Category Archives: Cancun news

New Barceló Maya Grand Resort Map

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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

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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?

New Xavage Park Opens

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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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Ultramar Ferry Cuts Several Isla Mujeres Crossings

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Ultramar Ferry

Ultramar Ferry, courtesy visitroo.com

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New Security Measures for Isla Mujeres Ferry System

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Be prepared for “red light/green light” security procedures prior to boarding the ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres.  Starting April 1, 2019, passengers will be subject to a random search of their belongings using the antiquated system once very popular at the Cancun airport–push the button and get a red light, your belongings are searched prior to boarding.  Get a green light you are good to go.  Authorities are contemplating using the same procedure when taking the ferry from Isla Mujeres to Cancun.

AM Resorts To Re-Brand Several Oasis Hotels and Resorts

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AM Resorts (re. Secrets, Now, Breathless, etc.) is going to take over two Oasis brand resorts–Grand Oasis Sens will become Now Emerald Cancun, while Grand Oasis Tulum will become Sunscape Akumal Beach Resort and Spa.  Renovations will be done and the rebranding is supposed to take effect June 1, 2019.

Chichen Itza Entrance Fees Increase in 2019

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Starting Jan. 1, 2019, the entrance fee to Chichen Itza will double going from USD $12 to $24.  There is some speculation this huge increase will negatively impact tourism to this famous site, but only time will tell.  Would you still go given the new fee?

New Water Park Opens at Hard Rock Riviera Maya Location

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Anyone looking for a Mexican all-inclusive resort with a new water park feature?  The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya just opened one–the minimum height requirement for slides is 3′ 5″.  All kids under the age of 8 must be accompanied by their parent(s).  Looks like there are three sections with a total of 23 water slides.  Here’s the link.

THE Royal PDC Is No More

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While THE Royal Playa del Carmen will still be welcoming guests, it will now be doing so under the Hilton brand name.  Playa Resorts and Hilton have now partnered in order to expand both businesses–Playa Resorts hopes to benefit from being part of Hilton’s global portfolio/78 million Hilton Honors members, while Hilton hopes to become a known name brand in the very lucrative all-inclusive resort market.  Guests who stay in the PDC resort can now accumulate or use their Hilton Honors points, a definite plus for those who are Hilton Honors members.

Webcam Views–Look No Further

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I ran across this compilation on a Facebook page, Fans of Hotel Xcaret, posted by Suzanne Haire (I would highly recommend this FB page for anyone looking for updated, detailed info about Hotel Xcaret Mexico, but you have to ask to be added).  For those looking to get a day-to-day look at the beaches and the sargassum issue, check out these webcams according to the area or resort you will be visiting. Continue reading →