What Is Sargassum?

What is sargassum?

Although my first response to this question is “irritating and a potential vacation disaster for beach lovers”, here’s a scientific explanation to the phenomena we all hate to see when we visit Cancun/Riviera Maya.  Hope this helps answer questions about where it comes from.

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Riu Palace Riviera Maya Closes for Renovations

FYI:  Since I made this post, I’ve done more checking into the resort’s renovations and have found out it is a total gut job.  Yes, everything is going.  I’ve watched videos of the pools being decimated, another floor is being added to some guest room buildings, and seen computer generated pics of the lobby area which keeps none of the elegant charm that I loved about this resort.  If you want more moment-by-moment info on this renovation, the best place to get it is on Facebook–ask to join the Riu Palace Riviera Maya page.

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And the Winner Is….

I thought I’d have some fun and post my top two Cancun/Riviera Maya allinclusive resort picks in the following categories:  Best Overall, Best Adults-Only, Best Family-Friendly, Best Value, Best Spa, and Most Romantic.  I would love your comments if you agree or disagree and your reasons why.  There is a “Leave A Reply” section following this post; if you are new to responding to my blog there may be a wait time since I review all replies prior to posting.  Here we go!!

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Two New Resorts Planned For Tulum

I am back from a week-long mother-daughter trip, caught up on backlogged work projects, and ready to resume my blog writing!!  I found some info concerning new resorts in practically everyone’s favorite Riviera Maya destination–Tulum.  Tulum has always been known for its pristine beaches and laid-back Mexican vibe; however, while it has fabulous beaches, renowned beach parties and bars, and wonderful Mexican food, its primary accommodation offerings run the gamut from expensive boutique hotels to casual beach hotels that only offer the basics (some don’t even offer A/C).  The nearest allinclusive resort is approximately five miles from Tulum proper (Dreams Tulum), and that resort was completed back in 2000.

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FB Site With Sargassum Information

I found a FB (Facebook) page which gives satellite information on the sargassum situation in Cancun/Riviera Maya.  Given the satellite pics, there is a huge amount of brown algae headed into the Riviera Maya area in the next few days.  If you want to keep track of this type of information, you will need access to Facebook.  In the FB search box/bar, type in Red de Monitoreo del Sargazo Cancún.  Hope this helps for those of you wanting into about the algae situation prior to your vacation.

New Barceló Maya Grand Resort Map

Here’s a new map of the Barceló Maya Grand Resort with the addition of the new adults-only section (Barceló Maya Riviera) which is scheduled to open Dec. 2019.  850 rooms, four pools, five restaurants, five bars, a new convention center, plus access to the rest of the entire resort. I’m going late Feb. 2020 and staying in a swim-up suite–can’t wait to see it and the rest of this great resort.  I have my favorite hangouts which I discovered on my trip here July 2018, and looking forward to adding more favorites to my list!

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How to Avoid Being Scammed In Mexico–Some Tips

I found a very helpful blog, Two Expats Mexico, which is chock full of great info.  Here’s a video they put out on how to avoid being scammed while visiting Mexico–I thought it gave some very necessary reminders.  What do you think about the info Paul presented?

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New Xavage Park Opens

Grupo Xcaret officially opened its newest park, Xavage, April 15, 2019.  It is located approximately 5-10 min. south of the Cancun airport and is intended for ages 5 and up.  The park includes six major activities including kayaking (Crocodile), an intense ropes course (Howler Monkey), zipline (Hawk), fast jet boats with wild careening turns of up to 180 degrees (Dragonfly), white water rafting (Barracuda), and an SUV/large jeep traversing various obstacles (Puma).

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