Residents and transporters blame Asipona for the delay in opening the elevated viaduct in Progreso / Neighborhood protests demand that 46th, 25th, and 86th Streets be freed from trailer access Sept 23, 2025

PROGRESO – Social unrest erupted again this Tuesday, September 23, when residents blocked 25th Street and 74th Street, preventing the passage of trailers heading to the remote terminal. The protest, which follows demonstrations that occurred weeks ago, once again brought the operation of the elevated viaduct, whose construction has been completed but which has not yet been put into operation due to a decision by the National Port System Administration (Asipona) of Progreso, into the spotlight.

The protest was seen as another victory amid the conflict, although it was only temporary, lasting just over four hours. When the residents lifted the strike, the units resumed their activities.

Transport workers and employees of the Ingenieros Civiles y Asociados (ICA) company confirmed that the project was completed in late August and is ready for use. However, Asipona has not yet authorized access because it is in negotiations with the concessionaire, Autovía Libramiento Progreso SA de CV, regarding the fee to be charged for each loaded and empty truck. Meanwhile, port authorities have ordered heavy transport to continue operating on 46th, 25th, and 86th Streets, causing traffic chaos, accidents, structural damage to homes, and an unsafe environment for pedestrians, students, and families.

The situation has generated a chain of neighborhood complaints since April 2024, when the Progreso City Council authorized the temporary use of these streets as an alternative route. The measure, announced at the time as provisional by former interim mayor Roger Gómez Ortegón, has gone unresolved for more than a year and a half. Citizen discontent has worsened, as residential streets have been converted into heavy-duty thoroughfares, where traffic lights, speed bumps, and signs will be installed, which residents interpret as an attempt to normalize what should only be a palliative.

Pablo Chico Pardo, PhD in Architecture and a specialist in urban issues, warned that keeping trailers circulating in these areas represents an attack on the quality of life, family heritage, and the cultural heritage of Progreso. He pointed out that 25th Street (now 75th Street), one of the oldest in the city, is home to vernacular architecture and runs through the Historic Center, next to the Market and the Cultural Center. “Instead of using the viaduct for all heavy traffic, only those who pay the toll will pass through; the rest will continue to destroy the streets and the social fabric of the port. It’s a true urban and cultural crime,” he stated.

The transporters, for their part, disclaimed responsibility, stating that they are merely following Asipona’s instructions. “The work is already complete. It is the port authority that is preventing its use and that must clear the streets from truck traffic,” they stated.

Public unrest is also fueled by the controversy over the viaduct’s toll: one dollar per ton, representing costs ranging from 600 to 1,200 pesos per unit of cargo. Exporters and transporters describe the toll as “excessive” and demand that the federal government assume the cost of the infrastructure to guarantee free transit and prevent the city from continuing to be used as a highway.

Until the conflict is resolved, 46th, 25th, and 86th Streets will continue to be the scene of blockades, neighborhood clashes, and protests against a project that promised to restore peace to Progreso, but which so far has only increased social and political tension.

So far, state and federal authorities have not had any contact with the residents of Progreso.

Anyone who has enjoyed the rodeo at San Pedro will enjoy this report!! Silvia Rodríguez makes history in charrería

The young Escaramuza from Progreso participated in the Independence Parade in the country’s capital / She was elected in March as the National Escaramuza Coordinator of the National Charrería Federation Sept, 2025

PROGRESO – Silvia Rodríguez Rodríguez, a young woman from Progreso, currently the National Coordinator of Escaramuzas for the Mexican Charrería Federation (AC), participated in the Independence Civic-Military Parade in the nation’s capital on September 16th, becoming the first woman from Yucatan to take part in this major event.
Likewise, the young escaramuza rider attended the solemn commemoration of Charro Day in the Chamber of Deputies, where the activity was recognized as a sporting and cultural symbol of the country.
Silvia Rodríguez is thus part of the history of Mexican charrería, as she was elected last March as the first female national coordinator by vote, representing 18 states and the United States.
This is no small achievement, as for the first time, women on horseback had a voice and vote in a competition within the Mexican Charrería Federation, breaking with a tradition long considered a male-dominated field.
In this historic election, the new coordinator was supported by her peers to lead and strengthen the presence of female talent in the nation’s preeminent sport. In that election, Yucatecan Silvia Rodríguez obtained 164 votes, surpassing Perla Yáñez of Jalisco (148 votes) and Mariquel Villar of Chihuahua (33 votes).

INTENSIVE SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES….
Silvia Rodríguez stated that last week, with the help of the Federation’s president, Salvador Barajas del Toro, she participated in a busy schedule of activities.
On the 15th, she participated in the Puebla State Congress; on the 16th, she participated in the civic-military parade, becoming the first Yucatecan to take part in this major event; on the 17th, she participated in the highly anticipated national lottery for teams that will compete in the National Charro Congress in Aguascalientes; and on the 18th, she attended the solemn commemoration of Charro Day in the Chamber of Deputies, where legislators unanimously approved the official recognition of this tradition as a sporting and cultural symbol of the country.

“My mission is to strengthen the presence of women in charrería, preserve the tradition, and promote the fundamental role of women on horseback nationally and internationally… It is a source of pride to be Yucatecan and represent women in this sport that is part of our identity and roots,” she emphasized. (ProgresoHoy.com)APM Terminals and Yucatán agree roadmap to modernize Progreso Port with 3,215-million-peso investment.

Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena announced, alongside APM Terminals, the start of “a new chapter” for Yucatán in which the Port of Progreso “will become an international logistics hub with a private investment of 3,215 million pesos.”

The announcement was made at the port in the presence of Captain Claudia Hernández Soto, representing the Coordination of Ports and Merchant Marine of the Secretaría de Marina, during the signing of an “acuerdo de entendimiento” between Beatriz Vera Selbaine, Director General of APM Terminals México, and the State Secretaría de Economía y Trabajo (SEYt), represented by its head, Ermilo Barrera Novelo.

APM Terminals México also presented an integrated modernization plan for its terminal in Progreso as a long-term investment to be executed in stages over the next 19 years, with an amount “greater than three thousand million pesos.”

According to the state’s description, the modernization includes first-tier infrastructure, advanced technology, and the use of renewable energies. The plan is expected to create 230 direct jobs and more than 1,100 indirect jobs.

The Governor added that Progreso “will consolidate as a logistics hub that connects Mexico with Europe and America,” improving competitiveness for Yucatecan products and opening opportunities for young people to work locally.

APM Terminals is an international port and terminal operator that manages and develops container and multipurpose cargo facilities in multiple countries. It operates through locally incorporated entities that hold concessions and service contracts under national port regulations.

APM Terminal Yucatán is the operational unit of APM Terminals at the Port of Progreso that provides cargo-handling services under the applicable Mexican port framework and local permits.APM Terminals Mexico announces extensive modernisation of Puerto Progreso Container Terminal 19/09/25

With a vision to contributing to the economy and development of Yucatán and southeastern Mexico, APM Terminals Mexico announced a comprehensive modernisation plan involving staged long-term investments of approximately MXN 3 billion over the next 19 years. The plan includes infrastructure upgrades, equipment renewal and the implementation of advanced technology at its Puerto Progreso container terminal, aiming to deliver more efficient operations, higher safety standards, full logistical visibility and reliable service.

Through this long-term plan, APM Terminals Mexico seeks to advance Puerto Progreso into a new stage of logistical development, focused on raising operational standards and strengthening maritime and logistical connectivity in Yucatán and southeastern Mexico. At the same time, the initiative is expected to generate employment and development, boosting the state’s economy and supporting the local community under a vision of shared prosperity.

Keith Svendsen, CEO of APM Terminals, stated: “I’m proud of the long-term project at APM Terminals Yucatán, a pivotal step in modernising infrastructure, boosting capacity and strengthening Mexico’s position in global trade. This investment introduces new equipment, smarter terminal design and advances our decarbonization strategy. It also sharpens our focus on enhancing safety, service quality, delivery and cost efficiency – all underpinned by Lean principles that help us continuously improve operations. Above all, it reaffirms our enduring commitment to Mexico and our partners, built on trust, transparency, and performance.”

Beatriz Yera, Managing Director of APM Terminals Mexico, added: “We want to join Yucatán’s promising future and support the progress of its people. We will invest to boost the state’s economic and commercial development while continuing to share our expertise and create synergies with authorities, local businesses and port service providers. Our goal is to establish Puerto Progreso as a benchmark in port innovation and technology: a more efficient and sustainable port, benefiting Mexico and all Mexicans.”

At APM Terminals Yucatán, operations are guided by a long-term vision. To this end, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the state government to contribute to Yucatán’s logistical development and allow APM Terminals to share its experience and best practices as a global operator of advanced container terminals, fostering regional industrial growth in Yucatán and southeastern Mexico.

The company reaffirms its commitment to the logistical and economic development of Yucatán and the region with a comprehensive 19-year plan at the Puerto Progreso container terminal, strengthening its presence in southeastern Mexico.

Transformation of Puerto Progreso into an International Logistics Hub Begins Yucatan Times September 19, 2025

Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena, along with APM Terminals, announced a significant investment that includes state-of-the-art infrastructure, renewable energy, and more than a thousand direct and indirect jobs, consolidating Yucatán as a reliable investment destination.

Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena, along with APM Terminals, announced the beginning of a new era for Yucatán as an international logistics hub, thus sparking the state’s economic development.

“Today we open a new chapter in the history of Yucatán: the port that connects us to the world will become an international logistics hub with a private investment of 3.215 billion pesos,” said the state governor.

In this important Yucatecan port, the Governor and Captain Claudia Hernández Soto, representing the Coordination of Ports and Merchant Marine of the Navy, were honorary witnesses to the signing of the memorandum of understanding between Beatriz Yera Selbaine, General Director of APM Terminals México, and the Ministry of Economy and Labor (SETY), through its head, Ermilo Barrera Novelo.

With the vision of contributing to the development and economy of Yucatán and the southeastern region of the country, APM Terminals México announced a comprehensive modernization plan for its terminal that includes a long-term investment, carried out in stages over the next 19 years, totaling more than three billion pesos.

In his address, Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena highlighted the importance of signing this agreement, as well as the work of port workers, who, he said, are the backbone of the relationship with global trade.

The modernization includes first-class infrastructure, advanced technology equipment, and a commitment to renewable energy. It is estimated that 230 direct jobs and more than 1,100 indirect jobs will be created, representing well-being for families in Progreso and the entire region. “It’s not just an investment in iron and cement, it’s an investment in our people, in the future, and in social peace,” he stated.

Puerto Progreso will consolidate its position as a logistics hub connecting Mexico with Europe and the Americas, which means more opportunities for local businesses, greater competitiveness for Yucatecan products, and greater opportunities for young people to find decent work here without having to migrate.

“This agreement also sends a powerful message: Yucatán is a reliable place to invest. Our state offers security, social peace, and human talent. Added to this is the vision of a government that wants to grow hand in hand with the private sector, but always with the well-being of the people first,” he stated.

For this reason, the state governor expressed his gratitude for APM Terminals’ trust and for the coordinated work with the SETY (National Service of Tourism), the National Port System Administration (Asipona), and the National Coordination of Ports and Merchant Marine.

The Governor especially thanked the support of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, who, he said, has understood that a strong port means a strong Yucatán and a more competitive Mexico.

He also emphasized that the backbone of his administration is this project, which aims to ensure that Puerto Progreso remains Yucatán’s gateway to the world.

The general director of APM Terminals Mexico, Beatriz Yera Selbaine, affirmed that speaking of Yucatán is not an empty phrase, but rather a shared conviction reflected in the projects that are moving forward, the youth that drives many ideas, and the courageous decisions made in business and by the state government.

“We want to be an active part of Yucatán’s promising future and the progress of its people. We are going to invest to contribute to Yucatán’s economic and commercial development, but we are also going to contribute our experience and build synergies with authorities, local entrepreneurs, and port service providers to make Puerto Progreso a benchmark in port innovation and technology, a more efficient and sustainable port for the benefit of Mexico and its people,” he said.

For his part, the Mayor of Progreso, Erik Rihani González, celebrated the rebirth of this new phase of Progreso and affirmed that the City Council’s role in this project will be a catalyst to foster new and better opportunities for the entire state of Yucatán.

Progreso port workers excluded from APM Terminals’ investment announcement Sept.25 ProgresoHoy

Although the container terminal APM Terminals announced yesterday a $3.215 billion peso investment for the next 19 years in its facilities at the Remote Terminal in Puerto Progreso, the workers who move the goods arriving at that terminal were not invited to the event, denounced its leader Roger Arturo Sosa Estrella, general secretary of the “Emilio Barragán” Maritime Workers Union.

On the contrary, he said, they did invite the Catem Dump Truck Drivers Union, which does not work for APM, but is affiliated with Morena, which caught our attention, Sosa Estrella pointed out.
As is known, the Progreso dump truck drivers union, affiliated with the Morena Catem, is led by Franklin Franco, former councilman and former municipal official from the PAN party in the previous administrations of Julián Zacarías Curi, who was at the event yesterday accompanied by Morena councilman Elías Cruz Cámara and Miguel Ganzo Figueroa, also a member of the dump truck drivers union. Ganzo, by the way, is the father of former PAN councilor Geovana Leticia Ganzo León, during Julián Zacarías’ first administration.

After the event, which was also attended by Morena governor Joaquín Díaz Mena and the director of APM Terminals México, Beatriz Yera Selbaine, the leader of the “Emilio Barragán” union pointed out that since 1974, 51 years ago, union workers have been in charge of moving merchandise arriving in containers, as well as loose and general cargo at the port terminal. They are a key part of the terminal’s activity, so it is surprising that they have not been taken into account in this important announcement.
They indicated that as far as is known, APM has received an extension of its concession to operate at the port of Progreso for the next 20 years, hence the announcement of this new investment, which will be executed over the next few years.
Roger Sosa Estrella indicated that the Sole Union of Maneuvering, Maritime and Land Workers, Truck Loaders, Baggage Handlers, Related Workers and Similar Workers of Progreso and Yucalpetén “Emilio Barragán” is affiliated with the National Federation of Transport and Maritime and Land Maneuvering Workers of the Mexican Regional Workers’ Confederation (CROM).

It’s worth mentioning that the topic of the elevated viaduct was not discussed during the event, nor was there any information about when it will be operational, despite citizens’ demands that the streets of Progreso be stopped from being used for heavy-duty vehicles. As previously reported, citizens have already anticipated further protests and blockades to demand that the streets be cleared of heavy-duty vehicles.

The passage of trailers through the streets of Progreso: “urban, social, and cultural crime” Sept 2025 ProgresoHoy

Architect Mauricio Mier y Terán warns that heavy cargo continues to destroy the city despite the new elevated viaduct infrastructure, which has not yet entered into operation.

The specialist, a former professor at the UADY School of Architecture, described it as a “terrible decision” to allow trailers to continue circulating on the city’s oldest and most emblematic arteries, such as 25th Street—renamed 75th Street—which runs through the Historic Center and preserves part of Progreso’s cultural and architectural heritage.

“What was the point of investing in a first-class elevated viaduct, directly connected to the fiscal pier, if all heavy transport isn’t going to be required to use it? Instead of protecting people, they are condemned to live with noise, vibrations, smoke, and constant danger on their own doorstep. This isn’t development; it’s an attack on everyday life and the right to rest,” he said.

The architect pointed out that the city was not designed to withstand the massive traffic of tractor-trailer trucks, much less double-trailer trucks, which put entire families at risk when they go to school, the market, work, or simply trying to sleep. “It is unacceptable that, even though the infrastructure is already in place, they are given the option of paying tolls or invading residential streets. This condemns Progreso to the gradual destruction of their homes and the loss of its urban identity,” he warned.

Mier y Terán called on civil society, specialists, and all sectors of the community to unite to prevent what he described as a “huge public policy error” from taking hold. He asserted that a good administration would have assumed the cost of the viaduct so that it would be free and mandatory for all freight vehicles.

“Progreso doesn’t deserve to become a highway for trailers. It’s a city with history, with heritage, with families who want to live in peace. We can’t allow the business of a few to take precedence over the well-being of all,” he concluded.

Progreso strengthens its commitment to safety and prevention Sept19 25 ProgresoHoy

With the goal of reinforcing a culture of prevention and reminding everyone of the importance of being prepared for any eventuality, the Progreso City Council commemorated National Civil Protection Day this Thursday with a ceremony led by Mayor Erik Rihani González at the flagpole in Independencia Park.

During the event, the Secretary of the Municipality, José Efraín Escalante Domínguez, delivered a message in which he recalled that the date was established in the wake of the devastating 1985 earthquake in the Valley of Mexico, a tragedy that marked the entire country and gave rise to the national civil protection system. “That day is etched in our memory as a reminder of the solidarity of the Mexican people and the need to always be prepared,” he said.

Escalante Domínguez emphasized that drills are conducted annually in public and private institutions to strengthen the response capacity of citizens and authorities. On behalf of the mayor, he reaffirmed that the Progreso City Council maintains a permanent commitment to prevention and assistance, through the Civil Protection Unit and in coordination with other state and federal agencies.

He added that, in addition to emergency response, the municipal administration conducts ongoing inspections to ensure the safety of premises, buildings, and users, while promoting a culture of prevention in schools and various community settings.

The ceremony was attended by the Progreso Public Safety and Traffic Directorate’s military band and escort.

The event concluded with a call for a culture of prevention to be adopted as a daily habit, essential to protecting lives, property, and the well-being of the Progreso community

World Beach Cleanup Day in Progreso, Yucatán: Over 40 Kilos of Waste Removed Yucatan Times Sept 18, 25

The event, held in conjunction with World Environment Day, brought together more than 1,400 volunteers who combed the shores of the Malecón Tradicional and surrounding areas, collecting a staggering 843.9 kilograms of waste—far surpassing the 40-kilo mark.

This massive cleanup effort was part of a broader initiative launched across five Mexican states, aiming to eliminate 100% of plastic waste from beaches and coastal zones within five years. In Progreso, volunteers covered 1.5 kilometers of beach and a 15 km² area, working through six designated stations to sort and remove trash ranging from general litter to glass, plastic, and fishing gear.

The event was led by local and federal authorities, including Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena and representatives from SEMARNAT, Mexico’s environmental agency. Mayor Erik Rihani González emphasized the importance of civic responsibility, stating that protecting coastal ecosystems is a shared duty. “Caring for our environment is how we build a better Yucatán and a better Progreso,” he said.

Beyond the physical cleanup, the day served as a catalyst for environmental awareness, promoting sustainable habits and community engagement. The initiative aligns with Progreso’s ongoing “100xProgreso” program, which focuses on health, sustainability, and urban well-being.

By removing over 40 kilos—and in fact, hundreds more—of waste, Progreso demonstrated that collective action can lead to meaningful change. The cleanup not only beautified the coastline but also reinforced the town’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage for future generations.

ProgressEducational project for responsible pet ownership promoted in Progreso Sept 17, 25 ProgresoHoy

Members of the Citizens for Pets project present a proposal to address dog overpopulation and promote a culture of animal care in Progreso schools.

With the goal of promoting a culture of responsible pet guardianship and addressing the problem of stray dogs, Professor Gilberto Ordaz Cervera, a member of the Citizens for Pets group, presented an academic and community project to the people of Progreso .

The initiative, derived from her doctoral thesis, is titled “Canine Population Management from a One Health Approach: Can We Do It Better?” and seeks to analyze the demographics of dogs in Progreso, the social perception surrounding them, and the impact of educational strategies that allow for better coexistence between humans, animals, and the environment.

Ordaz Cervera emphasized that, although sterilization, vaccination, and adoption campaigns have been implemented, the problem persists because the root cause: the way society relates to its pets, has not been addressed. In this regard, he emphasized the importance of instilling a culture of responsible pet care from childhood, with education as the primary tool.

Two educational strategies were presented during the exhibition: workshops for middle and high school students and teachers aimed at empowering them to replicate responsible practices; and an educational package that seeks to teach about proper dog feeding habits in public spaces, also highlighting the risks that dog overpopulation poses to the coastal ecosystem.

The project is supported by students from FMVZ-UADY, who have documented that in Progreso there is a distorted perception of animal care, with low attendance at veterinary services, a lack of reproductive control, and practices that, although well-intentioned, perpetuate the uncontrolled presence of dogs in public spaces.

As pilot projects, teachers such as Alejandrina Tercero and Maura García shared the positive response from children and young people through activities such as talks, puppet theater, and the development of educational materials. Citizens Pro-Mascotas, led by María Manuela Gómez, also reaffirmed their support, emphasizing that after 15 years of work, this project provides a new approach.

Finally, it was announced that a proposal to modify the municipal regulations regarding responsible pet ownership has been submitted, although it has not yet been formally discussed by the authorities. The invitation to the community was clear: educate with empathy, prevent abandonment, and promote responsible coexistence with pets, for the benefit of public health, the ecosystem, and the quality of life in Progreso.

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ProgressConstruction of the Elevated Viaduct has officially concluded, but operations have not yet begun.
Saturday marked the 27th month of the contract with ICA and Incay, but the project still has no opening date. Residents and port users are demanding that it be free and mandatory to clear the municipality’s streets. Sept 18, 25 ProgresoHoy

PROGRESO – Last Saturday, September 13, marked the 27-month completion of the contract between Ingenieros Civiles Asociados (ICA) and the Yucatán Highway Infrastructure Institute (INCAY) for the construction of the elevated viaduct on 82nd Street, which connects the remote terminal of the deep-sea port with the Mérida–Progreso highway. However, despite the project’s completion and delivery, it has yet to enter into operation, and its future operation remains under wraps.

Transporters, customs brokers, and importers have reiterated that the viaduct should be considered an integral part of the deep-sea port, which would imply that its use would be mandatory and free of charge, in order to permanently divert heavy traffic away from the city. They argue that, if a fee were to be imposed, the law would require the creation of free alternate routes, which keeps the controversy alive.

The 40-year concession was granted to Operaciones Autovía Libramiento Progreso SA de CV, a company affiliated with ICA, to operate and maintain the 2.2-kilometer project. Initially, the viaduct was designed as a toll road, but upon completion, port users, led by the president of the customs brokers, Bernardo Mier y Terán Gutiérrez, called for free transit and mandatory use for tractor-trailers.

Despite pressure, there is no definitive agreement. The sign on the control booth at the entrance to the viaduct reads “Secretariat of the Navy, Administration of the National Port System,” which has raised expectations among users, who see the possibility of Asipona assuming control of the operation.

Meanwhile, on 46th, 25th, and 86th Streets in Progreso, which currently serve as alternate routes for heavy-duty cargo, residents are expressing discontent and confusion. The recent installation of traffic lights at intersections on these arteries reinforces the perception that they will continue to be used by semi-trucks, which contradicts the project’s original objective: to free the city from heavy-duty truck traffic.

46th Street, now a one-way street from south to north, continues to be the subject of complaints from residents demanding that two-way traffic be restored. At the same time, uncertainty is growing among residents, merchants, and truckers, while the viaduct remains closed despite its completion in late August.

With the contract date now expired and no official announcements regarding its operation, the elevated viaduct remains a source of social and economic tension in Progreso, awaiting decisions that clarify its use, its charging scheme, and its true role in port mobility..

The Progreso Lighthouse: A Key Piece in Yucatán’s History
01 september 25

Recently, I had the extraordinary opportunity to access the Progreso Lighthouse, which has been closed to the public since 2005. This special visit sparked a deep curiosity about the past of this iconic building, which many of us grew up admiring from afar during beach outings.

My research took me back to the days of the henequén boom in our region. During the early days of maritime trade in the state, the town of Sisal had been designated as the coastal hub for exporting Yucatán’s “green gold.” However, its location was far from ideal for such activity. This is where the story of our famed lighthouse begins.

By the mid-19th century, there was already talk of replacing Sisal as Yucatán’s main port in search of a location closer to the city of Mérida. This search led to the founding of the town of Progreso, envisioned as the perfect candidate to take over that role (a projection that came to fruition in 1941 with the completion of Progreso’s Fiscal Pier).

To speed up the process, in July 1870, the Ministry of Finance authorized the construction of a customs building in the new town. Exactly one year later, the Maritime Customs Office was moved from Sisal to Progreso, and the port’s first pier, a simple metal structure, was inaugurated.

The next step for Progreso’s growth would be, at last, the construction of the famous lighthouse. It would bring multiple benefits to the state: it would aid local fishing boats during nighttime navigation and, along with the pier, allow deeper-draft vessels to dock for henequén trade.

After installing the first observatory on the customs building’s rooftop and going through a complex approval process, construction of the lighthouse finally began in 1891. American engineer John W. Glenn led the project, although the Ministry of Communications and Public Works later modified it to replace the original iron design with a masonry structure.

The engineer oversaw the work until he contracted malaria, which led to his death; his son, John Percy Glenn, who had been working as his assistant, took over and completed the construction. Standing at an impressive 36 meters (118 feet) tall, the Progreso Lighthouse was officially inaugurated in 1893.

With 120 spiral steps and seven vertical rungs, the cylindrical tower was built on triangular-shaped foundations. Small windows surround it to allow natural light inside.

The structure is topped by a large dome, and its lamp originally ran on petroleum vapor incandescence. Today, the original French bronze motor remains, now adapted to run on electricity. The lantern has a 750-millimeter optic and a range of 33 nautical miles (about 60 km or 37 miles).

Over time, the site has been modernized to incorporate advanced communication technology. To oversee and safeguard the operation of this equipment, access to the lighthouse has been restricted to the public since 2005.

Although its interior is off-limits, the Progreso Lighthouse can still be admired up close from the street. It’s easy to reach, as it’s located just a couple of blocks behind the popular boardwalk, near the fiscal pier. Next to it stands the old customs building, now Casa de la Cultura (the House of Culture), which hosts a variety of art workshops for the community and also houses a tourist information booth.

This sturdy lighthouse, which recently celebrated its 132nd anniversary, has become a symbol of identity for the people of Progreso. More than a century after its construction, this local icon continues to serve as a steadfast guide for ships arriving at our port, not just cargo vessels anymore, but elegant cruise ships carrying hundreds of travelers eager to explore our coastline.

Asipona announces municipal operation on the streets of Progreso Sept12, 25 ProgresoHoy

THE ANNOUNCEMENT, WHICH SHOULD BE MADE BY THE CITY COUNCIL, COMES AMID COMPLAINTS FROM NEIGHBORS ABOUT THE PASSAGE OF TRAILERS AND THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW DEMONSTRATIONS AND ROAD BLOCKADES IN PROTEST AGAINST THE PASSAGE OF HEAVY LOAD UNITS

PROGRESO – This morning, the port authority (Asipona Progreso) released a publication announcing a permanent speed check operation.

The strange thing is that the measure was not announced by the City Council, but by the federal Asipona. It also states that it will be implemented on 82nd and 46th Streets in Progreso (82nd Street corresponds to the elevated viaduct), and 46th Street is one of the three streets affected by the passage of trailers. In reality, trucks travel on 46th and 25th Streets to enter the port area and 86th Street to exit.
Asipona published the following:
The Municipal Authority notifies that a permanent speed check operation will be implemented on 82nd and 46th Streets in the Port, coordinating the necessary actions with the Municipal Police for the proper execution of the operation.
The cargo transportation sector is especially urged to respect this provision, in accordance with the Traffic Regulations of the State of Yucatán and the Port’s operating rules.
This measure aims to ensure safe and efficient traffic on the port’s roads.
The agency tagged the Secretariat of the Navy and the General Coordination of Ports and Merchant Marine in its publication.
Today we reported that residents are preparing new protests and blockades against the passage of trailers on city streets, as the government intends to leave the Progreso roads as an “alternate route” for heavy-duty vehicles, despite the fact that a new elevated viaduct, costing millions of pesos, must be used, thus clearing the streets of heavy traffic.
We also reported that the City Council is preparing to approve new Transportation and Road Safety regulations to regulate traffic on city streets.

ProgresoNighttime trailer traffic will be implemented in Progreso, while the Elevated Viaduct begins operations. September 12, 25 ProgresoHoy

?? The City Council approved the new Urban Mobility Regulations, which restrict the circulation of heavy goods vehicles and monitor general vehicles, as well as motorcycles, scooters, and electric vehicles.

?Regarding the passage of trailers, there will be a #SpecialOperation while the #ElevatedViaduct comes into operation. This will only allow trailers to pass at night, from 10 pm to 5 am, to prevent accidents and protect the public.

? In special cases, trailers may operate during the day, but only with authorization and prior notice to the public, and always within the framework of a surveillance operation by municipal and state authorities.

?? The regulations also regulate motorcycles, scooters, and electric vehicles, seeking to regulate mobility for the benefit of pedestrians and motorists, as there have been complaints that many do not have plates, insurance, or licenses, in addition to not wearing their protective helmets, traveling in the wrong direction, or with more than two people per motorcycle and incurring various infractions such as not respecting distances between vehicles, and other anomalies, so all of this will begin to be regulated by applying the new regulations and the Traffic Regulations of the State of Yucatán. (Currently, the module for registering motorcycles is operating in Progreso and the license process can be carried out in Mérida, so there is no excuse not to be up to date).

? The measure on the trailers comes amid neighborhood discontent over the use of these vehicles on 46th, 25th, and 86th Streets, while the 82nd Street elevated viaduct remains closed due to the undefined toll rates. As we reported, residents have already anticipated further protests and street blockades to demand that the trailers be removed from the streets of Progreso.

ProgressProgreso residents prepare new protests against the passage of trailers September 12, 25 Progreso Hoy

THE CITY COUNCIL IS PREPARING NEW ROAD SAFETY REGULATIONS / THE ELEVATED VIADUCT IS STILL NOT IN OPERATION, THE GOVERNMENT INTENDED TO MAINTAIN AN ALTERNATE ROUTE AND THE REQUEST IS THAT THE TRAILERS LEAVE THE CITY, AS OFFERED

PROGRESO.– More than a year after the provisional measure authorizing the passage of trailers and heavy-duty vehicles on 46th and 25th Streets in the city began, the problem persists and the elevated viaduct on 82nd Street—a project that was presented as the definitive solution—is still not operational.

Even worse, as we’ve already reported, despite the multi-million dollar investment in the elevated viaduct on 82nd Street, some transporters refuse to use it to avoid paying for the toll road. Therefore, the government intends to maintain the existence of an “alternate route,” ignoring the peace and safety of hundreds of residents. Authorities also argue that the “free route” must exist so that it can also be used in the event of accidents blocking the viaduct, preventing the entry and exit of port cargo from being disrupted. Other voices have suggested that use of the viaduct should be free.

Meanwhile, public discontent is growing in the affected neighborhoods, where heavy truck traffic causes damage to homes, constant noise, and risks to pedestrians and students.

NEW PROTESTS…

In the absence of concrete responses, residents continue to organize and are already planning new protests and roadblocks in the near future, seeking to pressure the authorities to permanently clear these residential streets.

The first protest took place last Friday, August 22nd, when residents blocked 46th Street for several hours, near the Progreso sports complex, located across from the El Corchito ecological reserve. Residents stated that their main demand was to stop the traffic of trailers on the streets of Progreso, which are residential, not industrial, streets.

On that occasion, Mayor Erik Rihani arrived at the scene and listened to the residents’ complaints. He reached an agreement with them to inform them and forward their requests to the Yucatan state government and the concessionaire Autovía Libramiento de Progreso (ICA), which is responsible for the operation of the new viaduct. A 45-day deadline was set, ending on September 30th.

NEW TRAFFIC REGULATIONS…

At the same time, it has been reported that the Progreso City Council is currently reviewing the approval of the new Urban Mobility, Transportation, and Road Safety Regulations for the Municipality of Progreso. While these regulations do not expressly prohibit the use of trailers in the city, they do seek to serve as a legal tool for establishing sanctions, conditions, schedules, and regulations that mitigate harm to the population.

Neighborhood discontent could also spill over into the courts. The affected residents have expressed their intention to file legal injunctions to halt the movement of heavy cargo through the area, arguing that the measure violates their right to safety and a habitable environment.

Meanwhile, the elevated viaduct remains closed despite its completion, with no official opening date, increasing the frustration of citizens who see long lines of trucks passing by every day on streets not designed to handle this type of traffic.

Tensions between residents, truckers, and municipal authorities threaten to escalate in the coming weeks, in a conflict that has become one of the main social and urban challenges facing the port of Progreso.

ProgressFuel warehouse operation on the Mérida-Progreso line sparks controversy September 12, 25 Progress Hoy
There is talk of the confiscation of fuel theft, and it has emerged that the property is owned by former mayor Julian Zacarías, who clarified that he has rented it.

PROGRESO – A major operation by federal authorities was deployed to a warehouse located in the industrial park on the Mérida–Progreso highway, near Flamboyanes, where a suspected illegal tapping of Pemex pipelines was reportedly detected. Members of the Attorney General’s Office, the National Guard, the Army, the Navy, and Civil Protection responded to the scene, and Civil Protection seals were placed on the warehouse, without providing further details to the press.

The operation was carried out under complete secrecy, but unofficial reports indicate that significant volumes of fuel, allegedly related to “huachicol,” were seized on the premises. The warehouse was placed under federal protection, and as of tonight, no official statement had been issued regarding the seizure.

Hours after the operation, it was revealed that the inspected land belongs to the former mayor of Progreso, Julián Zacarías Curi, who was named on social media as a possible suspect in the case. Regarding this, the former mayor clarified that he does own the 5,000-square-meter property, but that he has been leasing it to a company in the hydrocarbon industry since February.

“It’s a piece of land across from a cement plant. I own it, but I rent it out, and I have no ties or relationships with that company,” Zacarías Curi said in an interview, denying any connection to the operations detected.

The former mayor, who served two terms for the PAN party, insisted that his only involvement is as a landlord of the space and that he has no influence on the activities of the company currently occupying it. Meanwhile, authorities are keeping the property under guard while awaiting responsibilities for the alleged illegal activity detected.

Cuauhtemoc training ship

After Tragedy, Cuauhtémoc Training Ship Returns to Progreso for Tours. Mexico’s iconic naval training vessel will dock in Progreso after completing repairs from Brooklyn Bridge accident. Yucatán Magazine September 11, 2025

The Cuauhtémoc Training Ship, Mexico’s flagship naval vessel, is returning to Progreso. This marks the ship’s triumphant comeback after a horrific accident that killed two crew members in New York City earlier this year.

The 220-foot (67-meter) tall ship will bring 200 cadets to Yucatán’s main port during a training mission and a public celebration. The vessel will open its decks to visitors, offering guided tours for residents and tourists interested in exploring Mexico’s most recognizable naval ambassador.

The ship will dock at Progreso’s deep-water port for six days, with an official welcome ceremony planned aboard the vessel on the first day. Various training activities are scheduled for the cadets throughout their stay.

The visit comes months after the ARM Cuauhtémoc suffered extensive damage during an allision — the maritime term that applies when a moving vessel hits a stationary object — with the Brooklyn Bridge in May 2025. The three-masted barque was departing New York’s South Street Seaport when its towering masts struck the 142-year-old span, killing two crew members and injuring 20 others.

Named after the last Aztec emperor, the Cuauhtémoc has served as Mexico’s sailing ambassador since 1982. Built in Bilbao, Spain, the vessel measures 297 feet (91 meters) in length with its main mast reaching 147 feet (45 meters) high. The ship carries up to 25,498 square feet (2,368 square meters) of sail and has visited more than 200 ports across 60 countries during its four decades of service.

Captain José Díaz Castillo, the ship’s former commander, told Mexican media that repairs are expected to finish by late September. “We estimate that by the end of September it can be delivered to the Mexican Navy authorities and the crew of the Training Ship Cuauhtémoc,” he said.

The accident occurred during the vessel’s “Consolidation of the Independence of Mexico 2025” training cruise, which began in Acapulco last April. The ambitious 254-day voyage planned to visit 22 ports across 15 nations before concluding in Veracruz, where graduating naval cadets traditionally receive their commissions.

Progreso last welcomed the Cuauhtémoc in July 2022, when then-Governor Mauricio Vila Dosal and other officials toured the historic vessel. During that visit, the Mexican Navy offered guided tours to the public, limiting groups to 120 people at a time due to safety considerations.

The upcoming November visit will provide similar opportunities for visitors to explore the training ship. Tours will be available through Progreso’s IX Naval Zone headquarters on Calle 27 between streets 76 and 78. Weekday tours run from noon to 2 p.m., while weekend visits are scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon and 4 to 6 p.m.

Cuauhtémoc Training Ship
Mexico’s Cuauhtémoc Training Ship hit the Brooklyn Bridge in May while on a global goodwill tour.
The Cuauhtémoc Training Ship belongs to a family of four sister ships built for Latin American navies, including Colombia’s ARC Gloria, Ecuador’s BAE Guayas, and Venezuela’s Simón Bolívar. All follow similar designs based on German naval architecture from the 1930s.

Beyond its training mission, the vessel serves as a floating cultural ambassador, carrying the “message of peace and goodwill of the Mexican people to the seas and ports of the world,” according to the Mexican Navy. Over its career, the ship has participated in major international sailing events and tall ship races.

The November visit to Progreso represents a significant milestone for the ship’s recovery following the New York accident. The National Transportation Safety Board continues investigating the Brooklyn Bridge allision, which highlighted ongoing navigation challenges in busy urban harbors worldwide.

For Yucatecos, the return of the Cuauhtémoc Training Ship offers a rare chance to experience maritime history firsthand. The vessel’s distinctive profile and traditional rigging provide visitors with a glimpse into naval training traditions that date back centuries.

If you go
Dates: November 10-15, 2025

Tour Times:

Weekdays: Noon to 2 p.m.
Weekends: 10 a.m. to noon and 4 to 6 p.m.
Final tours: Monday, November 15
Location: Tours depart from Progreso’s IX Naval Zone headquarters, Calle 27 between streets 76 and 78

Group Size: Limited to 120 people per tour

Cost: Free admission

Transportation: Buses provided from Naval Zone to ship

Recommendations: Arrive early, especially on weekends, as tours fill up quickly

Erosion appears unstoppable on the Yucatan coast, affecting several municipalities Yucatan Times September 11, 2025

Progreso beach erosion (Photo: yucatan.com.mx)
Since Tuesday, September 9th, dump trucks loaded with sand have arrived in Progreso, where the sand has been deposited on the traditional Progreso boardwalk, specifically at 66th Street, near the inclusive beach.

On Wednesday, September 10th, City Hall personnel, with the support of machinery, began spreading sand around the inclusive beach to safeguard the site, according to Progreso Mayor Erik Rihani González, who supervised the operations.

Erosion in Progreso
As reported, erosion in the boardwalk area has progressed, putting the infrastructure and visitors at risk. Therefore, due to maintenance work, it has been temporarily closed to the public.

The Mayor of Progreso announced that this action is being achieved thanks to coordinated efforts with the state government and federal agencies, the latter with the permits and the former with support in obtaining the sand.

The councilman assured that the sand being used in these works comes from the dredging being carried out in Sisal to deepen the access to the sheltered harbor, as requested by fishermen.

In total, approximately 1,500 cubic meters of sand will be used in this phase, which was approved by Semarnat (National Semarnat) to ensure compatibility with the Progreso ecosystem and thus avoid negative impacts.

Communities such as Progreso, Chicxulub, and Telchac have lost between 20 and 100 meters of beach in critical areas. Where there was once sand, only rocks or debris now remain, affecting housing, tourism, and fishing.

Beach erosion reduces sea turtle nesting grounds. In Progreso, turtles only burrow 10 centimeters or less before giving up, as the sand is compacted, sandy, or covered with debris, which impedes the reproductive process.

Recent projects utilizing geotubes by CICY and CONACYT (National Commission for the Conservation of Nature) have successfully recovered between 5 and 8 meters of beach in one year. However, their effectiveness varies according to coastal dynamics, and coverage remains inadequate in the east-west direction.Natural Risks fromTramping Around in the Jungles & Backyards of Yucatan yucalandia September 4, 2025

Most people heading into the back-yards & jungles of Yucatan have some idea about the risks from the small brown or black scorpions (a sting that makes your tongue go numb & causes days of pain), along with our poisonous snakes ( … Red-touches-Yellow kills-a-fellow coral banded snakes, Fer de Lance, Yucatecan Cantil, and our Hognosed Pit Vipers & Ratttlesnakes) . Yet most folks are unaware of our hazardous plants.

Do doubt some of you have heard to use care when picking tasty chaya leaves, to avoid the skin irritations … yet how many readers are aware of our asp caterpillers, our p’oop’ox plants, and our Chechén trees?

Let’s start with the asp caterpillers .. aka “flannel moth caterpiller”, “furry puss caterpillar”, or “Megalopyge opercularis”

These nasty rascals can cause you days of extreme pain if you brush against one with bare skin, and take no remediation steps.they come in different color variants here … yet ALL are just nasty.

Do not touch them … the pain, burning & swelling are *awful* If you do contact one:

1. Remove hairs: Use adhesive tape to gently lift any embedded hairs from the skin.

2. Thoroughly wash the area with soap and water.

3. To reduce subsequent symptoms, apply an ice pack to help with pain and swelling, or use a hydrocortisone cream to alleviate itching and redness.

4. If the rash worsens or if you experience severe symptoms, seek medical help.

…
Next … The vine-like weed that Maya people call p’oop’ox.
If you go out to weedy areas or agricultural areas, rural areas, or on the edges of the jungle, there is a slightly-vine-like plant, called p’oop’ox in Maya, (Tragia yucatensis), whose leaves cause 15 – 30 minutes of intense burning if you touch them.

Next: Out in the jungles of Yucatan, we have the Chechén tree that has toxic sap, where touching the trunk of the Chechén tree ( Metopium brownei ), causes rashes & burning because it’s poisonous sap contains urushiol, the same irritant found in poison ivy, causing a severe, blistering rash upon contact.

When you encounter a typical mature Chechén tree here, it has no lower branches below about 15′ to 25′ – but touching the bark (esp. the sap) with bare skin is worse than poison ivy. The leaves also contain urusiol, but they are typically up high -not in contact with human skin.

The Chechén tree has a contrast of dark, ruffled leaves and a bright white bark with black sap running from its trunk. Remember the image below with the distinctive trunk & black sap.

There is a corresponding charming Maya story about the antidote for the Chechén tree, called the red-barked Chacáh tree (Bursera simaruba) … The nectar of the Chacáh tree contains chemical constituents that act as an antidote to the Chechén’s poison.

Maya stories say that these two trees “always” grow within a few yards of each other, leading to Mayan folklore that tells about a tragic love story between them

Finally, I am left describing a kind of ant, that I am still waiting for someone to give either a common name to … or Latin name for. There are some smallish back-yard ants here that swarm & bite – aggressively … As smallish ones, they are 2mm-3mm long => not tiny, with sturdy bodies … that are dark reddish brown in color. Maybe someone can reply with their name. In over 35 yrs here, I have never encountered them inside a home, but they do like our back yards here.

If attacked, quickly brush or flush them off, and scoot out of their territory … and then wash the affected area. Because the pain of their bites comes from Formic Acid, baking soda can help with the pain & burning sensations in severe cases.

and … as Dermatologists often recommend, if you are having allergic reactions or unusual swelling, Benedryl creme or Caladryl lotion can help. Yucalandia/Surviving Yucatan.© Steven M. Fry

Independence Day Celebrations in Progreso

In México, September is all about pride and celebration—and in the coastal town of Progreso, the patriotic spirit comes alive in a big way. Progreso’s City Hall has prepared a full program of activities to honor México’s Independence, and here’s everything you need to know:

September 12, 7 pm – Festivities kick off with a lively Mexican Zumbatón at Parque de la Independencia.

September 13 – At 5:30 pm, excitement rises with the Torch Run starting at the Chicxulub police station. Later, at 7 pm, enjoy the Mexican Night “Viva Progreso” at Parque de la Independencia.

September 14 – At 7 pm, catch the colorful parade celebrating Mexican Charro Day. At 7:45 pm, head to the Monument to Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla and Parque de la Independencia for the floral offering, and stay for the Mexican Charro Day Festival at 8 pm.

September 15 – The main Independence festivities begin at 7 pm with the Mexican Independence Festival. At 8 pm, don’t miss the coronation of Señorita Independencia 2025, followed by traditional food and drinks at 9 pm. The highlight of the night takes place at 10:30 pm with the iconic Grito de Independencia ceremony at the Palacio Municipal’s Sala Juárez.

September 16 – The celebrations wrap up with the flag-raising ceremony at 7:30 am at Parque de la Independencia, followed by the Independence Day Parade at 8 am.

Progreso invites you to celebrate Independence Day by the sea—filled with tradition, flavors, and joy!

MÉRIDA.– Uber announced the update to its app for drivers in Mérida with two important new features: the rider seniority tag and “Alert Zones.” These new features are displayed on the offer screen before accepting a ride and aim to improve the driver experience by providing greater control and transparency, without impacting the rider experience.

“Thanks to consistent listening efforts, we know that drivers in Mérida appreciate more information and clarity regarding their trips,” said Cecilia Román, Safety Communications Manager for Uber in Mexico.
Our teams have been working on these updates for the past few months to improve the experience with the Uber app, whether you’re a new driver in a city or looking to better understand each request.

At the same time, we implemented testing and feedback periods to ensure that the user experience is not impacted.”

Updates to the Uber app for drivers in Mérida include:

? Rider Length: On the ride request screen, a section appears showing the rider’s rating along with the number of rides they have completed using the Uber app. The number of rides appears in parentheses ( ).

? ‘Alert Zones’: An alert icon that may appear next to pickup or drop-off points, based on a model that uses public information, reports from other drivers, and trip logs made through the app. The address appears in brown, with an attention icon ( ? ).

With this update, drivers will be able to easily identify ride requests that won’t impact their acceptance rate.
These improvements are combined with driver safety controls in the Uber app; from mandatory verification processes for all riders—including methods like
ID scanning or photo filters—to the use of artificial intelligence to require additional verification on potentially higher-risk ride requests and to detect duplicate rider registrations. Uber also enforces a policy against inappropriate rider names, with an in-app option for drivers to report cases of
noncompliance. For ride requests, Uber predetermines ride pickup and drop-off points to give drivers greater peace of mind, and offers options to
filter ride requests by a rider’s minimum rating.

These measures complement the options available to drivers on every trip, such as PIN code verification, the ability to share their rides with trusted contacts,
encrypted video recording, as well as insurance coverage and a 24/7 support line. Published Aug.12th ,2025 ProgresoHoy

September 4, 2025 ProgressHoy

PROGRESO.– The Progreso elevated viaduct, whose construction is now complete, should be part of the port infrastructure, and its use should be free and mandatory, proposed Bernardo Mier y Terán Gutiérrez, president of the Yucatán Customs Agents Association.

The leader maintained that the federal government, through the National Port System Administration (Asipona) of Progreso, should acquire the project from ICA for the $1.5 billion it cost, so that it ceases to be a private concession and becomes part of the deep-sea port’s facilities.

Mier y Terán recalled that the viaduct was conceived as a solution to free the port from the passage of more than 12,000 vehicles and 1,400 containers daily, which currently transit along 46th, 86th, and 25th Streets, causing noise, road damage, and affecting residents. “This infrastructure cannot become a private business. No port in the world charges a fee to enter or leave port facilities; Progreso would be the first to do so, which would harm foreign trade,” he warned in an interview published today by Diario de Yucatán.

The 2.2-kilometer-long elevated bridge directly connects the Mérida–Progreso highway with the Remote Terminal. It was designed to improve mobility, reduce pollution, and reclaim urban spaces with green areas, linear parks, and bike paths. However, although the work is complete and a control booth has even been built at the city entrance, the Asipona has not yet set an opening date.

The customs leader noted that they have raised this issue with Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena in meetings regarding the port expansion, insisting that the project should be federal and managed by Asipona. He also emphasized that, in the event of an accident on the viaduct, there must be an alternate route to prevent maritime and port activity from being paralyzed.

“What’s needed now is for Asipona to ‘thank’ ICA, pay for the project, and operate the viaduct. For the Federation, $1.5 billion doesn’t represent a large investment compared to the benefits it will bring to the city and the port,” he said.

Residents of 46th and 25th Streets, who have endured the constant passage of semi-trucks for over a year, also hope the viaduct will be put back into operation as soon as possible. They have demanded that two-way traffic be restored to 46th Street and that trucks be stopped from circulating on those arteries, restoring peace of mind to the affected neighborhoods. As is known, residents recently held a protest, blocking 46th Street, and after the demonstration agreed with Mayor Erik Rihani on a 45-day deadline to clear the streets of heavy-duty trucks.

With the completion of the ICA’s work, the final decision rests with Asipona, which must decide the future of one of the most controversial and strategic projects for the port development of Yucatán.

Just yesterday, Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena himself announced that Asipona, which held its council meeting yesterday, will set the date for the viaduct’s inauguration.

They are asking that the Progreso elevated viaduct not be tolled: that it be free and part of the port infrastructure.

The leader of the Yucatan customs agents proposes that the federal government pay ICA for the work and that the bridge be operated by the Progreso Asipona (Asipona of Progress). Sept 4, 2025 ProgresoHoy

Just yesterday, Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena himself announced that Asipona, which held its council meeting yesterday, will set the date for the viaduct’s inauguration.

The elevated viaduct in Progreso is ready for operation

written by Yucatan Times August 26, 2025

The long-awaited elevated viaduct over 82nd Street in Progreso, Yucatán, is now officially complete and ready for operation as of August 2025, marking a major milestone in regional infrastructure development.

This ambitious project, spanning 2.7 kilometers, was designed to alleviate chronic traffic congestion and streamline cargo transport between the Puerto de Altura and the Mérida-Progreso highway.

Constructed by ICA Constructora under the supervision of the Yucatán State Highway Infrastructure Institute (INCAY), the viaduct features two lanes in each direction, with additional shoulders to accommodate heavy vehicles. It is expected to divert over 12,000 vehicles and 1,400 cargo containers daily away from Progreso’s urban core, significantly reducing noise, pollution, and wear on local roads.

The State Government and municipal authorities have emphasized the viaduct’s role in transforming mobility in the region. The project also includes green spaces, parks, and a dedicated bicycle path, reclaiming public areas and enhancing the urban landscape.

Originally slated for completion in mid-2024, the viaduct faced delays due to design modifications and an extension from 2.2 to 2.7 kilometers, pushing the final construction phase into August 2025. The structure now connects the remote terminal of the high port directly to the federal highway, bypassing central Progreso and improving logistics efficiency.

With construction finalized, traffic flow has resumed along the new elevated route, and additional work on lighting, landscaping, and pedestrian access is underway. Local businesses and residents have welcomed the change, anticipating improved safety and economic growth.

The viaduct symbolizes Yucatán’s commitment to sustainable urban planning and modern infrastructure, positioning Progreso as a more accessible and livable coastal city.

Progreso certifies its beaches with the Blue Flag for the sixth consecutive year. August 7, 2025 Progreso Hoy

PROGRESO – For the sixth consecutive year, the City of Progreso certified its beaches with the international Blue Flag, which certifies the cleanliness, safety, environmental management, sustainable tourism, and water quality of these environments.

In a ceremony held this morning on the traditional boardwalk, Mayor Erik Rihani González and Diego Díaz Hernández, Director of Operations and Finance for the Foundation for Environmental Education in Mexico, raised the flag on the traditional boardwalk and presented certification certificates for the beaches of the international boardwalk.
The Mayor of Progreso recognized the teamwork of the entire City Council, as well as the public, in ratifying the Blue Flag.
Mayor Erik Rihani also addressed the erosion affecting part of that beach area and said they are already working to restore the affected areas of the boardwalk. He said that documents have already been submitted to federal authorities to begin the restoration work, but they have not yet received a formal response, as it is still being processed.
Regarding the red tide, he said that these were patches that affected some areas and that the algal blooms have spread toward the western coast, to other municipalities, so that today, the beaches of Progreso are in optimal condition to receive tourists.
He added that the algal blooms caused the arrival of live octopuses and the washing up of some dead species, which are already being removed from the beach area to prevent tourist injuries.
For his part, Diego Díaz Hernández, director of operations and finance for the Foundation for Environmental Education in Mexico, said that the erosion issue does not affect beach certification, as this distinction involves other aspects such as environmental education and management, as well as sustainable tourism activities.
He added that with this distinction, Progreso joins a total of 80 beaches, one marina, and 41 boats in Mexico that have the Blue Flag certification.

Mérida, Yucatán, will host the Forum on Technological Innovation Applied to Sargassum, a multidisciplinary event aimed at tackling the environmental and economic challenges posed by massive sargassum influxes along Mexico’s coasts. Organized by the Secretariat of Science, Humanities, Technology, and Innovation (Secihti), the forum will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Software Technology Institute in Colonia México. Admission is free.

The event brings together academia, government, industry, and civil society to explore sustainable solutions for managing sargassum, a macroalgae whose proliferation has disrupted marine ecosystems and tourism across the Caribbean. The program includes a keynote lecture, student project presentations from the Center for Scientific Research of Yucatán (CICY), and a panel discussion featuring experts in marine biotechnology, circular economy, and technology transfer.

Among the highlighted innovations is a patent-pending chemical process developed by CICY researcher Karla Azcorra May to convert sargassum into biogas. Another initiative, led by Beatriz Escobar Morales, focuses on transforming the algae into biochar for renewable energy applications.

Speakers will also address the ecological risks of improper sargassum handling, including dermatitis, damage to turtle nesting grounds, and disruption of seagrass beds. The forum emphasizes that while sargassum can absorb heavy metals and serve as a marine habitat, its unchecked accumulation reflects broader environmental imbalances.

As sargassum becomes a “new normal” in the Caribbean, the forum aims to reframe the crisis as an opportunity for innovation, collaboration, and ecological resilience. Source: CICY

The mayor of Progreso issues recommendations regarding dangerous marine speciesYucatan Times Aug 4, 2025

Amid the holiday season, the mayor of Progreso, Erik Rihani González, warned about the washing up of potentially dangerous marine species, such as stingrays and toadfish, which have spines that could injure swimmers.

The mayor explained that this type of phenomenon is relatively common during this time of year. Since the first sightings, reported on August 1st in the Blue Flag Beach area between the two seawalls, prevention protocols have been activated, and an official recommendation has been issued for visitors to take precautions before entering the sea.

So far, no injuries have been reported; however, the mayor asked the public to report any sightings of these species to the emergency number 911 and to avoid direct handling of marine animals.

Regarding the security and tourist assistance operation, the mayor acknowledged that the influx of visitors has been increasing, which has represented a challenge in terms of mobility and civil protection. He emphasized that significant efforts have been made, such as the acquisition of vehicles, patrol cars, motorcycles, and the reinforcement of personnel.

He also underlined that close collaboration is maintained with the State Government, the National Guard, the Navy, and the Army to provide adequate assistance to visitors.

Dead fish near the coast of Progreso puts authorities in alert August 4, 2025

This situation had previously been reported by the local press, in mid-July, when fishermen commented that, although algae patches had been reported 40 kilometers off the state’s eastern coast, they had seen them off Cervera Island, across from the deep-water port.

At the time, they mentioned that this complicates the situation for seafarers, as the fish were no longer eating, and with the approaching start of octopus season, they would have to resort to squid fishing.

However, just a few days before the season began, that bad omen didn’t come true.

On Sunday, August 3rd, on the eastern side of the port, at the “end of the Progreso Pier, images were captured showing several dead fish floating, as well as dozens of crustaceans swimming toward that area to feed on the remains.

Regarding the red tide, authorities have previously reported that, although several patches of algae have been detected, they do not pose any danger.

However, surveillance will continue to prevent a possible algal outbreak that could lead to a red tide, a phenomenon that would cause significant impact on both the fishing and tourism sectors, as occurred three years ago, when tourism was barely resuming and, in the middle of summer, the presence of a red tide forced the closure of beaches for safety reasons.

As you may recall, this same week, the presence of species considered harmful, such as manta rays and catfish, many of them dead and close to the shore, was observed on the beaches of Progreso.

Although a specific cause has not been confirmed, there have been some who have linked it to the possible presence of a red tide, which, so far, has not been officially reported in Yucatecan seas.— Abraham Ismael Raz Herrera

In recent days, marine catfish, toadfish, and pufferfish have been seen washing up along the traditional and international boardwalks; some of these species possess spines or toxins that pose a risk to swimmers and pets.

Authorities from the Animal Control and Protection Unit issued an alert to prevent stingray bites.

ProgressCity Council removes flower pots that were blocking public roads July 30, 2025

More and more citizens are joining the civic culture promoted by the Directorate of Transportation and Urban Mobility, which aims to raise awareness about the importance of keeping public roads clear for safety and accessibility for all.

The head of the department, Rodrigo Manzanilla Jiménez, explained that these actions respond to citizen reports and are based on the current Urban Mobility Regulations.

“Complying with the regulations is not only a legal obligation, it’s also an act of empathy and social responsibility,” he said.

Neighbors have requested support to improve mobility in shared spaces such as sidewalks, which must be kept clear so that everyone—children, the elderly, and people with disabilities—can move around safely.

It has also been requested that spaces designated for people with disabilities, such as ramps, access points, and parking spaces, be respected and kept clear and functional at all times.

In this regard, Transportation and Urban Mobility personnel have conducted outreach visits to invite residents who place motorcycles, tricycles, or other objects on sidewalks to remove them and contribute to a more accessible, safe, and orderly environment for everyone.

On behalf of Mayor Erik Rihani González, the municipal official thanked those who have already joined this civic culture and called on the public to continue collaborating. For information, the following numbers are available:

-Directorate of Transportation and Urban Mobility: 969 103 9502
-Municipal Police of Progreso: 969 935 0026, Emergencies: 911

These actions are part of the municipal program 100xProgreso, which seeks to build a more inclusive, empathetic, and supportive community

Progress”Irreversible devastation” authorized for construction of the Mayan Cargo Train in Progreso July 30, 2025

MÉRIDA.– The federal government itself, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat), gave the green light for the destruction of 104 hectares of forest vegetation to build the Progreso Multimodal Terminal, one of the main loading stations for the Mayan Train.

According to the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) submitted by the Ministry of National Defense (Sedena), the megaproject will occupy a total area of 111 hectares, located opposite the town of Paraíso (a sub-municipality of Progreso), at kilometer 25 of the Mérida-Progreso highway. The
project involves clearing 104.7 hectares of low deciduous forest, which entails a change in forest land use authorized by Semarnat (the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Livestock and Livestock).

The environmental study itself recognizes that the ecosystem in the area is highly degraded and warns that the situation will be critical by 2033. Despite this, the project was approved despite the recognition of severe environmental impacts, including soil subsidence, loss of vegetation, decreased water quality, and impacts on protected species.

The terminal will have an estimated useful life of 50 years and will include facilities such as maneuvering yards, warehouses, offices, security booths, customs infrastructure, a water treatment plant, an automotive zone, and tanks for diesel storage and dispatch, among others.

As a compensation measure, Sedena proposed reforesting 127 hectares and rescuing wild flora on just over 55 hectares. However, the document itself admits that “the impacts will continue to persist,” as the terminal will be built on areas with forest vegetation where deforestation will be irreversible.

The official authorization was issued on June 17, but the Tren Maya company didn’t receive the permit until July 3, and its publication in the Ecological Gazette didn’t occur until the 24th of the same month, despite the fact that construction work began in April.

It was precisely on April 26 that President Claudia Sheinbaum gave the green light to start work on the site where the Progreso terminal will be located. The cargo route will also include a terminal in Poxilá, Umán municipality, where 47 additional hectares have already been deforested, and will be a key point for the Mérida metropolitan area.

The project also includes three railway branches:

Poxilá–Mérida (18 km)

Poxilá–Hunucmá (12.5 km)

Hunucmá–Progreso (35.2 km)

At least five sascaberas have already been opened in the region to supply materials for the construction projects. One of them is located just three kilometers from the Progreso terminal, on the other side of the highway.

New tourist information signs installed in Progreso July 26, 2025

With the goal of providing useful information to both residents and visitors, the Progreso Tourism Department recently installed informational signs on various downtown streets and on the traditional boardwalk, as part of a drive to promote the port’s cultural heritage.

Áurea Elena Gómez Novelo, Director of Tourism, explained that these monoliths contain information about the port’s founder, Juan Miguel Castro Martín, as well as emblematic sites such as Inclusive Beach, the House of Culture, the Fiscal Pier, and the Progreso Lighthouse.

In addition, a panel was placed with relevant information for the safety of visitors, such as emergency numbers (911), anonymous reporting (089), among others, in order to guarantee a safe and responsible vacation.

The municipal official emphasized that this initiative responds to Mayor Erik Rihani González’s instruction to provide clear and accessible information, especially during holiday seasons, as part of the 100xProgreso program.

Finally, Gómez Novelo invited citizens to enjoy the port responsibly, take care of the beaches, avoid littering, respect marine life, and contribute to the common good.

Drug dealing raid in Progreso leaves two arrested; car wash business was a front July 24, 2025

As part of an anti-drug operation in Progreso, federal and state law enforcement officers arrested a couple known as “Viejo Cruz” and “La Lupe” at a property located on 84th Street (between 87th and 89th Streets).

According to unofficial sources, various drugs were seized, without specifying quantities, including cocaine, marijuana, crystal meth, psychotropic pills, and other narcotics.

So far, the State Attorney General’s Office has not issued an official statement on the results of the raid, but more information about the charges against those arrested is expected to be released in the coming hours.

This operation follows one carried out last May, when a well-known drug dealer nicknamed “El Huero Flaco” was arrested at a property that operated as a car wash in the western part of the port.Nearby car dealerships

The operation took place in the early morning hours at a home located on 31st Street between 128th and 130th Streets, which locals had identified as a hotspot for suspicious activity. The operation concluded shortly before 9:00 a.m. with the arrest of the alleged drug dealer and the seizure of the property.

State Police officers, prosecutors, and Navy personnel participated in the operation, securing the area while the operation was carried out. During the search, various illicit substances, scales, and items related to drug sales were seized.
The property, which was rented and operated as an apparent car wash, was used as a front for drug dealing, a practice that, according to authorities, has become common in the region.

Days earlier, on May 17, a couple, identified as Robert “N” and Danna “N,” were also arrested as a result of an operation at a home located on 94-A Street and 89th Street.Nearby car dealerships

At the location, which served as a distribution center, they seized various ready-to-sell products similar to cocaine, marijuana, crystal meth, and other items used to make narcotics.

The location was a key point for drug distribution in the area, so the operation was swift and precise. The couple with drugs was arrested in Progreso thanks to the coordinated efforts of the officers.

Drug dealers and seized products were taken to the headquarters of the Attorney General’s Office (FGR), and the house was secured and placed under police guard. The operation follows others carried out in the Brisas neighborhood of Mérida, where three people were arrested, and in Flamboyanes, where three of the six drug traffickers who were on the property were also arrested.

Meteorite Museum in Progreso Celebrates 3rd Anniversary with Record Attendance July 25, 2025
The Meteorite Museum in Progreso marked a milestone Sunday with its third-anniversary celebration, drawing more than 1,500 visitors to the beachfront attraction. The record attendance highlighted the museum’s growing popularity since opening in July 2022.

The Museo del Meteorito, on the Malecón about seven blocks east of Progreso’s pier, focuses on the Chicxulub meteorite impact that occurred 66 million years ago. The massive asteroid, estimated at 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles) in diameter, created a 200-kilometer (120-mile) wide crater and triggered the mass extinction that eliminated 75% of plant and animal species on Earth, including non-avian dinosaurs.

The anniversary event featured free admission starting at 10 a.m., allowing families to explore the museum’s eight interactive rooms and outdoor dinosaur sculptures. Activities included the “Meteorite Cup” Chess Tournament, which brought together children and teenagers for strategy games throughout the day.

As the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico, visitors gathered for an outdoor cinema screening of a dinosaur-themed film, continuing the museum’s scientific mission of education through entertainment.

Educational Experience and Community Outreach
The museum offers guided tours every 12 minutes for groups of 25 people, with 30-minute journeys through exhibits covering the Big Bang, meteorites, time travel, and walking with dinosaurs. Interactive features include augmented reality displays, tablets for designing virtual dinosaurs, and video mapping with subtitles in Mayan and English.

Clemente Escalante Alcocer, Director General of the Board of Cultural and Tourism Services Units of Yucatán (Cultur), thanked attendees for their participation and announced a special closing ceremony for Sunday, July 27. The event will accept donations of basic food items and personal hygiene products instead of admission fees, benefiting families in need.

“Those who wish to attend can exchange their ticket to the Meteorite Museum for items such as: tuna, beans, and powdered milk (canned); cookies (boxed); instant coffee (jarred); cooking oil, toilet paper, toothpaste and toothbrush, bath soap, and sanitary napkins,” Escalante Alcocer explained. The donation option will be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Scientific Significance and Tourism Impact
The museum, which cost 1.9 million pesos (approximately $95,000) to construct and equip with federal and state resources, serves Progreso’s nearly 70,000 residents and thousands of daily visitors to the historic port city.

Progreso, located 36 kilometers (22 miles) north of Mérida, serves as Yucatán’s primary port and draws visitors with its 6.5-kilometer (4-mile) pier — the world’s longest. The city’s malecón (boardwalk) stretches along the Gulf coast, offering restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.

Outside the museum, five massive dinosaur sculptures between eight and nine meters (26-30 feet) high include the Aramberri monster or Pliosaur, Tyrannosaurus Rex, Quetzalcóatlus Nortrophi, Mosasaurus, and Parasaurolophus. Regular admission costs 350 pesos ($18) for foreign adults, with discounted rates for Mexican nationals and children.

The Chicxulub impact site lies approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) northeast of the museum. Scientists discovered the buried crater in the 1990s when they realized that the ring pattern of cenotes (sinkholes) in northern Yucatán corresponded to the edge of the massive impact structure.

The impact threw vast amounts of debris into the atmosphere, caused massive tidal waves, and triggered an “impact winter” that blocked sunlight and halted photosynthesis for months to years, collapsing ecosystems worldwide.

Why a Meteorite Museum in Progreso?
The museum’s success reflects growing interest in Yucatán’s prehistoric significance. Recent research suggests the crater likely originated from the outer asteroid belt, making up only 5% of meteorites typically found on Earth.

State officials said the anniversary celebration demonstrates the government’s commitment to promoting science education and cultural tourism. The museum operates Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Alleged Irregular Land Sale
The blockade appears connected to the alleged sale of approximately three meters of the five-meter-wide public street by the Progreso City Council through the land registry office to a local businessman. The transaction reportedly occurred during the administration of former mayor Julián Zacarías Curi, with Alí Yamil Dib Muñoz serving as director of the land registry office.

Zacarías Curi served two consecutive terms as mayor from the National Action Party (PAN) before stepping down in February 2024 to run unsuccessfully for federal deputy.

According to reports, the businessman initially sought permission from Dr. Raúl Alvarado, the former MORENA mayoral candidate, to build on the purchased street section. After electoral results were reversed through court decisions and Erik Rihani was declared the winner as Progreso’s new mayor, the businessman also approached Rihani but was denied permission.

Following these rejections, the individual allegedly decided to “seize his purchases” independently by blocking the area with containers.

The incident occurs against the backdrop of a highly contested 2024 mayoral election in Progreso. Initially, MORENA candidate Dr. Raúl Alvarado Naal was declared the winner after a prolonged vote recount, but the Electoral Court of the Judicial Branch of the Federation later reversed this decision, ultimately recognizing PAN candidate Erik Rihani González as the legitimate winner after finding irregularities in five polling stations.

Rihani was officially sworn in as mayor on August 31, 2024, for the 2024-2027 term.

The former land registry director is now under investigation, and other irregularities from the previous administration involving coastal properties are coming to light. The corresponding penalty for the container blockade is expected to be announced soon.

Federal Beach Access Laws
Mexican federal law guarantees public access to beaches through the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (ZOFEMAT), a 20-meter strip of land adjacent to beaches that cannot be privatized. PROFEPA enforces these regulations and can impose fines of 3,000 to 12,000 times the Unit of Measurement and Updating (UMA) on property owners who impede beach access.

Recent federal data shows that between 2018 and 2025, over 200 complaints were filed with PROFEPA regarding impacts on coastal vegetation in Yucatán, highlighting ongoing concerns about coastal development and beach access throughout the state.

During a recent visit to Yucatán, SEMARNAT Secretary Alicia Bárcena acknowledged that problems with public beach access closures persist and assured that federal authorities would seek agreements with property owners to facilitate beach access.

Growing Coastal Development Concerns
The Progreso incident reflects broader concerns about coastal development across Yucatán’s coastline. According to municipal authorities, there are more than 2,500 real estate developments along just 16 kilometers of coastline spanning San Bruno, San Benito, and Chabihau.

Environmental researchers have documented the consequences of rapid coastal development, including beach erosion, loss of coastal dunes, and restricted public access to traditionally open areas.

The restoration of beach access in eastern Progreso serves as a reminder that Mexican beaches remain public property under federal law, regardless of adjacent private property ownership. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation to ensure continued public access to this popular coastal area.

Containers blocking beach access in Progreso are removed by local authorities Yucatan Times July 24, 2025

On Tuesday, July 22, residents of the eastern part of the Progreso port reported the appearance of four containers blocking access to the beach at the intersection of 40th and 71st Streets.

The residents reported the incident to 911, and municipal and state police officers, as well as personnel from the Progreso City Council, arrived at the scene and placed seals on the containers while an operation was organized to remove them.

A total of four containers were placed, two on the street side and two on the beach side, blocking access to that area, which harmed both visitors and fishermen who park their boats in that area.

So far, authorities have not reported who the containers belong to, but they did say that they are working to identify the person responsible for blocking the street. This information will be reviewed through the Municipal Cadastre, and a determination will also be made as to what action will be taken if any irregularities are found.

Resident blocks beach access in Progreso, places containers, claiming “the street belongs to him” Yucatan Times July 23, 2025

This Tuesday, residents of 40th Street and 71st Street in this port were surprised to find four metal containers placed there during the early morning hours, blocking access to the beach.

According to testimonies from area residents, the containers were placed around 4:00 a.m., two on each side of the street.

Following the report, officers from the Progreso Municipal Police and the Public Security Secretariat (SSP), as well as City Hall personnel, arrived at the scene and placed closure seals.

The Progreso City Hall, through the Department of Ecology, has initiated an investigation to identify the person or persons responsible for this blockade, which represents an illegal obstruction to public access.

After the containers were removed, the owner of one of the properties adjacent to the beach entrance claimed that the road belongs to him, having been transferred to him during the municipal administration headed by Julián Zacarías Curi. However, he did not present any documentation accrediting him as the legal owner of the section of road.

This attempt to privatize a portion of the beach, blocking access, has generated anger and indignation among residents, who demand that free access to the beaches be respected, as established by law.

Mérida’s Revamped Plaza Grande: 1 Year Later Carlos Rosado van der Gracht July 18, 2025

It has been nearly a year since Mérida’s Plaza Grande, the city’s historic central square, reopened. But public opinion remains divided. While officials say the changes modernize the space, many residents argue the remodel was unnecessary and has stripped the plaza of its colonial character.

What Changed in the Renovation?
One of the most controversial changes was the removal of many of the old, green wooden benches, which were swapped for new concrete ones. The city claims these are more durable, but locals argue they are less comfortable and lack the originals’ charm. Given the backlash, some of the benches have been refurbished and reinstalled. Also still prominently featured are Mérida’s confidentes, a style of double-faced chair that has become iconic in Yucatán’s capital city.

Another major point of contention was the removal of several old trees, which provided much-needed shade in Mérida’s intense heat. Authorities say they were diseased or unstable, but locals question why so many had to be cut down. Fortunately, after a strong rain season, new trees have begun to offer shade, though not yet at the same level.

Some larger trees ended up being transplanted into large cylindrical structures that also serve as a setting. However, because they are also made of cement, they heat up quickly and have not proven popular.

Public Backlash Over Cost and Necessity
Many residents argue the renovation was not needed, as the plaza was functional and beloved as it was. It has been widely pointed out that public funds could have been used for more urgent needs, such as infrastructure, fixing potholes, or social programs, rather than what they see as a purely aesthetic update.

“Everyone knows this was not necessary; it only served for the government to skim money off the top at the end of their term, but in the meantime, people who make their living here were the most affected,” said Antonio, a shoe shiner who has been working at the Plaza Grande for almost 20 years.

The city defends the project, stating that upgrades to drainage and electrical systems were necessary and that the new design will better accommodate events. They also highlight the redesign of the plaza and the refurbishment of Casa de Montejo as positive outcomes.

Though the remodel of the Plaza Grande still generates mixed feelings among residents, hearts and minds do seem to be warming to the changes as the foliage regrows. Photo: Carlos Rosado van der Gracht / Yucatán Magazine
Other Upgrades and Remodeling
Several iconic structures surrounding Mérida’s main square have also received facelifts. In the case of the Ateneo Peninsular, the remodels have gone further, with a formerly off-limits area of this enormous building now serving as a new museum exhibiting ancient artifacts found during the construction of the Tren Maya.

However, Yucatán’s Museum of Contemporary Art, the MACAY, remains closed and shows no sign of making a return anytime soon.

The Olimpo Cultural Center has been repainted and has had some other minor aesthetic improvements made, but the substantive change is that its balcony, which overlooks the plaza, has been open to exhibits. This small change is significant as it now offers visitors a lovely view of the entire Plaza Grande for free.

Mangroves in Yucatán Las Chelemeras build new water channels to restore the natural flow of watter. July 4, 2025

Federal and state authorities descended on San Felipe today for the second time in 11 months for the same reason. They found illegal logging, clearing, and human settlements on more than 20 hectares (nearly 50 acres) of mangroves in Yucatán, considered protected habitat areas within the state’s ecosystems, on the eastern side of the Mexican state.

The operation involved members of the State Public Security Secretariat (SSP), the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat), the Federal Attorney General’s Office (Profepa), the Attorney General’s Office (FGR), the National Guard, and the Navy, as a result of various investigations opened for environmental damage. At the center of the investigation sits San Felipe Mayor Felipe Marrufo, a PRI member, who is reportedly part of the investigation file, having been allegedly linked on three occasions to possible environmental crimes committed in the area.

This enforcement action, as reported by La Jornada Maya, occurs within the context of ongoing mangrove conservation efforts across Yucatán’s 378 kilometers (235 miles) of coastline.

Distributing Mangroves in Yucatán
Mexico ranks fourth globally in mangrove coverage with approximately 905,000 hectares. The Yucatan Peninsula contains 60.1 percent of these forests—544,169 hectares.

El Pueblo Mérida
By state, Quintana Roo has 247,017 hectares (27.2% of Mexico’s total), Campeche has 200,279 hectares (22.1%), and Yucatán has 96,873 hectares (10.7%).

Data indicates that Yucatán has lost approximately 8 percent of its mangrove coverage, while Quintana Roo has lost over 2,000 hectares (4,940 acres) in recent decades. “In Yucatán, the loss is close to 8 percent, underscoring the urgent need to restore and protect these ecosystems,” said federal Environment Secretary Alicia Bárcena during the launch of restoration efforts in March 2025.

Ecological Functions

Mangroves in Yucatán provide habitat for various species including crocodiles, manatees, and waterbirds such as pink flamingos, wood storks, pelicans, roseate spoonbills, white ibis, and heron species. Many of these species are classified as endangered or threatened.

These ecosystems serve as breeding areas for commercially important species including lobster, shrimp, and fish. Studies indicate that mangrove loss in Quintana Roo represents an economic impact of 10.46 billion pesos over 34 years.

Research shows that mangroves store up to five times more organic carbon than tropical upland forests and sequester four times more carbon dioxide per square meter than tropical rainforests.

Coastal Protection
Mangroves function as natural barriers during hurricanes and their root systems stabilize shorelines against erosion. They filter nitrates and phosphates from rivers and create buffer zones that protect inland areas from wind and wave damage.

Scientific research has identified an ancient mangrove ecosystem located more than 200 kilometers (124 miles) from the nearest ocean along the San Pedro Martir River. These inland mangroves have been genetically isolated for approximately 120,000 years since the Last Interglacial period, when sea levels were 20-30 feet (6-9 meters) higher.

Community-Based Conservation: Las Chelemeras
In the fishing community of Chelem, 51 kilometers (32 miles) north of Mérida, a group of Maya women known as Las Chelemeras has conducted mangrove restoration work for nearly 15 years.

The group began in 2010 when a government-funded project sought volunteers for restoration work. After funding ended two years later, the women continued their work. The group has restored over 50 hectares (124 acres) of mangrove forest.

“Despite being from the coast, we didn’t know why the mangroves were important,” said Keila Vázquez, coordinator of Las Chelemeras. “For example, they protect against cyclones and act as nurseries for commercial marine species such as prawns.”

Las Chelemeras has received recognition from UNESCO, the Blue Marine Foundation, and other organizations. The 14 women, ranging in age from 30 to 85, focus on reconnecting hydrological systems to enable natural mangrove regeneration.

“The happiest day is when our plants take,” said Vázquez. “They are like our children.” She described their restoration technique: “It was caused by dredging for a nearby port. All the gravel from the port was dumped there: the topography changed, the salinity increased and the water stopped flowing.”

Development Pressures
Real estate development in coastal areas has been identified as a main cause of mangrove loss. Additional factors include roads built without considering water flows that feed mangroves, harbor and port construction, urban development, and livestock activities.

“Real estate development, especially in areas near the sea, has been one of the main causes of mangrove loss,” stated Environment Secretary Bárcena during the March 2025 restoration program launch. “Our goal is to prevent further real estate projects in areas within the federal maritime-terrestrial zone, which are publicly accessible.”

In Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, environmental groups report that 40 percent of mangroves within the urban area have been impacted by settlements, waste disposal, and logging. Wastewater discharge from residential and commercial sources has contributed to contamination of mangrove systems.

Government Restoration Initiatives
In March 2025, federal Environment Secretary Alicia Bárcena and Yucatán Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena launched a mangrove reforestation program in Chuburná Port. The program aims to plant 100,000 specimens across coastal ports including Río Lagartos, San Felipe, Dzilam de Bravo, Chicxulub, Santa Clara, Chabihau, Telchac, Progreso, Chelem, Chuburná Puerto, Celestún, and Sisal.

The initiative targets restoration of the 8 percent mangrove loss in Yucatán through planting of red, black, and green mangrove species. Governor Díaz Mena has taken a strong stance on environmental protection, declaring during a beach cleanup event in Progreso that “the full weight of the law will be applied against ecocides in the state” and emphasizing that “there will be no tolerance for those who destroy nature.”

Campeche Governor Layda Sansores announced an additional 5 million pesos investment, supplementing 8.2 million already allocated for restoring 5,000 hectares (12,355 acres) of mangrove. The state has invested nearly 500,000 pesos for restoring 400 hectares (988 acres) and reforesting 60 hectares (148 acres) in Isla Aguada.

Scientific Research and International Cooperation
Research continues on mangrove ecosystem complexity, examining how different ecological types—fringe, basin, dwarf, and hammock—store carbon based on their hydrological, soil, and structural characteristics.

The “Accelerator of Mangrove Restoration and Sustainable Management Policies 2025” event in Campeche brought together academics, researchers, international organizations, investors, and government officials from multiple countries to share restoration strategies and policy approaches.

According to the Global Mangrove Alliance, approximately 80% of mangrove restoration projects fail due to insufficient community involvement.

Current Status
The San Felipe enforcement operation represents the second such action in the municipality within 11 months. Government authorities continue environmental protection efforts while community-based conservation groups like Las Chelemeras demonstrate alternative approaches to ecosystem management.

“The destruction of mangroves is a federal crime, regardless of who owns the land,” emphasized Secretary Bárcena when addressing environmental violations in coastal Yucatán. She noted that the ministry’s “great crusade” involves “the recovery of wetlands and the recovery of mangroves, these are the two ecosystems that we think are very important to protect, to restore, because they are places where life, species, mangroves [thrive].”

Climate change and development pressures continue to affect Yucatán’s mangroves, while scientific research, government programs, international support, and community-led initiatives provide various approaches to conservation.

The situation reflects broader challenges in balancing coastal development with environmental protection across Mexico’s coastlines. As Keila Vázquez of Las Chelemeras noted when reflecting on their long-term goals: “We aren’t going to live forever. We know we need new generations to continue our work.”

Reporting contributed by La Jornada Maya. Additional research from various organizations working in Yucatan’s coastal conservation.

Jan de Nul will carry out the dredging and expansion of the Deep Sea Port of Progreso.June 25, 2025

Although authorities have not officially announced the results of the tender for the expansion of the Progreso Deepwater Port, port sources are already reporting that the Belgian company Jan De Nul, through its subsidiary Mexicana de Dragados, would be responsible for the dredging and expansion of the deepwater port’s navigation channel. The project will be carried out using specialized, deepwater dredgers.

According to local media citing information gathered from maritime and port sources, Belgium-based Jan De Nul is the company that won the bid issued by the state government through the Institute for the Construction of Public Works in Yucatán (Inccopy), headed by engineer José Isaac González Bernal.

The bidding process began on April 25, the site visit was conducted on May 8, and the financial and technical proposals were submitted on May 15.

According to the notice, the decision was announced last Monday, June 2, in the Inccopy multipurpose room, and according to the information, work should have begun on Thursday, June 19.

Information gathered indicates that Jan De Nul participated in the bidding process for the dredging and modernization of the deep-sea port and will be in charge of the project through Mexicana de Dragados.

This subsidiary has extensive experience in dredging navigation channels and port basins, it is explained.

Maritime and port reports indicate that there are 14 super dredgers operating in deep-sea ports worldwide.

Jan De Nul has seven of these vessels for port infrastructure work, so a super dredger will be brought in to expand the navigation channel.

More details about Jan De Nul.
The Belgian company operates in more than 150 countries and is positioned as a key player in the development of large-scale dredging, offshore energy, and port infrastructure projects. It has a presence in Latin American sectors such as Argentina.

Mexicana de Dragados is the Mexican subsidiary of Jan De Nul, the company that would carry out the work at the deep-sea port, according to maritime and port sources.

The Mexican company has just over 30 years of experience in port dredging, and employs highly specialized equipment and cutting-edge technology to carry out these operations efficiently and safely. Its services include dredging navigation channels, loading and unloading basins, docks, and berths.

Navigation Channel
Just over 25 years ago, when the navigation channel was built, the work was carried out by the Dutch company Boskalis through its subsidiary in Mexico, Dragamex, which brought the super dredger Ursa.

An investment of 12 billion pesos and the construction of 80 hectares are planned for the expansion of the navigation channel, modernization, and maintenance of the deep-sea port of Progreso, increasing the platform area from 34 hectares to 114 hectares.

The macro-project involves the construction dredging of approximately 10 million cubic meters to increase the capacity of the deep-sea port’s navigation areas.

The navigation channel would be widened from 150 to 180 meters and would have a depth of 13.3 meters, with operational basins at a depth of -12.5 meters.

The dredged material (limestone) will be deposited on two platforms of 40 hectares each, for a total of 80 hectares, creating a platform for developing specialized terminals that will be incorporated into the macroproject.

These two 40-hectare platforms (80 in total) will be added to the current 34 hectares where the specialized grain, container, hydrocarbon, multi-purpose dock, and cruise ship terminals operate.

The port macro-project includes the construction of specialized terminals for design, construction, equipment, installation, operation, maintenance, and exploitation with private investment.

Science and TechnologyUPY, a national leader in academic excellence and training

Three students from the Polytechnic University of Yucatán have received the prestigious ExxonMobil Mexico 2025 Scholarships, positioning the institution with the highest percentage of winners nationwide.

The Polytechnic University of Yucatán (UPY) has positioned itself as a leader in academic excellence and innovation by selecting three of its outstanding students to receive the prestigious ExxonMobil México 2025 Scholarship, out of 20 available nationwide.

This important recognition highlights the promising talent of future UPY engineers and reaffirms the quality of the engineering training for Industry 4.0 offered at the institution.

Damaris Esther Pech Aque (Data Engineering), José Alberto Fernández Cruz (Computational Robotics Engineering), and María Fernanda Garduño Carmona (Computational Robotics Engineering) will have the opportunity to study for a month at the University of Austin, Texas, and participate in cultural activities.

These students are training in areas currently considered strategic for technological development and reflect the Polytechnic University of Yucatán’s commitment to cutting-edge education. With this scholarship, they will expand their knowledge in job skills related to Big Data and Artificial Intelligence.

The ExxonMobil Mexico Scholarship is a highly competitive program designed to foster the training of future leaders and professionals in key fields for the country’s development, such as innovation and entrepreneurship, Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, sustainable development in engineering, and renewable energy technologies and energy transition.

The selection of these three students from the Polytechnic University of Yucatán represents a significant individual achievement that will open doors to new professional development opportunities for each scholarship recipient.

Furthermore, it validates the academic rigor and broad talent that characterize the institution and provides students with access to high-level professional development programs and valuable networks.

Aaron Rosado Castillo, Rector of the Polytechnic University of Yucatán, expressed his pride in this achievement. “We are proud of our students for this significant recognition,” he stated.

The ExxonMobil Mexico Scholarship, he emphasized, is a testament to the students’ dedication and unlimited potential. At the Polytechnic University of Yucatán, we strive to offer a cutting-edge education that empowers our students to achieve their most ambitious goals, and this type of recognition motivates us to continue their professional development.

“This success also highlights the vital collaboration between academia and the private sector, a synergy that directly benefits students by preparing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to face the challenges of the global labor market and, in turn, contributes to the development of highly qualified professionals in Mexico,” he concluded.

The Educating Safely program reaches more schools in Progreso.June 23, 2025

In an ongoing effort to combat bullying and promote safe and respectful spaces, the Progreso Department of Public Safety and Traffic (DSPT) continues to promote the “Educating Safely” program. This Monday, members of the agency visited the Álvaro Obregón and José Eusebio Rosado schools, and the Telesecundaria (Telesecondary school) in the port of Chuburná.

During the day, the officers worked with fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students using “The Tree of Values,” highlighting their importance in preventing bullying, explained Commander Omar de la Cruz Herrera Cocom, head of the DSPT.

The principal of Álvaro Obregón Elementary School, Jessica Beatriz Ku Aldecua, emphasized the importance of continuing this program, acknowledging that it has had a positive impact on students, especially by involving them as School Agents.

“The children submit their reports to the designated teacher; they’ve taken their role seriously, and that’s been a great help. So far, we haven’t had any incidents. Since they received their supplies, they’re more motivated,” the principal said.

It’s worth remembering that this program, launched in February of this year, is based on pedagogical, psychological, and social principles to foster a culture of prevention. It is aimed at primary and secondary schools, both public and private, and is developed in collaboration with educational institutions, families, and the police.

Currently, the program has reached 15 schools—11 elementary schools and 4 secondary schools—benefiting more than 3,300 students. In each session, DSPT staff conduct interactive activities, present topics, and address student concerns.

As part of the strategy, participating schools designated their “School Agents” (primary schools) and “School Sentinels” (secondary schools), who received their official appointments to support prevention efforts from their campuses.

Commander Herrera Cocom reported that activities will continue this Tuesday at the “Vicente Guerrero” and “José Trinidad Méndez” schools in the port of Chelem, and on Wednesday at the “Filemón Villafaña” and “Maniobras Marítimas” schools.

Finally, he emphasized that this program responds to the instructions of Mayor Erik Rihani González and is also part of the “100xProgreso” strategy, which aims to promote a culture of reporting within school communities, create safe environments, and strengthen coexistence between students and teachers.

Large whale shark found on Yucatan beaches June 20, 2025

PROGRESO – The discovery of a whale shark off the coast of Progreso, Yucatán, generated great excitement this afternoon.

The specimen, measuring approximately 9 meters long and weighing 10 tons, was found dead, floating near the turnaround basin of the remote terminal, close to the docks of the Multisur grain terminal and the Petroleos Mexicanos terminal.

With the support of a Navy boat, the whale shark was removed from the area where cargo ships dock at this port and towed by boat to the fishing pier, where it was transported to shore.

At the site, the body of the large fish was received by experts and students from the UADY Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, who took samples and even divided the animal’s body to transport it to Mérida for study and to try to determine the cause of death.

Numerous curious onlookers, entire families, and tourists came to the area to see the whale shark near the fishing pier and the international boardwalk.

The whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is a species of elasmobranch shark, the only member of the Rhincodontidae family and the Rhincodon genus, and the largest fish in the world. Although they do not pose a risk to public health, the remains will be buried on the beach, as was the case with the discovery, almost a decade ago on February 28, 2016, of a large fin whale, 15 meters long and weighing 40 tons.

Waste Management Program June 24, 2025By Progress Today

Starting this Saturday, the Integrated Solid Waste Management Department (Prolimpia) will strengthen its efforts to improve public health and eliminate mosquito breeding grounds with the launch of a permanent junk removal program, Mayor Erik Rihani González announced.

The mayor explained that the campaign will take place every Wednesday and Saturday, both in the municipal seat and at the police stations. The campaign will begin this Saturday in Chuburná Puerto, on 14th Street and 13th Street, where a collection container will be placed.

This initiative responds to citizen suggestions and the positive participation recorded during the event held last Saturday, June 21, which covered the eastern (Cházaro Pérez Park) and western (Vicente Guerrero Park) areas, and during which nearly two tons of junk were collected.

For this ongoing campaign, the Police Station Unit and the Health Department will collaborate to increase citizen participation and carry out simultaneous actions that benefit the entire population.

These actions include abatement efforts and awareness-raising about what constitutes junk, according to the Ministry of Health: useless objects that can accumulate water and become breeding grounds for disease-transmitting mosquitoes.

Items that must be disposed of include bottles, buckets, cans, kitchen utensils, and containers made of various materials. Electronic items, tires, toilets, and organic waste such as leaves, grass, or logs will not be accepted.

It’s worth noting that these actions are part of the municipal program 100xProgreso, within the “Progress for All” axis, which seeks to reduce waste generation and promote a cleaner and healthier environment for all residents of the municipality.

Finally, the mayor called on the public to actively participate, share information, and stay up-to-date on the collection schedule through the official Prolimpia 2024–2027, Citizen Service 2024–2027, or Progreso City Hall websites.

Potential Archaeological Find Halts New Fresko Supermarket Next to Costco

By Yucatán Magazine June 22, 2025

For 10 years, Costco has had its parking-lot cenote. And its would-be rival next door may have something even bigger. Maybe too big.

Construction of a new Fresko supermarket in northern Mérida has become the center of speculation after TikTok users documented what appears to be ancient stone foundations at the building site. The discovery was made public when users @mariomendicuti and @oswaldomatu posted videos showing stone structures they believed could be archaeological remains at the property at Colonia Revolución.

The location is strategically significant for retail competition in Mérida. The new Fresko supermarket is being built directly adjacent to the existing Costco, positioning the two major retailers side by side on Calle 60 Norte near the Progreso highway exit.

What Was Actually Found?
The stone foundations have generated considerable debate about their true origin. While the initial posts suggested possible archaeological significance, local residents and online commenters have proposed alternative explanations that may be more mundane but equally historically interesting.

El Pueblo Mérida
Several users have suggested the foundations could be remnants of a bridge that once connected the residential area with nearby factories. Others believe they might be the foundation remains of old Cordemex warehouses that operated in the area for decades. Cordemex, the state-owned henequen processing company, had extensive operations throughout northern Mérida and maintained numerous warehouse facilities in the region.

The area around Colonia Revolución has a complex history of industrial and residential development. If the foundations are indeed related to Cordemex operations, they would represent an important piece of Yucatán’s 20th-century industrial heritage, though perhaps not the ancient Maya archaeology initially suspected.

Fresko Supermarket
The Fresko supermarket represents a substantial investment of 850 million pesos, making it part of La Comer’s expansion strategy into the Yucatán market. This will be the first Fresko location in Mérida, bringing the upscale grocery chain to compete directly with established retailers in the region’s most affluent commercial corridor. The growing northern Mérida market is an area that has become increasingly important for commercial development.

According to Mérida Mayor Cecilia Patrón Laviada, the project is expected to generate 350 direct jobs and 300 indirect jobs, representing a significant employment opportunity for the northern part of the city. The store is part of a larger 900 million peso investment package that includes multiple retail developments throughout Mérida.

The company has positioned itself as committed to sustainability, incorporating water capture systems, efficient resource use, and green areas that exceed legal requirements. This environmental focus aligns with Mérida’s urban development goals, though the potential archaeological discovery has introduced an unexpected complication to the construction timeline.

Retail Competition in Northern Mérida
The choice of location next to Costco appears deliberate, as La Comer seeks to establish Fresko as a premium alternative in Mérida’s most successful commercial zone. Costco has operated successfully in the location for several years, drawing customers from throughout the metropolitan area and establishing the corridor as a destination for bulk shopping and warehouse-style retail.

Fresko’s business model differs significantly from Costco’s membership-based warehouse approach. As an upscale supermarket chain, Fresko targets affluent shoppers seeking premium products, fresh prepared foods, and a more traditional grocery shopping experience. So the Chedraui supermarkets also expanding north of Centro may have more to worry about than the US-based warehouse chain.

The northern corridor of Mérida, particularly along the Progreso highway, has become the city’s primary zone for large-format retail development. The area’s accessibility, proximity to affluent neighborhoods, and available land have made it attractive for major retailers seeking to establish flagship locations in the Yucatán capital.

Construction Delays and Uncertainty
Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has not issued an official statement regarding the discovery, leaving uncertainty about whether construction can proceed as planned. The TikTok users specifically called on INAH to investigate the site and determine whether the foundations represent significant archaeological or historical remains.

This uncertainty creates potential complications for La Comer’s expansion timeline and investment plans. Major retail projects typically operate on tight schedules, and any delay for archaeological assessment could impact the store’s planned opening date and the associated job creation timeline.

The situation highlights the challenges of major construction projects in Mérida, where the intersection of ancient history, colonial development, and modern industrial activity creates complex layers beneath virtually any building site. Even if the foundations prove to be 20th-century industrial remains rather than ancient archaeology, they may still require proper documentation and preservation consideration.

If INAH determines the foundations require preservation or further study, La Comer may need to redesign the store layout or potentially relocate the project entirely.

14 Amazing Yucatán Beach Day-Passes 18 june 2025

Yucatán’s year-long summer temperatures make it hard for you to find the wrong time to spend a day at the beach. While “crashing” anywhere on the coast is always an option, sometimes you’re looking for a day trip with certain luxuries: shade, showers, changing rooms, sunbeds, meals, maybe a swimming or kiddie pool…Luckily, there are several beach club options that offer several combinations of the above, so you can spend a perfect day by the Gulf of México.

Microbial Diversity Of Coastal Microbial Mats Formations In Karstic Habitats From The Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
By Keith Cowing June 10, 2025

Different types of coastal microbial mats were documented: Lift-off mats from Sisal (B), Pustular (C) and flat (D) microbial mats from Progreso, and flat mats from Ría Lagartos (E). — PLoSONE via PubMed
In this study, we report for the first time an exploration of the physicochemical characteristics and the prokaryotic diversity of three different types of microbial mats from karstic habitats located in Sisal, Progreso and Ría Lagartos, in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico.

Our results showed that lift-off mats were found in the lower salinity (2.2%) area (Sisal), while flat and pustular mats were detected in hypersaline (6-9%) sites (Progreso and Ría Lagartos). Notably, some of these microbial mat structures were in close proximity to mangrove forest ecosystems with both degraded and restored regimes. XRD analysis revealed different mineral compositions of the mats; however, aragonite, calcite, and halite were commonly found in all samples studied.

High-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene identified differences in microbial communities across the different mat types, and statistical analyses revealed that salinity, redox potential, and temperature were significant factors in explaining the variance of the prokaryotic assemblages. Microbial groups identified in this study include those known to be important in the biogeochemical cycling of key elements, such as carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur.

Interestingly, the community composition of flat and pustular mats from Progreso was similar, with Bacteroidia, Anaerolineae, and Phycisphaerae being the most abundant microbial groups in flat mats; and Bacteroidia, Anaerolineae, and Alphaproteobacteria dominating pustular mats. By contrast, flat mats from Ría Lagartos were dominated by Halobacteria, Cyanobacteria and Bacteroidota, while Bacteroidia, Gammaproteobacteria and Cyanobacteria dominated lift-off mats from Sisal.

This work contributes to understanding the distribution, physicochemical characteristics and microbial diversity of coastal microbial mats, providing valuable new insights into microbial mats that develop in karstic ecosystems. This information is relevant to ongoing and future efforts to manage and preserve coastal ecosystems in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Fincantieri Italia executives visit Yucatán to oversee modernization of the Progreso Deep-Sea Port Yucatan Times June 11, 2025

Executives from Fincantieri Italia visited the Deep-Sea Port of Progreso, Yucatán, as part of the port’s expansion and modernization efforts.

The visit marks a significant step forward for the project, as it represents the first in-person exposure of Fincantieri’s senior management to the site that will potentially house the only shipyard of its kind in the Americas.

The delegation, led by Massimo Costa, the company’s Global Director of Operations and Naval Repairs, was received by Joaquín Díaz Mena, the Governor of Yucatán, and Gustavo Lorenzo Alonso Trani, the Director General of the National Port System Administration (Asipona) of Progreso.

The state governor emphasized that Fincantieri’s arrival reinforces the state’s commitment to promoting the industrial, logistical, and economic development of southeastern Mexico.

“We are taking a firm step toward transforming Yucatán into a strategic center for the naval industry in the Americas,” he stated.

Massimo Costa emphasized that this is the first time he has encountered an administration in which Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena himself is personally present, explaining the advantages of investing in the state, “which provides certainty to investors, as it is immediately apparent that Yucatán has a clear vision for the future.”

He added that this closeness and commitment from the governor generate confidence and demonstrate a favorable environment for the development of new investments, thus strengthening the state’s image as a strategic destination for economic growth and innovation.

He also emphasized the project’s significance for the Italian company’s global expansion. With 18 shipyards and more than 20,000 employees worldwide, Fincantieri is responsible for the construction of one in three marine vessels worldwide and is currently the United States’ main naval partner.

He also emphasized that it is a great certainty for global companies that, less than a year into Joaquín Díaz Mena’s administration, the expansion of the Deepwater Port by 80 hectares has begun, tripling its capacity and that the increase in dredging is already underway.

The visit reaffirms Fincantieri’s interest in the development of the project and consolidates the Deep Sea Port of Progreso as a strategic location for international investment and the strengthening of the maritime sector in Mexico. This visit took place days after Italy’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, visited Mexico and publicly expressed the European nation’s interest in boosting investment in our country, specifically Fincantieri’s investment.

Fincantieri ItaliaThe structure sighted in Progreso is identified as the “West Titania” offshore platform. June 11, 2025

The “West Titania” platform was visible for several days off the coast of Progreso, causing concern among local fishermen.
For several days, fishermen off the coast of Progreso, Yucatán, reported sightings of a large oil platform-like structure, sparking concerns about its purpose and potential impact on local waters.

Authorities have now confirmed that the structure is the West Titania, a self-elevating drilling unit that was in transit to Belize.

The West Titania was first spotted by fishing vessels departing from Progreso, with reports surfacing about its unusual presence near Yucatán’s coastline. Many local fishermen feared that the platform might signal oil exploration or industrial activity that could disrupt marine ecosystems. However, officials clarified that the unit was not conducting operations in Mexican waters but was merely passing through on its way to Belize.

This incident echoes a similar event in 2016, when another oil rig-like structure appeared near Progreso, leading to speculation about Pemex-led drilling projects. That platform was later identified as part of an international scientific mission studying the Chicxulub crater, the impact site of the asteroid that contributed to the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Despite reassurances, local fishermen continue to call for greater transparency regarding foreign maritime activity near Yucatán’s coast. They emphasize the importance of clear communication from authorities to prevent unnecessary alarm and ensure that such transits do not pose risks to marine life or fishing operations.

As the West Titania moves toward its final destination, the incident serves as a reminder of the complex maritime dynamics in the Gulf of Mexico and the need for ongoing monitoring of industrial movements in the region.

The Tren Maya is set to link to Progreso May 26, 2025

Free Tren Maya tickets are available from May 26 to June 15 as part of a push to get more people riding. However, the offer is for return tickets only, so it’s more of a twofer.

After 17 months of operation, the train has carried 1.2 million passengers but still isn’t turning a profit, according to its director.

To get the deal, buy a one-way economy ticket at a physical location, and they’ll give you the return trip for free. The promotion covers the entire Maya Train route, but you can only get it at Tren Maya ticket offices in the 34 stations or authorized sales points — not online.

Where to buy Tren Maya tickets:
Mérida: Tren Maya offices on Calle 50, Mérida-Progreso Highway (between Calle 25 and 27, Cordemex neighborhood)
Campeche: Plaza Galerías
Cancún: Plaza Puerto Cancún in the hotel zone
Ticket prices and schedules
Prices vary depending on where you’re going and whether you’re a local resident or tourist.

Mérida to Campeche
Locals: 323 pesos (residents of states along the route)
Domestic tourists: 484 pesos
Departures: 12:19 p.m. and 7:29 p.m.
Travel time: 2 hours 8 minutes to 2 hours 23 minutes (includes five stops)
Prices: 323 pesos for locals (people living in any of the states along the route). The fare for domestic tourists is 484 pesos.
For comparison, ADO bus tickets for the same route cost 197-360 pesos.

Mérida to Cancún Airport
Prices: 521 pesos for locals, 781 pesos for tourists
Departures: 7:00 a.m., 9:18 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 1:05 p.m., 3:20 p.m., and 4:22 p.m.
Travel time: 3 hours 14 minutes to 3 hours 36 minutes (includes six stops)
ADO buses charge 346-522 pesos for Mérida to Cancún, train tickets to the airport cost 954 pesos and leave only once a day, at 6:15 p.m..

Ridership numbers
The Tren Maya, or Maya Train / Mayan Train, hit its millionth passenger milestone on April 7, 2025. The lucky rider was Wilbert Tomás Barbosa López, a 70-something Mérida resident traveling to several Campeche stations.

Recent figures show some growth. Ticket sales in April 2025 were up 171% compared to April 2024, according to Tourism Secretary Josefina Rodríguez.

Financial reality
The Tren Maya is bleeding money. In its first year, it lost over 2.5 billion pesos, bringing in only 275 million pesos from passengers and souvenir sales. Operating expenses hit 2.837 billion pesos, meaning the train only covered about 10% of its costs.

General Director Oscar David Lozano Águila has admitted that passenger service isn’t profitable. The plan is to reach break-even by 2030, but that depends on launching cargo operations. The freight component will include four multimodal stations and three branches in Yucatán connecting Umán, Hunucmá, Mérida, and the port of Progreso.

Why foreign residents pay tourist rates
Mexico’s ambitious Tren Maya project promised to revolutionize travel across the Yucatan Peninsula, connecting ancient Mayan sites with modern tourist destinations through a state-of-the-art railway system. But as the train has begun operations, one aspect of the pricing structure has sparked considerable debate among the expat community: foreign residents pay the same fares as international tourists, regardless of how long they’ve called Mexico home.

The Tren Maya operates on a straightforward but controversial three-tier pricing model based on per-kilometer rates:

Local residents — those living in the five states the train passes through (Quintana Roo, Yucatan, Chiapas, Tabasco, and Campeche) with official Mexican identification (INE) — enjoy the most affordable rate at 2.32 pesos per kilometer.

Mexican nationals from other parts of the country pay a moderate rate of 2.90 pesos per kilometer when traveling as domestic tourists.

International visitors – and this is where it gets interesting for expats – are charged 4.35 pesos per kilometer, nearly double the local rate.

Here’s where the controversy begins. Foreign residents living in Mexico, whether on temporary or permanent visas, fall into that third category alongside vacationing tourists. This means a Canadian retiree who has lived in Playa del Carmen for a decade pays the same fare as a first-time visitor from Toronto.

The financial impact is significant. Take the popular Cancún Airport to Mérida route: local residents pay 489 pesos, while foreign residents and international tourists are charged 977.50 pesos – essentially double the price for the exact same journey and service.

More than just higher fares
The pricing disparity extends beyond base ticket costs. Senior citizen discounts, which might seem like a natural benefit for the many foreign retirees living in Mexico, are exclusively available to those with Mexican identification cards and official senior citizen credentials (INAPAM). Foreign residents, regardless of age, cannot access these reduced rates.

This policy has left many long-term residents feeling excluded from what was marketed as a transportation solution for the region’s communities. The irony isn’t lost on expats who contribute to local economies, pay Mexican taxes, and consider themselves part of the fabric of their adopted communities, yet are priced out of what was supposed to be an accessible regional transportation option.

Impractical for some
For foreign residents living on fixed incomes, the international pricing makes the Tren Maya financially impractical. When a bus journey between the same destinations costs roughly 100 pesos less and often provides more convenient connections to city centers, the train becomes a luxury rather than a practical transportation option.

The situation is particularly frustrating given that the Tren Maya was promoted as an economical and efficient way to travel between the region’s attractions and cities. For the expat community that has invested in calling this region home, the reality falls short of those promises.

As the Tren Maya continues expanding its network, the pricing structure remains a point of contention. While the railway undoubtedly offers a unique and comfortable way to explore the Yucatan Peninsula’s rich cultural heritage, foreign residents must weigh the experience against the significant cost premium they face simply for not holding Mexican citizenship.

For now, expats planning to ride the Tren Maya should budget for international tourist rates and consider whether the convenience and experience justify paying nearly double what their Mexican neighbors pay for the same journey. It’s a sobering reminder that residency and citizenship, even in one’s adopted home, can carry very different privileges.

Let’s Talk About How We Got Stuck in Mérida Traffic Hell By Lee Steele May 25, 2025

Mérida traffic is so bad these days that the notion of a quick errand in the car has become as quaint as the city’s colonial past. How did we get here? How do we get out?

On a sweltering Friday afternoon, an endless procession of vehicles crawls north to south along Paseo de Montejo, the grand boulevard once compared to Europe’s finest avenues. Traffic stretches from the Justo Sierra statue past the Monumento a la Patria all the way to Prolongacíon Montejo. At the same time, mostly empty bike lanes wait for the occasional cyclist braving the heat. The lanes were controversial because they leave less room for cars.

Traffic on the Paseo Montejo only got worse once seldom-used bike lanes were installed. But many other factors are also to blame. The numbers tell the story, as reported today in Diario de Yucatán: From June 2023 to June 2024, Yucatán’s vehicle fleet swelled from 1,034,153 to 1,102,172 — a 6.6 percent increase in just one year. Private cars alone jumped from 598,705 to 630,667, while motorcycles surged from 261,138 to 287,942.

The absurdity of Mérida’s traffic reached a breaking point for public accountant Fernando Ojeda Llanes in February. Leaving home at 10:30 a.m. to pick up a friend at the airport — a journey that should take 20 minutes — he didn’t arrive until 12:15 p.m., nearly two hours later, Diario reported.

He blamed the chaos partly on changes to Avenida Aviación, where yellow traffic lights now prioritize the Ie-Tram public transit system, creating bottlenecks throughout the corridor. The charming yellow “Bienvenidos” welcome arch was demolished to make way for the extra lane for the bus line, which a new wave of politicians is challenging.

Engineering a Mérida traffic crisis. René Flores Ayora, a traffic engineer and auditor at the National Accident Prevention Center, has identified multiple red flags that have turned daily commuting into an ordeal.

On Paseo de Montejo alone, drivers must wait through three to four complete traffic light cycles at each roundabout just to proceed from the Monumento a la Patria to the end of the avenue. “We need to synchronize the traffic lights to create a wave of green,” Flores said.

The Mérida traffic problems extend beyond the famous boulevard. On Calle 34 approaching the Los Héroes area, only four vehicles can pass through the intersection during each green light, leaving long queues of frustrated drivers. Behind the Military Hospital, road modifications have created what Flores calls “a labyrinth,” so confusing that he vowed never to drive through it again.

Meanwhile, the convergence of major arteries — Itzaes, Aviación and Internacional avenues — has created additional chokepoints where infrastructure improvements have prioritized public transportation over traffic flow.

Mérida’s public transportation system, while receiving infrastructure investment, suffers from fundamental design flaws that actually worsen congestion. Ninety-five percent of bus routes force passengers to travel downtown even when their origins and destinations lie elsewhere.

“Many people need to go from one neighborhood to another, but they have to pass through the center to catch another route,” Flores explained. Only three circular routes — Periférico, Metropolitano and Circuito Colonias — bypass the downtown core.

The downtown bus stops themselves create additional bottlenecks. When a bus takes 10 minutes to load and unload passengers on a two-lane street, traffic flow drops by 50 percent.

The Mérida traffic crisis has deadly consequences. Through April, 78 people died in traffic accidents across Yucatán this year, with the Periférico ring road ranking as the third most dangerous highway in Mexico and the deadliest in the state, claiming 20 to 25 lives annually.

Flores attributes much of the problem to inadequate road safety education. Many drivers have never read the state’s traffic regulations, updated in May 2011 to include helmet requirements for motorcyclists, seat belt mandates and prohibitions on texting while driving.

New national speed limits aim to address the crisis: 20 kilometers per hour around schools and hospitals, 30 km/h in downtown areas (reduced from 40), 50 km/h on major avenues (down from 60), and 80 km/h on ring roads.

“If we respected speed limits, traffic fatalities would be reduced by 50 percent,” Flores said.

Gov. Joaquín Díaz Mena’s plan for a Metropolitan Ring Road offers hope for easing congestion, though Flores warns that more comprehensive solutions are needed.

While he opposes implementing big-city-style driving restrictions in Mérida for now, he acknowledges they may become necessary within five to 10 years as the city continues to grow.

“The backbone of any city is a good public transportation system,” Flores said. “In cities with good service, many people who own vehicles leave them at home. Having a good system makes a city more prosperous.”

Lee Steele is the founding director of Mérida-based Roof Cat Media S de RL de CV and has published Yucatán Magazine and other titles since 2012. He was Hearst Connecticut’s Sunday Magazine creative director and worked in New York City for various magazine publishers, including Condé Nast and Primedia, for over 20 years.

Passenger train alone not profitable: Authorities say cargo service will be fundamental to Tren Maya success
Riviera Maya, Q.R. — Cargo will be a fundamental component in the financial success of the Maya Train says the company’s’ director. On its own as a passenger train, it is not profitable.

General Óscar David Lozano Águila, General Director of Tren Maya, acknowledges that passenger operations alone are not profitable and that it is urgent to complement that service with freight transportation.

General Óscar David Lozano Águila
“Freight operation is a fundamental component which is why we need to recover the infrastructure that already exists with the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway,” he said. Lozano Águila acknowledged that passenger operation alone is not profitable and that freight operations are necessary to reach its estimated break-even point by 2030.

“No company anywhere in the world that serves passengers on a rail system is profitable. That’s a reality and a fact, that’s why the Mexican government is committed to supplementing passenger transport.

“To achieve the break-even point, we need freight. It’s a fundamental component, which is why we need to restore the freight infrastructure that already exists with the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway. We are working intensively to carry out this project,” he explained.

Last month, President Claudia Sheinbaum launched construction of the freight infrastructure for the Maya Train which will allow this rail system to transport passengers and goods with the goal of strengthening the development of southeastern Mexico.

President Claudia Sheinbaum, center, waves the starting flag for Maya Train freight construction.
“We’re giving the green light for the Maya Train to become not just a passenger train, but a freight train. How important is this? Well, freight transports different types of goods and passenger trains transport people.

“So, since it’s also a freight train, it will allow all of southeastern Mexico to achieve even more development than what has been achieved with the Maya Train, which is primarily a tourism development.”

“The freight train will provide enormous potential for transporting what is produced elsewhere in the country or here in the southeast, in the most efficient way possible,” Sheinbaum said during the April 20 announcement.

Maya Train freight work has begun toward the Port of Progreso, Yucatan.
She said that “the details of the Maya Train are being finalized, especially related to the archaeological sites and part of the overhead lines that are being completed. And at the same time, the Maya Freight Train is already under construction heading toward Progreso.”

Brigadier General Alejandro Gómez Vargas, head of the Maya Train’s Coordination, Delivery and Reception Center, said that the cargo service will begin in 2026 and will be incorporated into the Port of Progreso.
“We’re going to gradually develop cargo capacity, but by September 2024 we’ll have everything we need. We’re interested in boosting the cargo coming through the Trans-Isthmian corridor, and if we can join forces with the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway, we’ll surely generate business for the rest of the companies,” he said.

Gómez Vargas announced that this project will have four multimodal terminals in Palenque, Progreso, Cancun and Chetumal, as well as the same number of yards in Escárcega, Pomunch, Valladolid and Xpujil, and a rail operations center in Poxilá.

“For the service, the plan is to have 12 road locomotives, seven yard locomotives and 550 cars. This infrastructure will constitute a robust freight transportation system that will generate development and increase employment in the communities that are integrated into the Mayan Train route,” he stated.

Gómez Vargas said when the Maya Train begins cargo operations, they will transfer cargo in Bacalá, a municipality adjacent to Palenque. The completed freight train project will move fuel, steel, cement, grains, perishables and automobiles.

A Summer Escape to El Corchito 23 may 2025

There are places along the Yucatecan coast that just scream “summer”. With our tropical (let’s be honest, sometimes downright scorching) weather, nothing feels better than cooling off in a body of water. Sure, pools are nice, and beaches are always a solid choice, but since we’re in Yucatán, let me introduce you to a refreshingly unique experience you shouldn’t miss this season: El Corchito Ecological Reserve.

Just 40 minutes from Mérida, this breathtaking spot has come a long way since it was discovered by a group of fishermen in the late 1980s. Today, visitors are welcomed by the friendly faces of two raccoons painted on the entrance wall and a large palapa that functions as the main reception area. An ecological reserve, El Corchito is dedicated to protecting the wide variety of plant and animal species that thrive here. At first glance, you might wonder where this biodiversity is hiding. Well, that’s where the magic begins. To reach the heart of El Corchito, you’ll board a small boat and glide through the mangroves until the real adventure unfolds.

Nature and wildlife

Now, don’t be alarmed if the first thing you spot are raccoons and coatis casually hanging around, striking a pose, or simply going about their day. Once you manage to look past all the cuteness and take in your surroundings, with wooden walkways weaving through the mangroves like a small labyrinth and birdsong echoing overhead, it becomes clear why El Corchito is so loved by both locals and visitors.

Beyond its charming residents, El Corchito is home to four crystal-clear cenotes: Pájaros, Helechos, Venados, and El Corchito. Each one offers a unique glimpse into the natural beauty of the reserve, perfect for swimming, relaxing, or simply marveling at the serenity. You’ll also find small freshwater springs where you can dip your feet and unwind.

Believe me, there’s something incredibly peaceful about this place—especially in the early morning hours. One thing I’ve learned is that it’s also the perfect spot for a good old-fashioned catch-up. The cenotes practically invite you to wade in, stretch your legs like you’re doing water aerobics, and dive into the most random conversations with your crew.

But hey, if lounging and gossiping isn’t quite your thing, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy El Corchito with friends or family. Recently, they’ve added kayak and paddleboard rentals to the mix—perfect if you’re in the mood for a little adventure. You can rent them by the hour, and if you want a guide to join you during your paddleboard ride, that’s available for a small additional fee.

Not in the mood to paddle or move a muscle (because, let’s face it, vacations are for chilling)? No problem. Hop on a catamaran sailboat tour instead! It’s a relaxing ride through the mangroves and beyond, with discounted rates for locals, kids, and seniors.

Beyond the natural beauty, El Corchito also offers a few extra comforts to make your visit even more enjoyable. For a small fee, you can rent lockers to keep your belongings safe, hammocks to relax in, and even life jackets if you’re planning to take a dip. The reserve also has bathrooms, shaded palapas, and rest areas where you can take a break and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Some ground rules

Now, just a heads-up: it’s important to remember that this place is a natural reserve, so the focus is on protecting the environment and its inhabitants. To make sure everything stays in balance, there are a few rules: no bringing food into the area, feeding the animals, wearing sunscreen, drinking alcohol, diving in the cenotes, or blasting music. These fairly new measures are supposed to keep the peace in check for everyone.

When you feel like you’ve soaked up all the magic El Corchito has to offer, simply head back to the dock and wait a few minutes for one of the boats to swing by and take you back to where you started. And thanks to its super convenient location near Progreso, it’s the perfect starting point (or pit stop) for a full day of exploring. Think Meteorite Museum, the Jurassic Trail, or even another gorgeous Yucatecan beach just down the road to try delicious local dishes.

So there you have it, pools and beaches are cool, but are they cooler than El Corchito? There’s only one way to find out.

Reserva Ecológica El Corchito

Calle 27 en la glorieta con calle 46, Progreso

Every day, 9 am – 4 pm

General admission: $131 pesos

Mexicans: $66 pesos

Children (5 to 10 years old): $49 pesos

People with disabilities: Free admission

Services

Catamaran trip:

General fee: $261 pesos

Mexicans: $153 pesos

Yucatecos/Children/INAPAM: $87 pesos

Kayak: $87 pesos per hour

Paddleboard: $100 pesos per hour (extra $100 pesos with an instructor)

Cecil Hemingway and El Pueblo: The Engineer Who Built a Sanctuary By Yucatán Magazine May 23, 2025

At the foot of Paseo de Montejo lies El Pueblo, a luxury guest house born from a serendipitous Thanksgiving vacation in 2011. That’s when Cecil Hemingway, visiting from the United States, found himself unexpectedly purchasing a modest home on Calle 56 in Mérida’s Centro Histórico.

“My love for Mérida is pure chemistry,” explains Cecil, a South African-born former chemical engineer and applied mathematician. “I have traveled the world and was always on the lookout for a place to retire to. Within a week of visiting Mérida, I decided that it was the place for me. I sensed the positive energy and the humanity of the place.”

What began as a single property evolved into something grander as Hemingway acquired neighboring properties, including an adjacent parking lot and two houses. The combined space was thoughtfully transformed into a seven-suite guest house retreat. During the renovation, upper stories were added while preserving the original footprint, allowing over half the property to become a garden showcasing species native to the Yucatán Peninsula.

Hemingway’s background seems an unlikely foundation for creating such an artistic haven. “I am a chemical engineer and applied mathematician by training. I started my professional career as an actuary before I got into senior management for a large insurance broker. So, I am all left brain,” he admits.

Yet this analytical mind found creative expression in El Pueblo. “It’s a very organic thing for me,” Cecil says about his relationship with art. “I spent years in NYC visiting amazing museums like MoMA and the Whitney. For me, art is very intuitive. When I see something I like, I buy it if I can afford it. But it needs to speak to me. I like modern and stylized forms that combine with the vibrancy of Mexico.”

This passion for art shapes the guest experience at El Pueblo. “I also see art as a way to bring interest and excitement into calm and minimalist spaces,” Cecil notes. His curatorial approach isn’t driven by prestige: “I care little about how important or famous an artist is. I prefer to find new and exciting artists I can support.”

Creating a sanctuary

The property’s centerpiece is a 25-meter freshwater swimming pool, an Olympic-size manmade cenote. Interestingly, this is where Hemingway’s engineering background proved valuable: “The only time I ever applied my chemical engineering training was to design the biological filter for the El Pueblo natural pool.”

The result is a surprisingly spacious property with an intimate, nurturing atmosphere. “The moment you enter El Pueblo—for the first time and every time thereafter—you find yourself wrapped in its quietude, the soft hues, leafy plants and the gentle sounds of water,” one guest wrote in an online review.

Cecil’s commitment to creating a sanctuary may have deeper roots in his early life experiences. “I grew up in apartheid South Africa,” he reflects candidly. “I saw the worst part of humanity there, and it reinforced for me how important it is to treat people first and foremost as human beings.”

El Pueblo Mérida welcomes you.
A host by nature
While El Pueblo is now a successful luxury guest house, Hemingway didn’t initially plan this path.

“El Pueblo was not my idea, but I very much enjoy hosting and helping guests. I have made some amazing friends in the process.”

His analytical side hasn’t disappeared entirely. “I use my analytical skills to fine-tune the marketing for El Pueblo, with the main channels being content marketing through SEO and email marketing. I track traffic to the El Pueblo website on a daily basis.”

What draws people to El Pueblo goes beyond the physical space.

“Cecil is a most gracious host and has created a sanctuary filled with exquisite art and surrounded by natural beauty,” said Jeanine, a New York City visitor who promised to return one day.

Cecil’s connection to Mérida runs deep.

“It’s my happy place on Earth. I have made amazing friends here and am always relieved to land in Mérida after a trip.” He values the city’s community spirit: “In Mérida, people still care about one another. My first experience in Mérida was drawing cash on a hot day and leaving my card in the machine. Two blocks away, the guy behind me caught up with me to hand me the card I had left in the machine.”

He shares another touching example: “My best friend tripped on the pavement and could not walk. A stranger picked her up and carried her to a restaurant chair to wait for her Uber.”

This sense of community reflects what Cecil appreciates most about his adopted home. “The place is magical. That is what I sensed when I first visited. The people are warm and friendly. People still care about each other here. Family and friends matter. Relationships matter.”

Hemingway’s creative pursuits extend beyond El Pueblo. He also acquired a property near Parque La Plancha.

“The only reason I bought it was because, despite being large, the design at El Pueblo was so precious that there was no space for composting or storage.”

This new space has evolved beyond its practical origins. “I bought it from a couple of nuns who used the proceeds to build a retirement home for railway workers who did not have families. The space was overgrown with a chapel and a few buildings. I liked the openness and turned the existing structures into a living space and added a yoga studio. I also built a garage and workshop, and a large composting area. About 80% was left as garden, and half the garden is for vegetables and fruit trees.”

The property, called La Huerta, will soon house a ceramics studio, allowing Cecil to reconnect with childhood interests. “As a kid, I did ceramics with my childcare provider on my grandparents’ farm. And I was heavily into making Batiks. Really kitschy stuff using Egyptian motifs. It’s time to return to my childhood,” he shares with a hint of amusement.

“I spent my life doing left-brain things. Now, I am enjoying exploring and developing my artistic side.”

The El Pueblo experience

El Pueblo’s location offers strategic advantages for travelers. At the beginning of Paseo de Montejo and near the Corredor Gastronómico restaurant zone, guests enjoy easy access to dining and shopping. The new tram link to the Tren Maya further connects visitors to attractions throughout the Peninsula.

Beyond a luxurious suite, ample common spaces, the native gardens, and a tropical pool, a stay at El Pueblo includes breakfast, lunch, and cafe drinks and snacks. The environment is enhanced by carefully selected music—”I am comfortable with silence, but enjoy relaxing and atmospheric music. I love Latin rhythms. My favorite singer is Lila Downs,” Cecil notes.

“Cecil has a knack for creating beauty in every corner of El Pueblo,” Jeanine further raves. “His eye for design, art and nature is magnificent. And the vegan food that the chefs beautifully prepare is not only delicious but also healthy!”

There is indeed “a comfort and ease to it that is really nice,” as Cecil himself puts it. “That extra level of affinity counts for a lot.”

For more information, visit ElPuebloMerida.com.

Progreso Rate increases for port services at Puerto Progreso come into effect.

The General Coordination of Ports and Merchant Marine of the Navy Secretariat published today a series of rate increases for various port services.

Services offered at the Progreso remote terminal by launch and tugboat are included. Prices range from nearly $3,000 pesos to $111,000 pesos.

Today, the Official Gazette of the Federation published a document signed by Leo Reyes Cordero, Director General of Ports, which reports on rate increases for services such as maneuvering, launching, and towing at various terminals across the country.

Price of boat rides in Progreso: In the case of Progreso, starting today, the base rate for each boat service is 2,964.22 pesos per hour. The provider is “Servicios Marítimos Peninsular.”

According to the applicable rules, the boat service will be provided to vessels to transport passengers, crew, pilots, and authorities to their side for boarding or return to land.

The fee refers to the service provided at the express request of the user for the entry, exit, amendment, or anchoring of vessels in the port of Progreso, and does not include VAT.

On the other hand, the towing service fee provided by Equimar Progreso has also been adjusted and varies according to the vessel’s tonnage. The lowest fee is 1,501 to 4,500 tons, with a base fee of 36,356 pesos.

The largest vessels are those over 30,000 tons, with rates starting at 11,756 pesos. For smaller vessels and tourist cruises, discounts range from 5% to 60%. Details of all charges can be found in the authorization letter, included in the DOF.

The document establishes that the towing service “consists of docking the tugboat(s) necessary to steer and/or support the vessel, from or to the location indicated by the harbor pilot or the responsible authority to carry out docking, undocking, movement, or anchoring maneuvers.”

The tariffs went into effect today, upon publication in the Official Gazette of the Federation.

Cruise lines reach agreement with Mexico: they will pay $21 for each passenger who disembarks at the country’s ports.
However, the so-called non-resident right (DNR) will be implemented gradually, progressively increasing: it will begin on July 1, 2025, at $5; it will increase to $10 in August 2026; then to $15 in July 2027 until reaching $21 in August 2028.

QUINTANA ROO.– The Mexican government has finally given in to U.S. Cruise Lines and halved the $42 Nonresident Rights (DNR) fee it intended to charge each passenger disembarking a cruise ship at Mexican ports starting in the second half of 2025.

In addition, it was reported that this charge will be applied progressively, that is, it will start with a charge of five dollars in July 2025, then increase to 10 dollars in August 2026, in July 2027 it will rise to 15 dollars, and by August 2028 it will reach the goal of twenty-one dollars.

Since April 2, Tourism Secretary Josefina Rodríguez sent a letter to the CEOs of both the Florida Caribbean Association (FCCA) and the shipping companies Norwegian, Carnival, and Royal, in which she expressed the Mexican government’s willingness to implement a reduction in the aforementioned fee, announced at the end of 2024 as part of the federation’s fiscal package for 2025.

In exchange for this reduction, the Mexican government is asking shipping companies to increase the volume of Mexican products they supply to cruise ships visiting Mexican ports; to commit to a minimum percentage of product purchases under the Made in Mexico program starting in 2025; and to expand the promotion of Mexico through the shipping companies’ communication channels.

They are also asked to position Mexican crafts, textiles, and art during voyages and in port spaces, as well as to provide growth metrics for the participation of Mexican companies within the cruise industry’s supply chain over time, as well as periodic working groups led by the Mexican Association for Tourist Cruise Services (AMEPACT).

The shipping companies responded with a counterproposal that proposed extending the progressive nature of the charge even further, that is, starting not in 2027 but in January 2029 with the $21 charge per cruise passenger at Mexican docks.

Finally, Quintana Roo Senator Eugenio Segura confirmed that the agreement with the shipping companies remained as originally proposed by the Mexican government, with a 50% reduction in the maximum amount of $21 applicable to the Non-Resident Tax, with progressive increases starting at $5 in July of this year and rising to $21 in August 2028.

Yucatán Braces For Extreme Heat Wave This Week
Mérida expects temperatures to reach 41°C as heat wave grips the region. On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, residents of Mérida, Mexico, are bracing for an intense heat wave, with temperatures expected to soar to a scorching 41 degrees Celsius. The National Meteorological Service (SMN) has reported that a significant anticyclonic circulation will keep the environment hot to very hot across the Mexican Republic, particularly affecting the Yucatán Peninsula.

According to the Centro Hidrometeorológico Regional “Mérida,” the day will start warm, with minimum temperatures around 24 degrees Celsius, rising to a maximum of 41 degrees Celsius in the afternoon. Clear skies and scattered clouds are anticipated throughout the day, alongside winds from the East-Southeast shifting to the Northeast, with gusts exceeding 40 km/h in coastal areas.

In addition to Mérida, other regions in Yucatán will also experience high temperatures. In Progreso, temperatures will range from 25 degrees Celsius to 36 degrees Celsius, while Tekax will see a range of 25 degrees to 40 degrees Celsius. Tizimín and Valladolid are expected to have similar conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between 23 degrees Celsius and 38 degrees Celsius.

This extreme heat is not just a local phenomenon; it reflects broader climatic trends affecting the region. The average temperature in the Yucatán is around 26.6 degrees Celsius, but this week, the heat wave is forecasted to push temperatures even higher, as the SMN warns of a prolonged period of extreme heat.

Historically, the hottest months in Mérida are from April to August, with temperatures often reaching or exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The highest temperature ever recorded in Mexico was a staggering 58.5 degrees Celsius, noted on July 6, 1966, in San Luis Río Colorado. In stark contrast, the lowest recorded temperature was -25 degrees Celsius on December 27, 1997, in Madero, Chihuahua.

Experts are increasingly concerned about the implications of climate change on weather patterns in Mexico. They warn that the country may face a decline in annual precipitation and a significant rise in temperatures in the coming years. Farmers and ranchers have already felt the impact of recent droughts and severe flooding, which have disrupted agricultural production.

As temperatures continue to rise, authorities are advising residents to stay informed through official channels such as Protección Civil Yucatán and the SMN. The public is urged to take precautions against the heat, especially as the thermal sensation could approach 50 degrees Celsius, creating hazardous conditions for outdoor activities.

Looking ahead, meteorologist Juan Antonio Palma Solís has indicated that a change in weather patterns might occur next weekend. A clash of warm air with a trough preceding a cold front could bring much-needed rain to the Yucatán Peninsula, potentially alleviating some of the extreme heat. This weather system is anticipated to arrive around the weekend of May 10-11, 2025, which coincides with the Mexican holiday known as Día de las Madres.

Palma Solís noted that conditions are favorable for what is referred to as a “Cordonazo del Día de las Madres,” an event where significant rainfall is expected around this time. Although the forecast suggests little to no rain until then, the predicted weather changes may lead to very strong scattered rains (50 to 75 mm) or even intense rains (75 to 100 mm) across the three states of the Yucatán Peninsula.

As the weekend approaches, residents should remain vigilant for potential thunderstorms, electrical activity, and even the possibility of hail. Coastal areas are particularly at risk, as meteorologists warn of the potential for “Maanja Ché” (storms at sea) and waterspouts.

In light of these forecasts, many families may need to adjust their plans for celebrating Mother’s Day, which is traditionally a time for gatherings and festivities. With the potential for stormy weather, it’s essential for residents to stay updated and prepared for any changes in the weather.

In summary, the weather in Mérida and the surrounding Yucatán Peninsula is set to be extremely hot this week, with temperatures expected to peak at 41 degrees Celsius. While the heat wave poses challenges for daily life, the anticipated arrival of a cold front could bring some relief in the form of rain and cooler temperatures by the weekend.

As the climate continues to change, the region’s weather patterns are becoming more unpredictable, and it is crucial for residents to heed weather advisories and prepare for the extremes that may lie ahead.

Tecate launches new salty beer from exclusive floating bar in Gulf of Mexico May 6, 2025

The special salty edition of Tecate Light is currently available only at the Gulf of Mexico Bar, where the beer company will gauge consumer response. Broader distribution is expected in June.

Tecate Light has launched a special edition beer brewed with saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico, celebrating national pride and the richness of local ingredients.

According to Tecate’s parent company, Heineken, the sea salt makes Tecate Light more versatile when pairing with food, and connects with consumers who feel pride in everything Mexican.

“With this offering, we are celebrating our roots, connecting authentically with consumers and reinforcing pride in what’s made in Mexico,” VP of Marketing for Heineken Mexico Marta García said.

The new salty beer was officially launched on a floating bar called “Bar Golfo de México”, set atop a catamaran near the coast of Progreso, Yucatán.

Only a select group of press, influencers and content creators were invited to the exclusive launch event last week. However, the catamaran will open to the general public during May and June. To be part of this experience, the event’s organizers suggest keeping an eye on Tecate’s social media channels.

Tecate’s marketing move makes a splash before a not-so-sunny geopolitical horizon, after U.S. President Donald Trump decided to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico on U.S. maps to Gulf of America earlier this year.

“This edition [of beer] represents a declaration of who we are: authentic, proud and ready to continue evolving alongside our consumers,” Tecate brand director Esteban Velasco said.

According to Heineken, the special salty edition of Tecate Light is currently available only at the Gulf of Mexico Bar, where the beer company will gauge consumer response. Broader distribution is expected in June, when the beer is expected to hit SIX store refrigerators in Monterrey, Mérida and Hermosillo.

Tecate Light was launched by Cervecería Tecate in 1992, becoming the first light beer produced and marketed in Mexico. Since its launch, Tecate Light has experienced sustained growth and is one of the best-selling beers in Mexico.

Eggs Protected As Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins in Chelem By Lee Steele May 7, 2025

The Progreso Municipal Public Safety and Traffic Department has seen first-hand evidence that sea turtle nesting season has indeed begun. One mother turtle was found laying eggs in Chelem on Tuesday, and officers quickly secured the area to protect her and prevent any disturbance during the natural spawning process.

The turtle and its 171 eggs were later transferred to the Center for Technological Studies of the Sea (Cetmar), where biologists will implement protocols to ensure proper incubation and the eventual safe release of the hatchlings.

Sea Turtle Nesting Season. Sea turtles have begun nesting in Yucatán.
The Yucatán Peninsula, including the state of Quintana Roo with its 900 kilometers of coastline, is one of Mexico’s most important nesting sites for sea turtles. Sea turtle nesting season in this region typically runs from May to October, though the full cycle of nesting and hatching can extend from April through November.

Of the seven sea turtle species worldwide, six come to Mexico’s beaches to nest, with four species commonly found in the Yucatán Peninsula: green turtles (also known as black turtles in the Pacific), loggerhead turtles, hawksbill turtles, and occasionally leatherback turtles. A female turtle can lay up to 200 eggs at once in a nest she digs with her fins several meters from the shoreline.

Interestingly, the sex of the hatchlings is determined by the temperature of the sand during incubation. After the adult turtles return to the sea, conservation efforts often involve moving eggs to protected nests to prevent predation by birds, iguanas, and other animals.

The eggs typically take six to eight weeks (approximately 45-60 days) to hatch, making July through November the primary period for hatchling emergence and release. September and October represent the peak months for hatchling activity.

Progreso municipal authorities have issued a reminder to citizens to report any turtle sightings, particularly during nesting season, to ensure these protected species receive appropriate conservation care under environmental regulations. While the Ecological Police Department previously handled such cases, the Public Safety and Traffic Department now oversees these situations.

This marks the first documented case of sea turtle nesting in the area during the current season.

Mexico travel advice

Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)
April 30, 2025

Risk levels
Safety and security
Entry and exit requirements
Health
Laws and culture
Natural disasters and climate
Risk levels
Mexico – Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

Regional risk
Regional Advisory – Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid non-essential travel to the following states due to high levels of violence and organized crime:

Chiapas, excluding the cities of Palenque via highway 186 from Villahermosa, San Cristobal de las Casas and Tuxtla Gutiérrez
Chihuahua, excluding Chihuahua City
Colima, excluding the city of Manzanillo if accessed by air
Guanajuato, in all areas south of and including highways 43D and 45D
Guerrero, excluding the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo if accessed by air
Jalisco, within 50 km of the border with Michoacán state
the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park in Morelos
Michoacán, excluding the cities of Morelia and Patzcuaro
Nayarit, within 20 km of the border with the states of Sinaloa and Durango
Nuevo León, excluding the city of Monterrey
Sinaloa, excluding the city of Los Mochis
Sonora, excluding the cities of Hermosillo, Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
Tamaulipas, excluding the city of Tampico
Zacatecas, excluding Zacatecas City

Safety and security
Crime
Violent clashes in Culiacán, Mazatlán and surrounding areas

In recent weeks, there have been violent clashes between rival armed groups in Culiacán, Mazatlán and their surrounding areas. Armed groups have stopped vehicles on the highway from Culiácan to Mazatlán and other major roads.

If you are in Culiacán, Mazatlán or their surrounding areas:

exercise extreme caution
limit your movements
monitor local media for the latest information
follow the instructions of local authorities
More information on organized crime

Security situation in Baja California Sur

Since April 22, 2025, the security situation has deteriorated in the state of Baja California Sur due to several violent incidents, such as:

shootings
arson
assaults
robberies

The affected areas include:

Cabo San Lucas
La Paz
Los Cabos

Local authorities have heightened security measures by increasing the presence of security forces and emergency medical services and imposing restrictions on the use of public transportation.

If you are in or near an affected area:

exercise caution
follow the instructions of local authorities
monitor local news to stay informed of the evolving situation
Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico.

If you’re a victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local authorities. Criminal investigations require that a formal complaint be made in person. You should hire a local lawyer to represent your interests and follow up on your case after you return to Canada. Failure to do so may result in incomplete investigations or long delays in bringing cases to trial.

Petty crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico. Remain vigilant in airports, bus stations, buses and the Mexico City metro system.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times,
Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
Don’t show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
Organized crime
Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active across the country. ?Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common. Armed clashes between security forces and drug cartels can occur without warning.

In some parts of the country, the military, the navy and federal police forces have been deployed to maintain a visible presence and combat organized crime to improve security conditions.

If you plan on travelling to Mexico:

be vigilant
don’t show signs of affluence
stay in tourist areas
be very cautious on the roads, including major highways
avoid travelling at night
research your destination thoroughly
monitor local media for the latest information
Tourist areas
Mexican authorities have made efforts to protect major tourist destinations, resulting in lower levels of gang-related violence in these areas. However, incidents of violent crime still occur in major cities, popular tourist areas and resorts. Fighting between criminal gangs and cartels has taken place in:

restaurants
hotels
nightclubs
Innocent bystanders have been injured or killed. You may be in the wrong place at the wrong time and become a victim of violent crime.

Border areas
Criminal activity and violence occur regularly in border areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups and Mexican security forces continue to pose a risk. Shootouts, attacks and illegal roadblocks may occur without warning.

The situation is tense in the border area between:

Mexico and the United States
Mexico and Guatemala
You should travel to Mexico by air to avoid criminal incidents at international land border crossings.

If you plan to cross an international land border:

remain extremely vigilant
use only official border crossings
avoid travelling at night
Armed robbery
Armed robbery occurs frequently. Criminals sometimes follow a victim after they exchange or withdraw money.

Criminals on motorcycles often rob other motorists and pedestrians on the roads.

Don’t show signs of affluence
Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
Don’t resist an attack
Rent cars without stickers or other advertisements for the rental company
Ensure that you only stop in major centres, at reputable hotels or at secure campsites
Avoid withdrawing or exchanging money in public areas of the airport
Don’t leave valuables in the vehicle
Assault
Canadian travellers have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular tourist destinations were involved. Sometimes, hotel staff are not helpful and try to dissuade victims from reporting the incident to the police.

There are reports of individuals posing as police officers and driving cars resembling police vehicles committing:

robberies
physical assault
sexual assault
If you are in Mexico:

avoid walking after dark
avoid deserted streets at night and isolated areas
Are you a victim of sexual violence? – Government of Canada and British Embassy in Mexico City

Carjackings
Carjacking is common on roads along the Pacific coast and northern borders. Criminals mainly target:

camper vans
sport utility vehicles
pickup trucks
If you believe that you’re being followed, go directly to a police station.

Kidnappings
Kidnappings, including express kidnappings, occur frequently throughout Mexico. Kidnappers have targeted foreigners, including Canadians.

If you’re kidnapped:

comply with the kidnappers’ requests
don’t resist
Express kidnappings may occur in large urban areas. Criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. Victims may be held overnight to make a second withdrawal after midnight. Thieves often work in cooperation with or pose as taxi drivers.

Only use reputable cab companies or ride-sharing apps
Avoid hailing taxis on the street
If you’re threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and don’t resist
Home break-ins
Tourists staying in private and rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Make sure you lock windows and doors securely.

Fraud
Timeshares
Disputes over timeshare arrangements occur. Timeshare sales representatives may be very persistent and often use pressure tactics to make a sale.

Members of criminal groups often pose as real estate representatives offering to buy your property for large amounts for use as a timeshare. They may never pay for the property or charge high administrative fees.

You’re legally entitled to cancel a timeshare contract without penalty within 5 working days. It’s illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract. To cancel your contract, you must write directly to the timeshare company.

Before purchasing a timeshare:

carefully review the contract
consult a Mexican attorney
only provide your credit card number if you are sure you want to make the purchase
keep copies of all correspondence
If you suspect fraud in the real estate procedures, contact the Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer immediately.

Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer (PROFECO) – Mexican Government (in Spanish)
Should I buy a timeshare in Mexico? – Embassy of Mexico in Canada
Should I sell my timeshare in Mexico? – Embassy of Mexico in Canada
Timeshares
Online scams
Travellers fall victim to online scams, including phishing emails and romance scams. Certain scams target senior citizens.

Scam victims are subject to:

coercion into acting as a drug or money courier for criminal groups
kidnapping
forced money transfers and withdrawals of funds
Before travelling to Mexico to visit someone you met online:

be wary of individuals who ask you to carry a package from Mexico on their behalf
beware of people who show a keen interest in you online
Useful links
Alcohol, drug and travel
Warning to Canadian Seniors Targeted by International Drug Smuggling Scams
Overseas fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud
Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently.

When using your debit or credit card:

cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
don’t withdraw large sums of cash
pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Overcharging
Certain establishments, such as bars or nightclubs, may try to overcharge you.

Discussions about overcharging have turned violent. Tourists have been threatened and forced to pay the bill.

Always confirm the price of an item before ordering
Do not leave an open tab
Avoid giving your credit card to bar or restaurant staff
Check your bill for accuracy before paying
Extortion
Extortion schemes are common in Mexico. Incidences of virtual kidnappings are increasing and are more common than traditional forms of kidnapping.

Virtual kidnappings
Virtual kidnappings are a form of extortion. Victims are neither captured nor detained. Criminals use threats and knowledge of their victim’s personal information to create the impression of a kidnapping and demand ransom from the victim’s friends and family.

Criminals gather information on their victims from a variety of sources, including:

social media
watching and eavesdropping on conversations
phone theft or hacking
Criminals use many tactics in virtual kidnapping. Many of these tactics involve criminals calling potential victims in their hotel rooms, posing as their friends or family members in distress, posing as government officials or claiming to represent criminal gangs.

Always protect your personal information, both in person and over communications networks.

When you answer the phone, wait for the caller to speak
If the caller asks who is speaking, you’re threatened on the phone or hear screams, hang up immediately and report the call to the authorities
Don’t discuss travel plans, your room number or any other personal information with strangers
Never leave your cell phone unattended
Ensure your cellphone is password protected and enable two-step verification for your applications
Don’t share personal details to strangers in person, over the phone or on social media, especially when using hotel phones
Don’t admit visitors to your room
If you believe a friend or family member is the victim of a virtual kidnapping, you should contact the Government of Canada to verify if the kidnapping is legitimate before taking any action or sending ransom money.

Police corruption
Legitimate police officers have demanded money from tourists or arrested tourists for minor offences such as:

drinking alcohol on the street
public urination
traffic violations
They have requested immediate cash payment in exchange for their release. This practice is common in tourist areas.

If this occurs:

don’t hand over your money or your passport
ask for the officer’s name, badge and patrol car number
ask for a copy of the written fine, which is payable at a later date, or insist on going to the nearest police station
Useful links
Payment of traffic violations – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Overseas fraud
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Some incidents of assault, rape and sexual assault against Canadian women have occurred, including at beach resorts and on public buses.

Always remain vigilant
Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers
Avoid walking alone at night
Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ travellers
Mexican law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Mexican society, particularly in rural areas.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are disproportionately targeted for violence and can face discrimination.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Spiked food and drinks
There are reports of criminals adding drugs into items that could put you at risk of sexual assault or robbery.

Items include:

food and drinks
gum
cigarettes
Incidents are most likely to occur:

in nightclubs
in bars and restaurants
on public transportation, including taxis on the street
While you’re in Mexico

be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
order drinks in sealed bottles or cans instead of in plastic cups
Unregulated alcohol
Some bars, restaurants and resorts have served unregulated alcohol. Some travellers have reported getting sick or blacking out after drinking alcohol.

Buy alcohol from reputable establishments
Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick
Alcohol, drugs and travel

Balconies
Mexico’s standards for the height of balcony railings are considerably lower than those in Canada. Falls have resulted in deaths and injuries. Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings.

Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur frequently and roadblocks are common during demonstrations. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation, as well as airport closures.

It’s illegal for foreigners to conduct political activity in Mexico, including participating in demonstrations. If you participate in demonstrations as a foreigner, you may face detention, deportation, and the denial of future entry into Mexico.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities
Swimming
Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common and powerful waves make swimming and water sports dangerous. Several drownings occur each year.

Many beaches don’t have warning flags to indicate unsafe conditions and they don’t always have lifeguards on duty.

Lifeguard services do not always meet Canadian standards.

Consult local residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
Respect the areas reserved for swimming
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Water sports
Tour operators do not always comply with Canadian standards, and many don’t conduct regular safety checks on their equipment.

Canadians have been involved in accidents where operators of recreational vehicles demand compensation exceeding the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.

If you undertake water sports:

use a reputable company
make sure that your travel insurance covers incidents related to this type of recreational activity
wear appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets
do not use the equipment if you are unsure of its safety
do not dive if you have been drinking alcohol or using other substances
Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism
Outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, scuba diving, and other extreme sports can be dangerous.

Tour operators may not meet Canadian safety standards.

If you intend to participate in adventure tourism activities:

share your itinerary with a friend or family member if you’re alone
stay on marked trails and consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
buy travel insurance that covers incidents related to this type of recreational activity
ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity
ensure that you have proper equipment and bring sufficient water
monitor weather conditions and other possible hazards
refrain from using equipment if you are unsure of its condition or safety
Power outages
Mexico sometimes experiences power shortages.

Power outages could impact essential services, such as:

public transportation, including flights
medical services
the public water supply
telecommunications
banking transactions
the supply of basic necessities
Telecommunications
The telecommunications network is not reliable in rural areas.

Canadian cell phones generally work in major cities.

Using data plans outside Canada

Roads
Road safety
Fatal accidents are frequent.

Police don’t strictly enforce traffic laws, including for drinking and driving. Police don’t regularly patrol the highways. Crime is common on highways, especially in rural areas.

Toll highways are typically better maintained than secondary highways.

Only use frequented rest areas and gas stations
Avoid travelling after dark
Only use toll roads and highways
Fill your gas tank before you travel
Always keep doors and windows closed and locked
Don’t hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers
Useful links
Road alerts – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Information on roadside assistance – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Pre-paid toll card (in Spanish)
Road conditions
Road conditions vary greatly throughout the country. Many common hazards, including construction and speed bumps, are unmarked and many roads or exits are unsigned.

Road conditions can be dangerous, especially on rural roads, due to:

abandoned vehicles blocking the road
potholes
sharp curves
slow-moving vehicles
stray livestock
Driving habits
Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws and often:

drive at excessive speeds
drive aggressive or reckless
don’t use signals to indicate turns or lane changes
don’t routinely stop at pedestrian crosswalks
Vehicles and bicycles often operate without sufficient lights and reflectors.

Illegal Roadblocks
Illegal roadblocks are common. Heavily armed gangs have attacked travellers on intercity highways who fail to stop or pay a ‘toll’.

If you are threatened by criminals, stay calm and don’t resist.

Checkpoints
The military and federal police search for drugs and firearms at checkpoints throughout the country.

Public transportation
Some public and private vehicles are poorly maintained.

Metro
The Mexico City metro is often very crowded and a popular place for pickpocketing. During rush hour, there are metro cars reserved for women and children at the front of the trains.

Buses
The Metrobus in Mexico City is generally reliable. There are sections reserved for women and children at the front of the buses.

Crime is common on intercity buses.

Don’t use mini buses
Take direct bus routes
Only use bus companies that offer VIP or executive class transportation travelling on toll roads
Travel only during daylight hours
Do not carry large sums of cash
Exercise caution at bus stations
Taxis
In Mexico City, all government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B.” Taxis from designated stands have a company logo and licence plate number on the side of the car.

Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can reserve these taxis on the CDMX app. Credit card fraud occurs. Drivers may charge excessive amounts, sometimes without customers’ knowledge.

Only use officially marked taxis
Avoid hailing taxis on the street
Never share a cab with strangers
Avoid using your credit or debit card
Have small bills available for payment
If you wish to pay by credit or debit card when taking a taxi from an airport in Mexico, it is safer to do book and pre-pay either inside the terminal, or at the designated boarding area outside when your taxi is assigned.

My taxi – CDMX app (in Spanish)

Ridesharing services
Ridesharing apps are available at some airports.

Disputes between taxi and ride-share service drivers may occur. Although tourists have not been targeted, you may be caught up in these incidents and be harassed or injured.

If you use a ride-sharing app:

confirm the driver’s identity and license plate before getting in the car
use the security features in rideshare apps
Piracy
Pirates commit attacks and armed robberies against ships in coastal waters in the Bay of Campeche. Travellers should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report – International Maritime Bureau

Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Mexican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Mexico.

Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links
Foreign Representatives in Canada
Canadian passports
Visas
Tourist visa: not required
Business visa: required
Work visa: required
Student visa: required

Work visa
Canadians travelling to the northern border zone (within 21 kilometres of the U.S. border) for work don’t need a visa for stays of 72 hours or less.

If your employer is processing your visa for you:

obtain copies of all correspondence between the employer and the Mexican immigration authorities
verify that these copies are stamped by the immigration authorities
request a receipt from your employer for any document that you provide for purposes of obtaining the visa
don’t surrender your passport to your employer
Activities requiring a visa
You may not be able to undertake the following activities while visiting as a tourist:

volunteer work
religious/missionary work
research
certain types of eco-tourism
For information on the type of visa required for these activities, contact the Mexican Embassy or the closest Mexican consulate.

Travelling to Mexico by Land – Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Tourist card
When you enter Mexico for a stay of less than 180 days, you are required to have a Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) or Tourist Card.

If you enter Mexico by air:

the immigration official will stamp your passport and note the number of days you are allowed to spend in Mexico, or
if you are a tourist, you will go through an E-gate kiosk where you will scan your passport and self-register your entry. You will receive a receipt and have 60 days to download your e-tourist card
If you enter Mexico by land:

You must present a completed tourist card unless you stay in Mexico for less than 72 hours within the northern border zone. You can complete the tourist card form online before your arrival. However, you must print the form and present it to the migration official at the port of entry. You can also obtain a tourist card at the immigration office located at the border.

If you don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival, you may face:

a fine
detention
expulsion
You should keep your tourist card with you at all times as proof of your legal stay in Mexico. You may be asked to show it to Mexican officials when exiting the country or if you are stopped at an immigration checkpoint. If you are unable to show your tourist card or digital tourist card upon departure, you will have to pay for a replacement.

Useful links
Portal access for digital tourist card – Government of Mexico
Multiple Immigration Form – Government of Mexico
Length of stay
An immigration official will determine the number of days you can remain in Mexico and note it:

on your tourist card if you’re entering by land
in your passport if you’re entering by air
You may not automatically be allowed to stay in Mexico for a maximum period of 180 days. If you’re seeking the maximum number of days, you may be required to:

explain the purpose of your trip to the immigration official
provide details about your trip (accommodations, funds, return flight, etc.)
provide a letter of invitation, if staying in someone’s home
You won’t be able to request an extension or change the condition of your stay from inside the country.

Tourism tax
Most visitors must pay a tourism tax.

This tax is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by road or sea will have to pay this tax at a bank following entry. The bank receipt must be attached to the tourist card for submission at departure.

You don’t have to pay this tax if:

you’re entering by land for tourism purposes, and your stay will not exceed 7 days
you’re travelling to the northern border zone for less than 72 hours
you’re travelling to Mexico on a cruise ship
Other entry requirements
Immigration officials may ask you to show them:

a return or onward ticket
proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
proof of accommodations
Mexico has a list of tax-exempt items you can include in your luggage. If you exceed the allowed limits, you will be required to pay an expensive tax and your items may be confiscated. Customs officials pay particular attention to electronic devices, alcohol, and cigarettes. Make sure you carefully read the list of tax-exempt items before travelling to Mexico.

Items you can include in your luggage – Mexico’s National Customs Agency

Dual citizenship
If you enter and leave Mexico as a dual citizen, you must identify yourself as a Mexican citizen and carry valid passports for both countries.

Laws about dual citizenship

Criminal records
Canadians with a criminal record or a warrant for arrest may be refused entry and returned to Canada or to a third country on the next available flight.

Children and travel
To leave Mexico, children under 18 who are a citizen or resident of Mexico must carry:

a Mexican Minor Travel Consent Form; or
a notarized consent form if travelling without a legal guardian
Useful links
Mexican minor travel consent form – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Children and travel
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
Global Measles Notice – 13 March, 2024
COVID-19 and International Travel – 13 March, 2024
Dengue: Advice for travellers – 8 April, 2025
This section has information and advice about health risks you might face when travelling. Following this advice can help reduce your risk of getting sick. Not all risks are listed here.

It’s best to talk to a healthcare provider or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before your trip to get personalized health advice. Even if your travel date is coming up soon, it’s still worthwhile to make an appointment.

Routine vaccines
Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications
When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Yellow Fever – Country Entry Requirements
Hepatitis A
Malaria
Rabies
Measles
Hepatitis B
COVID-19
Influenza
Safe food and water precautions
Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding – the water might look clean but can still be contaminated
Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs
Eat and drink safely abroad

Travellers’ diarrhea
Typhoid
Salmonellosis
Tick and insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
wear socks and closed-toe shoes
sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities
Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Chikungunya
American trypanosomiasis
Dengue
Zika virus
Animal precautions
Some infections, like rabies and bird flu (avian influenza), can be spread from animals to humans. Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, like:

travelling in rural or forested areas
camping, hiking, or visiting caves
visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets
To reduce your risk of getting sick, avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid eating undercooked meat.

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Avian Influenza
Person-to-person infections
When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
wearing a well-fitting mask, especially:
if you’re sick and need to be around others
when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
have fewer sexual partners
use protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.
Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities
The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. Good health care is available in private hospitals and clinics in major cities, but health care services are limited in rural areas.

Health care from private hospitals and clinics is generally expensive. Most private facilities don’t deal directly with medical insurance companies and will require payment with a credit card in advance or a bank transfer/direct deposit.

Mental health services are extremely limited in Mexico, particularly outside of Mexico City. Services and treatment standards may differ substantially from those in Canada.

Most healthcare providers speak Spanish.

Emergency and ambulance services are widely available. Response times vary widely depending on traffic and availability of services and may be slow in rural areas.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive, and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Contaminated beaches
Storm run-off, sewage or oil may affect the water quality at some beaches. Water can contain bacteria, parasites and viruses and cause illness.

Avoid swimming in polluted water
Avoid swallowing water while swimming
Medical tourism
Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, considering:

the health and financial risks
the medical facility
language barriers
travel insurance coverage
You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in their coverage offered abroad.

Ensure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Mexican health authorities
Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure
Useful links
Travelling outside Canada to receive medical care
If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
Medical tourism – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Medication
Some prescription medications may not be available in Mexico.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in Mexico.

Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
Always keep your medication in the original container
Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
Carry a copy of your prescriptions
Medication cannot be sent to Mexico from Canada via courier services.

Many types of medication, both over the counter and prescription, are readily available with little oversight. Counterfeit medication is common in certain parts of Mexico.

If you purchase medication in Mexico:

obtain a local prescription
exercise caution
purchase from a reputable location
Air quality
You may experience health problems caused by air pollution in major cities. In Mexico City, air pollution peaks between December to March.

Consult your doctor before booking your trip if you have lung, heart or respiratory problems.

Altitude sickness
Mexico City is 2240 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening. It may require immediate medical evacuation.

Know about the symptoms of altitude sickness
Find out how to prevent or reduce the effects of altitude sickness
Death abroad
If you plan to retire or spend long periods of time in Mexico, or travel there for medical procedures, you should:

share your plans or wishes with relatives
make sure important documents can easily be located
make arrangements in case of your death while in the country
Useful links
What if I Die in Mexico?
Death outside Canada
Keep in Mind…
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences.

Foreign nationals are often held in pre-trial detention and there can be lengthy delays before a trial.

Police may detain you for up to 72 hours for many petty crimes including:

public urination
failure to pay a bill
disorderly behaviour
Detention conditions are below the standards of Canadian prisons.

Useful links
The Mexican criminal law system
Arrest and detention
Transfer to a Canadian prison
Canada and Mexico are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Mexico to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Mexican authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences. Mexican laws and their enforcement related to the possession and use of recreational and medical marijuana (cannabis) are unclear. You could be arrested or extorted for possession, use, or transport of marijuana.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Imports and exports
Weapons
The Mexican government enforces strict laws on the possession, importation and trafficking of firearms and ammunition.

Anyone entering Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without prior written authorization from Mexican authorities is subject to imprisonment.

It is illegal to enter the country with knives with blades longer than 6cm.

Vehicles and boats
Mexico has very strict rules on importing foreign vehicles and boats.

You must enter Mexico with the proper import permit and insurance since it cannot be obtained once you are in Mexico. If you fail to provide the proper permit and insurance, you could:

face a fine
have your vehicle seized
You must present a paper document of your vehicle registration to obtain a vehicle importation permit from Mexican authorities. If you present a digital document of your vehicle registration, your vehicle may be refused entry into Mexico.

Useful links
Importing foreign vehicles – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Temporary vehicle import application system – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Travelling to Mexico by land – Embassy of Mexico in Canada
Cigarettes and alcohol
If you are over 18, you can bring into Mexico up to:

10 packs of cigarettes
25 cigars or 200 grams of tobacco
3 litres of alcohol
6 litres of wine
If you bring more than the allowed quantities, even if you declare or hand them over to authorities, you will have to pay a hefty import tax.

Artifacts
It’s illegal to remove archaeological artifacts or to export such items from Mexico.

Useful links
What is included in your luggage? – Government of Mexico
Restricted goods – Government of Mexico
Smoking and vaping
Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. This includes the following places:

beaches
hotels
markets
parks
restaurants
You may be fined or arrested if you’re caught smoking in public.

Electronic cigarettes
It’s illegal to bring, sell or distribute:

electronic cigarettes
vaping devices
vaping solutions
Customs officials could confiscate these items if you have them in your possession upon arrival. You could also be fined or detained.

Merchandise that you cannot bring into Mexico – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Mexico.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Mexico, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you’re there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Mexico.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mexico, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Mexican court.

If you are in this situation:

act as quickly as you can
contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mexico to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links
List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
Children and travel
The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Request emergency assistance
Identification
Authorities may request to see your identification at any time, including your, tourist card or proof of your legal status in Mexico. Carry your original identification at all times.

Identity documents
The names on your identification must match those on your birth certificate to obtain official Mexican documents, including:

marriage certificates
immigration documents
Middle names are often not included in Canadian identity documents. This has caused significant difficulties for many Canadians planning to move to Mexico or dealing with the Mexican Civil Registry. Obtain a Canadian passport that will meet Mexican requirements prior to applying for residency.

Investments
Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated. Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan to buy property or make other investments in Mexico:

seek legal advice in Canada and in Mexico before making commitments
choose your own lawyer
avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller
Rental accommodations
Rental agreements between two individuals in Mexico are considered a private matter and are not regulated by the government.

If you encounter difficulties with a rental agreement, you must obtain the services of a local lawyer.

Driving
You should carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Auto insurance
Mexican liability insurance is mandatory. Canadian automobile insurance is not valid in Mexico.

You can obtain insurance at the Mexican border. You should obtain full coverage, including coverage for legal assistance.

Accidents
If you’re involved in a traffic accident, you may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. If you don’t have Mexican liability insurance, you could be prevented from leaving the country until all parties agree that adequate financial satisfaction has been received. If you’re found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of an accident, or if you don’t have a valid driver’s licence, your insurance will be considered invalid.

You could be taken into custody and have your vehicle seized until responsibility for the accident is determined and all fines are paid. You must report any accident you’re involved to the police.

Criminals may deliberately cause traffic accidents and threaten you with violence in order to make insurance claims or request cash from the other party.

Driving restrictions in Mexico City
To reduce air pollution, the Hoy No Circula (No Driving Today) program restricts some cars from driving in Mexico City from Monday to Saturday between 5 am to 10 pm.

Additional driving restrictions apply between February and June when pollution levels are high.

You will face driving restrictions depending on:

the last digit of your license plate
where your license plate was issued
your car’s emission sticker
Hoy No Circula program is strictly enforced. You may face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of your vehicle if you don’t comply. Consult the Hoy No Circula calendar before driving.

Electric and hybrid cars are exempted from these restrictions. Gas-fueled cars of a 2008 model or later may obtain a tourist pass valid for selected drive days.

Useful links
Driving restrictions calendar for Mexico City – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Tourist pass – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Ministry of Environment – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Buying or selling a vehicle
You can only buy a car in Mexico if you are a temporary or permanent resident.

Selling your imported vehicle is illegal in Mexico and is subject to penalties including:

fines
car seizure
deportation
Money
The currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso (MXN).

You must declare upon arrival and departure if you carry more than $10,000 USD or equivalent in other currencies in:

cash
cheques
money orders
any other receivable document
Failure to make this declaration is against Mexican law and often results in detention.

There is a limit to the amount of U.S. dollars that residents and foreigners can exchange in Mexico, depending on your immigration status. The rule doesn’t apply to Canadian dollars, but some financial institutions, hotels and currency exchange bureaus don’t make the distinction.

Money declaration – Government of Mexico

Natural disasters and climate
Mexico is subject to various natural disasters, which can occur at any time.

In the event of a natural disaster:

monitor local news to stay informed on the evolving situation
follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Useful links
Secretary of Integrated Risk Management and Civil Protection – Government of Mexico City (in Spanish)
Get prepared
Climate change
Climate change is affecting Mexico. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Hurricane season
Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Useful links
Severe storms outside Canada
Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center
Heat waves
Severe heat waves occur during the hot season, from April to May in the south, and from July to September along the Pacific Coast.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Sun and heat safety tips for travellers

Flooding and landslides
Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, especially between June and November. They can hamper overland travel, especially in rural areas. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

Landslides — Get Prepared

Earthquakes and tsunamis
Mexico is located in an active seismic zone and there is a risk of earthquakes, aftershocks and landslides.

Earthquakes occur, particularly in Mexico City and the following states:

Chiapas
Guerrero
Oaxaca
A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of a tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Useful links
Latest earthquakes – U.S. Geological Survey
Tsunami alerts – U.S. Tsunami Warning System
Forest fires
Forest fires may occur, particularly during the dry season from:

January to June in the centre, north, northeast, south and southeast
May to September in the northwest
The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
monitor local media for the latest information
follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Daily report on wildfires – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Volcanoes
Mexican authorities are closely monitoring multiple active volcanoes including:

Colima
Popocatepetl
Access to national parks in these areas could be restricted at any time without notice.

Eruptions could occur at any time. They sometimes lead to short-notice evacuations of surrounding areas, and ash clouds may also disrupt domestic and international flights.

Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can affect your health.

If you are planning to travel near active volcanoes:

consult a physician in advance to determine associated health risks if you suffer from respiratory ailments
familiarize yourself with local emergency plans
avoid restricted areas
be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice
In the event of a volcanic eruption:

monitor local media for the latest information
follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Useful links
Popocatepetl volcano updates – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Colima Volcano – University of Colima (in Spanish)

Yucatán Civil Protection rules out the entry of the Santa Cruz cordonazo May 3, 2025

The Yucatán State Civil Protection Coordination (Procivy) ruled out the possibility of the so-called Santa Cruz cordonazo entering the state in the coming days due to various phenomena surrounding the Peninsula.

He explained that the phenomenon known as “cordonazo” typically occurs in early May or October due to the transition to winter.

The factors that cause it are the passage of a Cold Front and a Surada event prior to the entry of the Frontal System.

Its effects are the interaction of the warm environment caused by the Surada event and the passage of a Cold Front, sometimes generating squalls, electrical activity, and wind gusts exceeding 70 km/h, affecting the fishing community and the population in the interior of the state.

However, a cordonazo event is not expected during the first five days of May, as no cold front is expected to enter or pass during this time period.

There have also been no recorded Surada events in recent weeks, although rain is expected on the afternoons of May 4 and 5 due to the entry of tropical maritime air and the establishment of a trough, typical seasonal phenomena.

The rain will be light with scattered showers and gusty winds, typical of the type of clouds that will cause the precipitation.

Source: PorEsto!/Gerardo Castro

Dying in the Yucatan

As some of us are growing older, there is a possibility that we might die while here in Yucatan, unfortunately.

Attached is some pertinent info for those of us who live in or winter here in Progreso, Chicxulub, Chelem or Chuburna. Please take time to read both documents and make a copy . Check for further updates on the Government of Canada website. It is very important that any next of kin maintain a valid passport in the event of such an occurrence!!!

Death in Progreso, Chuburna, Chelem or Chicxulub

The following relates the events which transpire after a foreigner dies in this area.

I would strongly advise that any Next of Kin in Canada or the US should always have a valid passport in case they need to make an emergency trip down to assist the surviving spouse!

Steps to be taken…

When our friends Canadian mother died here last year, everything happened very quickly. Once the doctor pronounces someone dead the surviving spouse should contact the funeral home here in Progreso – Reyes Rodriguez. If the person was not under a doctor’s care at the time, the coroner should be contacted.

Funeraria Reyes Rodriguez – Progreso (serves the beach communities)

Phone: 969 935 2461

Open 24 hours!

Calle 31 – between 84 and 86 (near where all of the local buses are stationed)

They will take charge of the body. Our friends’ mother was cremated within hours. The funeral home prepares multiple copies of the death certificate for the spouse. You will need these copies for the bank, insurance companies, the Canadian government, etc. There is no need to get a coffin, as it only costs extra money. The funeral home has its own crematorium near Paraiso. A family member or close friend designated will need to witness the cremation. The whole time frame was less than six hours. The remains are given to the family a few days later.

The surviving spouse should have a copy of their marriage certificate, both of their passports, any Visa they may have – Temporary or Permanent. They need not translate these things.

Cost for the funeral home, certificates and cremation is around 1000 CDN without a coffin. This is where they make their money…

If a Canadian citizen you must contact the Canadian Consul in Cancun.

Canada cancun@canada.org.mx Consular Agency Centro Empresarial Oficina E7 Boulevard Kukulcán Km 12 Zona Hotelero Cancún (998)883 33 60 (998)883 33 61 Fax: (998)883 32 32 México (55)57 24 79 00 Fax: (55) 57 24 79 43

If you are American, contact the US Consul in Merida. You should also check the website link pertaining to the death of a US Citizen in Mexico at http://merida.usconsulate.gov/deaths2.html

I am attaching a document Final Adios: Dying in Merida which you might want to print out. It was prepared by friends in Merida to assist people living there. Some details vary from what I have stated above. You can ignore references to translation of documents. Here in Progreso it is not an issue at this time.

My spouse speaks fluent Spanish and can assist if needed. He can be reached anytime at 999 149 7281 if anyone needs further help as he was the one who handled our friend’s mother’s passing

Sheinbaum calls for the withdrawal of US anti-immigrant spot on Mexican television stations.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced new reforms during her press conference on Monday, April 21, to ban paid foreign propaganda, following an announcement in Mexican media by U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem against illegal immigration, which she claims is an act of discrimination.

“Today or tomorrow, they will be sent to Congress so that no foreign government can pay. The point is that they are paying to be able to broadcast these ads, this propaganda, which has a discriminatory message,” the president declared at her morning press conference.

The Mexican president called the commercial, which has been running on television for several months and was shown during soccer games over the weekend, “discriminatory.” In it, Noem delivers a “message from President Donald Trump” to the world.

“If you’re considering entering the United States illegally, don’t even think about it,” the commercial says. “Let me be clear: If you come to our country and break our laws, we will pursue you. Criminals are not welcome in the United States,” the head of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) also states in the ad.

For this reason, Sheinbaum will seek to revive a section of the Federal Telecommunications Law that was repealed in 2014, during the presidency of Enrique Peña Nieto (2012-2018).

This will prevent foreign governments from paying traditional media outlets or social networks to broadcast propaganda in Mexico.

“Radio and television broadcasting concessionaires and permit holders in the country may not broadcast political, ideological, or commercial propaganda of foreign governments or entities, nor may they allow the media outlets operating under their concessions to be used for purposes that could influence internal affairs,” it states.

The president revealed that the National Council to Prevent Discrimination (Conapred) sent a letter to the media asking them to withdraw Noem’s ad because it “contains a discriminatory message, violates human dignity, and could encourage acts of rejection or violence toward” migrants.

“For this reason, we invite you to remove the spot in order to fulfill the goal of building a society without discrimination, as established in our Constitution,” concluded the Ministry of the Interior (Segob) agency.

Noem’s message, who visited Mexico on March 28, reflects Trump’s growing pressure on the Mexican government to stem the flow of drugs and migrants.

The Progreso rowing and canoeing track will be rehabilitated for the National Olympics.
Yucatán will host sailing, softball, karate, triathlon, open water, fencing, rowing, and canoeing events. The venues will be the Kukulcán Sports Complex, the Rowing and Canoeing Track, La Plancha Park, and the Port of Telchac and the Port of Progreso.

April 23, 2025

Yucatán will host the 2025 National Olympics in nine sports disciplines, and the National Commission for Physical Culture and Sports (CONADE) has begun visiting the sports facilities that will host athletes from across the country, who will participate from May 27 to July 13.

The purpose of the visits is to learn about the improvements that will be required to leave the facilities in optimal condition for competitions. The Progreso Rowing and Canoeing Course is the one that most requires maintenance work to accommodate athletes from both disciplines.

Yucatán will host sailing, softball, karate, triathlon, open water, fencing, rowing, and canoeing events. The Kukulcán Sports Complex, the Rowing and Canoeing Track, and La Plancha Park will be used. The open water competition will be held in Telchac, while the sailing and triathlon events will be held in the port of Progreso.

La Plancha Park will host the skateboard competition, and there will be no significant changes. It recently hosted the national competition organized by the State Government in coordination with CONADE and the Mexican Skating Federation. Therefore, it has already been certified and is ready to host the national competition.

The Rowing and Canoeing Course will undergo several modifications to host these two sports, as it requires dredging of the 2,000 meters of competition area to return to its former operating condition. Sand has accumulated, and a dredger is already working to restore it to its proper condition. However, significant modifications will also be made to the judges’ tower, which was built in 1999 and requires extensive maintenance to operate, as well as to the docks and boat storage areas.

The tensioners that delimit the lanes will be replaced once the dredging of the area is completed, and the judges’ areas in the middle of the track will be rehabilitated, so that everyone can enjoy a great event in the canoeing and rowing competitions in Progreso, although these events are the last to be held, beginning on June 24 and concluding on July 13.
The Kukulcán Sports Complex is ready to host fencing and karate, while the city’s fields will host softball, although the location of this sport, which is scheduled for June 10-16, has not yet been determined.

Along with Yucatán, Tlaxcala, Jalisco, Colima, and Puebla will host the event, where Yucatecan competitors will travel to compete in search of medals. Therefore, state authorities, led by Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena, and CONADE are already working on the operation to support the athletes with transportation, lodging, food, and uniforms.

Planning a trip to Mexico City?

https://www.msn.com/en-ca/travel/video/traveling-to-the-famous-xochimilco-in-mexico-city/vi-AA1DeO8P?ocid=hpmsn&cvid=1fdd00702d7a433c9dd89ef40aafbc6b&ei=62

2025 Hurricane Risks for Yucatan’s North Coast
April 20, 2025 by yucalandia

As some people report on pot-smoking today, and others cry: ” Wolf! … WOLF !!!” over the latest emanations out of the White House … Yucalandia editors & writers prefer reporting the lastest useful facts in the forms of … a “Look Back at Yucatan’s Hurricane History” … followed by a “Look Forward at Yucatan’s Upcoming 2025 Hurricane Season”
(“Above normal activity for 2025 – with 17 predicted named Atlantic storms … versus 14.4 average,)

Looking Back: What are the historical risks of HURRICANES hitting Yucatan’s North Coast?

~ 1 … Just 1 official reported landfall of a single hurricane in the past 173 years on our North Coast.
and
~ 2 … Just 2 reported landfalls of hurricanes touching the Yucatan’s North Coast in the past 500 years.

How do we know/ …. A diligent fellow confirmed these realities in his report of the historical records of all documented hurricanes to hit the US Coast, the Caribbean Islands, and the Yucatan Peninsula. His report also includes a convenient map of all officially-recorded hurricane landfalls for these areas.

Credit for the lovely map(s) goes to Michael Ferragamo.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/hurricane-dead-zone-map-shows-100258521.html

The article’s hurricane landfall map confirms what 17 yrs of Yucalandias’s reports & reliable-calm Facebook posts have repeatedly, consistently reported since 2006 … that only 2 hurricanes (Isadore & 1 other long past hurricane) have made landfall on Yucatan’s north Gulf Coast in the last 500 years…

What Does the Map Mean?
Despite years of occasional near-hysterical panic-posts on local FB expat groups, 173 years of history shows that a combination of geography, oceanography & meteorological factor make Yucatan’s north coast an official “DEAD ZONE” for hurricane landfalls … as we have had just 1 actual hurricane make landfall here in the past 173 years.

Note how empty our Yucatan North Coast is …. free from dots of documented hurricane landfalls.

Then notice the extremely high risks for hurricanes hitting Yucatan’s Caribbean Coast … similar to NORTH Florida’s reasonably quiet Atlantic coast, and the quiet of the Mid-Atlantic States coasts … versus Florida’s Gulf Coast and South & North Carolina’s Atlantic Coast extremely active hurricane landfall zones …

LOOKING FORWARD to the 2025 Major Storm Predictions for the Atlantic Hurricane Zone and Yucatan’s Potential for Big Storms in 2025:

For the last 50 years, the record-setting Atmospheric Sciences Department at CSU has put together the world’s most reliable forecasts for the Atlantic Ocean’s Major Storms hitting the US Coasts, Caribbean Coasts, and Mexico’s Coasts.
https://tropical.colostate.edu/forecasting.html

This year’s 2025 forecasts are …
“ … the 2025 Atlantic basin hurricane season will have above-normal activity. Current La Niña conditions are likely to transition to ENSO neutral conditions in the next couple of months; however, there remains considerable uncertainty as to what the phase of ENSO will be this summer and fall. “

” Sea surface temperatures across the eastern and central Atlantic are generally warmer than normal, but not as warm as they were last year at this time. A warmer-than-normal tropical Atlantic combined with likely ENSO neutral (or potential La Niña) conditions typically provides a more conducive dynamic and thermodynamic environment for hurricane formation and intensification.”

“We anticipate an above-average probability for major hurricanes making landfall along the continental United States coastline and in the Caribbean. As with all hurricane seasons, coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season. Thorough preparations should be made every season, regardless of predicted activity.”

So … As we approach the upcoming June – October 2025 Hurricane Season, remember to keep an eye on up-to-date weather tracking of actual storms and their actual positions (IOW.. Do not trust the loopy too-often-mistaken big predicted “storm path” cone paths … and instead, make practical proven preparations for possible-but-unlikely big storms with high winds & lots of rain,

yet, remain calm, as you remember that only 2 actual hurricanes have actually hit the Yucatan’s North Coast in the past 500 years.

Dr. Steven M. Fry

Chicxulub

After visitors arriving in Chicxulub Puerto reported at the end of March that a family was attempting to take over the beach—federal land—with the construction of a wall, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) temporarily closed the construction.

People reported it through social media, saying that while they were walking along the beach in that area of ??the Progreso community, the construction work was blocking their access to the shoreline. They took photos and videos to record the incident. Previously, the area had approximately 7 meters of beach, which disappeared with the construction.

Although the Progreso City Council closed the work on March 31, it wasn’t until this Saturday, April 12, that Profepa in Yucatán closed all activities related to the construction of the retaining wall.

A bulletin from the agency indicates that the construction was taking place “within federal maritime-terrestrial zones, specifically in the town of Chicxulub Puerto, municipality of Progreso.”

Following citizen complaints, Profepa inspectors confirmed the construction of a retaining wall, for which “trenches measuring 38.5 meters in length and varying widths were dug, one meter on the narrowest side and two meters on the widest side.”

“Likewise, within the federal maritime-terrestrial zone, sand and stone material were placed over an area of ??108.80 m² to act as a tidal barrier, preventing water from interfering with the construction of the wall’s foundations.”

Image of the closure of the construction of a wall encroaching on the beach that federal authorities carried out in Chicxulub Puerto.
The federal authority indicated that “these works are not authorized by the environmental authority; they are being carried out without considering and applying the criteria and specifications that the regulatory authority considers to prevent, mitigate, and compensate for any damage or serious deterioration of natural resources that could be caused by this activity. Therefore, the temporary closure of these works was imposed.”

“In addition to the loss of the beach and coastal dune, the placement of breakwaters also affects the nesting habitat of Cheloniidae sea turtles, all of which are at risk of extinction and under special protection under international conventions.”

TYT NewsroomBeach CommunitiesHeadlinesMeridaNewsPeninsulaTravelYucatan

Tren Maya to Progreso works to begin in April
written by Yucatan Times April 12, 2025 0 comment

Work to build the Maya Train branch that will connect the port of Progreso with the rest of the rail network will begin in late April or early May, announced Óscar David Lozano Águila, general director of the Tren Maya company.

The project, which aims to strengthen the port’s logistics infrastructure and improve freight mobility, is currently in the right-of-way clearance phase in coordination with state authorities.

“We have been working with state authorities to achieve the prompt clearance of all right-of-way, which will allow us to begin construction of the Progreso branch. It is very important for the project,” said General Lozano Águila.

Although he did not offer a specific date, the military official indicated that work could begin “this month or in early May.” He also emphasized that he does not have a cost estimate for the project, since the Maya Train company is responsible for operating, not building, the infrastructure.

The section to Progreso, he specified, will be exclusively for freight in the initial phase, with locomotives operating under the RTMS (Railway Traffic Management System) and trains similar to those currently operating across the country transporting freight.

However, he revealed that the installation of a passenger station at the port is also planned. “We are considering opening a station there in Progreso, meaning we could also provide passenger train service to connect the port with the rest of the rail infrastructure,” he said.

Progreso Celebrates Flavor and Tradition at its First Coconut Festival Yucatan Times April 13, 2025

This weekend, the Traditional Boardwalk was filled with flavor, tradition, and local talent with the first edition of the Coconut Festival.

With the sound of the ocean in the background and the warmth of its people, Progreso experienced the first edition of the Coconut Festival, an initiative that brought together families, tourists, and more than 25 exhibitors on the Traditional Boardwalk to pay tribute to one of the port’s most representative fruits.

The event was inaugurated by Mayor Erik Rihani González, who thanked attendees for their participation and highlighted the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs.

“The coconut is part of our identity, and this festival is a way to boost the economy and offer a unique experience to those who visit us,” he said.

From food products to handicrafts, the festival showcased the versatility of the coconut thanks to the creativity of exhibitors from different districts of the port and the Tourist Corridor.

Alina Lucía Argüelles Sierra was also crowned Festival Ambassador, inviting families to join in the experience, which continues today until 6 p.m.

This initiative is part of the 100xProgreso program, which seeks to strengthen the local economy and position the port as a vibrant cultural destination.

The elevated viaduct in Progreso is ready for operation

written by Yucatan Times August 26, 2025 0 comment

Elevated Viaduct Progreso (Photo: yucatan.com.mx)

The viaduct symbolizes Yucatán’s commitment to sustainable urban planning and modern infrastructure, positioning Progreso as a more accessible and livable coastal city.

FYI

They are asking that the Progreso elevated viaduct not be tolled: that it be free and part of the port infrastructure.

The elevated viaduct in Progreso is ready for operation

The elevated viaduct in Progreso is ready for operation

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