Mexican Caribbean Tourism Board Shares Exciting Lineup Of Late Summer, Fall Seasonal Events And Signature Experiences

With an exciting lineup of cultural events and record-breaking successes, the Mexican Caribbean is experiencing a landmark start to the year. The region, located on Mexico’s eastern coast, confidently advances into its “New Era of Tourism,” hallmarked by world-renowned cultural, culinary, wellness and nightlife offerings that reflect its vibrant identity.

The inaugural Mexican Caribbean Music Fest, held in Tulum in May, received over 20,000 attendees and hotel occupancy increased by 20 percent.

The year has been defined by a robust calendar of events that underscore the dynamic spirit and rising profile of the Mexican Caribbean, significantly boosting tourism through increased hotel occupancy and driving deeper visitor engagement with memorable cultural experiences. February marked the triumphant return of Carnaval, celebrated across major destinations including Cozumel, Cancún, Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres, Bacalar and Holbox. This renowned event drew thousands of international visitors who filled the streets for lively parades featuring dazzling costumes, vibrant music and dancing, and elaborate cultural performances.

In May, the inaugural Mexican Caribbean Music Fest (MCMF) brought more than 20,000 attendees to ZAMNA Park in Tulum. Headlined by international music icon Sting, the festival combined star power with a setting that captured the natural beauty and distinctive atmosphere of the region, establishing a new standard for large-scale cultural programming. Designed as a next-generation evolution of the beloved Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, the event elevated the Mexican Caribbean’s profile, increasing hotel occupancy by 20 percent - a remarkable achievement during what is typically considered low season. Met with critical acclaim, the Mexican Caribbean Music Fest has already gained momentum to become an annual tradition.

“The Mexican Caribbean continues to evolve as a leading global destination for premier events, blending New Era innovation with deep cultural roots. This year’s calendar, from iconic traditions like Carnaval to new initiatives such as the Mexican Caribbean Music Fest – demonstrates our commitment to delivering high-impact experiences that draw travelers to our region time and time again. Our strategic focus remains on curating authentic offerings that honor our rich cultural heritage and foster long-term traveler engagement,” said Andrés Martínez, CEO, Mexican Caribbean Tourism Board.

Other standout events this year have included culinary showcases, athletic competitions and artistic exhibitions hosted across the region’s 12 destinations. With even more on the horizon, the Mexican Caribbean continues to captivate travelers through experiences that highlight its creativity, character and unmistakable rhythm.

Upcoming Major Events:

Apapaxoa GastroCultural Festival (August 26–31, Riviera Maya) A true feast for the soul and the palate, Apapaxoa (meaning “to embrace with the soul” in Náhuatl) brings together some of Mexico’s top chefs, mixologists and culinary artisans to craft multisensory experiences that blend ancestral flavors with contemporary techniques. The festival features pairing dinners, culinary talks, hands-on workshops and artistic performances, offering a dynamic celebration of flavor, creativity and the joy of living well.

Ironman 70.3 Cozumel (September 21, Cozumel Island) Set against Cozumel’s breathtaking coastal scenery, Ironman 70.3 Cozumel is part of a prestigious international qualifying series leading to the World Championship. Athletes compete in a grueling test of endurance featuring a 2.4 -mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride and a 13.1-mile run. The event attracts elite competitors and passionate fans from around the world, bringing global visibility and high-energy excitement to the island.

Dia de Muertos Celebrations (October 30–November 2, throughout the region) Celebrated across the Mexican Caribbean, Day of the Dead brings together colorful altars, candlelight processions, live performances and local art. Each destination offers its own interpretation of this iconic holiday, inviting visitors to experience a moving tribute to ancestry and remembrance in one of the country’s most meaningful cultural events. The Janal Pixán festival in Riviera Maya, whose name means “Food of the Souls,” is one of the highlights of this celebration, given its fusion of Mayan culture and Day of the Dead traditions.

Eagle Ray Season in Cozumel (December - March) During the winter, Cozumel offers a unique underwater experience as eagle rays migrate and mate in the region’s clear waters. Divers can spot these majestic creatures gliding over the algae-covered seabed of Cantarel Reef, which resembles an underwater meadow, making it one of the season’s most memorable natural encounters.

For more information, please visit https://mexicancaribbean.travel/

Cancún Celebrates Sargassum-Free Beaches, As Satellites Show Seaweed Gathering Off The Coast

With sargassum season officially underway, authorities along Mexico’s Riviera Maya are bracing for a record-breaking influx of the messy seaweed this summer.

Satellite images of offshore sargassum blooms indicates 2025 will be a record year for seaweed accumulation on beaches. (Elizabeth Ruiz/Cuartoscuro)

Sargassum blooms have been coming ashore earlier than normal this year, and Esteban Amaro, director of the Quintana Roo Sargassum Monitoring System, said the forecast for 2025 is worrisome.

“We are expecting more intense and more frequent arrivals along the entire coast,” he said.

Amaro said satellite images indicate the accumulation of sargassum this summer will be greater than the region has seen in three years.

“Last year, we collected more than 40,000 metric tons, and we will easily surpass that figure this year,” he said.

The brown seaweed known as sargassum is naturally beneficial to marine ecosystems in the open ocean, but becomes harmful to marine life, plants, coral and human health when large quantities reach the coast. As it decomposes, sargassum gives off a foul smell similar to rotten eggs.

Sargassum accumulation along the Riviera Maya typically peaks during the summer months from April or May to August, but can persist into November. Last year, Quintana Roo did not declare sargassum season over until Nov. 14.

Increasing quantities of the seaweed have been washing ashore since 2011, posing a challenge to authorities as they work to keep the beaches clean and safe for tourism, a primary source of income in the region.

In late March, officials along Mexico’s Caribbean coast reported an increase in sargassum compared to last year.

The popular tourist destination of Tulum collected 50% more seaweed in January and February compared to the same period last year, according to the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat).

The state’s Ecology and Environment Ministry said that, as of mid-April, a total of 10,236 metric tons of sargassum had been collected in the coastal areas of Playa del Carmen, Othón P. Blanco and Puerto Morelos.

Quintana Roo Gov. Mara Lezama recognized the official start of sargassum season on April 15, outlining her administration’s containment plans and saying that keeping beaches clean is a shared responsibility.

The first phase, or containment phase, saw approximately 9,500 meters of barriers installed off the state’s coasts at strategic locations to contain the algae and redirect it to collection points

Amaro said that while the barriers are a critical part of protecting Mexico’s beaches, the possibility that climatic conditions prompt a massive influx of sargassum blooms requires authorities to redouble their efforts.

The Navy Ministry also implemented a monitoring phase designed to locate floating masses of sargassum that could impact beaches, assigning 11 coastal sargassum harvesting vessels and 22 smaller vessels to the task.

https://mexiconewsdaily.com/author/tbuckley/

Xcaret Announces $700 Million Hotel Expansion

Grupo Xcaret has announced $700 million USD in a hotel expansion project. The project will see a new hotel added to the Hotel Xcaret México collection in Riviera Maya.

According to the company, the project will create 1,600 direct jobs in its first stage. The announcement was made Thursday with the Federal Secretary of Tourism, Josefina Rodríguez Zamora and Governor of Quintana Roo, Mara Lezama.

Grupo Xcaret Vice Presidents David Quintana and Marcos Constandse, and Director of Strategy, Lizeth Álvarez Gorozave, announced a new phase of Hotel Xcaret México with $700 million in new infrastructure.

“This announcement is extremely important because it is the result of the confidence of investors,” said Governor Mara Lezama.

Lizeth Álvarez Gorozave reported that the investment will generate 1,600 direct jobs in the first stage. It will consist of 1,800 rooms distributed in 10 buildings, each inspired by prominent symbols of the Mayan worldview and carefully designed to meet and, in many cases, exceed the expectations of visitors.

The hotel will have 16 pools, of which four will be rooftops. In addition, to offer an even more fun experience, five slides will be installed designed for the enjoyment of the whole family.

https://riviera-maya-news.com/

Tulum, Mexico Will Get A New Luxury Airport In 2023

 

Tulum located on the Riviera Maya 

GETTY

Travel to the rugged beach town of Tulum, may get a lot easier if Mexico’s President López Obrador has his way. The President announced this week that a new airport will be built in Tulum, Quintana Roo, constructed by the army with plans to open in 2023.

Currently travelers who wish to visit Tulum must fly into Cancun International Airport and take a very busy and bumpy hour and a half drive south. In high season, the drive can take almost 3 hours in gridlock traffic. Located on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum is one of the most popular destinations for the rich and famous, but the long drive from Cancun was always a sore spot.

López Obrador said that military engineers will build the facility, similar to what is being done with the new Mexico City airport. The president added that a large piece of land was set aside for the airport after former president Felipe Calderón announced a plan to build in 2010.

Luum Zama residential community in Tulum

 LUUM ZAMA

The airport will be built across two government lots near the town of Tulum. One is owned by the Ministry of Communications and Transportation and the other belongs to the Ministry of the Navy. To counter fears that it will take business away from Cancún airport, López Obrador said, “The truth is that there is room for two airports. There’s room for Cancún airport to continue having a large influx of passengers.” He also noted that the Maya Train project, is slated to begin operations in 2023.

The new airport will include plans for a luxury terminal for high-level visitors arriving by private jet as well as a regular terminal for all travelers. The new airport will be an extraordinary addition to the area which has seen a huge downturn in visitors. While predicting that tourism will continue to increase, the Tulum market remains extremely limited because flights from Europe to Cancún are still far below pre-pandemic levels, and Canadian travelers are avoiding the journey altogether.

Cocoon style property in Tulum 

DNA

There is also a large influx of new development in the works for Tulum with over 12 new properties and resorts being planned for the area stretching from downtown Tulum to Sian Ka’an reserve.

Among the new developments are the gated eco-community of Lúum Zama, a new cocoon-style development designed by DNA architects with 204 apartments, 167 rooms, and 16 private villas, while several luxury branded resorts are eyeing land in the jungle biosphere area of Sian Ka’an. Dream Hotels also announced plans for Central Park Lagunas, Central Park Rios, and The Beach Club.

And earlier this year, Thor Equities Group bought Casa Magna, part of a beachfront compound once owned by Pablo Escobar, with plans to spend over $100 million to develop 40 luxury hotel rooms, a spa and high-end shops.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimdobson/2020/10/07/tulum-mexico-will-get-a-new-luxury-airport-in-2023/

Mexico’s Cancun Starts Re-Opening Cautiously From Lock-Down

(AP) — Mexico’s Caribbean coast resorts of Cancun and the Riviera Maya have welcomed their first tourists, after more than two months when almost all the hotels were shut.

But the few dozen tourists who showed up Monday at the 41 hotels that have partly reopened are a mere symbolic trickle compared to the 23 milllion that crowded the coast last year, bringing about $15 billion to the local economy.

It’s a slow start; hotels will only be allowed to reach 30% of their capacity to avoid crowding. More capacity will be allowed later with some hotels hoping to reach 50% of capacity in July. Before the pandemic, occupancy rates of 85 percent were not uncommon.

Gibran Chapur, the vice president of the Palace resort chain, said his company welcomed about 300 tourists on the first day, 70% of them from the United States.

Hundreds of employees formed human welcoming chains at the Moon Palace resort south of Cancun as the first tourists drove up to the lobby, where they were welcomed with mariachis. Chapur said the Palace resorts were already receiving a lot of reservations for July and November, and that many were eager to get out of lock down and enjoy the outside world again.

“We have to activate the economy, but putting people’s health first in order to save lives,” said Carlos Joaquin, the governor of Quintana Roo state, where Cancun is located.

Tourism accounts for about 50% of all economic activity in the state, which has a total of about 107,000 hotel rooms. To date, the state has had about 2,235 coronavirus cases and 427 deaths. But the worst of the local outbreak appears to be over, and Cancun is one of the parts of the country where reopening has been authorized.

Chapur said some things will change due to the virus, like disinfecting all luggage and shoes; buffets and paper menus at the resorts’ restaurants are probably a thing of the past.

For Your Post Coronaviris Travels: New Henequén Cultural Experience with Private Helicopter to Merida Available this Summer & Beyond at Grand Velas Riviera Maya

   Guests staying at the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya this summer and beyond can embark on a journey back in time by exploring a historic Yucatan landmark with the resort’s new Henequén Experience.

The adventure begins with a private helicopter ride to the Hacienda Sotuta de Peon, a revived hacienda built in the late 1800s located just outside of the Yucatan’s vibrant capital, Merida. Over the course of three and a half hours, guests will dive into the deep-rooted history behind the henequen plant, known for transforming the Yucatan economy and cultural landscape in the 19^th century. While on property, guests will also tour the hacienda’s surrounding plantation on a carriage pulled by mules, stop and swim in the Dzul Ha, a Yucatan freshwater cenote, and more.

Upon return to Grand Velas Riviera Maya, travelers will partake in the resort’s signature ancestral beverage tasting featuring Mexico’s ancient liquors like bacanora, sotol, tuxca, and pox. Following, guests will enjoy a private dinner in the resort’s Mayan restaurant, Chaká, which offers modern Yucatecan dishes inspired by the region’s traditional cuisine. Standout menu items include tender leaves on papaya with piloncillo honey, toasted seeds, fresh tomatoes, sour orange vinaigrette with Xtabentun, short rib "Pibil Style," sausage Risotto from Valladolid, Huitlacoche Salbute, Cochinita juice, cream cheese "Gallo Azul", semi-bitter cocoa crumble, caramel ice cream, and more.

Accommodations are offered in the resort’s tranquil Zen Grand Suites, which boast private terraces and overlooking the sacred jungle landscape, fully stocked mini-bars, Jacuzzi tubs, Nespresso coffee makers, 24-hour concierge service, and more.

The four-night Henequen Tour Experience costs $3,488 USD per person for 2 people. Rates are per person based on double occupancy and include luxury suite accommodations, à la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity and more.  The experience is available from April 26 until December 18, 2020. Blackout dates are from Nov 21 to 28, 2020. For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-407-4869, or visit https://rivieramaya.grandvelas.com.

About Grand Velas Riviera Maya:

A member of the Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts Program and Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Mexico is an ultra-luxury all-inclusive. Guests can choose accommodations among oceanfront, ocean view and a Zen-like setting, embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungle and mangroves. All 539 suites are more than 1,100 sq. ft., with balconies and some with private plunge pools. Eight restaurants, including five gourmet offerings, present a tour through Mexico, Europe and Asia. Cocina de Autor, at the hands of world-renowned celebrity chefs Bruno Oteiza and Mikel Alonso, holds the AAA Five Diamond Award, the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to win this prestigious distinction. Included on Forbes Travel Guide’s list of The World’s Most Luxurious Spas, SE Spa is known for its authentic Mexican treatments, offerings from around world and signature seven-step Water Ceremony. Other features include 24-hour Personal Concierge; 24/7 in-suite service; three swimming pools; two fitness centers; water sports; innovative Kids’ Clubs and Teens’ Club; and Baby Concierge. The resort offers more than 46,660 square feet of indoor meeting space plus outdoor areas for events. Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, operates Velas Resorts with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: www.velasmagazine.com. 

Travelore Report, Monthly In Print Since 1971: TRAVELORE DESTINATION REPORT: The Difference Is I...

Travelore Report, Monthly In Print Since 1971: TRAVELORE DESTINATION REPORT: The Difference Is I...: Photo of Bahia Akumal beach by Allen Barkus Typical accommodations at resort. Photo by Allen Barkus  The real The difference betw...

Grand Velas Riviera Maya Launches First Spa Atelier Workshop

Riviera Maya, Mexico  – Se Spa at the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya has launched its Spa Atelier, workshops inspired by local Mexican culture and based upon the principles of ancient Ayurvedic medicine that center around self-discovery. The first offering at the resort is a workshop to make energy bites full of superfoods. Recipes will vary from Cacao and Matcha-Pistachio to Cranberry-Orange and Carrot. Superfoods are foods that increase energy and improve retention, as well as provide antioxidants, minerals and vitamins and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The Spa Atelier concept initially launched last year at its sister property Grand Velas Los Cabos. It features Mandala meditation, tea discovery, DIY body scrubs based on one’s Dosha and a Natura Bissé Facial Masterclass. The Energy Bites Workshop at Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an hour long, held every Thursday, July through September, for small groups of 3 – 6 people. The class costs $65 USD per person. For those who can’t make it to the resort to try out the class, Grand Velas Riviera Maya shares a recipe to make some of the energy bites at home. Cacao Energy Bites 1/3 cup            powdered cocoa 16                    dried dates 7 tbsp               honey 1 tsp                 coconut oil 1 tsp                 Maca root powder 1 tsp                 acai ½ cup               rolled oats 4 cups              cashews For toppings: amaranth, chia, hemp seeds and grated coconut Process: Chop the dates in a food processor before adding the cocoa, Maca, honey, coconut oil, oats, acai and cashews. Pour the mixture into a bowl and mix until well combined. Roll into balls a little under an inch and finish with topping of choice. Nightly rates start at $393 USD. Rates are per person based on double occupancy and include all tour arrangements and transportation, luxury suite accommodations, à la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity and more. For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-407-4869, or visit https://www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com. About Grand Velas Riviera Maya: The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an ultra-luxury all-inclusive resort set on 206 acres of pristine jungle and mangroves and with the finest white sand beach in the Riviera Maya. Guests can choose among three separate ambiances, including adults-only oceanfront, family-friendly ocean view and a Zen-like tropical setting, embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungle. All 539 designer-like suites are exceptionally spacious, more than 1,100 square feet each, all with balconies, and some with private plunge pools. All feature fully stocked mini bars, L’Occitane amenities, artisanal tequila, and Nespresso coffee machines. Bathrooms deserve special mention with walk in glass shower, deep soaking Jacuzzi tubs and marble interior. Eight restaurants, including five gourmet offerings, present a tour through Mexico, Europe and Asia. Cocina de Autor, at the hands ofworld renowned celebrity chefs Bruno Oteiza, Mikel Alonso and Xavier Pérez Stone, holds the AAA Five Diamond Award, the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to win this prestigious distinction. Se Spa is the region's largest spa sanctuary at more than 90,000 square feet, known for its authentic Mexican treatments, offerings from around world and signature seven-step water journey. Other features include 24-hour Personal Concierge; 24/7 in-suite service; three swimming pools; two fitness centers; water sports; innovative Kids’ Clubs and Teens’ Club; baby concierge; Karaoke Bar; Koi Bar; Piano Bar, and business center. The resort offers more than 91,000 square feet of meeting space and outdoor areas for events inclusive of a 31,000-square-foot Convention Center, able to accommodate up to 2,700 guests. The resort has won numerous awards from Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, USA Today and several other magazines and major companies worldwide, including Virtuoso’s Best Spa and TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame. A member of the Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts Program, Grand Velas Riviera Maya was built and is operated by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-407-4869, or visithttps://www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com.

International Living Chooses Mexico As The World’s Best Place To Retire In 2017

Tulum-based expat company, Riviera Maya Property Consultants, explains the motives behind Mexico’s popularity

A house project by Riviera Maya Property Consultants

 Tulum, Mexico. International Living rates and ranks the world’s best retirement destinations. The winner of 2017 is a country that is making no surprises as the world’s best destination – it has been ranked among the top 10 for the past 14 years, and has won the first place five times.

This year, the winner – again – is Mexico. International Living believes that this country offers the easiest transition to expat life, as it gives a great balance of exotic culture and familiar Western lifestyle.

Currently, expats from other countries – Costa Rica, Ecuador and Belize – are moving to Mexico, seduced by its low-cost lifestyle, that blends ancient traditions with contemporary convenience.

Here are some of the main reasons that expats are choosing Mexico:

1. Mix of traditions and modern Western lifestyle. Mexico is the land of tradition: for example, in the Riviera Maya you will be living side by side with Mayan descendants, surrounded by ancient Mayan towns with their majestic pyramids. In the town of Merida, you will be surrounded by an eclectic mix of Mayan and Spanish colonial cultures. At the same time, Mexico, being close to America, offers most common American-brand stores and all the modern conveniences: cable TV, appliances, and high-speed Internet.

2. Strong U.S. dollar against Mexican peso. Mexican peso has just reached an all-time low against American dollar. Peso, which has been steadily falling over the years, reacted to the announcement by Ford not to build a new plant in San Luis Potosi. However, the fall of the peso has been a steady trend throughout years, meaning your dollar will most likely have even more value in Mexico over time. At the time of writing, the rate is 21.39 MXP to 1 USD.

3. Quality of life. Life quality in Mexico improves for any Westerner. The weather is pleasant year round, services and goods cost just a fraction of the price, and if you choose such beach paradise as Tulum, you will also be enjoying incredible beaches, delicious food and a growing expat community. In any case, by reducing the costs for goods and services, expats have the time to enjoy the activities that they like. A lot of time frees up by hiring a gardener, a maid and a cook. It’s easy to have a quality lifestyle on just $1,200 per month, or around $2,000 per couple.

4. Affordable healthcare. Health care in Mexico is much more affordable than in the U.S., and has high international standards.

5. Real estate opportunities.  Mexico has multiple hotspots with excellent real estate opportunities, from colonial city centers to breathtaking beaches, so there are plenty of opportunities to choose a certain type of lifestyle. For example, those looking for a beach life with excellent investment opportunities, choose Tulum, an emerging boomtown, where investing in real estate is likely to bring additional value to the second home. Luxury 602-square-foot suites in Tulum were sold from $127,000 in 2009. Now they are listed for $265,000, which is a $138,000 increase. Monthly rents for a two-bedroom, furnished condo range from $550 to $1,200 a month. You can still buy a lot in a developing residential neighborhood for $40K USD and then build your own house as you want it. Riviera Maya Property Consultants, a local real estate & architectural company founded by expats, provides all services starting from land or property selection, architectural projects, construction and even property management.

Mexico will continue to attract Americans and expats from other countries with its unparalleled opportunities for a great retirement. Other top retirement destinations on International Living’s top list include Panama, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Colombia, Malaysia, Spain, Nicaragua, Portugal and Malta.

ABOUT RIVIERA MAYA PROPERTY CONSULTANTS

Riviera Maya Property Consultants is a company founded by professionals from the U.S. and Europe, with years of experience in project management, architecture, construction, high-level sales and marketing. Based in Tulum, RMPC has formed close ties with local land sellers, and offers land purchase for the best market value, as well as architectural services, construction and property management.

For more information, please visit www.rivieramayapropertyconsultants.com

Top Reasons To Travel To Mexico In 2016

 Ring the New Year by exploring new destinations in Mexico and rediscovering the ones you’ve already been to by taking off the beaten path adventures. Whether travelers decide to embark on a winter getaway to a colonial city or a pristine beach, they will find all year-round perfect weather, friendly locals, world-class services and amenities, and an unbeatable shopping experience. From local crafts and jewelry to luxury clothing and international brands, visitors traveling to Mexico will encounter a great variety of shopping offerings. But did you know with MONEYBACK you can receive a refund on the total amount you spend when you shop in Mexico? No more excuses for not bringing back home the perfect souvenir.

Top reasons to travel to Mexico in 2016

1. Receive a refund when you shop- MONEYBACK, Mexico’s leading tax-refund company, offers shoppers a rewarding shopping experience by refunding 8.9% of the total amount they spend when shopping in Mexico at any of the participating stores. Receiving your money back is fast and convenient. Submit your invoices along with the shopping incentive refund form, credit card vouchers, copy of your passport, cruise ID or immigration form and boarding pass at any of MONEYBACK’s 55 service locations and your 8.9% will be refunded directly to your card in 45 days.

2. Explore hot destinations- It’s no surprise some of the most sought-after and popular destinations in Mexico are its beaches. Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Los Cabos and Riviera Maya offer the ideal getaway to start the year. Whether you select a beach destination or a city for your next trip, with over 55 service locations throughout the country, covering 98% of all the points of departure, travelers can submit their forms in a matter of minutes at cruise ports, shopping malls and airports before leaving the country. MONEYBACK modules are located at major tourist destinations including Cancun, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, Puerto Escondido, Mazatlán, Guadalajara, Puebla, Queretaro, Guanajuato and Mexico City.

3.  Get more value for your money- With the strong dollar and wide selection of luxury products and items to choose from, international travelers get more value for their money. Items including jewelry, clothes, electronics, alcohol and handcrafts among others are eligible for a tax-refund. With over 6,000 participating stores, including Diamonds International, Louis Vuitton, Costco, Sears, Coach, Nine West, MAC, Kenneth Cole and many more travelers can find international brands and luxury items for a better value and at the same time receive a refund on their purchase. For the complete list of participating stores visit: http://moneyback.mx/shophere-taxback.html)

To learn more about MONEYBACK, participating stores and locations please visit:http://moneyback.mx/

TRAVELORE DESTINATION REPORT: The Difference Is In The Details At The Bahia Prinicipe Akumal In The Riviera Maya, Mexico

Photo of Bahia Akumal beach by Allen Barkus

Typical accommodations at resort. Photo by Allen Barkus 

The real The difference between hotels and all inclusive resorts is in the details, the thoughtful services and amenities those properties provide.Some of those details that you'll appreciate at the Bahia Akumal include butlers to take care of your individual needs, complimentary minibars, included premium beverages, and bathroom amenities that include a toothbrush and shaving kit. Free Wi-Fi is also
available throughout the resort.

 A recent stay at the family welcoming Bahia Akumal, one of their luxury Don Pablo Collection, demonstrated that they are a step ahead of most other luxury all-inclusive resorts. This is the reason many of their guests come back year after year. The resort has 758 rooms, including 128 newly added in November 2015. The resorts' all-adults sister property, Sian Ka'An is located nearby on their magnificent golf course/club designed by Robert Trent Jones 11.

For those interested in learning about the Eco-Preservation of the Riviera Maya the resort has an extensive certified program to preserve the eco balance of the region that has the second largest barrier reef in the world and the nesting sites of the Central American river turtles. Also on site is a Nature Interpretation Center that you can observe local birds, and learn about the medicinal benefits of local plants.  For more details please visit: www.eco-bahia.org .

Photo by Allen Barkus

Dining at the Akumal is very good overall at their 4 restaurants and exceptional at their 2 A la Carte restaurants for dinner.  The selection pictured is from the Gourmet Arlequin restaurant, demonstrating the artful presentation you can expect. An additional restaurant will be opening shortly that will be serving a light lunch and cocktails during the day and become an A la carte Brazilian style restaurant during the evening.

Coba. Photo by Allen Barkus

The Rivera Maya, near Cancun Mexico, is ideally suited to both adult and family vacationers since there are both a wonderful selection of resorts and nearby ancient and modern Mayan sites to explore and learn about this important civilization. A highly recommended tour that can be arranged at the resort will take you to the sites of Coba, Tankah, and Tulum. At Coba, settled 100BC,  you have the opportunity to climb the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan. At Tankah you will have the opportunity to enjoy the lush setting, swim in one of their natural sink wells, go ziplining, and feast on traditional Mayan food. Tulum,  a well preserved site important to the history of the trading economy of the Mayan culture, is the only walled structure built on the shores of the Caribbean sea. 

Tankah. Photo by Allen Barkus

Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts is a premium resort division of one of the leading travel companies, Grupo Pinero based in Mallorca Spain. Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts features 17 resorts in the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Jamaica and four resorts in Spain. Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts are well-known for their exceptionally high standards of service,cuisine, guest rooms and resorts amenities and activities and have garnered many awards for its resorts, cuisine and service. In 1995 they opened their first resort, the Bahia Principe San Juan in the Dominican Republic.

For further information please visit: www.bahia-principe.com and/or contact your local travel agent.

Whale Sharks Return To Cancun, Underwater Adventures Begin May 15

Top-rated tour operator Cancun Whale Shark Tours announces beginning of tour season

- The Whale Sharks are returning to the tropical turquoise waters near Cancun. Cancun Whale Shark has earned Trip Advisors Certificate of Excellence Tours and is the Top Rated/Reviewed Trip Advisor Whale Shark tour operator. Tours commence May 15.

The Whale Sharks come to feed on the summer buffet of plankton, krill, and other microscopic aquatic organisms. The Whale Sharks in Cancun comprise the largest aggregation of these majestic marine animals on the planet thru September 17. Many days visitors can see/swim with more than 100!

Cancun Whale Shark Tours has conducted these amazing adventures for 10 years and has taken more than 30,000 people on the adventure. Roddrigo Sidney, the owner, has hosted adventure seekers from all 50 US states and more than 30 different countries from around the world.

"We offer the most experienced and capable crews, the fastest most powerful boats and the highest level of customer service in Cancun for this amazing adventure."

Cancun Whale Shark Tours offer both public and Private VIP Tours, which are ideal for professional photographers and journalists.

Their All Inclusive tours include roundtrip transfers from Cancun and Riviera Maya Resorts and Hotels to their private luxury marina.

There, tour participants receive a light breakfast, safety briefing, and Whale Shark orientation. All required professional grade snorkel and safety gear is provided. A fantastic lunch is served including gourmet sandwiches, fruit, shrimp ceviche, guacamole salad, salsas, crispy tortilla chips, water, soft drinks and beer.

In addition to snorkeling with the oceans largest fish, the Whale Shark, tour participants also get to snorkel at a reef area close to Isla Mujeres.

The Whale Shark is the oceans largest fish. It's an endangered species needing additional worldwide protections.

Cancun Whale Shark Tours is a founding member of the Whale Shark Conservation Society, an organization dedicated to the conservation of ocean-going species like the Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, Sea Turtles, Dolphins and Sailfish. Preserving the majesty of the world's oceans is an important mission by which a percentage of all tour proceeds are dedicated to these efforts.