrests the Quintana Roo Attorney General’s Office has only reported that the disturbance was a conflict between drug dealers and that there were no serious injuries apart from the deaths of the alleged drug dealers With reports from Milenio The 438-room Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun will be operated by Playa Hotels & Resorts Hyatt Hotels has officially opened a Ziva-branded all-inclusive resort in Puerto Morelos is located between the Caribbean Sea and the lagoon of Bahia Petempich near the famous Cancun Hotel Zone Playa Hotels & Resorts will operate the new resort Hyatt Global Operations senior vice-president Frank Lavey said: “We’re thrilled that Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun is welcoming guests and World of Hyatt members to experience the Hyatt Ziva brand in Mexico “This addition to the Hyatt Ziva portfolio offers a sophisticated multi-generational stay in the exciting Riviera Cancun region.” The 438-room Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun features luxurious and spacious suites with private balconies Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis Facilities include 17 globally inspired and locally authentic restaurants and lounges; nine swimming pools including an ocean-view pool and a water park; a fitness centre; and a two-story spa The resort also features more than 51,000ft2 of meeting and event space Playa Hotels & Resorts executive vice-president and chief development officer Fernando Mulet said: “With elevated amenities along with Playa’s award-winning Service from the Heart and an extraordinary destination Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun represents the very best in all-inclusive luxury “Since partnering with Hyatt less than a decade ago the family-friendly Hyatt Ziva and adults-only Hyatt Zilara brands have become the premier all-inclusive experiences throughout Mexico and the Caribbean We look forward to expanding our footprint together with Hyatt and our investment partners.” Recently, Hyatt Regency brand opened a new hotel in Cairo Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network A threat by hotel owners to protest the arrival of cruise ships in Puerto Morelos with a human chain appears to have had its desired effect: permission for the ships to dock will reportedly not be granted president of the Hotel Association of Cancún and Puerto Morelos (AHCPM) and the director of the Quintana Roo Association of Vacation Clubs last week condemned the plan to allow cruise ships to dock in Puerto Morelos a Caribbean coast resort town about halfway between Cancún and Playa del Carmen They told a press conference on October 3 that authorities made the decision without regard for the poor condition of reefs in the area despite the lack of economic benefits the ships will bring and the negative impact they will have on the accommodation sector Cintrón said that if state and municipal authorities don’t stop the arrival of a cruise ship scheduled for November 2 a call will go out for a human chain to be formed on the Puerto Morelos pier to stop passengers from disembarking We’re not going to allow [the arrival of cruise ships],” he said Alicia Ricalde, head of the Quintana Roo Port Administration authority, said in September that two cruise lines, France’s Le Pontant and Vidanta Cruises of Mexico were planning to dock in Puerto Morelos as part of their “Maya Route” voyages it now appears that the cruise lines will have to change their plans which reported on Wednesday that permits for the ships to dock wouldn’t be granted said that authorities’ change of heart may have been due to the “barrage of criticism” from the hotel association and others Cintrón claimed that cruise ships in the northern part of Quintana Roo pose a threat to the hotel industry and the state’s economy as a whole The claim that passengers will generate economic benefits for ordinary locals is not true There is a maximum of two nights in a hotel of the same category as the ship There’s no economic spillover,” Cintrón said After highlighting the environmental problems that the arrival of cruise ships would cause the hotel association chief took aim at Puerto Morelos Mayor Laura Fernández whose government had approved charging ship passengers the environmental sanitation tax of 25 pesos (US $1.30) upon disembarkation “They’re putting everything at risk for 25 pesos It’s complete thoughtlessness,” Cintrón said adding that Mexico is the only Caribbean coast country that doesn’t currently charge passengers to disembark The average charge around the world is US $50 in each destination where passengers leave the ship The damage to the hotel industry will be immense there will be no [economic] spillover and no jobs will be created,” he said Source: Reportur (sp), El Universal (sp), El Heraldo de México (sp)  If you’ve ever seen a lionfish, eating it was probably the last thing on your mind. With its red-and-white tiger stripes and halo of venomous spines, this ornamental fish seems better suited to an aquarium than to a plate. But at DK Puerto Morelos on Mexico’s Yucatan coast serves lionfish either sandwiched in a bun or wrapped in a taco—all in the name of marine conservation You see, lionfish don’t belong here. They’re an invasive species that were introduced to the region in the last few decades. “The urban legend goes that in the ’80s, a hurricane hit South Florida and an aquarium with a large population of lionfish was dumped into the ocean,” says Luis Rodriguez it’s generally agreed that humans were responsible for the spread of lionfish from their native habitat in the Pacific and Indian Oceans to the waters of the Atlantic and Caribbean In this new environment—with predators that don’t recognize them as food and prey that doesn’t recognize them as a threat—the population exploded The fish’s impact is most obvious in the southeast United States where they are decimating reef ecosystems at an alarming rate Lionfish are not picky eaters: They’ll swallow anything they can fit their mouths around. In Bermuda they’ve reduced the local fish population by 65 percent in two years; in Florida they’ve almost exhausted their supply of prey and have turned to cannibalism In the face of what scientists are calling an unprecedented threat to marine biodiversity conservationists are urging seafood lovers to fight fire with fire eat the lionfish before they eat everything else Seeing the fish at a local market and becoming curious about it “I remember thinking ‘Well, I’m going to do my part for the planet; let’s hope this isn’t too bad,’” he recalls. He then discovered what many restaurateurs in the region are starting to realize: Lionfish is delicious. “It’s similar to grouper—it has a white, mild-flavored flesh and a nice flaky texture when cooked. My last job in New York was at Oceana one of the best seafood restaurants in town and [this lionfish] was at the same level as the fish I would serve there,” he says When Rodriguez and partner Andres Barragan opened their self-styled dive kitchen in late 2015 they included a few lionfish dishes on the “pan Ameri-Asian” menu—a term they coined for their catchall cuisine that encompasses seafood tostadas Rodriguez says he had anticipated some hesitation from customers with less-adventurous palates but didn’t expect that the unusual fish would become one of the restaurant’s biggest draws Perhaps due to the many five-star Tripadvisor reviews visitors now make a pilgrimage to this quiet spot between Cancun and Playa del Carmen specifically for the lionfish Occasionally the trip is in vain; some days but the appetite and demand for the fish are definitely growing Rodriguez says the price per kilo has gone from 70 to 290 pesos in the past two years and lionfish have started to appear on more menus around town and at a few resorts It’s a promising development since experts suggest that incentivizing fishermen to catch lionfish commercially is our best (and perhaps only) shot at keeping their numbers under control Rodriguez is committed to doing his part by serving DK Puerto Morelos’s signature fish tacos for as long as he can He hopes that one day the demand will outstrip supply “We joke that when we have to tell people ‘Sorry but we just can’t get any lionfish,’ we will have achieved our goal,” he says Ingredients100 grams lionfish fillets (about 3.5 oz)4 tortillas4 teaspoons Sofrito1/2 Hass avocado2 lime wedges2 tablespoons cabbage2 teaspoons cilantro1 teaspoon finely chopped jalapeñoCanola oilSalt and pepperGuajillo chili powder to garnish MethodBrush lionfish fillets with canola oil Place lionfish skin-side down on a flat-top grill for 3 to 4 minutes making sure to exert pressure on the fillet with a spatula Grill the other side for 2 minutes.Use two tortillas for each taco Spread 2 teaspoons of sofrito on each taco and place the grilled fish on top Add the avocado in slices and season with salt and lime juice Dust with guajillo chili powder and serve with more lime wedges if desired >>Next: How Noma Helped a Pastry Chef Connect With Her Mexican Roots AFAR participates in affiliate marketing programs which means we may earn a commission if you purchase an item featured on our site.© 2025 AFAR LLC Tourism will fall by as much as 30% at Quintana Roo beach destinations this year due to the invasion of sargassum The secretariats of the Environment (Semarnat) and the Interior (Segob) predicted in a joint report that at least 200 kilometers of coastline in the Riviera Maya will be affected by the seaweed Cozumel and Isla Mujeres are all located on the stretch of coast where more than a million tonnes of sargassum could sully the turquoise waters and stain the white-sand beaches Cancún and Puerto Morelos Hotels Association president Roberto Cintrón said the downturn in tourism due to sargassum will cost the industry millions of dollars “If the problem is not adequately contained the economy of the state and country will be at risk,” he said Cintrón contended that the viability of the Maya Train project and the National Tourism Promotion Fund (Fonatur) – which is managing the ambitious Yucatán peninsula rail project – could also be placed at risk if visitor numbers to the state significantly decline “Quintana Roo attracts 50% of international tourists who arrive in the country Fonatur depends on the non-resident tax that international tourists pay If that’s affected by 50% the Maya Train as well as the fund for international promotion and the National Tourism Promotion Fund will be at risk,” he said “The problem will grow to a national scale because if there is a reduction [in funds] for the organization in charge of international promotion other tourist centers like Los Cabos will be affected they all need international promotion,” Cintrón added where large quantities of sargassum have begun washing up on the beach 40% of hotel reservations have been canceled in recent days according to a Quintana Roo tourism official People who arrive say: ‘I’m not going to the beach I’m better off going to another place’ and they leave,” Arturo García said He added that it was concerning that authorities haven’t yet begun contributing to clean-up efforts leaving local hoteliers and their employees to remove the seaweed from the beaches themselves also said that there are “apparently no concrete actions” from state and federal authorities to combat the arrival of sargassum She said that “Russian tourists come only and exclusively for the Mexican Caribbean Sea,” pointing out that they are prepared to put aside security concerns to visit Quintana Roo Russian media has published images of people swimming amid sargassum and “that generates a negative impact on tourists’ plans,” Wolpert said There are currently 11 direct flights between Moscow and Cancún each month but the consul warned that flights will be canceled if demand from tourists drops as a result of the sargassum invasion President López Obrador announced earlier this week that the navy will lead efforts to combat the massive arrival of seaweed and said the government’s anti-sargassum plan will be presented next week According to a forecast made by a Quintana Roo sargassum council in January three times as much seaweed will invade the Caribbean coast this year 1.56 million tonnes of the brown macroalgae will arrive state and municipal authorities spent 332 million pesos (US $17.2 million) between June and December last year to attend to the invasion of sargassum but this year an investment of more than 720.5 million pesos (US $37.6 million) is predicted in the Semarnat/Segob report The two secretariats estimated that the arrival of the smelly and unsightly seaweed caused economic damage of just under 5.3 billion pesos (US $275 million) last year At least 522,226 tonnes of sargassum were removed from the sea and beaches in Quintana Roo which was obtained by the newspaper Milenio revealed that a four-phase plan to tackle the sargassum problem has been developed The first 30-million-peso phase involves tracking the movement of the seaweed using radar and satellite images while the second 420-million-peso phase consists of using boats to remove sargassum from the sea A third phase involves removing sargassum from beaches at a cost of just under 235.5 million pesos while the fourth and final 35-million-peso phase consists of monitoring water and air quality at Quintana Roo beaches Source: Milenio (sp)  this city has become an increasingly popular spot for tourists seeking a getaway along the Caribbean coastline nightclubs and exclusive resorts and restaurants offer a more tranquil getaway than Cancun its more well-known neighbor 81 miles to the north But the increasing threats of violence pervading Mexico have made their way here, as well as the surrounding state of Quintana Roo. U.S. State Department officials issued a warning Aug. 17 of a heightened risk of violence to Americans traveling there government has no restrictions on travel for its employees in Quintana Roo’s tourist sites it is warning Americans to “exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.” Tourists are warned to “remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones” in the wake of shootings between rival drug cartels that have injured bystanders More:US travelers warned of 'kidnapping risk' in some parts of Mexico two tourists were killed while having dinner in an outdoor restaurant in Tulum guests at a resort in Puerto Morelos were forced to hide while gunmen arrived by boat and killed two two Canadian tourists were killed at a luxury hotel in Playa del Carmen the same month the manager of a popular beach club was murdered in a restroom by two men who fled on a jet ski The cartels’ influence in the region has risen as “tourism began to grow and as thousands of tourists started to arrive in this region a drug dealing market was created for them,” said David Saucedo The prevalence of the cartels was readily apparent when journalists working on this story were confronted by cartel members at two popular restaurants in Tulum As one of the journalists went to a restroom in the first restaurant he was approached by armed men who checked his pockets and ID asking him multiple times what he was doing there and what cartel he worked for before finally letting him leave When the journalists went to another place Tourists are an easy target for drug cartels particularly if they’ve come to sample the drug scene “Many tourists found the possibility to do drugs during vacation,” Saucedo said low-priced drugs such as marijuana and cocaine were sold so foreign tourists were looking to live this experience not only of tourism but also of consumption.” More than 160 people have been detained since January on drug-dealing charges “It’s a quite considerable number; we have raids every day,” he said More:A ruthless Mexican drug lord’s empire is devastating families with its grip on small-town USA Two Tulum-based business owners who asked to remain anonymous for fear of retaliation from the cartels said the city’s tourism has blossomed after the worst of the pandemic lifted “It became a very fashionable place,” said one But with the extra business has come the increasing threat of cartel violence they (cartels) put a person to sell drugs in the restrooms,” one said “It’s extortion because you can’t say no to them.” He described how he was visited by a trio of armed men who told him a man was going to be selling drugs from his restroom for the next three days because business owners can’t be sure the authorities aren't working with the cartels “and you never know what’s going to happen to you.” Chief Aparicio said police are aware of the drugs being sold in restrooms and have taken steps to try to curtail the trade many of the tourists who come to Tulum come precisely to get drugs and try things that they haven’t tried in their countries,” he said “As long as people come who want to consume even if we have 100,000 police officers at the beach.” But security analyst Erubiel Tirado said placing the problem on tourists misses the larger issue “To blame tourists and say that their actions lead to more crime seems to me to be an irresponsible simplification,” Tirado said and the reality is that organized crime wouldn’t exist if there is no complicity at all the levels of government.” Marijuana wars: Violent Mexican drug cartels turn Northern California into ‘The Wild West’ Aparicio acknowledged the omnipresence of cartel hawks or halcones who are constantly watching areas — whether it be the juice vendor or the waiter of a restaurant — to collect information and keep drug dealers from getting caught “The National Guard is patrolling all the time but these people have hawks everywhere that immediately inform their dealers so they hide or stop selling,” Tulum’s police chief said But Aparicio disputed the contention that cartels were extorting businesses local cartels that have been around for a long time but we have not allowed access to other cartels into Tulum,” he said “If there has been an attempt ― kidnapping extortion in hotels ― these have been resolved adequately by state response,” he said But the two anonymous restaurant owners in Tulum said it would be naïve to underestimate the cartels’ influence in the area That became clear after they were so openly approached by a cartel member “I began to understand that the reality is that this is normal,” he said the truth is that it becomes business as usual.” Before you travelGet travel advisories broken down by cities and states on the U.S. State Department’s website State Department officials encourage Americans to “take 90 seconds for safer travel,” by enrolling in STEP which sends updates on travel alerts and allows U.S officials to more easily aid travelers in an emergency Match Expires at Midnight GIVE NOW volunteer squads of divers are learning to repair the coral reefs that shield the shore A QUARTER OF A MILE OFF THE BEACH in Puerto Morelos tour guide and marine biologist Gustavo Guerrero Limón snorkels through the turquoise water Like the boatloads of tourists in flippers who speckle the water in three directions part of the more than 600-mile-long Mesoamerican Reef that stretches from the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula to Honduras’ Bay Islands But the parts that draw his eye aren’t the biggest the most colorful or the ones surrounded by the most fish or the fins and hands of careless divers and snorkelers Guerrero is one of a group of eight volunteers that includes marine researchers Today is the final exam in a four-day training course on rapid reef repair Mexico's national park service and local reef researchers Guerrero and his fellow trainees hope to join a 33-member team of first-response divers called Guardians of the Reef The divers are part of an ambitious pilot project to rehabilitate a stretch of battered coral reefs along Mexico’s Caribbean coast in the tourism-dependent state of Quintana Roo that includes the resort hubs of Cancun and Playa del Carmen as well as smaller cities like Puerto Morelos tour operators and fishermen—have their work cut out for them Eighty percent of the living coral along Mexico’s Caribbean coast has been lost or degraded since 1980 by pollution especially those adjacent to uncontrolled land development and the pollution it causes But coral reefs can be surprisingly resilient They can be repaired and even strengthened to survive the next storm It just takes money and some specialized skills that can be taught to experienced divers coral specialists and university researchers to seek a solution to restore the state’s coral reefs TNC is leading the training of the first squad of reef-repair divers Quintana Roo made a decree in March 2018 that it will create a dedicated trust advised by a committee of local experts including a TNC representative to pay for environmental management of beaches dunes and corals—such as emergency repairs made by divers like Guerrero after a large hurricane passes through it will serve as a model for reef-dependent communities around the world Guerrero and his companions climb back on board the boat Yellow sprigs of sargassum seaweed cling to wet suits and dreadlocks alike everyone is soon busy getting ready for the second test: making repairs Several volunteers gather their reef repair tools: scissors Others mix up a batch of cement in a blue bucket like contractors getting ready to repair a sidewalk Guerrero and four other divers don scuba gear and a minute later everyone is back in the water MEXICO’S CARIBBEAN COAST IS HOME TO more than 300 hotels with some 100,000 rooms Every year approximately 12 million visitors spend $9 billion here and a significant portion of that spending is directly related to the Mesomerican Reef A 2018 report found 50 percent of the country’s reefs in poor or critical condition Reefs around the globe offer a similarly grim picture: Roughly half of the world’s coral reefs have died in the past 30 years and scientists predict that most of the rest will be gone by 2100 unless people find a way to reduce pollution Even though they fill less than 1 percent of the ocean floor coral reefs are home to a quarter of the world’s fish species They provide food and income for 500 million coastal inhabitants And they protect shorelines from flooding and beach erosion by absorbing up to 97 percent of the energy of incoming waves While humanity confronts the long-term threats facing coral reefs in the short term hurricanes pose a big problem A damaged reef can’t provide an eff ective shield against waves and is itself more vulnerable to powerful storms hurricanes are one of the leading causes of reef damage through the direct pounding action of waves and from debris washed out from the shore Limbs of elkhorn and staghorn corals snap off like branches in a tornado; brain corals the size of beach balls are knocked over or turned upside down their symbiotic algae unable to photosynthesize HOTEL OWNERS ON MEXICO’S CARIBBEAN COAST insure their facilities against storm damage who manages the Zoetry Paraiso Resort near Puerto Morelos But the beaches outside their facilities have been another story forcing property owners to truck in replacement material and most owners are deeply concerned about beach erosion When TNC approached the Cancun and Puerto Morelos Hotel Association about finding a way to repair coral reefs it embraced the idea as a way to protect precious sand “Hotel owners are looking to protect their investment “We need to be responsible and be good stewards of the resources we have.” The concept of repairing barrier reefs like the one off Puerto Morelos makes perfect sense who leads TNC’s climate and risk resilience initiative in Mexico “They provide an economically valuable service they’re at risk and they can be repaired with enough money,” he says repair is one of the most cost-effective options for protecting beaches Secaira estimates that using the first-response diving team to quickly repair the hardest-hit portions of the national park’s 17 miles of reef after a hurricane will cost between $50,000 and $150,000 compared with the roughly $1 million hotels pay to install half a mile of sea wall or other artificial protection And Secaira well knows that time is running out for reefs if such repairs don't take place Hurricanes are simply a fact of life on the Yucatan Peninsula—and each big storm breaks down part of the remaining 20 percent of living reef the remaining reefs become less and less able to regenerate themselves Secaira spent several years brainstorming with state government representatives and coral reef experts about how to sustain the reefs near Puerto Morelos Those conversations culminated in March 2018 when the state government of Quintana Roo announced it would create a new kind of environmental trust the Coastal Zone Management Trust will be able to pay for beach dune and reef maintenance including reef rescue dive teams to jump into action after a major hurricane hits It will be funded in part by the beach lease tax paid by hotel and resort owners to the federal government the prospective members of the Guardians of the Reef spent one day in the classroom and three days in the water honing their skills They studied coral ecology and learned how to identify priority areas for repair after a storm “You don’t have too much time,” says instructor Calina Zepeda a TNC restoration specialist who wrote the protocol for the course “You have to work as fast as you can—damaged parts of the reef can die in 45 days.” The divers also learned skills such as using pneumatic drills underwater and inserting metal rods to keep larger pieces of reattached coral in place They practiced with cement and marine epoxy on pieces of dead coral and learned how to inflate nylon lift bags to move large pieces of coral and storm debris Even though the participants were all experienced divers or snorkelers “90 percent of them had never done this work before,” Zepeda says the divers split up to demonstrate their repair skills on two broken stands of elkhorn coral Moorish idols and other fish flit between purple sea fans and coral outcroppings that occasionally break the surface Guerrero picks up an arm-sized branch of elkhorn coral and finds a nearby spot on the reef where it might fit A diver signals one of the three snorkelers circling above to swim down and hand her a large white zip tie She scrubs the attachment point with a wire brush until it’s clean and white Then she holds the broken piece in place while Guerrero tries to reattach it with a zip tie A task that would be simple on land becomes something else entirely underwater The gentle undulations of the waves make it difficult to stay in one position The divers have to be careful not to break any living coral in the process and they can communicate only through hand signals It’s like grafting a branch onto a tree after three stiff drinks with a partner who speaks a different language Other divers tie their pieces on with tarred string Then they apply cement to the junction by hand Every time someone opens the cement bucket a gray cloud momentarily envelops the workspace The gritty paste on the repair site will harden in three days and in a month—if the reattached piece lives—the coral will grow over the material It’s like grafting a branch onto a tree after three stiff drinks Although the national park protects one of the healthiest reef systems in the Mexican Caribbean with the largest stand of elkhorn coral in the region “The coral in Puerto Morelos is not in the best shape,” she says Poorly regulated development has caused erosion and pollution Yet Puerto Morelos has so far avoided much of the explosive growth and pollution seen in places like Cancun and Playa del Carmen hosts a campus of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and a research center of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Institute (CRIAP) making it a good place to launch an experiment in saving reefs The Conservancy has tapped many experts with different viewpoints to come together around this effort “We connect groups that sometimes don’t even speak,” she says “It’s better to work as a team when resources are limited.” Of particular interest have been experiments conducted by CRIAP’s research center which is testing a relatively new coral-propagation method called microfragmentation first developed at the Mote Marine Lab in Florida Compared with the finger-sized pieces of hard coral that the lab also grows in land-based tanks microfragments consist of just a few individual polyps These soft bits of coral grow very quickly on centimeter-sized bits of epoxy in laboratory tanks The accelerated growth allows biologists to quickly produce plates of coral tissue that can then be attached to artificial structures or even the skeletons of dead corals out in the wild A microfragment colony should reach sexual maturity faster than corals would in the natural environment says lead researcher Claudia Padilla Souza Her team aims to produce about 32,000 microfragments in 2018 and will soon plant its first microfragment colonies in the sea THE DIVERS SURFACE IN A FLOATING PATCH OF sargassum seaweed Soon they are tossing clumps of it back and forth the divers were able to repair half a dozen pieces of coral The instructors give a positive evaluation and remind everyone to be careful not to inadvertently kick live coral when making repairs The funding plan is likewise gaining traction Hotel owners are enthusiastic about the new trust in part because it includes an advisory board that will help ensure that money meant for environmental restoration will actually be used for its intended purpose is that nature provides a service so valuable to communities on shore that it is worth investing in Tour boat operators and fishers have always known the value of the corals but now the restaurant owners and hotel managers and shopkeepers also are rallying around the idea that keeping corals intact is good for the entire tourism economy As the divers’ boat motors back to the town dock Guerrero says that completing the course will help his career and can serve as a source of income during hurricane season when tourists stay away but the reef rescue crews will be hiring It could also help him achieve his goal of getting his doctorate studying marine ecology “I feel like I’ve done something meaningful Julian Smith is a freelance writer who frequently reports on science and conservation He is the author of the books Crossing the Heart of Africa and Smokejumper The identity and nationality of the bodies have not been disclosed This comes just one week after an American tourist was shot in the nearby beach town of Puerto Morelos down the coast DON'T MISS: Florida's Latest Tourism Problem Is Twice the Width of the United States The bodies were located on the Kukulkan Boulevard area of Cancun a popular tourist destination for spring breakers Authorities originally located three bodies on Monday then found a fourth one in the "undergrowth on the same lot," according to ABC News.  Is Cancun Safe to Travel to?Cancun has not historically been known for much crime. Travellers Worldwide rates Cancun as "one of Mexico's safest vacation cities" as of 2022.  "While the city of Cancun itself may have crime Once you get toward areas like Riviera Maya and Costa Mujeres the crime rates plummet," the site says "As long as you take the usual precautions such as not wandering out at night and staying on your resort as local crime spills into previously insulated tourist enclaves State Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety issued a travel alert in March warning Americans about traveling to the neighboring country The warning came after four Americans were kidnapped while in Tamaulipas a Mexican state that borders much of southern Texas Tamaulipas has a "Level 4: Do Not Travel" advisory.  The following was posted on the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico site in March: There is currently a Level 2 advisory for Mexico's most popular tourist locales, including Baja California Sur (including Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo and La Paz), Tulum, and Quintana Roo (including Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and the Riviera Maya).  A Level 2 advisory means tourists should exercise increased caution when visiting.  By Jena WarburtonJena Warburton is a senior reporter and editor at TheStreet banking and financials. Jena graduated from Trinity College with a bachelor's in American Studies Sign up today for the the latest cruising news, tips, and guidance from cruise aficionado and expert, Dan Kline Sign up today for our free newsletter and you'll receive an exclusive report explaining hedge fund guru Doug Kass' winning investment style Mazatlan's El Cid Family Resorts empire is full steam ahead with an east coast expansion recently debuted a luxury concept in Cancun as a complement to the existing property The Ventus at Marina El Cid is an elevated experience modern lobby washed in white with views over the main pool area and the sea in the distance The resort opened its doors in early November Guests can upgrade the whole experience to VIP with Platinum Club Level service special in-room amenities and use of an exclusive lounge with VIP services Suite options include luxury double or king suites and span all the way up to three-bedroom suites a private balcony with Jacuzzi plus an independent living/dining area offering private access to an outdoor pool In keeping with today's all-inclusive trend that emphasizes quality over quantity the restaurants at the Ventus are a cut above what you might expect from other resorts No doubt the gourmet hub of the resort is the Mercado de Dolores an epicurean experience open for lunch and dinner The elevated food hall features seven different cuisines Ile de France serves French cuisine from an a la carte menu Ile de France operates as the breakfast buffet which is located between the main pool and an adults-only pool To really see this resort flex its muscles The 13,000-square-foot spa's signature treatment is an 80-minute four-hand escape done beachside in a private palapa The incredibly creative experience takes travelers through the Mayan journey from the underworld to Earth and to heaven Two masseuses re-create the sensation of each animal throughout the massage The whole journey begins with a Mayan ritual that involves a smoke cleansing The spa also has a traditional temazcal (a sweat lodge) Guests at the Ventus also have full access to the Hotel Marina El Cid (and vice versa) it is a good complement to the more subdued The dining options at this resort maintain the same standards as at the Ventus with highlights being Trattoria D'Gulio for homemade pastas and brick oven pizzas as well as the Hacienda Arrecife for whimsical Families can cut loose at the Hotel Marina El Cid there is full access to the spa and fitness center Affiliated with the resort are tour operators running excursions out of the marina such as a three-hour catamaran sailing that takes travelers out to the reef for a day of snorkeling Other activities at the property include sport fishing the marina has slips for 120 vessels as well as a dive shop But one of the biggest perks to the resort is its location in Puerto Morelos a sleepy fishing village between Cancun and Playa del Carmen Its distinct island vibe is driven home with sugar-sand beaches and electric-blue water Puerto Morelos comes alive at night as restaurants and bars move tables out on the street for a vibrant and festive experience Travelers may not ever feel the need to venture off-property Puerto Morelos provides a charming cultural and local experience Rates for a junior suite begin at $195 per person, per night. See https://ventus atmarinaelcid.com Scientists stunned by unprecedented heat-stress event say they can only hope it ‘motivates and unites people’ Corals across several countries are bleaching and dying en masse from unprecedented levels of heat stress, prompting fears that an unfolding tragedy in Central America, North America and the Caribbean could become a global event US government scientists have confirmed reefs in Panama, Colombia, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Mexico and six countries in the Caribbean, including the Bahamas and Cuba, are suffering significant bleaching, alongside corals in Florida that began turning white almost a month ago. Read more“I don’t think any of these places have seen heat stress like this before,” said Dr Derek Manzello, coordinator of Coral Reef Watch at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration “This will only get worse until there is a global reduction in greenhouse gas emissions This is essentially a big field experiment The big fear is there will be catastrophic mortality.” Coral reefs are home to more than a quarter of the world’s marine species despite taking up about 0.1% of the ocean floor and are considered one of the most susceptible ecosystems to global heating Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup Noaa’s Coral Reef Watch this week also had its highest level of coral bleaching warning over reefs off north Vietnam and southern China View image in fullscreenCoral bleaching on a reef known as Cheeca Rocks Photograph: NOAAManzello said in many places ocean temperatures were as high or higher than ever recorded by satellites “This mass bleaching is taking place over a huge area,” he said referring to the bleaching in North and Central America “We are marching towards a Caribbean-wide coral bleaching event in the next month if things don’t change.” The world’s ocean temperatures have been at record high levels for months Noaa data suggests many regions that are bleaching still have weeks before their usual summer temperature peak suggesting the situation could worsen without sustained cloudy weather or major storms head of the coral program at Noaa’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory has inspected the Cheeca Rocks reef that used to be one of the healthiest and most vibrant in the Florida Keys “I was not prepared for what I saw there,” he said “Every single coral I saw was affected – either bleached or severely paled It is pretty hard to wrap your brain around Species of soft coral were “disintegrating” in the hot water “The tissue was falling off them,” he said it is that I hope it motivates and unites people.” Depending on the species and the amount of heat, corals can recover from bleaching but scientists say they are more susceptible to disease and don’t reproduce as well in the years that follow. To assess the level of heat stress accumulating on corals, scientists use a measure called degree heating weeks (DHW). For example, if a reef faces temperatures 1C above the average maximum for two weeks it is being subjected to 2DHW. As a rule of thumb, at 8DHW reefs experience severe bleaching with a risk of mortality for some corals. Some reefs in the Florida Keys have hit 15DHW. Since the Noaa data started in 1985, the region had never seen levels above 10DHW. “We started hitting values never achieved before, and it’s happening earlier than ever before. It’s very alarming for me,” said Manzello. a coral scientist at the National Autonomous University of Mexico is monitoring bleaching of corals at Puerto Morelos near Cancún – the northern part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System at least three months earlier than had been seen in previous bleaching events “We have reports of bleaching from here to Belize – that’s [more than] 400km,” he said Álvarez-Filip said the area has never seen a mass coral mortality event from heat stress in the past but it was now “very likely” to occur in the coming months “I wish I could say something different,” he said He said an outbreak of coral disease killed an estimated 80 million corals in Mexican waters over a few months in 2018 and 2019 He had grave concerns the corals that had survived could now perish in the heat Functioning reef systems were crucial for the region’s economy protected the coastline and brought in tourism of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute said there were reports of bleaching on the Caribbean and Pacific side of the country He said the frequency of heat stress events suggested climate models had underestimated the severity of extreme events “We are seeing a world where these kinds of temperature extremes are happening so frequently that it’s going to become increasingly hard for reefs to recover in the time periods in between.” “We are looking at the unfolding of yet another global mass bleaching event,” Connolly said. Prof Tracy Ainsworth, vice-president of the International Coral Reef Society, said the levels of heat stress facing some reefs was “unsurvivable” for corals. Read more“This is multiple reefs in multiple countries There’s a concern we’re going into another massive global event,” she said Some corals that were at risk of death were decades old She said the reefs become “permanently changed” from the heat “There are decades of growth in some of these massive corals,” she said We can’t assume that a recovery happens because we’re now in the second decade of these events “I’ve been talking about [the risk from climate change] for my entire career and so you can’t get any more prepared than coral biologists We don’t even study this kind of heat stress A restaurant specialising in contemporary Mexican cookery Le Chique offers an experience that is equal parts theatrical Set in the luxurious Azul Beach Resort in Cancún it is a stone’s throw from beautiful white beaches and clear waters Chef Jonatan Gómez Luna’s tasting menu explores the different tastes of Mexico with the intent to ‘puzzle Cutting-edge and molecular techniques are employed by Le Chique’s 28-strong culinary team to deconstruct and transform traditional Mexican dishes into new creations local bites are served from a hollowed-out book and a water mist surrounds the seafood dishes but everything is done in pursuit of flavour Among Le Chique’s signatures are beef tongue with black mole Morelian gazpacho and Hamachi tarlet with ikura and chiles toreados In order to provide you with the best online experience this website uses cookies.By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more a new luxury property is coming to Puerto Morelos The Fives Oceanfront marks the brand’s third venture in Mexico complementing its existing luxury boutique properties The Fives Downtown Both properties are located in Playa del Carmen in the Riviera Maya district the new Oceanfront is one of three big announcements for the brand that travel agents should remember Following the announcement of the new property the second major announcement is that all three hotels will no longer be represented by Karisma Hotels & Resorts “What’s actually been a very stressful transition in the U.S. I believe will be a much smoother one here in Canada thanks to the help of Transat to push us into the general marketplace,” said Winkler “We’re very thankful for Karisma for getting us to this point and a lot of who we are as hotel operators today is what we learned from Karisma both brands (Azul Resorts & The Fives Hotels) had evolved to a point where consolidated operation of all of its properties made sense The Operator of the resort will be The Fives Hotels & Residences directly This entity had always been the Owner of the Resort and has been successfully operating its second property (The Fives Downtown) since late 2017.” The differences that your clients will notice are incredibly minor a name change to the kids club (The Azulitos Kids Club will be renamed to The Aluchitos Kids Club) and gourmet all-inclusive will be renamed to “all-senses inclusive” The Fives prides itself on offering a sensory hospitality concept sensory experiences for guests to enjoy included in their stay The Fives hopes to be remembered as more than just another all-inclusive beach vacation creating a space that allows clients to make memories and feel included in the local culture and everyday life in Mexico luxury boutique hotel that rests right on the shores of the Caribbean Sea.  the new property is a family-friendly seaside escape that delivers laid-back ambiance and a refreshing approach to Mexican design All rooms have full or partial ocean views and given that the property is situated next to a nature reserve the partial views still promise to delight guests as monkeys and iguanas are known to pay a visit and all oceanfront units have a Jacuzzi tub outside A new ‘Dinner in the Dark’ concept will also debut at the property further encouraging guests to explore their own five senses Guests of the new property can enjoy the following amenities: For more information on The Fives Oceanfront, click here Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker owner of The Fives Beach Resort and The Fives Downtown in Playa del Carmen is expanding its portfolio with the construction of The Fives Oceanfront  Puerto Morelos two- and three-bedroom suites with a residential style including a living area The resort will have a private beach club with cabanas and sun loungers and is walking distance to the fishing village of Puerto Morelos but guests can expect Mexican cuisine with a Caribbean twist There will also be a lobby bar where guests can sample tequilas from around Mexico Fearing that recent incidents of violence in Quintana Roo will have a negative impact on the tourism industry business and tourism organizations have called on authorities to ramp up security in the Caribbean coast state In the wake of attacks in Puerto Morelos and Tulum that terrorized tourists and left two foreign women dead in the latter destination three organizations warned that more needs to be done to improve security for residents and tourists Asserting that there is a “fierce and ruthless” turf war between competing drug gangs that operate in Quintana Roo – including on the state’s beaches Puerto Morelos and Isla Mujeres urged municipal state and federal authorities to carry out “firm and forceful actions” to combat insecurity in tourism destinations Association official Jesús Almaguer Salazar said the presence of federal security forces needs to be bolstered to deter violence “We appeal to the good will of the president The navy has shown that it can control these kinds of situations,” he said “… The presence of an elite navy corps in the state that supports [local] authorities would be significant.” a hotel owner and former president of the Cancún hotel association claimed that the federal government’s so-called abrazos not bullets) security approach – which favors addressing the root causes of violence over combating it with force – has failed and criminal groups have been allowed to flourish they haven’t allocated sufficient resources to control insecurity,” Vara added “… Every day you find [dead] people in bags It is an outcome that would undermine the region’s recovery from the sharp pandemic-induced downturn The CCEC urged all levels of government to work together with citizens’ groups on a joint strategy to combat the criminal groups that “do so much damage to our organization.” The executive president of the Quintana Roo Vacation Clubs Association also said that coordination between municipal state and federal authorities is needed to effectively tackle the crime problem but emphasized that the support of the army and navy is paramount Miriam Cortés Franco described security as the most sensitive issue for the tourism sector adding that her organization has fielded numerous calls from people asking whether Quintana Roo is a safe place to visit She noted that a new military base – inaugurated by former president Enrique Peña Nieto in late 2018 – was built just north of Cancún but lamented that it hasn’t been used since 2019 because the government redeployed troops to other parts of the country to stem the flow of migrants Cortés said that tourism destinations in Quintana Roo are very attractive to criminal groups which are often involved in extortion in addition to drug trafficking and street-level dealing greater federal support is needed to combat crime Quintana Roo was the 18th most violent state among the 32 federal entities in the first nine months of the year with 495 homicides at least six criminal groups operate in the Riviera Maya They include the Jalisco New Generation Cartel the Sinaloa Cartel and the Old School Zetas With reports from Reforma and El Economista  A person walks in the rain caused by the landfall of Hurricane Grace in Puerto Morelos Playa del Carmen devotees are already keenly aware of the Fives -- the two resort-meets-residence hotels on the beach in Playa del Carmen and in the heart of downtown on La Quinta Avenida. But a new, highly anticipated oceanfront resort has joined the exclusive fold: The Fives Oceanfront officially opened its chic and Travel Weekly visited amid the pandemic to see just how this resort is operating in the "new normal." which is tucked on a secluded stretch of beach just down the shore from the sleepy fishing village of Puerto Morelos quiet Puerto Morelos is between Cancun and Playa del Carmen Its sandy streets are flanked with lovely restaurants and a few souvenir shops Guests can stroll into town if they choose but the Fives Oceanfront feels like its own luxe oasis where high-end cuisine and infinity pools pair perfectly with pool wear and bare feet Anyone familiar with the Fives' two other properties knows that service is a pillar of what makes the brand so comfortable and elegant -- and the Fives Oceanfront is even a cut above the others with soaring ceilings and a direct view of the tiered swimming pools and out to sea the personalized attention is truly memorable It's not uncommon for hotel staff to remember my name (I am writing a review but to see that the staff remembered the names of most of the guests including their favorite drinks and breakfast orders The lobby level is devoted entirely to public spaces A short walk from the lobby leads right to the main pool which is lined with loungers and pops with bright yellow umbrellas The pool is connected to the RoMarley Beach Club a restaurant that is the brainchild of Rohan Marley who has a long-term partnership with the Fives fresh fish and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options -- as is the Rastafarian way A personal favorite was the mezcal with pineapple juice and a hint of rosemary Just a few steps away on the sand are plush beanbag chairs underneath shady palapas where guests of the beach club can relax after a swim along this tame stretch of coast The starting category begins at more than 640 square feet Travel advisors and others recount reassuring experiences from arrival to check-in A second pool is perched on the sixth-floor rooftop with an infinity edge that overlooks the beach The resort is anticipating food service on the roof as well as an additional restaurant and a spa In terms of Covid-19 the Fives Oceanfront is working tirelessly to make sure that the resort lives up to the health and safety protocols implemented by Quintana Roo It operates at a limited capacity and has deployed ample hand sanitizing stations are not required to wear masks anywhere in the resort and social distancing did not seem to be enforced you might want to recommend your clients wear their masks the Fives Oceanfront has been a highly anticipated resort opening for 2020 and even though the year has not panned out quite like we all had hoped the Fives is certainly a much-needed bright spot and a comfortable place to call home amid an ever-growing world of uncertainty.