Monday, December 31, 2018

Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events Monday, December 31


This is the live webcam at North Beach / Playa Norte. 
Follow Isla Mujeres News & Events on Facebook for highlights of news & events, and more photos & videos 

MaraVilla Caribe Bed & Beach on Facebook or Website

Isla Mujeres Charities on Facebook  

 Isla Mujeres History on Facebook or Website 

CHECK OUT THE DECEMBER EVENTS SCHEDULE!  (scroll down)
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News from the Municipal Facebook site.....  (  FB page link)


Mayor Juan Carrillo Soberanis is committed to maintaining Isla Mujeres as the safest municipality in the state, and home robberies have decreased by 10 percent compared to previous years. The chief of police explained that they work is schools, shops, and the colonias so that Isla Mujeres remains below the national average in crime statistice, which include crime prevention programs and workshops. They have conducted different courses and workshops on various topics including prevention of crimes in the streets (in public), prevention of theft against bystanders, in shops, and burglary, as well as prevention of vandalism by teens, and school bullying or harassment, among others. They also discuss topics such as prevention of human trafficking and issues to avoid social problems in regard to security and to encourage crime prevention and communication among all sectors of the community. He said that response to crimes has increased by 18% thanks to continual training, and linkage with companies and the general citizenry, as well as effective surveillance. 
   The emergency number is 911 and for regular communications with the police force it is 998
999-0051

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 FB News Sites about Isla Mujeres

  Tvisla Mujeres    


 Multiple suspects arrested 
TV Isla Mujeres reports: "One executed and one injured this afternoon in Isla Mujeres". The events occurred shortly after 4pm (Sunday), when reports were made to the Emergency number about gunshots at a souvenir shop on Hidalgo Avenue, and the Red Code was activated. According to witnesses, armed men arrived in black for an apparent execution attempt, which resulted in a chase in the downtown streets, ending with one person killed inside a souvenir store and another injured in the leg. The weapon used in the crime was thrown into the street and an alert was immediately issued which triggered an operation in the streets and beach areas, which resulted in the arrest of three possible suspects. Police officials confirmed that one person died and another young man was found wounded inside a construction site next to the Town Hall.   LINK 


Isla Mujeres Al Dia    

Isla Mujeres al Dia reports: Due to the rapid intervention of officers with the municipal police force in response to events that occurred in downtown Isla Mujeres, three suspects have been arrested, plus an injured person, in addition to impounding a white vehicle which was allegedly involved in the criminal acts at a souvenir shop on Hidalgo avenue. After his capture, the injured suspect was transferred to a Cancun hospital, while the others will be placed at the disposal of the State Attorney General's office (FGE), who will be responsible for the investigation.

Video of rain, taken on Rueda Medina  

Noti Isla Mujeres   

IM Noticias   


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 Link to Por Esto's Isla Mujeres section
Click on Spanish headline for the original article & photos

Youth executed  
Ejecutan a un joven  

    This has similar information as the translations above, noting that several businesses closed their doors and authorities cordoned off the area of Hidalgo to facilitate the work of the Prosecutor's office, without totally obstructing the avenue. The name and initials of the deceased were not released and the 22 year old wounded man is named Javier, whose wounds were treated at the Community Hospital before the was taken to a Cancun hospital at 5:25pm. 
    It is noted that this is the fifth death this year from gunshot wounds, and three have been injured, including the victim of the last shooting, which occurred last Sunday, at 7pm in colonia Salina Chica, and the victim, Carlos G.F. is convalescing from a gunshot wound in his back and one in his thigh.
    Due to the rain on Sunday afternoon, there were fewer people on Hidalgo, however, since it is the center of nightlife in Isla Mujeres, it caused a high level of concern. The Prosecutor's office are conducting an investigation, but no one wanted to talk about the person or people who fired the weapon, which is a typical response in these cases.

Recognition for soccer promoters  

Reconocen a promotores de futbol

 While giving trophies to the children and youths who compete in the municipal sports competitions, the promoters were also recognized.

Safe Isla Mujeres  

Isla Mujeres seguro

See City section

New system of first responders  

En marcha nuevo sistema de primeros auxilios

    The motorcycle first responder unit has been in operation since December 25th, and allows the first responder to offer first aid promptly and to attend to minor injuries which don't require ambulance transport. This is a helpful option especially during this holiday season when traffic includes more than a thousand golf carts, hundreds of taxis, and many motorcycles and bicycles. Requests for assistance can be made to 998 877 0280  (The emergency number is 911 for the ambulance). It is noted that the Red Cross is planning to acquire a second ambulance.

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  This blog is brought to you by....
View from the rooms.

MaraVilla Caribe   Bed & Beach    Three rentals with large glass doors overlooking our white sand beach and the beautiful Caribbean sea, with  kitchenettes & fast WIFI. In the coastal neighborhood of  Bachilleres, among upscale villas & boutique hotelitos, convenient to downtown or the colonias, yet separate.  Quiet & Private.   
 Kitchen in a large studio. (Sur & Norte are identical)
Kitchenette in small room, Medio. There's a table & chairs across from it & a double bed.
A large slider opens from each of the 3 rooms onto the patio where each has a table & chairs, hammock & clotheslines. The BBQ is behind the pole, and the outdoor shower is outa the pic at left.
Large studio (Norte), I'm standing in the kitchen. A queen & single bed.

Free amenities such as hammocks,bikes, BBQ grills, safes, portable beach chairs & beach towels, washer & dryer, loungers. Breathtaking panoramic views from the rooftop terrace. Large sliding doors open to a patio & our backyard-beach, overlooking the Caribbean sea. Upstairs room also available. Downtown is  ~ a mile away; if you don't feel like walking,  flag a $2 taxi. Parking. You can enjoy the music & crowds downtown, then come home our quiet neighborhood of Bachilleres where you'll  sleep to the sounds of the sea.$275/$325/$425 wk   $40/50/$65nt  Monthly Discounts

Large studio (Sur) with Queen & Single bed. Slider door & view are behind me.

Fine dining a few steps away at Da Luisa or try the neighborhood eateries a couple blocks farther. Within ten minutes walk are a variety of restaurants including Mango Cafe, Brisas, Manolitos, La Chatita, Green Verde, Kash Kechen Chuc, and the large department store-grocery , Chedraui. Visit marinas, bars, & beach clubs that are minutes away by bike or on foot. Attend Yoga classes a couple villas away at hotelito Casa Ixchel. Fresh juice, produce & tortillas a few blocks away in the village, as well as a variety of other stores and small local restaurants. It takes 20-30  minutes to walk downtown.
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January Events (& end of Dec)
Provided by MaraVilla Caribe & Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events

Plogging events to clean up the island are held on Saturdays LINK  and here's the Accion Isla LINK 

Friday, Dec. 28   Dia de los Santos Innocentes A day of practical jokes, similar to "April Fool's Day"

Friday, Dec 28 New Year's Eve tables on sale at 10am at the Town Hall entrance (Palacio)

Saturday, Dec. 29 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Dec. 30 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Monday, Dec. 31 New Year's Eve tables on sale at 10am in the entry area of the Town Hall/Palacio

Monday, Dec.31 New Year's Eve celebration on the Town Square.(See article below)

Tuesday, Jan. 1 New Year's Day Many people observe the sunrise at Punta Sur. The NYE party continues until dawn, at least.
Ultramar passenger ferries
The Mass schedule for Immaculate Conception (downtown), Sacred Heart in La Gloria, and the Capilla de Guadalupe in Salina Chica, as well as a Caribbean sunrise Mass.
Thursday, Jan. 3 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 5 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 6  Día de Reyes/ King's Day   This day commemorates when the three kings or Magi visited Jesus & is the culmination of the twelve days of Christmas. Traditionally this is the day when Mexican children receive gifts. It is customary to eat Rosca de reyes, a sweet bread that represents King Herod's crown with figurines of baby Jesus hidden inside. Whoever finds the token in their piece is obligated to host a party on Candlemas Day (Dia de la Candelaria), Feb. 2, which usually includes tamales.

At 10am, at Ruben's Restaurant there will be a giveaway of toys and snacks for thousands of islander children, with los Tres Reyes in costume.. On the back street Guerrero, across from the Post Office & Mercado.

In the afternoon, there is usually an event at the el Pescador baseball field in front of Chedraui with entertainment, surprises, and raffles, hosted by the DIF social service agency.

Sunday, Jan. 6 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Jan. 6 is also Día de la Enfermera/Nurse's Day in Mexico. This special day was established in 1931, when Dr. Jose Villagrana said nurses were like a "regalo de reyes"...a gift from the Magi.  (International Nurse's Day is celebrated on May 12th, the birthday of Florence Nightingale).

Thursday, Jan. 10 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 12 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 13 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Thursday, Jan. 17 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Friday, Jan 18-Sunday Jan. 20 Oasis Fest Vol. 2: Pirate's Paradise with 22 musical acts, surprise prizes, and these events. Organized by Barracuda Board Co.   LINK 

    Friday: Urban Culture with a Hip Hop Concert, Workshops & Expositions of Breakdance, Rap, Graffiti, & Musical Production and an Artist Fair

     Saturday: Street Culture with Pirate Plog (Beach Cleanup), Ska, Punk, Rock Concert, Workshops, Games, & Get Together of Skate, Longboard, Parkour, Roller, Circus Arts, Murals

      Sunday: Caribbean Culture with Reggae & Ska Concert, Workshops in Skimboard, Palm Weaving, and Ancestral Vibrations with Conch Shells, Paddleboard Games, Live Painting, Raffle.


Saturday, Jan 19 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 20 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Sunday, Jan 20 Lunar Eclipse begins at 9:36 pm, Maximum at 12:12am (Jan 21) and ends at 2:48am. 


Full moon rising over the Caribbean 

Dec. 22   6:25
Dec. 23   7:28
Dec. 24   8:33
Dec. 25   9:38
 Dec. 26   10:42
  Dec. 27   11:42 
Painting by Pamela Haase
Sunset  ~6:04 to ~6:16p (beginning vs end of month)
Sunrise  ~7:08 to 7:24

Thursday, Jan. 24 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 26 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 27 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Thursday, Jan. 31  Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

  Celebrating New Year's in Isla Mujeres
   To celebrate New Year's Eve, some families set up tables in the side streets with pinatas strung overhead, and dine on turkey stuffed with seasoned ground meat, while others crowd the Town Square for live music, dancing, and fireworks. Each neighborhood brings in the New Year with a bang, and the skies explode with color in all directions.
     During the NYE countdown, there is a tradition of eating twelve uvas de buenas suerte (grapes of good luck), each representing a month, with a toast of champagne or cider. The party on the town square continues all night long. At the other end of the isle, people gather at Punta Sur to greet the first rays of the sun at the eastern-most point in Mexico.  
     Other customs include cleaning your house on New Year's Eve & sweeping out bad luck. Wearing red underwear could bring you love in the New Year, or  your white undies may bring you peace, while yellow represents wealth. Those who hope to travel should grab an empty suitcase and carry it around the room or the block, and set it by the door. If you drop a shoe on New Year's morn and it lands "boca arriba" (face up)  you will enjoy good luck in the upcoming year. 
 The old year is represented by a life sized character called El Viejo, The Old Man, who is later filled with fireworks and set ablaze. He may resemble a politician, and he is usually holding cigars & tequila.
      Kids receive toys on Dia de los Reyes, January 6, when families, friends, and coworkers share rosca de reyes. King's cake, usually with hot chocolate. If you get the Baby Jesus,it means you'll be hosting a party & providing the tamales on Candlemas Day, Feb. 2.






Sunday, December 30, 2018

Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events Sunday, December 30



This is the live webcam at North Beach / Playa Norte. 
Follow Isla Mujeres News & Events on Facebook for highlights of news & events, and more photos & videos 

MaraVilla Caribe Bed & Beach on Facebook or Website

Isla Mujeres Charities on Facebook  

 Isla Mujeres History on Facebook or Website 

CHECK OUT THE JANUARY EVENTS SCHEDULE!  (scroll down)
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News from the Municipal Facebook site.....  (  FB page link)

New Year's Eve tables are still available and will be on sale tomorrow, Monday Jan. 31, at 10am in the entry area of the Town Hall/Palacio, because the City has opened up another area.


Trophies were awarded to participants in the children's Futbol Rapido league, in recognition of the outstanding participation they have shown. Officials in attendance spoke about the importance of sports to keep children away from risky situations such as drugs, and about the Mayor's commitment to the athletes of the island.

Come and enjoy the final weekend of the year in Isla Mujeres  
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 FB News Sites about Isla Mujeres

  Tvisla Mujeres    


The Marlins of Isla Mujeres and the Taxistas of Cancun ended up as leaders in the first round of the 2018-2019 basketball season of the State League of Quintana Roo (LIEBA). LINK  

Isla Mujeres Al Dia    

The Red Cross currently has a motorcycle ambulance, supplied with equipment to provide first aid. (photo).

The three new trash collection trucks provided by the state government will make Isla Mujeres a greener community and will benefit the 22,000 residents, as will the Reglamento del Servicio Público de Limpia, Recolección, Traslado, Tratamiento y Disposición Final de Residuos Sólidos Urbanos / Law for Public Services of Cleaning, Collection, Transport, Treatment, and Final Disposition of Urban Solid Residues. New routes and schedules were created, in addition to the six established routes, to keep the island clean. (Beach photo)

Citizen complaint about rental vehicles in front of businesses and items blocking the sidewalks, causing to tourists to have to walk in the roadway of the side streets, asking that the Mayor intervene, now that action has been taken on the main street against businesses setting out cones and such.  (photo of Matamoros)

Noti Isla Mujeres   

In the final days of the 20% property tax discount, many residents were taking advantage of it. (photo of line at cashiers in the Town Hall)

IM Noticias   


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 Link to Por Esto's Isla Mujeres section
Click on Spanish headline for the original article & photos

Isla Mujeres new briefs  
Breves de Isla Mujeres  

During the New Year's Eve celebrations, businesses and the general public are asked not to put trash out after 8pm.

Occupancy is nearing 100% during the last days of the year. The largest number of rooms are located in the Isla Blanca-Punta Sam area (on the mainland part of the municipality), where there are over 4000, and that number will nearly double, with more opening during the spring and summer.

There are 58.7 million pesos budgeted for the collection of the 2019 property taxes, and it is anticipated that 50% could be collected by the end of the month, with  residents taking advantage of the 20% discount available until the end of the month. More than 20 million pesos have been collected at the City cashier windows of the island and on the mainland. There was a 25% discount available from Dec. 1 to 15th and there will be a 15% discount available until the end of February.

More than 20,000 visitors arriving daily  

Más de 20 mil visitantes arriban diariamente

  The largest numbers of visitors will be on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday, with lower numbers on January 1st.

Southern part of coastal road remains affected  

Importante vía continúa bloqueada

      This month, Aguakan has been doing work to provide a sewage line service to colonia Guadalupana, connecting it to the nearby wastewater treatment plant, which has affected traffic along that 600 meter stretch of the Caribbean coastal road. That work, which began on Dec. 6, has been completed, but there is still gravel on the road, which the company plans to clean away after work resumes on Jan. 2.

Hundreds of tourists enjoying the Caribbean  

Cientos de turistas disfrutan del Caribe

 Dec. 29  Many tourists are visiting the beaches and tourist attractions of the island. The intensity of the southern winds decreased and small boats were allowed to operate with caution in the National Marine Park, and weather was expected to improve on Sunday. When the winds dropped below 30 km/hr, some of the fishermen went out to catch fresh fish, because the demand is currently very high. One commented that they have fish available in storage, but people want fresh product and will pay for good quality. They expect to be able to replenish their inventories, because the Cold Front arriving to the Yucatan Channel before New Year isn't expected to be very strong, due to the intensity of the south-southeast winds.
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  This blog is brought to you by....
View from the rooms.

MaraVilla Caribe   Bed & Beach    Three rentals with large glass doors overlooking our white sand beach and the beautiful Caribbean sea, with  kitchenettes & fast WIFI. In the coastal neighborhood of  Bachilleres, among upscale villas & boutique hotelitos, convenient to downtown or the colonias, yet separate.  Quiet & Private.   
 Kitchen in a large studio. (Sur & Norte are identical)
Kitchenette in small room, Medio. There's a table & chairs across from it & a double bed.
A large slider opens from each of the 3 rooms onto the patio where each has a table & chairs, hammock & clotheslines. The BBQ is behind the pole, and the outdoor shower is outa the pic at left.
Large studio (Norte), I'm standing in the kitchen. A queen & single bed.

Free amenities such as hammocks,bikes, BBQ grills, safes, portable beach chairs & beach towels, washer & dryer, loungers. Breathtaking panoramic views from the rooftop terrace. Large sliding doors open to a patio & our backyard-beach, overlooking the Caribbean sea. Upstairs room also available. Downtown is  ~ a mile away; if you don't feel like walking,  flag a $2 taxi. Parking. You can enjoy the music & crowds downtown, then come home our quiet neighborhood of Bachilleres where you'll  sleep to the sounds of the sea.$275/$325/$425 wk   $40/50/$65nt  Monthly Discounts

Large studio (Sur) with Queen & Single bed. Slider door & view are behind me.

Fine dining a few steps away at Da Luisa or try the neighborhood eateries a couple blocks farther. Within ten minutes walk are a variety of restaurants including Mango Cafe, Brisas, Manolitos, La Chatita, Green Verde, Kash Kechen Chuc, and the large department store-grocery , Chedraui. Visit marinas, bars, & beach clubs that are minutes away by bike or on foot. Attend Yoga classes a couple villas away at hotelito Casa Ixchel. Fresh juice, produce & tortillas a few blocks away in the village, as well as a variety of other stores and small local restaurants. It takes 20-30  minutes to walk downtown.
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Full moon rising over the Caribbean 

Jan. 21   7:17
Jan. 22   8:24
Jan. 23   9:29
Jan. 24  10:30
 Jan. 25   11:30 
Painting by Pamela Haase
Sunset  ~6:17 to ~6:37p
Sunrise  ~7:24
January Events (& end of Dec)
Provided by MaraVilla Caribe & Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events

Plogging events to clean up the island are held on Saturdays LINK  and here's the Accion Isla LINK 

Friday, Dec. 28   Dia de los Santos Innocentes A day of practical jokes, similar to "April Fool's Day"

Friday, Dec 28 New Year's Eve tables on sale at 10am at the Town Hall entrance (Palacio)

Saturday, Dec. 29 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Dec. 30 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Monday, Dec. 31 New Year's Eve tables on sale at 10am in the entry area of the Town Hall/Palacio

Monday, Dec.31 New Year's Eve celebration on the Town Square.(See article below)

Tuesday, Jan. 1 New Year's Day Many people observe the sunrise at Punta Sur. The NYE party continues until dawn, at least.
Ultramar passenger ferries
The Mass schedule for Immaculate Conception (downtown), Sacred Heart in La Gloria, and the Capilla de Guadalupe in Salina Chica, as well as a Caribbean sunrise Mass.
Thursday, Jan. 3 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 5 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 6  Día de Reyes/ King's Day   This day commemorates when the three kings or Magi visited Jesus & is the culmination of the twelve days of Christmas. Traditionally this is the day when Mexican children receive gifts. It is customary to eat Rosca de reyes, a sweet bread that represents King Herod's crown with figurines of baby Jesus hidden inside. Whoever finds the token in their piece is obligated to host a party on Candlemas Day (Dia de la Candelaria), Feb. 2, which usually includes tamales.

At 10am, at Ruben's Restaurant there will be a giveaway of toys and snacks for thousands of islander children, with los Tres Reyes in costume.. On the back street Guerrero, across from the Post Office & Mercado.

In the afternoon, there is usually an event at the el Pescador baseball field in front of Chedraui with entertainment, surprises, and raffles, hosted by the DIF social service agency.

Sunday, Jan. 6 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Jan. 6 is also Día de la Enfermera/Nurse's Day in Mexico. This special day was established in 1931, when Dr. Jose Villagrana said nurses were like a "regalo de reyes"...a gift from the Magi.  (International Nurse's Day is celebrated on May 12th, the birthday of Florence Nightingale).

Thursday, Jan. 10 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 12 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 13 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Thursday, Jan. 17 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Friday, Jan 18-Sunday Jan. 20 Oasis Fest Vol. 2: Pirate's Paradise with 22 musical acts, surprise prizes, and these events. Organized by Barracuda Board Co.   LINK 

    Friday: Urban Culture with a Hip Hop Concert, Workshops & Expositions of Breakdance, Rap, Graffiti, & Musical Production and an Artist Fair

     Saturday: Street Culture with Pirate Plog (Beach Cleanup), Ska, Punk, Rock Concert, Workshops, Games, & Get Together of Skate, Longboard, Parkour, Roller, Circus Arts, Murals

      Sunday: Caribbean Culture with Reggae & Ska Concert, Workshops in Skimboard, Palm Weaving, and Ancestral Vibrations with Conch Shells, Paddleboard Games, Live Painting, Raffle.


Saturday, Jan 19 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 20 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Sunday, Jan 20 Lunar Eclipse begins at 9:36 pm, Maximum at 12:12am (Jan 21) and ends at 2:48am. 

Thursday, Jan. 24 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 26 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 27 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Thursday, Jan. 31  Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

  Celebrating New Year's in Isla Mujeres
   To celebrate New Year's Eve, some families set up tables in the side streets with pinatas strung overhead, and dine on turkey stuffed with seasoned ground meat, while others crowd the Town Square for live music, dancing, and fireworks. Each neighborhood brings in the New Year with a bang, and the skies explode with color in all directions.
     During the NYE countdown, there is a tradition of eating twelve uvas de buenas suerte (grapes of good luck), each representing a month, with a toast of champagne or cider. The party on the town square continues all night long. At the other end of the isle, people gather at Punta Sur to greet the first rays of the sun at the eastern-most point in Mexico.  
     Other customs include cleaning your house on New Year's Eve & sweeping out bad luck. Wearing red underwear could bring you love in the New Year, or  your white undies may bring you peace, while yellow represents wealth. Those who hope to travel should grab an empty suitcase and carry it around the room or the block, and set it by the door. If you drop a shoe on New Year's morn and it lands "boca arriba" (face up)  you will enjoy good luck in the upcoming year. 
 The old year is represented by a life sized character called El Viejo, The Old Man, who is later filled with fireworks and set ablaze. He may resemble a politician, and he is usually holding cigars & tequila.
      Kids receive toys on Dia de los Reyes, January 6, when families, friends, and coworkers share rosca de reyes. King's cake, usually with hot chocolate. If you get the Baby Jesus,it means you'll be hosting a party & providing the tamales on Candlemas Day, Feb. 2.



Saturday, December 29, 2018

Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events Saturday, December 29



This is the live webcam at North Beach / Playa Norte. 
Follow Isla Mujeres News & Events on Facebook for highlights of news & events, and more photos & videos 

MaraVilla Caribe Bed & Beach on Facebook or Website

Isla Mujeres Charities on Facebook  

 Isla Mujeres History on Facebook or Website 

CHECK OUT THE JANUARY EVENTS SCHEDULE!  (scroll down)
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News from the Municipal Facebook site.....  (  FB page link)


Last chance to take advantage of the 20% discount on property taxes on Monday 9a-1p at the Town Hall and the police station.

Isla Mujeres prepares to bring in 2019 with a great celebration
   Thousands of national and foreign tourists are expected to participate in the annual end of year celebration in traditional island form, with music, laughter, and characteristic Caribbean flavor on the Town Square of this Pueblo Magico The general public is also invited to receive the first rays of the sun in 2019 in Isla Mujeres.
   The entertainment on the Town Square will feature Mega Boom with vocalist Carlos Montalvo, formerly of the Angeles Azules, as well as Jemanuael and the Panas of Venezuela.

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 FB News Sites about Isla Mujeres

  Tvisla Mujeres    


Ultramar increases its fleet and crossings to meet demand LINK  
   In response to the increased demand from the large number of foreign and domestic tourists who are coming to Isla Mujeres during this holiday period, Ultramar announced it is increasing its fleets and crossings, to avoid the long lines that have existed since Dec. 26th and are common at this time of year. On Monday, passenger traffic exceeded 25,000 tourists.
   Therefore they have brought in the ferry "Piolin" which has a capacity for just over 400 people. They have arranged to have extra crossings with 5 boats on the route between Isla Mujeres and Puerto Juarez, instead of the usual two ferries.  The extra boats are departing as needed, with some scheduled every 15 minutes. 
   It is noted that the Ultracarga ferry service (to Punta Sam) has a capacity for just over 400 passengers with its two large boats. The Ultramar ferries transport about 88 percent of the passengers coming to and from Isla Mujeres while the others travel on Naveganto and Marinsa.

More complaints against Telcel and Telmex in Isla Mujeres LINK 
    At the end of 2018, the Telcel and Telmex companies, both of the Carso, Carlos Slim, group, have not escaped the complaints of poor service in Isla Mujeres, concerning both internet and telephone service. For years, they have made promises about introducing Fiber Optics, which would significantly improve internet speed on the island, where the average speed is 4 megabytes, while in Cancun you can purchase up to 200 megabytes.
    The large hotel chains that now exist in Isla Mujeres have joined this wave of complaints, since many of their guests depend on having internet service. The problem also exists in the neighborhood colonias. Those who pay for service of 5 megabytes just receive 1.5 and those who pay for 10 are just getting 3 or 4, at best.

 "Ley de Hacienda" Finance Law debuts January 1st, 2019 LINK  
      This law was passed by the City Council on November 14th and will go into effect on January 1st, 2019, following approval by a majority vote of the State Congress, to continue the work of the current administration to meet the most pressing needs of the municipality. The main objective of this law is to strengthen municipal finances that are overwhelmed daily by demands and needs in the area of ​​public works and services, social development and public assistance, education and ecology, among other issues.

Isla Mujeres Al Dia    

Video saying Isla Mujeres is the perfect place to enjoy stand up paddle boards

Noti Isla Mujeres   

IM Noticias   


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 Link to Por Esto's Isla Mujeres section
Click on Spanish headline for the original article & photos

Full beaches   
Atestadas las playas de la isla

  On Friday, the beaches were at their busiest so far this holiday season, and businesses are expecting good sales to continue for the last three days of the year. The loungers and sunbeds were occupied, as were hammocks and massage areas, and visitors on towels were on the other available areas. The lifeguards were on duty and making sure no one went past the buoy line, and the security forces of the three levels of government were on patrol. There was not very much sargasso.

Trash Transfer Facility still has accumulated trash  

Estación de Transferencia, aún llena de basura

  This information has already been translated, noting that the Department of Public Services has removed about 7200 tons of trash from the Transfer Facility by transporting 60-65 tons daily to the landfill in the Continental Zone, and it is estimated that there are about 500 tons remaining to be removed. Before the second vehicle ferry company went into operation, there was limited space on the ferry to Punta Sam, which delayed the clearing out of the facility.
        During the high season, trash production is increased by 30 percent. There are plans to have the facility cleaned out in 2019 and to maintain that.

New tax could generate 100 million pesos  

Nuevo impuesto arrojaría 100 mdp

    For tourists who stay overnight in hotel rooms, the new Ley de Hacienda/Finance Law "Tourist Tax" for environmental sanitation  will be 30 percent of the UMA (Unit of Measurement and Update) per night per room, according to Article 56 of the 2019 Treasury Act of Isla Mujeres.  In 2019, the UMA (aka Minimum Daily Wage) will be 84.22 pesos, so 30% is 25 pesos. (~$1.35usd).  (Previous articles said this only applies to hotels with >100 rooms, located mostly on the mainland)
   According to Article 55 of the 2019 Treasury Act, this fee must be paid by users of rooms in hotels, guest houses, inns, hostels, and motels. "In the case of visitors who do not stay in any establishment referred to in the previous paragraph, payment must be made through the maritime transport operator of passengers with routes within the territorial scope of the municipality." (Previous articles, including in Por Esto, have said that this fee on transportation is 20% of the UMA, which would be 17 pesos (~90c).)
     About 5 million visitors pass thru the two terminals of APIQRoo (State Port Authority) (This statistic counts each tourist twice...departing the Puerto Juarez Terminal, and departing the Isla Mujeres terminal.) If 5 million one-way tickets are charged a 25 peso tax, that would generate over one million pesos. (If they are charged a 17 peso tax, that would be 85 million pesos. If the 17 pesos applies to a round trip ticket, it would be 42.5 million pesos.
    The current annual City Budget is 333.2 million pesos, and this will represent a significant increase, after it goes into effect for the Fiscal Year 2019.  Collection of the fee "will begin once the trust is established for its official administration, which must be formed within a period not exceeding 30 calendar days after its validity and it will be governed by a technical committee ".
     There have been concerns expressed by some members of the business community that this could reduce the number of visitors in the upcoming year. 

Preparations for the traditional New Year's dance  

Preparan tradicional baile de Año Nuevo

See translation in City Section above & information in Events section below.

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  This blog is brought to you by....
View from the rooms.

MaraVilla Caribe   Bed & Beach    Three rentals with large glass doors overlooking our white sand beach and the beautiful Caribbean sea, with  kitchenettes & fast WIFI. In the coastal neighborhood of  Bachilleres, among upscale villas & boutique hotelitos, convenient to downtown or the colonias, yet separate.  Quiet & Private.   
 Kitchen in a large studio. (Sur & Norte are identical)
Kitchenette in small room, Medio. There's a table & chairs across from it & a double bed.
A large slider opens from each of the 3 rooms onto the patio where each has a table & chairs, hammock & clotheslines. The BBQ is behind the pole, and the outdoor shower is outa the pic at left.
Large studio (Norte), I'm standing in the kitchen. A queen & single bed.

Free amenities such as hammocks,bikes, BBQ grills, safes, portable beach chairs & beach towels, washer & dryer, loungers. Breathtaking panoramic views from the rooftop terrace. Large sliding doors open to a patio & our backyard-beach, overlooking the Caribbean sea. Upstairs room also available. Downtown is  ~ a mile away; if you don't feel like walking,  flag a $2 taxi. Parking. You can enjoy the music & crowds downtown, then come home our quiet neighborhood of Bachilleres where you'll  sleep to the sounds of the sea.$275/$325/$425 wk   $40/50/$65nt  Monthly Discounts

Large studio (Sur) with Queen & Single bed. Slider door & view are behind me.

Fine dining a few steps away at Da Luisa or try the neighborhood eateries a couple blocks farther. Within ten minutes walk are a variety of restaurants including Mango Cafe, Brisas, Manolitos, La Chatita, Green Verde, Kash Kechen Chuc, and the large department store-grocery , Chedraui. Visit marinas, bars, & beach clubs that are minutes away by bike or on foot. Attend Yoga classes a couple villas away at hotelito Casa Ixchel. Fresh juice, produce & tortillas a few blocks away in the village, as well as a variety of other stores and small local restaurants. It takes 20-30  minutes to walk downtown.
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Regarding the reservations for New Year's Eve tables, in previous years, this is how it worked:
1. There are a limited number available to the general public.
2. They are sold in person, usually at the Town Hall, usually by the DIF social service agency. (There is a table outside for Property Tax payments. The DIF may or may not also have a table outside during the sales.)
3. The announcement of their availability is made when they become available, or with short advance notice.
4. You can watch for it on the City & DIF Facebook sites, and if I see the announcement before all the tables are gone, I'll share it here & on my FB news site.
https://www.facebook.com/IslaMujeresGob/
https://www.facebook.com/DIF-Isla-Mujeres-736399733175753/…
https://www.facebook.com/islamujeresnews/
5. Above are links to four Isla Mujeres FB news sites in Spanish, who may share the announcement.

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Full moon rising over the Caribbean 

Jan. 21   7:17
Jan. 22   8:24
Jan. 23   9:29
Jan. 24  10:30
 Jan. 25   11:30 
Painting by Pamela Haase
Sunset  ~6:17 to ~6:37p
Sunrise  ~7:24
January Events (& end of Dec)
Provided by MaraVilla Caribe & Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events

Plogging events to clean up the island are held on Saturdays LINK  and here's the Accion Isla LINK 

Friday, Dec. 28   Dia de los Santos Innocentes A day of practical jokes, similar to "April Fool's Day"

Saturday, Dec. 29 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Dec. 30 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Monday, Dec.31 New Year's Eve celebration on the Town Square.(See article below)

Tuesday, Jan. 1 New Year's Day Many people observe the sunrise at Punta Sur. The NYE party continues until dawn, at least.
Ultramar passenger ferries
The Mass schedule for Immaculate Conception (downtown), Sacred Heart in La Gloria, and the Capilla de Guadalupe in Salina Chica, as well as a Caribbean sunrise Mass.
Thursday, Jan. 3 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 5 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 6  Día de Reyes/ King's Day   This day commemorates when the three kings or Magi visited Jesus & is the culmination of the twelve days of Christmas. Traditionally this is the day when Mexican children receive gifts. It is customary to eat Rosca de reyes, a sweet bread that represents King Herod's crown with figurines of baby Jesus hidden inside. Whoever finds the token in their piece is obligated to host a party on Candlemas Day (Dia de la Candelaria), Feb. 2, which usually includes tamales.

At 10am, at Ruben's Restaurant there will be a giveaway of toys and snacks for thousands of islander children, with los Tres Reyes in costume.. On the back street Guerrero, across from the Post Office & Mercado.

In the afternoon, there is usually an event at the el Pescador baseball field in front of Chedraui with entertainment, surprises, and raffles, hosted by the DIF social service agency.

Sunday, Jan. 6 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Jan. 6 is also Día de la Enfermera/Nurse's Day in Mexico. This special day was established in 1931, when Dr. Jose Villagrana said nurses were like a "regalo de reyes"...a gift from the Magi.  (International Nurse's Day is celebrated on May 12th, the birthday of Florence Nightingale).

Thursday, Jan. 10 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 12 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 13 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Thursday, Jan. 17 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 19 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 20 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Sunday, Jan 20 Lunar Eclipse begins at 9:36 pm, Maximum at 12:12am (Jan 21) and ends at 2:48am. 

Thursday, Jan. 24 Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

Saturday, Jan 26 Plogging volunteers cleanup 8a-10a. Meeting location TBA. Gloves & equipment supplied. (See link above)

Sunday, Jan. 27 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square at 8p featuring dance troupes & singers.

Thursday, Jan. 31  Artist Fair 4p-8p in front of the Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero, at the cross street Abasolo.

  Celebrating New Year's in Isla Mujeres
   To celebrate New Year's Eve, some families set up tables in the side streets with pinatas strung overhead, and dine on turkey stuffed with seasoned ground meat, while others crowd the Town Square for live music, dancing, and fireworks. Each neighborhood brings in the New Year with a bang, and the skies explode with color in all directions.
     During the NYE countdown, there is a tradition of eating twelve uvas de buenas suerte (grapes of good luck), each representing a month, with a toast of champagne or cider. The party on the town square continues all night long. At the other end of the isle, people gather at Punta Sur to greet the first rays of the sun at the eastern-most point in Mexico.  
     Other customs include cleaning your house on New Year's Eve & sweeping out bad luck. Wearing red underwear could bring you love in the New Year, or  your white undies may bring you peace, while yellow represents wealth. Those who hope to travel should grab an empty suitcase and carry it around the room or the block, and set it by the door. If you drop a shoe on New Year's morn and it lands "boca arriba" (face up)  you will enjoy good luck in the upcoming year. 
 The old year is represented by a life sized character called El Viejo, The Old Man, who is later filled with fireworks and set ablaze. He may resemble a politician, and he is usually holding cigars & tequila.
      Kids receive toys on Dia de los Reyes, January 6, when families, friends, and coworkers share rosca de reyes. King's cake, usually with hot chocolate. If you get the Baby Jesus,it means you'll be hosting a party & providing the tamales on Candlemas Day, Feb. 2.