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| This is the live webcam at North Beach / Playa Norte. HERE is a timelapse version, that you can set to slow or fast (fps-frames per second). It takes a few seconds to load. |
Follow Isla Mujeres News & Events on Facebook for highlights of news & events, and more photos & videos
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Photos from Monday's Carnaval parade by Bruce
Photos from yesterday...the last day of Carnaval, by Bruce.
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From the Municipal Facebook site..... ( FB page link)
Happy Day of Love and Friendship
Quality services provided by government during Carnaval LINK
Increased tourism during Carnaval LINK
During Carnival celebrations, tourism service providers in general benefited from the increase in tourism, which included enjoyable parade of floats and dancing troupes, as well as events on the Town Square. It is estimated that tourism activities reached 90 percent, due to the Carnaval festivities.
José Castillo Magaña, general director of Tourism, reported that Isla Mujeres has established itself as one of the favorite tourist destinations in the Mexican Caribbean and proof of this is the large number of tourists who visited during this weekend and this week..
Mr. Castillo Magana said, "Carnival is one of the celebrations that is an important traditional, colorful celebration in Isla Mujeres, and we have repeat tourists from the United States, who know the dates of these activities and they try to return to spend this time on the island and enjoy Carnaval."
Mr. Castillo Magaña said that as the result of the intense campaign of promotion being done for the island, with the support of the three levels of government and private initiative, there has been increased numbers of tourists coming to this destination, especially during peak seasons when operations can reach 100 percent.
He added, "Hotel occupancy on the island is maintained at optimal levels throughout the year and it is during peak seasons when we observe the most important upturn. Isla Mujeres is at its best and today we enjoy being one of the most recognized sun and beach destinations in Quintana Roo."
He said that along with the celebrations in honor of "King Momo", tourism is helped by the Island Time Music Festival 2018 to be held from February 12 to 17, which coincides with the holidays of people enjoying Carnival. It features an attractive line up of guests, including the renowned singer Lisa Loeb, who achieved number one sales during the 90's with her single "Stay" ("I Missed You") and she will perform in a free concert with other artists on the Town Square (tonight).
Families enjoy Carnaval Isla Mujeres 2018
LINK
Visitors and islanders gathered at the "Parque de las Iguanas" to enjoy some of the dance troupes participating in the Carnaval celebrations. The performing troupes included: ”Imperio Espectacular”, ”Carnacrudísimos”, ”Sapucay” , ”Explosión latina”, ”Son del batei”, ”Añoranzas en movimiento”, the troupe of the Renatta Dance Studio, ”Las primas”, ”Espectacular”, ”Fuerza social” & ”Alegría Caribeña”, ”Escándalo”, ”Coquetona”, ”México Mágico”, ”Perlas del Caribe”, and the senior citizen's troupe. (From yesterday's news).
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From Tvisla Mujeres ( link to photos & articles)
Tragic death of a tourist while snorkeling LINK
An American tourist from Kansas, Thomas Willian Wallas, 54, died while snorkeling at a reef area near Isla Mujeres. He took a tour with his family aboard a catamaran, which includes visits to several areas where tourist can enjoy the natural beauty. However, something went wrong after the tourist jumped into the sea, because a few minutes later he began to feel badly and became very pale. He was immediately put back on the catamaran and rushed to Isla Mujeres, while personnel on the boat gave him first aid. Paramedics from the Red Cross arrived at the scene and also tried to revive him, but he no longer had vital signs. The area was cordoned off and the police arrived.
Increase in tourism during Carnaval LINK
See City section above.
Installing intelligent cameras at the Maritime Terminals LINK
The Integral Port Administration of Quintana Roo (APIQRoo) began installing the first of these security cameras, with a budget of 800 thousand pesos. The budget includes not only the cameras, but also their infrastructure, including video recorder equipment. They are installing a total of 65 high definition cameras in the various ports of Isla Mujeres and Cozumel, with the intention of increasing security.
The director of the APIQQRoo, Alicia Ricalde Magaña explained that these are smart cameras that have the capacity not only to identify faces and make comparisons, they also identify the license plates of the cars, which will be useful for the cargo terminals as in Punta Sam.
These cameras will be installed in the ferry terminal (Isla Mujeres-Punta Sam), in the Maritime Terminal of Isla Mujeres, and in Cozumel at the ferry dock and at the port of San Miguel.
Seven prisoners transferred LINK
This article says the seven prisoners are being transferred to the Municipal Retention Center of Playa del Carmen, and that four are 'in process' and the other three have been sentenced.
Naveganto: New ferry begins operating on the Puerto Juarez-Isla Mujeres route with crossings LINK
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From por esto Link to their Isla Mujeres articles & photos
Hotel occupancy reached 80%
Ocupación hotelera alcanza 80%[+] Ver masFull article at this link
As of last Thursday, overall hotel occupancy was reported as 80%, and these figures have not been updates since the Director of Tourism wasn't working on Carnaval Tuesday, like many other municipal areas. Unofficially sources in the agency said there was an increase over the weekend when it was 85% and it may have reached 90%. When visiting some of the small downtown hotels, the reporter found some reported between 80 and 100% occupancy, while others were at 60% or less.
In general those in the tourism industry estimated that they were working at about 90%, in restaurants, hotels, and nautical services, on the days when the weather allowed. Demand for golf carts was nearly 100%, because in addition to demand from tourists, they are used by family members who participate in the dance troupes, or accompany them, or some of the Carnaval participants rent them.
And now that the general public will have another option to cross over to the island, when in upcoming days the company Naveganto will join operations on the Puerto Juarez route, which together with Ultramar and Marinsa would be the third to offer passenger service.
Naveganto offers free crossings
Naveganto dio cruces de cortesía[+] Ver masFull article at this link
See yesterday's TVIM section. This article notes that the Naveganto ferries are each
300 gross tons, 46 meters long (length) and 8.5 meters wide (width) with capacity for 200 passengers who will have the option of occupying seats in an air conditioned area for 80 people with ocean views thru windows, or the deck area with seating for another 120 passengers.The crossings take 25 minutes and the boats are named Lady Di T and Doña Conchita. The women's bathroom includes a diaper changing area and the men's has a sink for vomiting, in case of sea sickness.
Large waves caused nautical restrictions
Por fuerte oleaje restringen la navegación.. [+] Ver masFull article at this link
Activities by boats under 40 feet were restricted, as well as trips to Isla Contoy, due to waves that were over 1.5 meters, however navigation was allowed in the Bay, with caution. The winds were predominately from the east, so the waves were smaller in the bay than in the open seas.The Harbor Master explained that when the winds are from the southeast or northeast, they can cause larger waves in the Bay, restricting nautical activities such as tours from Puerto Juarez and when conditions are worse, snorkeling trips to El Farito and the lagoon area.
In addition to the weather, the fishermen are also affected by the ban on grouper which began on the first day of March (sic, first day of February) and ends in April (ends April 1), as well as having only two weeks until the lobster ban begins (which lasts four months). Therefore they have a month (March) when they are only allowed to catch certain species of fish, and none of the grouper species, which means they must be more selective and their production decreases. One of the fishermen explained that net gear and longlines are not allowed during the grouper closure, which makes their situation more difficult, and decreases their production.
The Harbor Master said that after the ferry company Naveganto completes its docking tests, which began on Tuesday, and the courtesy trips (which continue today), if there are no problems, the authorities will provide the permits to operate between the island and Puerto Juarez. .
Transfer of seven prisoners & news briefs
Trasladarán siete reos al Cereso de Cancún [+] Ver masFull article at this link
See TVIM article today and yesterday. This one says the seven prisoners will 'presumably' be transferred to CERESO in Cancun, due to its proximity to the island. Relatives and friends will have to spend more money to stay in touch with the prisoners. The status of the municipal jail has changed and it can no longer serve as a preventative prison or for sentences, and will resume being a detention center for administrative offenses.
Police impounded a motorcycle that may have been stolen and robbed, which was lying on its side on the pavement, without a front rim, and the seat was completely open. It is a Honda Biz with Q Roo plates VEE2W, and the owner may claim it at the police station and explain if it was stolen.
The Department of Public Services increased their activities during the Carnaval festivities, to maintain cleanliness and present a good image. There was an additional collection truck, and they did collections downtown five times daily. There was an brigade of 25 street sweepers who remained active in the tourism areas.
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See yesterday's TVIM section. This article notes that the Naveganto ferries are each
300 gross tons, 46 meters long (length) and 8.5 meters wide (width) with capacity for 200 passengers who will have the option of occupying seats in an air conditioned area for 80 people with ocean views thru windows, or the deck area with seating for another 120 passengers.The crossings take 25 minutes and the boats are named Lady Di T and Doña Conchita. The women's bathroom includes a diaper changing area and the men's has a sink for vomiting, in case of sea sickness.
Large waves caused nautical restrictions
Por fuerte oleaje restringen la navegación.. [+] Ver masFull article at this link
Activities by boats under 40 feet were restricted, as well as trips to Isla Contoy, due to waves that were over 1.5 meters, however navigation was allowed in the Bay, with caution. The winds were predominately from the east, so the waves were smaller in the bay than in the open seas.The Harbor Master explained that when the winds are from the southeast or northeast, they can cause larger waves in the Bay, restricting nautical activities such as tours from Puerto Juarez and when conditions are worse, snorkeling trips to El Farito and the lagoon area.
In addition to the weather, the fishermen are also affected by the ban on grouper which began on the first day of March (sic, first day of February) and ends in April (ends April 1), as well as having only two weeks until the lobster ban begins (which lasts four months). Therefore they have a month (March) when they are only allowed to catch certain species of fish, and none of the grouper species, which means they must be more selective and their production decreases. One of the fishermen explained that net gear and longlines are not allowed during the grouper closure, which makes their situation more difficult, and decreases their production.
The Harbor Master said that after the ferry company Naveganto completes its docking tests, which began on Tuesday, and the courtesy trips (which continue today), if there are no problems, the authorities will provide the permits to operate between the island and Puerto Juarez. .
Transfer of seven prisoners & news briefs
Trasladarán siete reos al Cereso de Cancún [+] Ver masFull article at this link
See TVIM article today and yesterday. This one says the seven prisoners will 'presumably' be transferred to CERESO in Cancun, due to its proximity to the island. Relatives and friends will have to spend more money to stay in touch with the prisoners. The status of the municipal jail has changed and it can no longer serve as a preventative prison or for sentences, and will resume being a detention center for administrative offenses.
Police impounded a motorcycle that may have been stolen and robbed, which was lying on its side on the pavement, without a front rim, and the seat was completely open. It is a Honda Biz with Q Roo plates VEE2W, and the owner may claim it at the police station and explain if it was stolen.
The Department of Public Services increased their activities during the Carnaval festivities, to maintain cleanliness and present a good image. There was an additional collection truck, and they did collections downtown five times daily. There was an brigade of 25 street sweepers who remained active in the tourism areas.
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| 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 & free WIFI. In the coastal neighborhood of Bachilleres, among upscale villas & boutique hotelitos, convenient to downtown or the colonias, yet separate. Quiet & Private.
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| Kitchen in a large studio. (Sur & Norte are identical) |
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| Kitchenette in small room, Medio. There's a table & chairs across from it & a double bed. |
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| 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. |
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| Large studio (Norte), I'm standing in the kitchen. A queen & single bed. |
Free amenities such as hammocks, bikes, outdoor shower, portable beach chairs & beach towels, washer, loungers. Breathtaking panoramic views from the rooftop terrace. Upstairs room also available. Downtown is ~ a mile away; if you don't feel like walking or biking, 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
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| 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 traditional neighborhood eateries a couple blocks farther. Within ten minutes walk are the restaurants Mango Cafe, Brisas, Manolitos, 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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Provided by MaraVilla Caribe & Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events
On Mondays & Thursdays there are poker tournaments at 6p at El Patio.
Feb. 1 Thursday: Artist Fair 3-8p Casa de la Cultura (on Guerrero at Abasolo)
Feb. 1 Start of two month ban on grouper fishing
Feb. 2 Friday Candlemas (If you got the baby in your piece King's cake, today you're providing tamales).
Feb. 2 Friday: World Wetlands Day (Usually there is a clean up in the mangroves).
Feb. 4 Noches Magicas performances 8p Town Square
Feb. 5 Constitution Day (National Holiday)
Full moon rising over the Caribbean
Sunset ~6:30p
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| Jan. 31 7:01 Feb. 1 8:05 Feb. 2 9:06 Feb. 3 10:04 Feb. 4 11:00 Feb. 5 11:54 Painting by Pamela Haase |
Feb. 8 Thursday Convention Center 7p Dance Troupes performing & competing at the Baile de Carnaval for women - Tribute to Michael Jackson Each troupe will dance for 15-20 minutes and judging criteria includes: Choreography, projection, performance, technique, group execution, and audience response, as well as originality, creativity, and total effect. Prizes are 15,000 pesos, 10,000, and 5000.
Feb. 9-13 Friday thru Tuesday: Carnaval
February. 9 Gala Night
Coronation of the Kings & Queens of Carnaval in all the categories and guests.
Presentation of dance troupes (performances)
Dance to the music of the band "MegaBoom"
Town Square 8p
February 10
Music by DJ's starting at 3p on Rueda Medina (Usually at Playa Centro)
Cuban Night
Presentation of the King & Queen of Carnaval
Presentation of Carnaval dance troupes (performances)
Band: "El Fresa y la Sentencia"
Town Square 8p
February 11
Music by DJ's starting at 3p on Rueda Medina (Usually at Playa Centro)
Carnaval Parade
Starting by the Naval base and going up Rueda Medina 4p
Children's Afternoon of Fantasy
Presentation of the King & Queen of Carnaval, Show of costumed characters, bouncy houses, Carnaval dance troupes, Children's costume contest.
Town Square 5p
Diversity Fantasy Night
Presentation of the Kings and Queens of Carnaval
Carnaval Dance Troupes (performances)
Show of Transformismo
Town Square 8p
February 12
Music by DJ's starting at 3p on Rueda Medina (Usually at Playa Centro)
Carnaval Parade
Starting by the Naval base and going up Rueda Medina 4p
Carnaval Monday
Presentation of the Kings and Queens of Carnaval
Costume Contest for Adults
Comedy Show by international imitator Pierre David
Musical performance by "Michael Stuart & Jemanuel & los Panas de Venezuela"
Town Square 8p
February 13
Music by DJ's starting at 3p on Rueda Medina (Usually at Playa Centro)
Carnaval Tuesday
Presentation of the Kings & Queens of Carnaval
Presentation of Carnaval dance troupes (performances)
Burning of Juan Carnaval & the reading of his last Will & Testament
Dance to the music of the band "Super Lamas"
Town Square 8p
Feb. 13-18 Tuesday thru Sunday Isla Time Music & Fishing Festivals Link to FB page
Feb. 14 Wed. 6:30 Free performances on Town Square by Jorge Blanco, Love and Theft, LOCASH and Amara Givelove, Kim Paige, and Kristy Osmunson and food available "Taste of Isla".
Feb. 15 Thursday Artist Fair 3-8p Casa de la Cultura (on Guerrero at Abasolo)
Feb. 18 Sunday Noches Magicas performances 8p Town Square
Feb. 22 Thursday: Artist Fair 3-8p Casa de la Cultura (on Guerrero at Abasolo)
Feb. 24 Flag Day
Feb. 25 Sunday Noches Magicas performances 8p Town Square
Feb. 28 Wednesday Last day of lobster season until four month ban ends July 1.
Sources for Weather Information:
LINK to Civil Protection Q Roo weather bulletin (Spanish)
LINK to Mexico National Weather Service (Spanish)
LINK to satellite images for the Mexico National Weather Service (Yucatan peninsula is under Satellite GOES Este, I recommend "Animacion" (it used to be in my blog margin, until Blogger became incompatible with it).
LINK to a private weather station on Isla Mujeres
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