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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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From the Municipal Facebook site..... ( FB page link)
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From Tvisla Mujeres ( link to photos & articles)
MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNMENT OF QUINTANA ROO REGARDING THE PROHIBITION BY THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES TO ITS OFFICIALS TO TRAVEL TO PLAYA DEL CARMEN LINK March 08, 2018 Chetumal, Q. Roo.- Regarding the decision of the government of the United States to prohibit its officials from traveling to Playa del Carmen, the Government of Quintana Roo states the following:
In Playa del Carmen and throughout the state, tourist and economic activities are taking place normally. Hotel occupancy today is at 80 percent in the main tourist destinations.
The police forces work day and night to preserve the tranquility of the inhabitants and visitors of Quintana Roo.
We do not know the reasons for the decision of the United States Government to issue this statement. We are attentive to collaborate with them in providing security to their citizens who visit us. We maintain a relationship of respect, care and protection for our visitors and provide security and attention for them permanently. US visitors are welcome in Quintana Roo and Mexico.
In the work of security, the Mexican Army, the Armada-Navy of Mexico, the Federal Police, the Public Security Department of the State Government and the municipal Police Departments participate in a coordinated manner.
This Thursday, in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, we will host a world-class event, the 2018 World Ocean Summit, which will be led by the President of Mexico, Enrique Peña Nieto, and which will also be attended by leaders from different parts of the world.
Federal officers carry out an operation at the Isla Mujeres Maritime Terminal for "Watch my Watch" store LINK
Seven months after the summons, finally on Thursday, the Ministry of Communications and Transportation (SCT) through the Ports and Merchant Marine Directorate proceeded to secure the "Watch my Watch" store which occupied a space within the the Maritime Terminal of Isla Mujeres.
For more than a year, the Port Authority of Quintana Roo has taken legal steps to try to revoke commercial contracts that were made during the previous state administration, under Ercé Barrón Barrera, many of them 'irregular' (illegal).
The director of the Integral Port Administration of Quintana Roo (Apiqroo), Alicia Ricalde Magaña explained that it was the SCT who notified the company owner of the store, since it occupied a space in an area that was not subject to commercialization.
It is a watch and jewelry store which shop opened its doors a few months after the terminal opened, however, the Ports Authority never endorsed the contract, since the area occupied was not intended for commercial premises.
She said, "They are occupying a space inside the waiting area and now it reduces the space for people waiting in line for the ferries." APIRQRoo confirmed that the recovery procedure for this space began last November, 2016 and finally, on August 24, 2017, the General Directorate of Ports notified the manager of the store.
Today, officers of the federal police cordoned off the store and personnel of the General Directorate of Ports began with the assurance procedure, which should be completed with the delivery of the facilities.
It is important to note that this is not the only case that is being pursued by APIQRoo, another pending case is the concession to the concrete dock "T" which was turned over to a private individual by orders of the then governor.
That contract is in force for 30 years and from which nothing can be charged until they start their operation, as it was set in an agreement that clearly seeks to favor a private individual. These contracts were made in a manner that contravenes the legal and administrative foundations of APIQRoo, because obviously they are made with the sole intention of favoring the concessionaire.
The US prohibits its workers from traveling to Playa del Carmen LINK March 07, 2018
The US government closed its Consular Agency in Playa del Carmen until further notice due to the violence that is happening in the area.
The government of the United States prohibited its employees from traveling to Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, in the face of the wave of violence that has occurred.
In the text released by the US embassy in Mexico City, it says that on March 7, information was received about a security threat in Playa del Carmen.
The document on the Embassy's website says, "Effective immediately, United States government employees are prohibited from traveling to Playa del Carmen until further notice. The Consular Agency of the United States in Playa del Carmen will be closed until further notice."
The US government recommends that the following actions be taken in this situation:
Be alert of your surroundings and be cautious
Obtain travel insurance that has coverage in Mexico and includes medical care
Contact the nearest US Embassy or Consulate if you require assistance
In addition, various telephone numbers, emails and Internet pages are provided for workers: For the United States Embassy in Mexico City, call (01-55) 5080-2000, email ACSMexicoCity@state.gov or visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/
Based on a sustainable vision and continuous improvement, this year AGUAKAN will invest 22,620,000 pesos in the introduction of sewer network in the South Zone of Isla Mujeres, to strengthen the wastewater system with the installation of more than 8000 meters of pipe. LINK
This information has already been translated HERE.
The leader of the CROC union in Isla Mujeres, Román Maldonado Euán said that last week they began with the contractual revision of the collective bargaining agreement, seeking improvements for the workers. LINK
He said that among the requests made to companies is the 10 percent wage increase, increase to the basic canasta (food benefit), a monthly scholarship to support the children of unionized workers, support to the National Council and costs of revision of the Contract Collective of Work.
On Sunday, March 11, the Anti-Rabies Vaccination Campaign will begin in the municipality of Isla Mujeres, which will be carried out by the Ministry of Health, and is expected to cover all the parts of the island. LINK The campaign is expected to cover all points of the island, from the downtown area, the colonias and the southern part, during which it is intended to apply rabies vaccines to all pets.
During this anti-rabies vaccination day, it is also expected to attend to the street fauna, as far as possible, since everything will depend on the support that is available so that the dogs and street cats arrive at the vaccination points.
A vaccination station will be placed at a different location each day of the week as follows:
Sunday, March 11, the park in colonia la Gloria;
Monday, March 12, kiosk of colonia Salina Chica;
Tuesday March 13, at the sports field known as La Jaula in the Salina Grande neighborhood;
Wednesday, March 14 in the park of the Colonia La Gloria,
Thursday March 15, in the irregular colony La Guadalupana;
Friday March 16, in front of the Casa de la Cultura downtown;
Saturday, March 17, at the Hormiguitas park in the Meteorological colony
Sunday, March 19, in front of the Naval base downtown
INE, National Electoral Institute is open at the Casa de la Cultura on Thursday and Friday for voters to pick up the 180 credentials that have been processed since last month. And they will be there next week Monday thru Thursday. No new procedures are being carried out. There will be one more date in the month of April, to be confirmed, which will also be exclusively for the delivery of credentials. LINK
Authorities seek to stop drugs from entering the Middle School LINK
A meeting about the drug issue was held at the Benito Juarez middle school at the request of educational authorities with participation by personnel with DIF (social service agency) and Public Security and parents in attendance.
María Cristina Martínez Rodríguez, sub director of the Technical High School Number 1, "Benito Juárez" who since her arrival has been studying the problem closely, explained that now they were forced to request the support of the municipal authority and thus establish strategies that they can guarantee the peace of the other students as well as that of the teachers. She said, "Parents take the side of the student and instead of reprimanding them for misconduct, there has even been a threat to kill teachers." The most recent case occurred last week, against a young girl, but it became more complicated, since the father took the student's side and made death threats against teachers.
Some of the parents reject the idea and think it is unlikely that there are drugs on the campus, but the educational authorities say it is more common and the serious problem is that they have found resistance from parents about facing their children's problems.
Ms. Martínez Rodríguez, since her arrival (over a year and a half ago), behavioral problems have been detected in several of the students, in addition to the fact that there was excessive consent (tolerance) from the same parents to their children.
As a result of these problems, it was decided to request more police presence in the vicinity of the campus in addition to prohibiting the entry of food, another issue that caused dissatisfaction.
She said there is little that can be done, since the Law protects the rights of young people, who are being offered alternatives, talks, to get away from the problem of drugs, however, little can be done without the support of parents.
It should be noted that alcoholic beverages, electronic cigarettes, marijuana and other prohibited substances have been found inside the school.
Ms. Martínez Rodríguez insisted that the education of the children starts at home and that is why we must work more on the values of the family and not leave all the responsibility to the school.
Journalist Loret de Mola confirms that it was a bomb that caused the explosion in the Barcos Caribe ferry in Playa del Carmen (Note Barcos Caribe doesn't operate in Isla Mujeres and is suspended from service in Playa-Cozumel).
"The explosion of February 21 in one of the ferries that connects Playa del Carmen with Cozumel, was not caused by an accident, nor by the failure of a machine or the accumulation of some fuel . It was an improvised explosive device, "Carlos Loret de Mola explained this morning on his Televisa news.
The journalist explained that according to a federal source - who requested anonymity - with access to the investigation conducted by the PGR of the explosion that occurred on one of the Barcos Caribe ferry on February 21, was caused by an explosive device, discarding the first version of a mechanical failure that was given.
In addition, Loret de Mola confirmed that according to the investigations, the bomb of February 21 was composed of five cartridges with the explosive charge, a metal power supply (a battery) and the activator, suggesting that it was a criminal attack against the company and indirectly against tourism.
Similarly, he announced that the bomb found on March 1 on another boat of Barcos Caribe, owned by the father of former governor Roberto Borge (detained in Mexico City), anchored in the waters off of Cozumel, was more sophisticated.
That second bomb was composed of eight cartridges with 'pyroglass' (explosive charge), had an detonation system with wireless signal receiver, that is, to be detonated to remote control, inside a hermetically sealed PVC pipe to explode under water, as confirmed the same federal source, which makes it more dangerous and that alerted the authorities of the PGR, for fear that these explosives could be replicated in other states.
The journalist points out that these bombs have had a "brutal" effect on Quintana Roo, referring to the warnings issued by the governments of the United States, Canada and England, where they have advised their citizens not to use the ferries and in the case US, prohibited US employees from traveling to Playa del Carmen and closing their Consular Agency in that municipality.
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Note: These incidents in Playa del Carmen & Cozumel involved Barcos Caribe ferries, who do not operate in Isla Mujeres (and who are suspended from operation in Playa-Cozumel).
NotiCaribe reports (I translated this one before TVIM posted theirs): Explosive devices confirmed on Barcos Caribe ferries: Televisa broadcast the first images of the bomb that exploded in Playa del Carmen and the one that was found in Cozumel
This morning on Televisa News, journalist Carlos Loret de Mola reported that the explosion that occurred on a Barcos Caribe ferry on February 21 was caused by an explosive device, and the device found on March 1 on another ferry was also explosive.
Regarding the explosion in Playa del Carmen, he said, "According
to information from federal sources with access to the first results of
the investigation, via an informant who spoke on condition of anonymity,
first with the Navy and then with the Investigative Agency of the PGR,
said authorities found pieces of brown cardboard, with a cylindrical
shape and there was the explosive charge; there were five cardboard
cartridges and a yellow wire connected them."
He explained that what was found had the elements of a homemade explosive. He said that in the affected seats, they had glued shrapnel and impregnated powders. (metralla pegada y polvos impregnados)
It was determined by the PGR that the device found days later in Cozumel was more sophisticated and designed to be detonated by remote control.
Mr. Loret de Mola mentioned that this issue is having a 'brutal' effect on tourism.
LINK to photos & article in Spanish on FB
He explained that what was found had the elements of a homemade explosive. He said that in the affected seats, they had glued shrapnel and impregnated powders. (metralla pegada y polvos impregnados)
It was determined by the PGR that the device found days later in Cozumel was more sophisticated and designed to be detonated by remote control.
Mr. Loret de Mola mentioned that this issue is having a 'brutal' effect on tourism.
LINK to photos & article in Spanish on FB
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From por esto Link to their Isla Mujeres articles & photos
Rabies vaccination campaign
Campaña de vacunación contra la rabia+] Ver masFull article at this link
See translation in TVIM section above.
Meeting planned
Preparan reunión. [+] Ver masFull article at this link
The Department of Infrastructure and Transport (SINTRA) has confirmed that it will attend the meeting with golf cart rental agencies which is scheduled for Friday and confirmation of attendance by the municipal authorities is expected at any time. The time and place of the meeting hasn't been determined, but it could take place at the Town Hall.
Among the topics they plan to discuss is "piracy" because the agencies estimate there are more than 400 "pirate" golf carts, the vehicular saturation of this type, and the application of Traffic Regulations which has generated controversy due to complaints of alleged fines without receipts, according to reports. The agencies say the lessors are outsiders, including some foreigners who sublet vacation rentals. "There are cases such as a single person who has eight vehicles, who aren't being bothered by any authorities. There could be complicity," they said.
On Monday, most of the 24 cart rental agency owners met in a popular restaurant, one day after the SINTRA operation in which several golf carts and taxis were stopped for alleged irregularities, which generated dissatisfaction. (Information about that meeting was translated HERE in the PE section)
The issue of piracy is not new in this resort, for years the owners of small hotels have asked that the dozens of summer houses be 'regularized' (made to comply) because they "compete without paying tax and in many cases they come to take customers by offering their cheaper services." In addition, some are also offering golf cart ride services, with the municipal and state authorities turning a blind eye. The members of the Association of Land Vehicle Rentals without Drivers suspect that there would be "agreement under the table in all this", because they can not explain why they are harassed about any minor issue while that segment is ignored.
Approach of cold front #35
Se aproxima el frente frío número 35 [+] Ver masFull article at this link
PE reports it was expected to arrive on Thursday, with moderate effects, and it has.
Isla Mujeres Helmets for Children: Campaign for life
Campaña por la vida. [+] Ver masFull article at this link
This week the Isla Mujeres Helmets for Children organization have been distributing 700 helmets for islander primary students. It is noted that increased traffic, especially in this high season of tourism, has increased the chance of accidents, and foreigners and companies are providing helmets to offer protection in the event of accidents.
The incidence of motorcyclist accidents has increased in recent years due to the exponential growth of all types of vehicles on the island, including during the hours of entry and exit of students in schools which has become chaotic, as recognized by traffic officials ." The students, the workers....everyone wants to be on time at their school or at their job, and at midday (when the children are going home from school), visitors want to make the most of the time they have to get to know the island with their golf carts and scooters".
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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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| March Events Provided by MaraVilla Caribe & Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events |
Full moon rising over the Caribbean
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| March 1 6:46 March 2 7:46 March 3 8:44 March 4 9:40 March 5 10:35 March 6 11:28 Feb. 4 11:00 Feb. 5 11:54 Painting by Pamela Haase |
Monday, March 5 at 9am there will be a Civic Ceremony commemorating the 501st anniversary of the first visit by Europeans to Isla Mujeres. It will be held at the Paso de la Tirguena on the Eastern Malecon (near the public bathrooms by the Town Square, behind the old hospital.)
Thursday, March 8 Artist Fair 3-8p at the Casa de la Cultura on Guerrero Avenue at the cross street Abasolo
Thursday, March 8 International Women's Day
Sunday, March 11 at 8pm: Noches Magicas event on the Town Square. Free
Thursday, March 15 Artist Fair 3-8p at the Casa de la Cultura on Guerrero Avenue at the cross street Abasolo
March 16-19 ? Last year there was a Festival for San Jose
Sunday, March 18 at 8pm: Noches Magicas event on the Town Square. Free
Sunday, March 18 Oil Expropriation Day
Monday, March 19 Day off for Benito Juarez's birthday
Tuesday, March 20 Spring Equinox
Wednesday, March 21 Birthday of Benito Juarez
Thursday, March 22 Artist Fair 3-8p at the Casa de la Cultura on Guerrero Avenue at the cross street Abasolo
Sunday, March 25 Palm Sunday
Sunday, March 25 at 8pm: Noches Magicas event on the Town Square is likely to be suspended due to Palm Sunday.
Thursday, March 29 Artist Fair 3-8p at the Casa de la Cultura on Guerrero Avenue at the cross street Abasolo
Friday, March 30 Good Friday The Via Crusis, reenactment of the Passion of Christ, begins at the Sacred Heart Church in La Gloria. It includes more than 50 actors and travels 5 km to the Immaculate Conception Church downtown where the crucifixion will be reenacted. They will pause at the Guadalupe Chapel in Salina Chica along the way.
Sunday, April 1 Easter
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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