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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)
In accordance with the electoral laws, the municipal Facebook site has suspended the release of information as of March 29, until after the election (which is July 1st).
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From Tvisla Mujeres ( link to photos & articles)
Complaints about rental golf carts parked outside Privilege Aluxes LINK
Complaints from foreign tourist regarding timeshares they bought when Mia was Avalon Reef LINK
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From por esto Link to their Isla Mujeres articles & photos
Draft of new car ferry preventing its operation
Insuficiente calado impide operar carguero [+] Ver masFull article at this link
(Draft/draught is the vertical distance between the waterline and the bottom of the boat's hull, and determines the depth to which the boat sinks, according to its load.)
April 13 Allegedly, the problem that is preventing Ultramar from beginning car ferry service between Isla Mujeres and Punta Sam is that access to the docking area in Isla Mujeres presents a risk to the hull of the Ultracarga III boat.
When this boat arrived from abroad with two other ferries, Ultramar General Manager German Orozco Sarro had said that they planned to put it into operation at the end of January, but problems have prevented that. It has a larger capacity than either of the two ferries of the Maritima Isla Mujeres company, who have been providing this service for three decades.
An official with APIQROO (state Port Authority) said there was nothing preventing the Ultracarga III from operating since February, because they had already prepared the two terminals for this, but in recent days, information has been leaked indicating that the company alleges that it is not safe to operate the boat in and out of the docking area.
There may be rocks or remains of solid structures on the seabed, that could present a risk of breakage of the boat's hull, which appears to be why they want the access to be made safer, and cleaning work would need to be carried out in order for that to occur. It is presumed that these final safety measures would be the responsibility of Ultramar, since APIQROO has completed its job of creating a space in which to operate. As Por Esto reported, at the end of last summer, the state agency began the work of preparing the docking facility of Isla Mujeres, by hiring the services of a specialized company.
Serious problem of vehicular saturation
Grave problema de saturación vehicular [+] Ver masFull article at this link
Residents are complaining that nearly the entire area near the downtown primary school "Andres Quintana Roo" is occupied by golf carts, preventing the parents from having space to park their scooters when they pick up their children.
Presumably, in recent days the rental agency "Islanders" have parked their vehicles in this area, and a dozen carts of that company could be seen there recently. It has been alleged that the company, according to authorities, had rented those carts to guests of the hotel "Privilege Aluxes", which is located in front of the school. Mothers who were interviewed by the press explained "It is difficult for us to park in order to take our children back home."
The head of SINTRA (Secretary of Infrastructure and Transport), Isis Morales Melendez, said that it is her agency's responsibility to confirm that everyone is using the physical business address that is officially registered, but that the responsibility (in regard to where they park) lies with the Traffic police.
The problems with vehicular saturation on the island are alarming, and it appears that the application of the traffic regulations have been relaxed, making way for many of the 24 golf rental agencies to occupy the streets, particularly in long rows on the main street Rueda Medina, as well as Madero and Guerrero. There are 830 rental carts in circulation for operation by tourists, and another 400 carts in private hands, many of which lack complete documentation, according to allegations by rental agencies who have been sanctioned by SINTRA.
Demanding that their contracts be respected
Exigen respeto a sus contratos [+] Ver masFull article at this link
Some thirty tourists are demanding intervention by the Mexican government in respect to their timeshare contracts at a hotel which has changed ownership, and the case has already been answered by PROFECO, the Federal Consumer Protection Agency.
This is in regard to the hotel "Mia" located on the islet "El Yunque" at the northern end of Isla Mujeres. According to the plaintiffs, they each made contracts for timeshares of over 13,000 dollars, when the hotel was the "Avalon", which are not being honored.
It is recalled that five years ago, Michael Eugene Kelly, former owner of the Avalon chain, was accused of defrauding retired US citizens, and prosecuted. There were ramifications of fraud in other countries such as Panama as well. He deceived many Mexican politicians when he arrived in Cancun, including the former mayor of the City and the Governor at that time.
It is not clear if the fraud alleged by these 30 foreigners is related, and the local PROFECO representative didn't have more information, at this time. PROFECO is expected to pursue the complaint.
I apologize that this is unfinished, I will get back to it when I have time...Thanks for your patience...
UPDATE: I've done several of them
Registering for the regatta "Al sol"
Se registran para la regata “Al sol”. [+] Ver masFull article at this link
One regatta visits annually, and this one, "Al Sol" visits every other year, and this will be the 30th edition. Competitors are registering online for the event which departs from Pensacola Florida on May 10th at 11am. In the past, winners of the race have been from yacht clubs in Louisiana, Texas, and Florida.
The finish line is at El Yunque islet at the north end of Isla Mujeres, and the winners will be announced, according to category after the 'running times' are analyzed by the judges on Wednesday. The award ceremony will be the following day at North Beach.
The other regatta, Sol al Sol, will have its 50th edition two weeks earlier, and they depart from St. Petersberg Florida.
Traffic accidents increase
Aumentan los accidentes viales[+] Ver masFull article at this link
April 12 Due to the large numbers of golf carts for public and private use, the incidence of traffic accidents involving these vehicles has increased, with the most recent occurring at noon yesterday, when a rental from "Gomar II" collided with a motorcycle.
According to official information, Carlos Hernandez, 38, from colonia Salina Chica, was hit by golf cart on Rueda Medina avenue near the Naval Hospital. He was traveling from north to south on his scooter when a golf cart stopped suddenly, so Mr. Hernandez also stopped, but a tourist in another golf cart did not stop and hit the scooter. The tourist responsible for the accident, who is from Chicago, agreed to pay for the damages, which were minor. The traffic police verified this, and a paramedic from the Red Cross examined the motorcyclist, but there were no injuries, just a scare.
It is noted that the number of golf carts on the isle now exceeds 1200, with 830 carts for public use as rentals, and the rest are privately owned, according to SINTRA (Secretary of Infrastructure and Transport) and the rental agencies.
In other news, it is noted that the Isla Mujeres firefighters assisted at a fire by the Continental Zone of the municipality, on the mainland, at a tire shop in Cancun, adjacent to Ciudad Mujeres. The fire was under control by 10am.
It is noted that there is a good cooperation between the firefighters of Isla Mujeres and of Cancun. The dry season has already begun, when forest fires occur on the mainland part of the municipality, and this relationship is important at this time of year.
Preparatory soccer game today (Saturday)
Mañana tendrá un partido de preparaciónVer masFull article at this link
The municipal Soccer League is selecting the best players to participate in the state league of Quintana Roo, with league competition scheduled to begin on April 21st, which may involve all the other municipalities in the state. There are more than 20 players competing for a position on the Isla Mujeres team. The second match, which is part of the selection process, will be held Saturday, April 14 at 5:30 pm at the soccer field in colonia Salina Chica.
Dolphin facility accredited
Acreditan delfinario[+] Ver masFull article at this link
An Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) of the United States has confirmed the accreditation of the dolphin facility oin Isla Mujeres for meeting the "gold standards", according to the Independent Commission of Accreditation of that organization."Only the best zoos and aquariums can meet the 'gold standards' imposed for AZA accreditation," said Dan Ashe, director of the association, said that the Dolphin Discovery accreditation demonstrates that, "They are committed to exemplary care and the to welfare of animals", in their twenty dolphinarium facilities in Mexico, the Caribbean and the United States.
To be accredited Dolphin Discovery Isla Mujeres underwent a meticulous review to ensure that it has and will continue to meet the highest standards in the categories that include: animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation, education and safety. The AZA requires that zoos and aquariums complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years to be members of the association.
Preventing construction next to Garrafon
Cambiarán uso a vecinos de Garrafón+] Ver masFull article at this link
April 10 Mayor Juan Carrillo announced that the Urban Development Department of Isla Mujeres will change the land use (zoning) for two private lots adjoining Garrafon Park, in order to restrict any construction and to preserve the scenic overlook that is claimed by/belongs to the community. The Mayor confirmed that there hasn't been a request for a construction permit on this area of about 500 square meters.
This area was established for low density use by the Urban Development Plan (PDU ) of the island of Isla Mujeres. To prevent any construction, the Mayor instructed the Director of the Urban Development Department to change the land usage (zoning) from low density housing to usage for Tourism purposes (equipamiento turístico) which will prevent any projects, and allow the space to only be used for ornamental purposes, to ensure the permanence of this famious overlook which is 15 meters above sea level and offers a view of the Bay and the Cancun Hotel Zone.
Mayor Carrillo Soberanis said that the requests of the community will be respected, and that there will be no construction on lots #5 and #6, which are owned by an individual.
It was revealed that in 2012 the pair of lots were changed, for a sale between individuals, according to the file #183854 of the Public Registry, Then when the property was cleared recently, it was believed that the company "Pace Pros, S.A. C.V." was preparing to build, according to rumors on social media.
The Mayor explained that there has also not been an Environmental Impact Statement issued by SEMARNAT (Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources).
The PDU was updated in 2010, including classifying these two properties as suitable for low density housing , which the Mayor considers to be an error, which is why the process is being taken to change the land usage to "Ornamental Space".
Concern about tourism damaging coral reef
Demasiado turismo en los corales [+] Ver masFull article at this link
Asking that Mayan temple be reconstructed
Piden se reconstruya adoratorio maya. [+] Ver masFull article at this link
Candidates are registered
Se registran candidatos. [+] Ver masFull article at this link
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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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| April Events Provided by MaraVilla Caribe & Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events |
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| April 1 8:21 April 2 9:16 April 3 10:09 April 4 11:02 April 5 11:53 April 29 7:05 April 30 7:59 Painting by Pamela Haase |
Sunday, April 1 Easter
Thursday, April 5 Artist Fair 3-8p Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero at the cross street Abasolo. (It hasn't yet been announced when the Thursday Artist Fairs will be discontinued, which could occur in April or May.)
Saturday, April 7 Plogging Day 8:30a Running, jogging, or walking & picking up litter. Route TBA at Plogging Day Isla Mujeres & Action for Isla.
Sunday, April 8 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square 8p Free.
Thursday, April 12 Artist Fair 3-8p Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero at the cross street Abasolo. (It hasn't yet been announced when the Thursday Artist Fairs will be discontinued, which could occur in April or May.)
Saturday, April 14 Plogging Day 8:30a Running, jogging, or walking & picking up litter. Route TBA at Plogging Day Isla Mujeres & Action for Isla.
Sunday, April 15 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square 8p Free.
Thursday, April 19 Artist Fair 3-8p Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero at the cross street Abasolo. (It hasn't yet been announced when the Thursday Artist Fairs will be discontinued, which could occur in April or May.)
April 20-22, Fri, Sat, Sun. Isla Got Soul music event at The Joint. There's more information about the organization that is benefiting from this event here: https://www.facebook.com/IslaGotSoul/posts/572699899755186
Saturday, April 21 Plogging Day 8:30a Running, jogging, or walking & picking up litter. Route TBA at Plogging Day Isla Mujeres & Action for Isla.
Sunday, April 22 Earth Day Action for Isla usually has clean up events. The past two years divers and snorkelers cleaned under thedowntown piers, and groups picked up trash along the Caribbean beaches.
Sunday, April 22 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square 8p Free.
Thursday, April 26 Artist Fair 3-8p Casa de la Cultura on the back street Guerrero at the cross street Abasolo. (It hasn't yet been announced when the Thursday Artist Fairs will be discontinued, which could occur in April or May.)
Saturday, April 7 Plogging Day 8:30a Running, jogging, or walking & picking up litter. Route TBA at Plogging Day Isla Mujeres & Action for Isla.
Sunday, April 29 Noches Magicas performances on the Town Square 8p Free.
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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